President Zardari met with Dr. Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Ibrahim Al-Sheikh to discuss strengthening parliamentary cooperation between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. The President emphasized the need for deeper ties in economic, political, and cultural aspects and reaffirmed solidarity with Middle Eastern nations in conflict. This meeting is part of an effort to enhance bilateral relations amidst ongoing challenges.
In a significant meeting held in Islamabad, President Asif Ali Zardari engaged with Dr. Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Ibrahim Al-Sheikh, the chairman of the Shura Council of Saudi Arabia, to discuss advancing parliamentary cooperation and facilitating high-level exchanges between Pakistan and the Kingdom. This meeting forms part of Dr. Al-Sheikh’s three-day visit to Pakistan, during which he has also conferred with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Senate Chairman Yousaf Raza Gillani, and National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq.
During the meeting, President Zardari underscored the importance of enhancing parliamentary relations and exchanges to bolster the historically close ties shared between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. The President’s office released a statement emphasizing Pakistan’s resolve to strengthen economic, political, and cultural relationships with the Kingdom, aiming to elevate the long-standing bilateral relationship to a more substantial and strategic partnership.
Moreover, President Zardari voiced concerns regarding the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, expressing Pakistan’s solidarity with the communities affected in Palestine, Lebanon, and Syria. The long-standing alliance between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia is reflected in Pakistan’s aspiration for closer economic, defense, and security collaboration with the Kingdom, which hosts approximately 2.5 million Pakistani expatriates and serves as the largest source of remittances for Pakistan, particularly in light of its current economic challenges.
The relationship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia has been historically significant, characterized by mutual support and collaboration in various sectors including economic, defense, and political spheres. Pakistan houses a large expatriate community in Saudi Arabia, underscoring the economic connections through remittances that significantly benefit Pakistan’s economy. Recent developments highlight the desire for an even closer partnership amid regional challenges, particularly in relation to Middle Eastern conflicts and mutual interests in defense and security.
The discussions between President Zardari and the chairman of Saudi Arabia’s Shura Council reflect a commitment to strengthening bilateral ties through enhanced parliamentary cooperation. Moreover, the reaffirmation of solidarity with Middle Eastern nations amidst conflicts illustrates a broader regional engagement strategy. As both countries endeavor to transform their longstanding relationship into a strategic partnership, this meeting signifies a step forward in their diplomatic relations.
Original Source: www.arabnews.pk
