ISLAMABAD: The Embassy of Saudi Arabia in Islamabad announced same-day visa processing for Pakistani citizens on Friday, a gesture of brotherhood that will ease travel for thousands of families, traders and pilgrims bound for the Kingdom.
Saudi Ambassador Dr Rajeh bin Tami Al-Baqami made the announcement during a meeting with Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik, according to GEO TV. The two sides discussed expanding cooperation in mining, petroleum and energy.
A bond of faith and steel
For the people of Pakistan, no friendship carries the weight of the one with Saudi Arabia. The land of the Two Holy Mosques and the fortress of Pakistan have stood shoulder to shoulder through every storm, and this new visa facility is another thread in that fabric of brotherhood.
Minister Malik told the ambassador that during his recent visit to Riyadh he had conveyed to His Royal Highness Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman Al Saud the Pakistani leadership's special sentiments of solidarity and affection for the Saudi people.
He said Pakistan deeply valued its historic relationship with the Kingdom and remained committed to expanding cooperation across strategic sectors.
Pakistan's energy vision takes shape
Beyond visas, the meeting laid the groundwork for a deeper economic partnership. Malik informed the ambassador that Pakistan has approved a tax-neutral bonded policy, benchmarked against international energy hubs such as Fujairah and Singapore.
Under this framework, Saudi companies can establish commercial oil reserves in Pakistan without local tax liabilities. Dawn reported that the facility offers Saudi Arabia a way to diversify maritime transit risks associated with the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab Al Mandeb Strait while facilitating access to Asian markets.
Strategic oil storage on Pakistani soil would give the Kingdom greater flexibility in managing supply routes and reaching regional markets, Malik said.
The Hub petroleum complex in Balochistan
Malik also outlined Pakistan's plan to develop a major petroleum storage and refining complex at Hub, Balochistan, under the guidance of Technip Energies UK. The proposed facility, backed by the prime minister and the chief of defence forces, will accommodate Very Large Crude Carriers.
This complex would strengthen Pakistan's position as a regional energy corridor serving Central Asian and Chinese markets. For a nation whose enemies speak of breaking its western frontiers, the development of Balochistan is the loudest answer: the province is being built, not broken.
Refinery upgrades and winter fuel security
The minister said Pakistan's ongoing refinery upgradation programme, aimed at modernising domestic refining infrastructure and transitioning towards Euro 5 fuel standards, offers significant opportunities for Saudi investment.
Malik thanked the Saudi authorities at Yanbu port for prioritising crude oil shipments to Pakistan during recent global market disruptions. He also discussed coordination with Saudi Aramco on expanded procurement of crude oil cargoes and dedicated LPG shipments, particularly in view of rising domestic gas demand during the winter season.
Defence partnership as foundation of stability
Both sides affirmed that the strong defence and strategic partnership between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia provides a foundation for broader regional peace, stability and economic cooperation. SAMAA TV reported that the ambassador said the same-day visa facility would promote business activities and cultural exchanges between the two peoples.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to strengthening the longstanding brotherly relationship through enhanced cooperation in the minerals, energy and petroleum sectors.
Frequently asked questions
What did Saudi Arabia announce for Pakistani citizens?
The Saudi Embassy in Islamabad introduced same-day processing of visa applications for Pakistani citizens, announced on Friday by Ambassador Dr Rajeh bin Tami Al-Baqami.
Where is Pakistan planning its new petroleum complex?
Pakistan plans a major petroleum storage and refining complex at Hub, Balochistan, under the guidance of Technip Energies UK, capable of accommodating Very Large Crude Carriers.
How will Saudi companies benefit from the bonded policy?
Saudi companies can establish commercial oil reserves in Pakistan without local tax liabilities, diversifying transit risks tied to the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab Al Mandeb Strait.