Islamabad (Web Desk): Minister for Investment of Saudi Arabia Khalid bin Abdul Aziz al Falih called on Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Islamabad today (Thursday).
Welcoming the Saudi Minister and his delegation, the premier said that this visit is an important milestone in strengthening investment ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia and will set stage for greater bilateral collaboration.
“Decades long Pak-Saudi relations are becoming stronger with each passing day,” PM Shehbaz said, adding that Saudi Arabia stood by Pakistan in every difficult situation.
PM Shehbaz conveyed his warm regards to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz, and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, acknowledging their leadership and support in enhancing bilateral ties.
He expressed pleasure over the productive discussions held at the Pakistan-Saudi Business Forum, which paved way for new investments, underscoring Saudi Arabia's commitment to deepen economic cooperation with Pakistan.
The prime minister emphasized that the Pakistani diaspora in Saudi Arabia are playing a significant role in economic development of both countries and expressed commitment to further strengthen consular services for their welfare.
PM Shehbaz highlighted the progress made through the Special Investment Facilitation Council which has been instrumental in accelerating foreign investment in Pakistan.
He apprised the Saudi side of the privatization program of the government and invited Saudi Arabia to invest in aviation sector of Pakistan especially in the outsourcing of international airports.
The premier reaffirmed Pakistan's unwavering commitment to Saudi Arabia's sovereignty and territorial integrity, particularly in the face of regional and global challenges.
He expressed Pakistan's readiness to strengthen defense ties, including support for Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, which seeks to develop indigenous defence and security capabilities.
PM Shehbaz appreciated Saudi Arabia's leadership within the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, particularly on issues of vital importance like Palestine, Kashmir, and combating Islamophobia.
The visiting Saudi minister reiterated his country's commitment for increasing investment portfolio in Pakistan especially in mining, agriculture, food security and infrastructure.
He said that signing of 27 Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) between the two countries is a beginning of the journey.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir and federal ministers were also present in the meeting.
