Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi held a meeting with Saudi Deputy Interior Minister Dr. Nasir bin Abdulaziz Al-Dawood to strengthen the relationship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. The meeting, which also included Saudi Ambassador Nawaf bin Saeed Ahmed Al-Malki, focused on various mutual interests such as security collaboration and initiatives to enhance cultural and diplomatic ties.
One of the key proposals put forward by Minister Naqvi was to establish Islamabad and Riyadh as twin cities, a suggestion that was well-received and agreed upon by the Saudi minister. Efforts are now underway to finalize the necessary steps to formalize this partnership.
The discussions also covered security cooperation, with both countries agreeing to exchange paramilitary forces and police officers, as well as organize joint training programs. The issue of illegal networks trafficking beggars from Pakistan to Saudi Arabia was also addressed, with Minister Naqvi highlighting a nationwide crackdown and the addition of 4,300 individuals to Pakistan’s Exit Control List (ECL) under a zero-tolerance policy.
Both nations also agreed to finalize a prisoner exchange agreement, with Minister Naqvi confirming that efforts to repatriate 419 Pakistani prisoners from Saudi Arabia are in their final stages. To further strengthen travel relations, Naqvi announced that Saudi citizens would be able to visit Pakistan without a visa, underscoring Pakistan’s commitment to fostering closer ties.
Minister Naqvi expressed admiration for Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030, noting the potential for Saudi Arabia’s continued growth as a global leader in various sectors. Saudi Deputy Minister Al-Dawood reaffirmed the longstanding strength of Saudi-Pakistani relations and emphasized the commitment to deepening cooperation, particularly in security and joint training initiatives.
