We are living in challenging times, as the contemporary global geopolitical landscape remains highly complex and uncertain. Peace and stability remain elusive across large swaths of the world.
The era of perpetual violence triggered in the aftermath of the 9/11 terror attacks shows no signs of abating anytime soon. The world is beset with numerous conflicts resulting in unprecedented human tragedy and socioeconomic problems of epic proportions.
Many Muslim countries are especially affected due to the proximity of these simmering disputes. In the backdrop of this strategic flux, both Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have stood by each other steadfastly. Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman and the leadership in Pakistan continue to make untiring efforts to promote peace and stability across the world in general and the region in particular.
As we mark 70 years of independence, we are proud that despite some challenging times Pakistan is well on the road to progress and prosperity. From a very humble beginning, we now occupy an important place in the comity of nations arguably one of the leading Muslim states in the world.
Pakistan has successfully spearheaded the campaign against terrorism for over a decade now. Our valiant armed forces and law-enforcement personnel have proven their courage and sagacity.
The general population across the length and breadth of the country too has been resolute and brave to counter the menace. Nearly 60,000 Pakistanis have embraced martyrdom while the loss to national economy runs into billions of dollars. As a nation, we stand at the cusp where flushing out of the remnants of these brutal elements is nearing completion. Let no one doubt our quest and sincerity for lasting peace and stability in the region particularly in our neighborhood.
We shall continue to partake in international efforts to bring about peace and value their assistance to restore normalcy in Pakistan.
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia’s relations are rooted in history as the two countries signed a treaty of friendship back in 1951, laying the basis for cooperation. We are bonded in strong fraternal relations, which reflect trust and common aspirations of the people.
Over the past several decades, the two sides have strengthened their brotherly relations in all fields. Both the countries staunchly support each other at international forums. The regular exchange of high-level visits between the two countries is a clear manifestation of our valued ties with the Kingdom. The trend continues and in 2017 alone the prime minister of Pakistan visited Saudi Arabia twice for an exchange of views at the highest level.
The bedrock of Pak-Saudi relations is indeed exceptional defense and security collaboration between the two countries. Decades-old ties are all encompassing which include training, joint exercises, high-level visits, maintenance support, port calls etc. A number of officers and men have benefited from the defense and security cooperation. Saudi Arabia and Pakistan have also shared expertise and experience to combat terrorism and deal with extremism. The cooperation is expanding steadily exploring new vistas in the context of the emerging security paradigm.
Another indicator of the importance of Pak-Saudi relations is the highest regard by their nationals for each other. In fact, Pakistanis consider Saudi Arabia their second home. Saudi Arabia hosts some 2.6 million Pakistanis, most of whom are employed as technicians, semi-skilled and unskilled workers. There are many highly qualified doctors, engineers, financial advisers, IT experts and bankers who are highly respected for their professionalism. The Pakistani diaspora is proud to have made tremendous contributions to the development of Saudi Arabia over the past many years.
The funds remitted by these expatriates contribute significantly to our national economy. I am confident with the transformation of the Saudi economy as envisaged in Saudi Vision 2030, there will be more opportunities for qualified professionals from Pakistan.
Although the economic ties between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan remain strong, there is a considerable scope for expansion. The total bilateral trade with Saudi Arabia hovers around $2.5 billion.
Both countries have immense potential to increase trade significantly. Efforts are being made to improve trade by organizing regular trade shows, exhibitions, and exchange of business communities visits.
An aspect that needs serious attention is the level of investment despite promising opportunities. I am confident both the countries will utilize the Vision 2030 and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) for mutual benefits.
I can anticipate a brighter future once the CPEC becomes operational, which could serve as a conduit to facilitate trade between Saudi Arabia and China. Public and private investments in export and industrial zones along the corridor would indeed be a boon.
Saudi Arabia is a revered destination for Pakistanis, as every year hundreds of thousands of Pakistanis visit Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah and Hajj. During 2016, Pakistan topped the list of Umrah pilgrims as around 1.4 million pilgrims from Pakistan visited the Kingdom.
The visitors greatly appreciate the top-class arrangements made by the Saudi government to facilitate the pilgrims.
We are also pleased to receive thousands of Saudi nationals wishing to visit Pakistan for different purposes, ranging from investment to tourism. Pakistan also offers one of the best quality and affordable medical facilities in the world to various foreign nationals including from Saudi Arabia.
Pak-Saudi relations are truly unique and unmatched that have withstood the test of time. The spiritual attachment to this holy land and high esteem accorded to the custodian of the two holy mosques by the people of Pakistan mean that the bond is concrete and eternal.
People of Pakistan remain indebted to the leadership of Saudi Arabia for their help in difficult times. Pakistan is committed to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Saudi Arabia. I, as the ambassador of Pakistan, hope to carry forward the mission of further strengthening cooperation with Saudi Arabia, especially in commerce and culture for the mutual benefit of our two peoples. May Allah bless the two nations with peace, prosperity and infinite bounties.
• The writer is the ambassador of Pakistan to Saudi Arabia.