Pakistan, KSA partnership to guide future cooperation

August 24, 2026 (MLN): Pakistan-Saudi Arabia's time-tested friendship and strategic partnership were reaffirmed as President Asif Ali Zardari appreciated the contribution of the Kingdom's outgoing envoy towards strengthening the longstanding fraternal and strategic ties between the two countries, expressing confidence that the strong foundation laid during his tenure would continue to guide bilateral cooperation in the years ahead.

The President made these remarks while talking to Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Pakistan, Nawaf bin Said Al-Malkiy, who called on him for a farewell meeting at Aiwan-e-Sadr, with Senator Sherry Rehman also present on the occasion, said a press release issued.

The President acknowledged the Ambassador's dedicated service and the friendship, warmth and cooperation he extended to Pakistan during his tenure, noting that he had played an important role in advancing bilateral relations, particularly in the political, economic and trade spheres. He also voiced appreciation for the Kingdom's steadfast support for Pakistan.

Ambassador Nawaf bin Said Al-Malkiy, who has served as Saudi Arabia's envoy to Pakistan since 2017, thanked the President and the government and people of Pakistan for the warmth and cooperation extended to him during his stay, saying he would continue to hold Pakistan and its people in high regard.

 The President, in turn, wished the Ambassador success and the very best for his future endeavours, saying Pakistan would always remain his second home.

Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye had recently signed the Mecca Joint Defence Agreement, establishing a trilateral security framework aimed at strengthening collective defence and regional stability.

The agreement came as the three Sunni Muslim allies of the United States responded to escalating regional tensions that have seen Gulf oil-exporting states targeted by missile attacks and disruptions to energy shipments.

According to a joint statement issued at the time, the pact was designed to reinforce collective deterrence against external aggression, stating that any armed attack on one of the three countries would be treated as an attack on all members of the agreement.

Copyright Mettis Link News