By Sahibzada Maulana Zahid Mahmood Qasmi Chairman, Merkazi Ulema Council Pakistan
Saudi Arabia’s National Day is an important occasion to recall the Kingdom’s unity, national identity and journey of development.Celebrated every year on September 23, this day symbolizes the historic struggle that led to the unification and establishment of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It is also an opportunity to review the brotherly religious, historical, public, trade and defence relations between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia and to renew the commitment to further strengthen these ties.
The relations between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are not limited to diplomatic necessities rather they are founded on devotion, brotherhood, mutual respect, deep attachment to the Two Holy Mosques and shared interests.The bond of love and respect between the peoples of the two countries has existed for many decades.The tradition of supporting each other in difficult circumstances has further strengthened and made these relations more enduring.
Pakistan-Saudi-Turkie Defence Cooperation and Regional Stability
Defence cooperation among Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkie is an important development amid the changing situation in the region. The historical, religious, political and defence ties that already exist among these three brotherly countries can be further organized and strengthened through mutual cooperation.
The fundamental purpose of defence cooperation should not be confrontation against any country but rather the strengthening of mutual security, defence capabilities, cooperation against terrorism and regional peace and stability.Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkie can play an important role in promoting peace, stability and mutual cooperation in the region by utilizing their experience, resources and diplomatic influence.
The efforts of Saudi Arabia and the Muslim World League to address sectarian differences in the Muslim world through scholarly dialogue, moderation and mutual respect rather than confrontation are also noteworthy.Efforts against extremism and terrorism as well as initiatives promoting moderation and tolerance are important for peace and stability in the Muslim world.
Protection of the Two Holy Mosques and Solidarity with Saudi Arabia
For the people of Pakistan and their connection with the Two Holy Mosques is not merely an emotional attachment but a matter of faith and devotion. Makkah and Madinah are the holiest places for the entire Muslim Ummah. The peace, sanctity and security of the Two Holy Mosques are of fundamental importance to every Muslim.
Any attempt to harm the peace and security of Saudi Arabia particularly Makkah and Madinah will be regarded as contrary to the sentiments of the Muslim Ummah.We strongly condemn the attacks against Saudi Arabia and express our complete solidarity with the Saudi government and people.
The Merkazi Ulema Council Pakistan fully supports the sovereignty and security of Saudi Arabia and the protection of the Two Holy Mosques.The scholars should use their pulpits and religious platforms to promote the sanctity of the Two Holy Mosques the security of Saudi Arabia and the unity of the Muslim Ummah, moderation, tolerance and peaceful coexistence.
The Government of Pakistan should also take practical steps to make its longstanding defence and security cooperation with Saudi Arabia more effective within the framework of mutual agreements, national interests and mutual consent.
Pakistan-Saudi Trade and Economic Relations
Trade, investment, energy, minerals, agriculture, construction, infrastructure, healthcare, education and technology are among the many important areas of relations between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.There are extensive opportunities for economic cooperation between the two countries which can be transformed into practical initiatives through mutual benefit, transparency, continuity and effective planning.
The Pakistani workforce has also played an important role in the construction and development of Saudi Arabia.Millions of Pakistanis are working in different sectors in Saudi Arabia and contributing to strengthening the economic and people-to-people ties between the two countries.There is a need to further expand cooperation in trade, investment, employment, education, technology and skilled manpower so that the peoples of both countries can benefit even more from this brotherly relationship.
A Joint Voice for Palestine
The issue of Palestine is among the most important concerns of the Muslim world. Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkie can utilize their diplomatic, political and moral capabilities to play an effective and peaceful diplomatic role in support of the fundamental rights, peace and security of the Palestinian people and the establishment of an independent and sovereign Palestinian state.
The Muslim world needs to raise an effective, united and principled voice at the international level for the rights of the Palestinian people.The mutual trust and brotherly relations between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia provide a strong foundation for joint diplomatic efforts in this regard.
Special Message on Saudi National Day
On the occasion of Saudi Arabia’s National Day, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, the Saudi leadership, the respected scholars and the brotherly people of Saudi Arabia.
The people of Pakistan pray for the security, stability, development and prosperity of Saudi Arabia.Saudi Arabia will always hold a special place in our hearts because of its association with the Two Holy Mosques.We deeply value our historic, brotherly and religious relations with the people and government of Saudi Arabia.
We condemn any aggression against Saudi Arabia and express our complete solidarity with the Saudi people and government.The sanctity of the Two Holy Mosques, the security of Saudi Arabia, the unity of the Muslim Ummah and peace and stability in the Muslim world are of fundamental importance to us.
We convey to the Saudi scholars and people that the people of Pakistan hold their historic, brotherly and religious relations with Saudi Arabia in the highest regard.The sanctity of the Two Holy Mosques, unity of the Muslim Ummah, support for the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people, Pakistan-Saudi trade and defence cooperation and joint efforts for peace and stability in the Muslim world are our shared responsibilities.
May Allah Almighty always bless the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia with peace, security, stability and prosperity; protect the Two Holy Mosques from every kind of evil and mischief further strengthen the brotherly relations between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia and guide the Muslim Ummah towards unity, wisdom, moderation and peace.
Ameen.
