Key Takeaways
- Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi proposed a Saudi consulate in Peshawar.
- Direct flights between Peshawar and Madinah were suggested to enhance air connectivity.
- The governor highlighted the province’s investment potential, including tourism and energy.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi has called for the establishment of a Saudi consulate in Peshawar and the launch of direct flights by Saudi Airlines between Peshawar and Madinah to facilitate pilgrims, workers, and business travelers. These proposals were made during a meeting with Saudi Ambassador to Pakistan Nawaf bin Saeed Ahmed Al-Maliki at Governor House Peshawar on Tuesday.
Governor Kundi welcomed the ambassador and briefed him on the history, culture, and strategic importance of Peshawar and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Both sides discussed Pakistan-Saudi relations and explored opportunities to expand cooperation in trade, investment, energy, tourism, and cultural exchanges.
Kundi emphasized that a large number of people from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa live and work in Saudi Arabia, including many serving in areas linked to the two holy mosques. He stated that a Saudi consulate in Peshawar would make consular services more accessible for workers, pilgrims, and businesspeople from the province.
The governor also highlighted Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s investment potential, noting major reserves of oil, gas, and minerals, as well as its ability to supply low-cost electricity to the national grid. He pointed to the province’s tourism and archaeological assets, particularly the ancient Gandhara civilisation and historic sites in and around Peshawar.
Kundi said stronger cooperation with Saudi Arabia could attract investment in energy, minerals, tourism, and infrastructure. Ambassador Al-Maliki thanked the governor for his hospitality and praised Kundi’s efforts to promote a positive image of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. During the visit, the Saudi ambassador toured different sections of Governor House, watched a traditional regional dance performance, and recorded his impressions in the official guest book.
The governor later presented him with a traditional woodwork gift from Dera Ismail Khan. Both parties expressed their commitment to enhancing bilateral ties through increased cooperation and mutual benefits.
