June 10, 2008	Tuesday	Jamadi-us-Sani 05, 1429

JEDDAH, June 9: Saudi Minister for Trade and Industry Abdullah Xenel Ali Raza and Minister for Agriculture Dr Fahad Balghunaim will visit Pakistan in 10 to 15 days to boost cooperation between the two countries in all sectors of economy.

This was announced here on Monday evening after a meeting between three Saudi ministers with PPP leader Asif Ali Zardari at the Conference Place.

The Saudi team comprised Finance Minister Ibrahim Al Assaf, Commerce and Industry Minister Abdullah Xenel and Agriculture Minister Dr Fahad.

Mr Zardari was assisted by Defence Minister Chaudhry Ahmad Mukhtar, Chairman National Reconstruction Bureau Dr Asim Hussain and Pakistani Ambassador Admiral (retd) Shahid Karimullah.

According to sources, the meeting was a follow up to the talks held on Saturday between King Abdullah and the Pakistan leadership when the two sides decided to evaluate ways of improving and enhancing cooperation.

On Monday, the two sides discussed the possibility of agreements in various sectors, like energy, agriculture, trade, food and fruit processing and other agro-based industries, especially corporate farming.

The Saudi government stressed the need for encouraging private sector and exploring joint ventures.

It was also decided that the paid-up capital of the Saudi-Pak Investment Bank would be increased to enable it to meet the requirements of financing joint ventures.