ISLAMABAD – Saudi Ambassador Dr Rajeh bin Thami Al-Buqami called on Federal Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Sardar Muhammad Yousaf at the Ministry of Religious Affairs on Tuesday, with discussions focusing on bilateral relations, cooperation in religious affairs and facilitation of Pakistani pilgrims and Umrah visitors.
Federal Secretary for Religious Affairs Abrar Ahmad Mirza and Joint Secretary (Hajj) Syed Abdul Waheed Shah were also present at the meeting.
Welcoming the Saudi ambassador on his appointment to Pakistan, Mr Yousaf said relations between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia had entered a new phase. He said the two countries enjoyed strong religious, historical and fraternal ties, adding that Saudi Arabia had stood by Pakistan like an elder brother in difficult times.
The minister said the Makkah Accord reflected the sentiments of the people and that Pakistan’s bond with the Haramain Sharifain would remain eternal. He observed that the people of the two countries were connected through enduring bonds of faith, affection and brotherhood, which continued to strengthen bilateral relations.
Mr Yousaf appreciated the efforts of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques to improve facilities for pilgrims. He said the Saudi government had taken exemplary measures to enhance Hajj arrangements and provide modern facilities to pilgrims.
Describing the Route to Makkah initiative as an excellent step, the minister said it had considerably facilitated Pakistani pilgrims and made their journey for Hajj easier.
He also invited the Saudi ambassador to visit his native area of Mansehra and expressed hope that his appointment would further strengthen the longstanding fraternal relations between the two countries and promote cooperation in various fields.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Al-Buqami said his appointment to Pakistan was an honour and described Pakistan as his first home. He appreciated the hospitality and friendly attitude of the Pakistani people, saying that Pakistan was a beautiful country whose people were known for their warmth and sincerity.
The Saudi ambassador said serving Hajj pilgrims was a great privilege and that the Saudi leadership attached special importance to the service of the Two Holy Mosques and the provision of facilities to pilgrims.
He also said that a focal person was being designated to facilitate the provision of faster and improved services to Umrah visitors.
Expressing his admiration for the poetry of renowned philosopher and poet Allama Muhammad Iqbal, Dr Al-Buqami said he was deeply inspired by his literary work.
He assured that the doors of the Saudi Embassy would always remain open to their Pakistani brothers.
The meeting reaffirmed the resolve to further consolidate the longstanding fraternal relations between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia and strengthen cooperation in religious affairs, Hajj, Umrah and other areas of mutual interest.