Dr. Jamal Al Harbi
The Aramco agreement symbolizes Saudi Arabia’s strong backing for Pakistan by marking the entrance of the colossal Aramco company into the realm of economic cooperation between the two nations. This collaboration, formalized by a final agreement to acquire a 40% stake in the Pakistan Gas and Oil Company Limited (GO), comes at a critical juncture when companies are withdrawing from Pakistan due to the prevailing state of instability. It serves as a testament to Saudi support for Pakistan, a relationship grounded in history and characterized by the Kingdom’s substantial assistance.
In an article penned by the former Ambassador to Pakistan, Dr. Ali Awad Asiri, published in the Saudi newspaper Al-Sharq Al-Awsat on 23 Ramadan 1443 AH (corresponding to April 26, 2022 AD), Dr. Asiri provided a detailed historical account of the enduring relations between the Kingdom and Pakistan. Dr. Asiri, who served as the ambassador in Islamabad from 2001 to 2009 AD, emphasized that the Kingdom has been a consistent contributor to Pakistan’s economy, stability, and the well-being of its people, starting even before Pakistan gained independence. Dating back to 1940 AD, when the “Pakistan Resolution from the United Nations” was issued, King Abdulaziz Al Saud’s visit to Karachi laid the foundation for a warm relationship with the leaders of the Muslim League. The Kingdom’s response to the Bengal famine in 1943 demonstrated its generous support, while a reception in 1946 held by Prince Faisal bin Abdulaziz in New York sought international backing for the cause of Pakistan. Recognizing Pakistan among the first member states of the United Nations, a friendship treaty was signed in 1950, and in 1954, Saudi King Saud initiated the Karachi housing project, named “Saudabad” after King Saud. The historical narrative continued with pivotal moments such as Saudi support during the 1965 war between India and Pakistan, the conclusion of a bilateral defense cooperation protocol in 1967, and significant developments in 1974 during King Faisal’s reign, including the establishment of landmarks like the King Faisal Mosque in Islamabad.
Fast forward to 2018, the Crown Prince’s emergency economic relief package, exceeding $6 billion, demonstrated unwavering support for Pakistan during challenging times. The Crown Prince’s statement, “I am your ambassador to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia,” preceded the largest Saudi-Pakistani investment agreement worth $20 billion, with $10 billion designated for the Aramco oil refinery.
In conclusion, appreciation is extended to Ambassador Dr. Ali Awad Asiri for highlighting these pivotal milestones in the established historical relations between the Kingdom and Pakistan. Tribute is also paid to the current Ambassador, Mr. Nawaf bin Saeed Al-Maliki, for his significant efforts in elevating the relations between the two countries to new heights. The enduring Saudi-Pakistani relations transcend the test of time, rooted in a fraternal bond built on love, respect, shared religion, trust, and a common destiny.
