Imam Masjid Al-Nabawi meets Senate chairman

ISLAMABAD: A Saudi delegation led by Imam Masjid Al-Nabawi Dr Salah bin Mohammad Al-Budair on Thursday met with Senate Chairman Yusuf Raza Gilani at the Parliament House.

The Senate chairman highlighted the long-standing history of cooperation between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia across various sectors. He emphasised that the relations between the two countries are rooted in religious, cultural, and moral values.

He further noted the significance of the Holy Mosques, particularly Makkah and Madina, as sacred sites for the Muslim Ummah, the official news agency reported.

Welcoming Imam Al-Budair to Pakistan, Gilani remarked that his presence in the country is a testament to the strong and brotherly relations between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.

He added that under the leadership of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Saudi Arabia has always been a sincere friend of Pakistan.

Gilani briefed the esteemed guest on the overall regional situation, also highlighting the issues of Kashmir and Palestine. He stressed that the challenges faced by the Muslim Ummah are shared, and unity is the need of the hour to address them.

He also underscored the importance of joint efforts to ensure peace and stability in the region and the world.

The Senate chairman emphasised the importance of enhancing cooperation in the fields of religious education and research with Saudi Arabia. He expressed Pakistan’s desire to engage in academic exchanges and initiate joint research projects with the Kingdom. He also called for accelerating the exchange of parliamentary delegations, noting that such exchanges would help bring the people of both nations closer.

Furthermore, Gilani stressed the need to further strengthen trade and economic relations between the two countries. He remarked that Dr Salah bin Mohammad Al-Budair’s visit would contribute to deepening the friendship and brotherhood between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.

He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to working alongside Saudi Arabia to achieve shared goals and address common challenges. He also noted that the people of Pakistan hold a special place in their hearts for Masjid Al-Nabawi, which he described as a symbol of unity, peace, and devotion.

Gilani conveyed his best wishes for the leadership of Saudi Arabia.

Imam Al-Budair recognised the importance of Pakistan to Saudi Arabia and highlighted the significance of the bilateral relationship between the two nations.