LAHORE - The ambassador of Saudi Arabia in Pakistan, Nawaf bin Said Al-Malki, called on Punjab Governor Ch Sarwar here on Friday.
During the meeting, Pak-Saudi relations and issues of mutual interest came under discussion. The Saudi ambassador announced a scholarship programme for Pakistani students. Under the programme, as many as 600 Pakistani students will get scholarships in 25 different Saudi universities. The Punjab governor thanked the Saudi government and the Saudi ambassador for the historical initiative.
Talking to the Saudi diplomat, Ch Sarwar said that Pak-Saudi relations were stronger than rock, adding: “Respecting the custodian of the two Holy Mosques is obligatory for every Muslim.” The governor said: “Saudis and Pakistanis are brothers. Pakistanis have a spiritual attachment with Saudi Arabia. The Kingdom has always stood by Pakistan in difficult times. We are thankful to the Saudi leadership for this cooperation,” he added.
Ch Sarwar said that Pakistan and Saudi Arabia had close ties, adding that Pakistan would always stand by Saudi Arabia to protect its integrity and sovereignty. He maintained that Pak-Saudi Relations had witnessed an unprecedented rise under the leadership of Prime Minister Imran Khan.
Saudi ambassador Nawaf bin Said Al-Malki termed Pak-Saudi ties a relation between two brothers and said that Saudi Arabia had never left Pakistan alone and would not do that in future. “We consider Pakistan our home, and we will play our role in its development. Saudi Arabia stands with Pakistan for development, stability and peace,” he said.