Islamabad’s beauty wins over newly appointed Saudi envoy

Saudi Ambassador to Pakistan Dr Rajeh Tami Albugamy has explored Islamabad’s tourism potential during a visit to Dino Valley, praising Pakistan’s scenic beauty and hospitality while highlighting tourism as a means of strengthening bilateral relations.

The visit also underscored the importance of people-to-people engagement in bringing Pakistan and Saudi Arabia closer.

Saudi Embassy Press Attaché Saif Nasser shared details of the visit in a post on X, saying the ambassador enjoyed the natural beauty and picturesque landscapes of the Pakistani capital.

Nasser described such visits as an important aspect of public diplomacy, saying that exploring a country’s culture, tourism and natural attractions helps build stronger connections beyond official diplomatic engagements.

He added that Pakistan’s renowned hospitality, warmth and authenticity further strengthened these connections and gave bilateral relations a valuable human dimension.

Albugamy was appointed Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to Pakistan in July, replacing Nawaf bin Said Al-Malki, who served in the position for nearly nine years.

The newly appointed envoy arrived in Islamabad on September 26 to take charge of his diplomatic responsibilities. A retired major general, Albugamy later joined the Saudi Foreign Ministry with ambassadorial rank. He also holds a doctorate in Human Resource Management from Brunel University London.

On October 14, he presented his diplomatic credentials to President Asif Ali Zardari at Aiwan-e-Sadr.

During their meeting, President Zardari reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to Saudi Arabia’s security and defence, describing the relationship between the two countries as a close strategic partnership.

He also called for stronger economic cooperation, appreciated Saudi Arabia’s financial assistance and support through oil supplies, and expressed confidence that bilateral relations would further strengthen during Albugamy’s tenure.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also welcomed the Saudi envoy and reiterated Islamabad’s commitment to expanding cooperation across different sectors.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar subsequently met Albugamy and reaffirmed the shared resolve of both countries to deepen bilateral cooperation for mutual development and prosperity.