KSA backs Pakistan’s efforts for regional peace

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has expressed its full support for Pakistan’s efforts and contributions for peace in the region in the wake of evolving regional security situation and the Pakistan army’s achievements in the war against terrorism.

A high-level Saudi military delegation led by Chief of General Staff Gen Fayyadh Bin Hamed Al-Ruwaili called on Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa at General Headquarters on Monday, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said in a press release.

During the meeting, the geostrategic environment, the security situation in Afghanistan, and matters of mutual interest, including bilateral defence cooperation and training exchange programme, were discussed, the ISPR said. In view of the evolving regional security situation, Saudi CGS expressed full support for Pakistan’s efforts for peace in the region, it added.

Gen Ruwaili acknowledged the Pakistan army’s achievements in the war against terrorism and contributions to regional peace and stability. He thanked the Pakistan army for its sustained assistance in the training of Saudi armed forces and expressed his desire to enhance bilateral defence collaboration.

Read more: KSA urged to allow back Pak workers

Earlier on arrival at the GHQ, Gen Fayyadh Bin Hamed Al-Ruwaili laid a wreath at Yadgar-e-Shuhada, according to the ISPR press release.

A smartly turned-out contingent of the Pakistan army presented a guard of honour to the visiting dignitary.

Meeting with PM

Gen Rowailly also called on Prime Minister Imran Khan and exchanged views on a range of important issues of common interest.

On the occasion, Prime Minister Imran expressed Pakistan’s commitment and support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Saudi Arabia.

The prime minister underlined the importance Pakistan attached to Saudi Arabia in broadening mutual cooperation and strengthening the people-to-people contacts.

He expressed his confidence that the recently established Saudi-Pakistan Supreme Coordination Council (SPSCC) would play a catalytic role in fostering enhanced bilateral cooperation in all fields.

Imran welcomed the Saudi delegation and conveyed his warm regards to King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

He expressed satisfaction with the bilateral defence relationship, and hoped that it would grow further in the years ahead.

The prime minister also expressed Pakistan’s support for resolving the conflict in Yemen through dialogue and diplomacy and appreciated Saudi efforts in this regard.

Gen Rowailly acknowledged the excellent collaboration and appreciated the professionalism of Pakistan's armed forces.