Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has invited Saudi citizens to explore the province’s tourist destinations, highlighting its cultural heritage, historic landmarks, hospitality and culinary traditions. She also called for stronger economic cooperation between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, with particular emphasis on investment opportunities and agricultural exports.
Maryam Nawaz made the remarks during a meeting with Saudi Ambassador to Pakistan Dr Rajaa Al-Buqami. She conveyed her best wishes to the Saudi leadership and reaffirmed Pakistan’s longstanding relationship with the Kingdom. The discussions focused on tourism promotion, trade expansion, investment and stronger economic and strategic ties between the two countries.
During the meeting, both sides discussed plans to organise an investment roadshow in Riyadh to attract Saudi investors to Punjab. The proposed initiative aims to highlight business opportunities across different sectors and encourage greater commercial cooperation between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
The Punjab government is targeting more than Rs500 billion in exports of livestock, beef, poultry, mangoes, kinnow, potatoes and shrimp. The target reflects the province’s plans to expand agricultural and livestock exports, increase international market access and create additional opportunities for businesses and investors.
Maryam Nawaz also highlighted Saudi Arabia’s importance as a source of remittances for Pakistan, noting that the Kingdom sends approximately $9.8 billion to the country. She said the existing economic partnership could be strengthened further through increased trade, investment and business collaboration.
The chief minister condemned attempts to target Makkah and Madinah, as well as attacks on Saudi cities. She reiterated Pakistan’s support for Saudi Arabia’s security, sovereignty and right to defend itself. She also emphasised that closer economic cooperation could complement the two countries’ security relationship and contribute to regional stability.
Saudi Ambassador Dr Rajaa Al-Buqami appreciated the longstanding relationship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia and expressed a commitment to expanding cooperation across various sectors. He also thanked Pakistan’s government, armed forces and people for their continued support for the Kingdom’s security and stability.
The ambassador highlighted Punjab’s tourism potential, pointing to its Mughal-era monuments, cultural traditions, food and hospitality. He particularly praised Lahore’s welcoming atmosphere and culinary heritage. The meeting highlighted shared interests in attracting investment, increasing exports, promoting tourism and strengthening economic and strategic cooperation between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
