ISLAMABAD: Ambassador of Saudi Arabia, Nawaf bin Said Al-Malki launched in Islamabad the ‘shelter and winter kits project 2025’ initiated by the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre.

The centre is dedicated to providing humanitarian aid and relief to those in need and affected by disasters around the world.

Ambassador Al-Malki announced on the occasion that the Saudi government had donated 84,500 shelter and winter kits, and these relief packages to provide relief to vulnerable communities across Pakistan during the harsh winter months.

Expressing his gratitude, Ambassador Al-Malki said: “It is my pleasure to participate in this ceremony on behalf of my country to hand over this generous gift to Pakistan. The KS relief continues to serve humanity globally, and in Pakistan, it remains steadfast in providing support whenever needed.”

The Saudi envoy explained that the humanitarian aid will be distributed to the vulnerable communities in all the four provinces, in addition to Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, ensuring relief for those in need during the harsh winter season.

By 2024, the King Salman Relief Centre has 476 ongoing and completed projects in Pakistan, worth $498.85 million.

Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, joined the Saudi envoy at the launching of ‘Shelter and Winter Kits Project’ which marked yet another milestone in the strong and historic ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, reflecting their shared commitment to humanitarian aid and development.

Speaking on the occasion, Rana Tanveer expressed his profound gratitude to the Saudi government and King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center for their unwavering support in providing relief assistance to the people of Pakistan.

He highlighted that Saudi Arabia had played a key role in Pakistan’s agricultural development, fostering modern farming techniques, irrigation systems, and food security measures.

The minister lauded KS relief’s continuous efforts in tackling natural disasters, poverty, and food insecurity, calling their initiatives highly commendable.

He further emphasized that Saudi investment in Pakistan’s agriculture sector has significantly boosted crop production and modernized farming practices. The collaboration between the two nations has strengthened food security and ensured sustainable development.

KS relief’s humanitarian initiatives extend beyond immediate relief efforts, contributing to healthcare, education, and economic stability in Pakistan. Rana Tanveer underscored that Saudi Arabia’s support in these areas remains a cornerstone of Pakistan’s progress.

It was also noted that in 2023 alone, KS relief provided over 110 million meals globally, including a significant share for Pakistan. This reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to eradicating hunger and improving global humanitarian efforts.

Rana Tanveer Hussain reiterated that Pakistan and Saudi Arabia will continue to work together to address food security challenges and climate change.

He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and advancing mutual cooperation in all sectors.

Published in Dawn, January 31st, 2025