Islamabad:Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have agreed to further strengthen their bilateral ties and enhance cooperation in religious affairs, particularly focusing on Hajj and Umrah arrangements, as well as other areas of mutual interest.

According to Radio Pakistan, this commitment was expressed during a meeting between the Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf and Saudi Ambassador Dr. Rajeh bin Tami Albugami in Islamabad.

Sardar Muhammad Yousaf praised the Saudi leadership for its exemplary measures to facilitate pilgrims, highlighting the Route to Makkah initiative as a significant project that has eased travel for Pakistani Hajj pilgrims. The Saudi Ambassador, Dr. Albugami, emphasized the importance of serving Hajj pilgrims, referring to it as a great blessing and noting that the Saudi King holds the title of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques.

Additionally, a focal person is being appointed to ensure faster and improved facilities for Umrah pilgrims. Dr. Albugami also expressed admiration for the poetry of Allama Muhammad Iqbal and described Pakistan as a beautiful country known for its friendliness and hospitality. He assured that the doors of the Saudi Embassy would always remain open to Pakistani brothers.