Saudi Arabia Partnership

Dr. Subayyal Ikram: The Flagbearer Of Warm Relations Between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia

Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have shared long-standing and cardinal relations ever since the former came into being. The relations between the two countries are rooted in shared religious beliefs and brotherhood, as both countries hold strong hegemony in the Islamic world. Especially from Pakistan’s side, many people have emerged in the past who have worked with dedication to strengthen the ties between the two countries. In the current age, Dr. Subayyal Ikram is one of the most vibrant personalities who is working towards buttressing diplomatic relations between the countries, with strategic and financial collaborations as the core objectives.

Dr. Subayyal Ikram’s approach to diplomacy is unique and effective. His frequent visits to Saudi Arabia for critical talks with their Ambassadors demonstrate his commitment to facilitating the Saudi-Pakistanis in the holy land. From advocating the just demands of the Pakistani labour community residing in Saudi Arabia to proposing unique avenues to ratchet up trade opportunities, Dr. Subayyal Ikram is at the forefront of strengthening bilateral ties between the two countries while giving top priority to Pakistan’s financial interests.

In 2023, when Pakistan was on the verge of default, Saudi Arabia’s intervention was a game-changer. They issued a bounteous Aid of $2B, which not only took over the country in the dire hour but also obviated the risk of default. Dr. Subayyal Ikram, while addressing a gathering in Lahore, expressed his gratitude to Saudi Arabia, saying,” The generous act of Saudi Arabia in this hard time has personified the long-standing and intimate relations between the two Islamic countries. We are abundantly grateful to Saudi Arabia for this act as a whole nation.”

This act of gratefulness is still revered by the top leadership of Saudi Arabia, compelling it to continue assisting Pakistan through thick and thin. Saudi Arabia has always propped up Pakistan to manage catastrophic calamities that ever hit it. For instance, when half of the country was under siege because of strong floods, Saudi Arabia stepped forward and issued an aid of $105 Million, which accounts for almost 13.3% of the total aid granted by the rest of the world.

Dr. Subayyal Ikram has not only strengthened diplomatic ties but also fostered mutual development. Saudi Arabia has become the second home of Pakistani professionals, especially engineers, doctors, bankers, and academicians. Their contributions to constructing infrastructure and running different departments in Saudi Arabia have been invaluable. The large warehouse of Pakistani talent has proved to be a great asset for the Kingdom.

Taking the importance of freedom of travel into consideration, Abdullah bin Subayyal has convinced the Saudi government to grant wide access to Pakistani visitors who especially visit the Kingdom for Haj and Umrah purposes.

As a result, Pakistanis are allowed to traverse the vast landscapes of Saudi Arabia freely, even on a visit visa.

Dr. Subayyal Ikram’s keen interest in buttressing the Pak-Saudi relations has helped our country reaped major gains in terms of both diplomatic and financial facets.