The recent visit of Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari to the Kingdom and his meeting with King Abdullah, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, and other senior officials has further cemented relations between the two countries, Abdul Salik Khan, Consul General of Pakistan, said Tuesday. In comments to the press after holding talks with Prince Muhammad Bin Nasir Bin Abdul Aziz, Emir of Jizan region, Consul General Khan said Pakistan and Saudi Arabia were strategic partners and their fraternal relations have stood the test of time. Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, he said, were source of strength for each other. Prince Muhammad's talks with Consul General Khan covered matters of mutual interest, bilateral relations and ways and means to enhance them. Khan said Saudi Arabia has always helped Pakistan during difficult times for which “we are grateful to the leadership and people of Saudi Arabia.” The Pakistani community in Jizan, he said, was comfortable and appreciative of the policies of the Saudi government. Prince Muhammad described Pakistan as an important Muslim country which is “very dear to the Saudi people and its leadership.” He appreciated the contribution of the Pakistani community in the economic development and prosperity of the Kingdom. Earlier, Consul General Khan held separate meetings with Ali Bin Ahad Al-Harbi, Director General (Labor), and Dr. Mohsin Saddiq Tabbiqee, Director General (Health) and discussed with them the problems confronting Pakistani community in the region.
