The COAS and the Saudi minister talk about efforts to cooperate bilaterally.

RAWALPINDI: The Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir received a call from Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Investment, Khalid Bin Abdulaziz Al Falih, on Thursday to discuss ways to strengthen the two countries’ expanding bilateral collaboration across a range of sectors, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations.

The minister and his delegation met in Rawalpindi, where they discussed common interests, according to a report from the Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR).

On October 9, the delegation from Saudi Arabia, headed by the minister of investments, landed in Pakistan for a three-day visit.

The army commander thanked Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salman and Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud for their unwavering support of Pakistan during the meeting.

He claimed that the fact that such a large corporate delegation was in Pakistan demonstrated the solid and long-lasting relations between the two countries.

Along with highlighting Pakistan’s profound regard for Saudi Arabia, General Munir gave the team Pakistan’s unwavering support and expressed hope for the best possible conclusion for both nations.

The minister and his delegation had a separate meeting on Thursday at the President House in Islamabad with President Asif Ali Zardari. Both countries underlined during this meeting their intention to stepping up their collaboration in important fields such information technology, mining, agriculture, and the economy.

Saluting the delegation, President Zardari emphasized the long-standing ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. He stated that he hoped to strengthen bilateral relations into a long-term strategic and economic alliance, pointing out that this kind of cooperation would bring the two countries even closer.

The president reaffirmed Pakistan’s abiding commitment to support Saudi Arabia and the country’s profound regard for the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques. Along with applauding Saudi Arabia’s advancements under Vision 2030 and the Crown Prince’s visionary leadership, he also expressed gratitude for the Kingdom’s assistance during difficult times.

Pakistan’s strategic geographic importance, as well as its potential for renewable energy and natural resources, were recognized by Minister Khalid.

He declared intentions to sign 25 agreements to strengthen economic ties, including proposals for Saudi investment in Pakistan’s mining and infrastructure sectors.

The significance of enhanced cooperation in the fields of information technology and agriculture was emphasized by both parties.

The Saudi ambassador was among the dignitaries and important authorities who attended the conference in Islamabad, including the ministers of petroleum, commerce, privatization, interior, and religious affairs.