Islamabad, September 23(Kamran Raja): Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Pakistan, Nawaf bin Saeed Al-Malki, reaffirmed the enduring historical, religious, cultural, and brotherly ties between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, underscoring that the Kingdom has always stood by Pakistan and will continue to do so. The Ambassador was addressing a grand reception hosted at Jinnah Convention Centre, Islamabad, to mark the 95th National Day of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The event was attended by a large number of dignitaries, including governors, ministers, religious leaders, members of the diplomatic corps, and prominent figures from various walks of life. The ceremony commenced with the recitation from the Holy Quran, followed by the playing of the national anthems of both countries and the screening of a documentary highlighting the deep-rooted bilateral relationship. A recorded congratulatory video message in Arabic from Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif was also played on the occasion.
In his keynote remarks, Ambassador Nawaf bin Saeed Al-Malki noted that under the leadership of President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Saudi-Pakistan relations are witnessing new heights. He stressed: “We have always stood with Pakistan and we will always remain by its side.” Senate Chairman Yousaf Raza Gillani, who graced the event as Chief Guest, said that Pakistan’s ties with Saudi Arabia are bonds of the heart. He added that these relations have grown even stronger while overcoming various challenges.