JEDDAH: Pakistan has always been a proponent of world peace and unity among Islamic states, Consul General Abdul Salik Khan said here Wednesday evening. Speaking at a reception he hosted at his residence on the occasion of Pakistan's National Day, the consul general said his country was dedicated to interfaith cooperation and reconciliation. Muhammad Nabeel Bukhari, head of the Consular Department of the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs, was the chief guest at the function which was attended by consul generals of various countries and several dignitaries from all walks of life. Consul General Khan said March 23 “always reminds us the need to dedicate ourselves for the realization of the goals for which Pakistan was established. The consul general said Pak-Saudi relations are deep-rooted in history and culture. He said that the Saudi Arabia's progress and stability were source of strength for Pakistan. He thanked King Abdullah, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, and the Saudi leadership for always supporting Pakistan and for caring about the Pakistani community in Saudi Arabia. People of Pakistan, he said, will always be grateful to the Kingdom for its outstanding help off and on and particularly for the victims of 2005 earthquake and last year's devastating floods. Madam Kate Rudd, Consul General of Britain, congratulated Pakistan on its National Day. She also congratulated Pakistani cricket team for winning its quarterfinal match against West Indies in the cricket World Cup. Efthymios Costo Poulos, Consul General of Greece, wished political and economic stability and welfare for the people of Pakistan. Abduljebbar A. Altani, acting Consul General of Iraq, said Pakistan and Iraq are facing a common enemy. “We wish peace for both the countries,” he said. Khamis Ebrahim K. Al-Mohannadi, Consul General of Qatar, extended his felicitations on Pakistan's National Day. Dr. Muhammad Al-Fayez, Consul General of Jordan, wished all the good for the people of Pakistan and said Jordan has sincere and cordial relations with Pakistan and benefits from its knowhow in various fields.
