Islamabad, 7 February 2022 (TDI): Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz Al Saud is visiting Pakistan and arrived today. During the meeting, the Pakistani President welcomed the Saudi Minister.

Dr. Arif Alvi stated that Pakistan and KSA are brotherly countries and maintain cordial ties. Pakistan and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) have reaffirmed the significance of further reinforcing as well as expansion of bilateral collaboration in assorted sectors of mutual interest.

The decision was reached between the President of Pakistan, Dr. Arif Alvi, and the Saudi Minister for Interior, Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, during a meeting today.

Nevertheless, the bilateral ties need to be further deepened for mutual benefit. The issue pertaining to the release of Pakistani prisoners in KSA was also deliberated upon between the two sides.

President Alvi expressed his hope about the Saudi Government giving positive consideration to releasing prisoners who have finished their sentences. In addition, he appreciated the Saudi leadership on its “Road to Mecca” pilot project.

Pakistan is looking forward to the expansion of the initiative to the other cities of the country. Furthermore, he lauded KSA for its invaluable support in the OIC and FATF.

Likewise, the President expressed thanks for KSA’s participation in the 17th Extraordinary Session of the OIC Council of Foreign Ministers held in December 2021, in Islamabad.

President Alvi underscored that both allies share concerns in Afghanistan and urged the global community to support the Afghan people in the hour of need to save them from a humanitarian crisis.

Furthermore, the President urged the Saudi Interior Minister to convey his sincere wishes to King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and the Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.

The President also appreciated the KSA for hosting over 2 million Pakistanis along with its generous policies towards them during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Whereas Saudi Interior Minister on his part apprise the President about the steps being taken to address the issue of Pakistani prisoners. The technical teams of the two countries are working on it.

Lastly, he thanked the Pakistani Government for extending a warm welcome and hospitality to his entourage during their stay in Pakistan.