RIYADH, Aug 6: Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz on Saturday had an audience with King Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz at the Royal Palace here. The prime minister expressed his heartfelt condolence over the sad demise of King Fahd bin Abdul Aziz, describing him a great leader of Muslim Ummah and a great visionary.

Prime Minister Aziz with members of his entourage also greeted King Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz on assuming his new responsibility.

Crown Prince Sultan bin Abdul Aziz, Prince Naif and other members of the royal family were also present on the occasion. He hoped the new leadership of Saudi Arabia will carry forward the mission of the late King. He was appreciative of the leadership qualities of King Abdullah and said under his able guidance he will continue to lead the Ummah.

He said Pakistan and Saudi Arabia were tied in strong bonds of brotherhood and every Pakistani was aggrieved by his demise and prays for the departed soul. He said the close ties between the two countries would continue to grow in the days ahead.—APP