Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik met Saudi Ambassador Nawaf bin Said Al-Malki to discuss strengthening bilateral cooperation in the energy sector, according to an official statement issued on Thursday.
During the meeting, both sides reviewed ongoing cooperation in the petroleum sector and exchanged views on enhancing long-term energy collaboration between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
The Saudi ambassador reaffirmed the Kingdom’s commitment to supporting Pakistan in addressing its energy security challenges and assured continued cooperation in this regard.
Officials said recent technical-level consultations between the two countries are making positive progress toward long-term cooperation, particularly in refinery upgradation and energy investment projects.
The petroleum minister thanked Saudi Arabia for its continued support in meeting Pakistan’s energy requirements and acknowledged the special treatment extended to Pakistan in petroleum supplies, which has helped the country manage energy needs during difficult economic conditions.
The Saudi ambassador also appreciated Pakistan’s role in promoting regional peace and stability and acknowledged the country’s efforts toward maintaining stability in the region.
The meeting comes as Pakistan continues efforts to secure stable energy supplies, attract foreign investment, and strengthen strategic partnerships with Gulf countries amid pressure on external accounts and volatility in global energy markets.
Saudi Arabia has remained one of Pakistan’s key energy partners in recent years by providing oil supply support, deferred payment facilities, and engaging in investment discussions related to the energy and refinery sectors.
The minister also reiterated Pakistan’s desire to further deepen its strategic energy partnership with Saudi Arabia, particularly with Saudi Aramco, while appreciating the Kingdom’s longstanding cooperation and support.
