Ambassador of
Saudi Arabia to Pakistan, H.E. Nawaf bin Said Al-Malki called on the Minister
of State for Finance and Economic Affairs, Rana Muhammad Afzal Khan here Tuesday.
The meeting focused on firming up preparations for upcoming Pak-Saudi Joint
Ministerial Commission (JMC) meeting scheduled to be held on January 16-17 at Islamabad.
During the meeting it was
re-iterated that in the last three years, both Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have
made important decisions, especially with regard to their development
trajectories. Saudi Vision 2030 – a far-reaching and pragmatic roadmap
envisioned by His Royal Highness Crown Prince Muhammad Bin Salman is set to
transform Saudi Arabia’s socio-economic development.
The Minister
also discussed with the Ambassador current bilateral trade between Pakistan and
Saudi Arabia and said there was room and potential for increasing it to a far
higher level. On this account the Minister suggested measures like
participation in mutual trade fairs and exhibitions, trade diversification to
non-traditional areas, B2B meetings and reactivation of Pak-Saudi Business
Council. The Minister on the occasion also emphasized the need for steps
like easing of procedure for issuance of business/ professional visa, reduction
of visa fees on reciprocal basis that will ultimately increase the volume of
bilateral trade.
The Minister
said Pakistan looks forward to up-gradation of manpower in Saudi Arabia by
sending highly qualified technical and skilled personnel.
The
Minister indicated opportunities in Halal Food, Cattle Farming, Milk, Fisheries
and other Agro Industry Projects for investment by Saudi businessmen.
The
Ambassador assured the Minister that Saudi Arabia has always stood by Pakistan
through thick and thin and will do so in future. He also congratulated Rana
Afzal on assuming responsibilities as Minister of State for Finance and
Economic Affairs and wished him all success in his tenure.
*****