President Asif Ali Zardari met Dr. Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Ibrahim Al-Sheikh to discuss enhancing parliamentary ties and cooperation between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. The discussions occurred during Dr. Al-Sheikh’s three-day visit and included key Pakistani leaders, highlighting the commitment to strengthen economic, political, and cultural relations. Zardari also expressed solidarity with Middle Eastern communities affected by conflict.
On Thursday, President Asif Ali Zardari of Pakistan held discussions with Dr. Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Ibrahim Al-Sheikh, the chairman of Saudi Arabia’s Shura Council, to explore avenues for enhancing parliamentary cooperation between the two nations. This meeting forms part of Dr. Al-Sheikh’s three-day visit to Pakistan, during which he has engaged with key leaders, including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Senate Chairman Yousaf Raza Gillani.
During their meeting, President Zardari articulated the necessity of fostering stronger parliamentary ties and high-level exchanges with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) to fortify the enduring fraternal relationship between the two countries. The president’s office stated that he reiterated Pakistan’s dedication to enhancing economic, political, and cultural links with KSA, emphasizing a mutual benefit derived from their longstanding partnership. The discussions also aimed to evolve this bilateral relationship into a more dynamic and strategic collaboration.
Moreover, President Zardari voiced his concerns regarding the conflicts in the Middle East, declaring Pakistan’s solidarity with “brothers and sisters” in Palestine, Lebanon, and Syria. Pakistan and Saudi Arabia maintain a historical alliance, with Pakistan seeking to strengthen economic, defense, and security relations, given that Saudi Arabia is home to approximately 2.5 million Pakistani expatriates, serving as the largest source of remittances for Pakistan, which is currently experiencing financial difficulties.
The relationship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia has roots that extend back several decades, characterized by mutual support and cooperation in various spheres. The presence of a significant Pakistani expatriate community in Saudi Arabia underscores the economic ties that bind the two nations. With nearly 2.5 million Pakistanis residing in the Kingdom, remittances from these expatriates play a crucial role in Pakistan’s economy. Recent diplomatic engagements reflect ongoing efforts to deepen these ties amidst regional challenges and dynamic international relations.
In conclusion, President Zardari’s discussions with Dr. Al-Sheikh underscore Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening ties with Saudi Arabia. The focus on enhancing parliamentary cooperation highlights the importance of fostering a strategic partnership that not only enhances bilateral relations but also addresses regional challenges. As both nations seek to navigate complex geopolitical landscapes, their historical alliance remains pivotal for mutual economic and cultural advancement.
Original Source: www.arabnews.pk
