By.Engr Iftikhar Chaudhry
There are some circles in Jeddah that, through unwarranted criticism and jealousy, are weaving a web of conspiracies over the establishment of the new Consulate building. However, the truth is that this building is not just a structure; it is a new milestone providing facilities, respect, and support to the Pakistani community. But the real target is the individual who has been tirelessly working day and night for Pakistan and the Pakistani community—Mr. Khalid Majid.
During his tenure, Khalid Majid has played a significant role in strengthening Pakistan-Saudi relations. Under his leadership, the Consulate not only addressed the issues faced by Pakistanis living in Saudi Arabia but also played a major role in increasing Pakistan’s foreign exchange. His greatest strength is that he prioritized the respect of the Pakistani passport and treated every Pakistani with equal importance, regardless of their region, language, or religion. His doors have always been open for everyone.
I have witnessed unforgettable moments when approximately 600-700 people gathered at the beautiful Convention Center in Jeddah to express Pakistan-Saudi friendship. Mr. Khalid Majid had told me on the evening of 13th August at the Pakistan Embassy School that he wanted to celebrate a joint day for Saudi Arabia and Pakistan.
I had suggested this idea to him, thinking it would be a memorable event. Prior to this, the “Halaqa-e-Yaran Watan” used to organize such events, including large-scale functions at Khazama Olympic Pool Club, which were unforgettable, with over 20,000 people attending. We also hosted poetry sessions at Saudi German Hospital’s hall that were memorable.
This time, an enemy country made a film against Saudi Arabia, and I had ads published in Pakistani newspapers to counter it. During the national event, which was enlivened by the Kababish Hotel and was attended by key media figures from both Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, I gave a speech in Arabic, led by Samira Aziz.
It is the Consul General’s excellence that he participates in every small or large event and stays involved even despite health issues. Shafqat Mahmood Dhool and his team devote their time to these good causes, and the Pakistani community in Jeddah should be proud that they built the Pakistan Kidney Center in Havelian, which has 50 beds and handles dialysis for 200 patients daily.
The Jeddah Consulate truly holds a motherly position for Pakistanis. I extend my congratulations to Consul General Khalid Majid and his wife, and I assure the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ishaq Dar, that I have been associated with the Pakistani community for the past 30 years. In all this time, I have rarely encountered a Consul General who serves the community with such dedication.
His role in the Pakistani community is exemplary. His focus has not just been on resolving issues but also on uniting the community and ensuring everyone is treated with dignity. I have personally experienced this when he helped many Pakistanis in their times of need, whether it was a passport issue, a visa problem, or even the delicate responsibility of sending deceased Pakistanis back to their homeland. Khalid Majid has never let anyone down.
He took steps like organizing medical camps for the Pakistani community and set a brilliant example by including the minority community. His approach reflects the fact that Pakistaniness is not bound by religion, language, or ethnicity. He has always conveyed the message that every Pakistani is important and every Pakistani’s voice will be heard.
Unfortunately, some elements are targeting his services.
The person who wrote a letter to the Foreign Minister about corruption is himself involved in such practices, using the Consulate’s building project as an excuse. He is jealous and is pointing fingers at Khalid Majid’s successes. The reality is that a sincere and honest person like Khalid Majid is a pride for any position.
This is a time for us to learn from the examples of Quaid-e-Azam and the Companions of the Prophet. Quaid-e-Azam always taught faith, unity, and discipline, and these principles should still guide our leadership today. The examples set by Hazrat Umar bin Abdulaziz in fighting corruption remind us that leadership should be based on honesty and public service.
The services that Khalid Majid has provided to unite the Pakistani community, serve them, and strengthen Pakistan-Saudi relations will always be remembered. His efforts are a testament that Pakistan’s diplomatic missions are not merely ceremonial, but centers of practical service.
The conspiracies hidden behind the building should be exposed, and those who are envious must understand that hard work and honesty are the guarantees of success. As someone once wrote on the back of a rickshaw: “Work hard, do not envy.”
This is the message for these conspirators: work, stop scheming, and join in the service of Pakistan. Interestingly, the contractor who complained did so because he didn’t get the contract and claimed he submitted a lower bid.
When accepting tenders, not only the price but also the company’s record and staff proficiency are considered. I have led companies myself, and while a low bid might attract attention, the company doesn’t want to hire a head if the price is too low.
The key factors are the company’s record and its staff professionalism. Khalid Majid, may Allah keep you happy, and my prayer is that officers like you will ensure that no problems arise for the Pakistani community. During the COVID-19 days, bringing deceased Pakistanis back was extremely difficult, and you assisted many who faced passport issues.