KARACHI, Aug 25: Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have contemplated to undertake a joint strategy to combat the menace of terrorism, Prime Minister Mir Zafarullah Khan Jamali told reporters at the Karachi Airport on Monday.

He was talking to reporters on his return from a five-day official visit to Saudi Arabia.

He pointed out that recently there had been some incidents of terrorism in Saudi Arabia as well. Unfortunately, he added, such incidents had taken place in Pakistan also.

“This is a time to ponder,” he remarked and added that “we also discussed this aspect with the Saudi leadership and contemplated a joint strategy at higher level in this connection.”

He was optimistic that there would be an improvement in the situation.

The prime minister said he felt that there was a need to bring about required changes in the structure of the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC).

The important countries of OIC such as Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Malaysia and Turkey would have to play their role, he said. The prime minister said that in this connection too there were discussions with the Saudi leadership.

He also pointed out that Pakistan and Saudi Arab enjoyed close friendly relations and “our efforts are to further cement these relations.”

The premier said that during his visit he also held discussions with the expatriates in Saudi Arabia.

He stated he was happy with the performance of the Pakistanis living there.

“I also asked the Pakistanis to contribute fully towards the progress and prosperity of that country,” he added.

The prime minister also delivered President Gen Pervez Musharraf’s message to the Saudi leadership.

He said he also asked the Saudis as well as Pakistanis living there to come and investment in Pakistan.

They had assured to do so and, the premier said, “I am optimistic that investment will come to Pakistan soon.”

The prime minister described his visit to Saudi Arabia as very successful.

He said he had also performed Umra and had the honour of entering the Holy Kaaba and Roza-i-Rasool (peace be upon him).

The premier said he also met Saudi King Fahd bin Abdul Aziz, Defence Minister Prince Sultan and Interior Minister Prince Naif.—APP