ISLAMABAD: A high-level three-member delegation of the Saudi-Pakistan Friendship Group from the Shura Council of Saudi Arabia arrived in Pakistan on a special invitation extended by National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq.

The delegation was led by the Head of the Saudi-Pakistan Parliamentary Friendship Group retired Maj Gen Dr Abdulrahman bin Sunaid Al-Harbi, says a press release.

National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq welcomed the delegation and conveyed his best wishes for the leadership and people of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The speaker appreciated the Kingdom’s exceptional arrangements for pilgrims during Haj and lauded Saudi Arabia’s consistent support to Pakistan during times of need.

He said that at present the world needs peace and not war, adding that Pakistan believed in dialogue and peace.

He emphasized the importance of strengthening parliamentary linkages and noted that parliamentary diplomacy can play a vital role in bringing the peoples of both countries even closer.

He added that the Pakistan-Saudi Parliamentary Friendship Group in the National Assembly is actively fostering mutual understanding and coordination between the legislatures of both countries.

Retired Maj Gen Dr Abdulrahman Al-Harbi affirmed the importance Saudi Arabia places on its friendly relations with Pakistan. He remarked that the hearts of the people of Saudi Arabia and Pakistan beat together in unison, reflecting the warmth and affection between the two nations.

Published in Dawn, June 23rd, 2025