Saudi envoy hails ‘strong’ Pakistan-Saudi partnership

Saudi Arabia has reaffirmed its commitment to further strengthening its longstanding brotherly and strategic partnership with Pakistan, with both countries seeking greater cooperation for regional security, stability and prosperity.

Saudi Chargé d’Affaires to Pakistan Naif Bin Mlafakh made the remarks while addressing a reception in Islamabad to mark the 96th National Day of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The event was attended by National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, federal ministers, parliamentarians, political figures, members of the diplomatic community, religious scholars, academics, media representatives and people from different walks of life.

Welcoming the guests, Naif Bin Mlafakh conveyed greetings from the Saudi Embassy on behalf of Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the Saudi government and people.

He said Saudi National Day represented more than a historical milestone, describing it as an opportunity to reflect on the Kingdom’s journey since its unification under its founder, King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud.

The Saudi diplomat highlighted Saudi Arabia’s development and modernisation journey, particularly under Vision 2030. He said the programme was supporting economic diversification and contributing to the Kingdom’s growing role on the international stage.

He also highlighted Saudi Arabia’s position in the Arab and Islamic worlds and its efforts to support the causes of the Muslim Ummah and promote regional stability.

Speaking about Pakistan-Saudi relations, Naif Bin Mlafakh said the partnership was built on deep-rooted historical, religious and fraternal ties. He said both countries had remained committed to adapting their relationship to emerging challenges and changing global conditions.

He said Islamabad and Riyadh were steadily working towards a broader strategic partnership based on political understanding, mutual confidence and a shared commitment to regional peace and security.

The Saudi Chargé d’Affaires particularly highlighted the Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement signed between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia in 2025, saying the agreement had given a new strategic dimension to bilateral relations.

He said the defence agreement reflected the strong trust between the two countries and their determination to expand cooperation in areas of mutual interest.

Naif Bin Mlafakh also referred to the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement involving Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Türkiye.