ISLAMABAD, JUNE 22 / DNA / = Foreign Minister Makhdoom Shah Mahmood Qureshi held a telephonic conversation with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal Al Saud. Matters of mutual interest, including Covid-19 pandemic, enhanced bilateral cooperation and situation in IOJ&K were discussed.
The Foreign Minister underscored that the fraternal ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia were deep-rooted and multi-faceted and the strategic relationship between the two countries was growing in myriad dimensions.
Foreign Minister thanked for condolence messages issued by His Majesty the King and the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia over PIA plane crash.
Foreign Minister Qureshi offered condolences on the loss of precious lives in Saudi Arabia due to COVID-19 pandemic and highlighted the measures being taken by Pakistan to contain the virus, with focus on saving lives and securing livelihoods. The two Foreign Ministers exchanged views about the socio-economic impacts of the pandemic. Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan expressed solidarity with Pakistan in its efforts to combat the outbreak.
In context of IOJ&K, Foreign Minister Qurehi shared deep concern over the continuing double lockdown as well as the intensification of military crackdown by Indian occupation forces and attempts to change the demographic structure of the occupied territory by introducing new domicile law. The Foreign Minister lauded the recent statements of OIC and other international bodies which showed serious concerns and urged urgent steps to address the situation in IOJ&K. The Saudi Foreign Minister reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s traditional support for the Kashmir cause.
The two Foreign Ministers agreed to remain in close contact to take forward the important bilateral agenda and close cooperation in various fields.
