Saudi govt makes arrangements for Pakistani pilgrims affected by air space closure

QUETTA, MAR 12 (DNA) –  : Ambassador of Saudi Arabia Nawaf Saeed Al-Maliky distributed compensation cheques among the affected families of Balochistan. Chief Minister Balochistan was also present on the occasion.

Both agreed that, with the passage of time, the brotherly relations between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are being strengthened and bilateral trade and economic ties enhanced.

The Saudi ambassador stated that the Khadim-e-Haramain Sharifain and the Saudi government had stood shoulder to shoulder with Pakistan through thick and thin and pledged that the kingdom would continue supporting Pakistan in the future as well.

The Saudi envoy also expressed his country’s interest in investing in Pakistan.

The Saudi government had pledged two-and-a-half-billion rupees for 8,000 new homes for earthquake victims and an additional Rs105 million to rebuild the infrastructure in earthquake-hit areas and 155 million rupees for jobs’ rehabilitation.

Saudi Arabia will also install solar panels. The project is expected to be completed within the fourth quarter of 2019.

The ambassador said Saudi Arabia will continue to extend such support as we are connected to brotherly country with the ties of religion and brotherhood besides having deep-rooted historical relations as well.

Meanwhile the Saudi embassy announced on Tuesday that the Saudi government would host Pakistan pilgrims who are in Saudi Arabia for Umra, until flights return to Pakistan.

The Saudi authorities are also in touch with the travel agents for re-booking of passengers affected by closing of Pakistan’s air space.

The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has directed the Companies and institutions to immediately arrange accommodation to all Pakistani pilgrims in Makkah hotels.-DNA

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