JEDDAH, (By Noor-ul-Hassan Gujjar) : Pakistan’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Ahmad Farooq, has said that the relationship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia is “higher than the Himalayas and deeper than the deepest oceans.” Speaking at a press conference held at the Pakistan Consulate in Jeddah, he highlighted the unwavering support Saudi Arabia has extended to Pakistan in times of war and economic crises.
Ambassador Farooq announced that the agreement between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia regarding the transfer of prisoners to complete their sentences in their home country has become operational. Under this agreement, Pakistani prisoners in Saudi jails now have the option to serve the remainder of their sentences in Pakistan. “A few prisoners have already been transferred,” he confirmed.
He revealed that approximately 60% of Pakistani inmates in Saudi jails are imprisoned on drug-related charges. Most of these individuals had entered the Kingdom on temporary visas. Stressing the need for preventive action, the ambassador emphasized the importance of launching public awareness campaigns to avoid such issues in the future.
On the economic front, Ambassador Farooq said that several trade agreements have been signed between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. He urged Pakistani businessmen to explore and capitalize on the Saudi market to help boost Pakistan’s exports.
Addressing the issues faced by overseas Pakistanis, the ambassador stated that resolving their problems is a top priority. He assured that both the Consulate in Jeddah and the Embassy in Riyadh are providing full legal support to the Pakistani community.
Additionally, Ambassador Farooq announced that the construction of the new Consulate building in Jeddah is 50% complete, and the inauguration is expected soon. The new facility will offer improved services and amenities for the Pakistani community.
Consul General Khalid Majid was also present at the press conference and endorsed the ambassador’s remarks, providing further insight into the ongoing activities and services of the Consulate.