ISLAMABAD: President Dr Arif Alvi called for further strengthening bilateral ties with Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) in diverse fields, particularly economy, investment and culture. President talking to Saudi Minister for Hajj and Umrah Dr Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah who along with delegation called on him, said that Pakistan highly valued its relations with Saudi Arabia, which were based on common faith, shared history and people-to-people ties.

Welcoming delegation, President reiterated Pakistan's commitment to further strengthening existing economic partnership with Kingdom for mutual benefit of both brotherly countries.

He underscored need to expand bilateral trade as great opportunities existed for investment in Pakistan in different sectors such as IT, renewable energy, industrial and infrastructure development and hospitality sectors.  President Alvi thanked Saudi government for making excellent arrangements for Hajj this year. He expressed hope that Saudi government would expedite purchase of Pakistan House inside Markazziah in Madina from compensation amount of two Pakistan Houses demolished in Madina.

He appreciated Saudi Arabia and its leadership for its steadfast support for important Muslim causes, especially Jammu and Kashmir dispute, Palestine and Afghanistan through Organisation of Islamic Cooperation and expressed hope that it would continue to play its important role.

He lauded leadership of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman over normalisation of relations with Iran, saying that leadership of Saudi Crown Prince in Muslim World was much appreciated.

Visiting Saudi Minister said that relations between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia were very strong that needed to be further enhanced for mutual benefit of two brotherly countries. Dr Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah said Kingdom would continue to provide good facilities to pilgrims for Hajj and Umrah.

President Alvi asked visiting dignitary to communicate his warm regards to Saudi King and Crown Prince/Prime Minister of Kingdom.