LAHORE: Saudi Arabia’s envoy at an Express Media Group Forum on Saturday stated that Saudi Arabia backs the ongoing graft purge in Pakistan.
Ambassador Nawaf bin Saeed al Malki spoke on a number of issues including the recent anti-corruption crackdown in Saudi Arabia.
In a widespread anti-corruption campaign earlier this month, Saudi Arabian authorities arrested dozens of royal family members, officials and business executives and froze their bank accounts in over alleged money laundering, bribery, extortion and exploiting public office for personal gain.
The envoy stated that initially, it had been difficult for people to support the graft purge, however, soon they realised how corruption and abuse of power were slowly weakening the system and how accountability is important.
Drawing a comparison to Pakistan’s recent accountability drive, Maliki stated, “The Saudi anti-corruption sweep is similar to the accountability drive in Pakistan and it is necessary to purge the system [of this menace] for a peaceful and prosperous future.”
In response to a question, Malki said, “Saudi Arabia not only supports the anti-corruption efforts in Pakistan but also promises to continue rendering support to every government, provided it is elected by the people of Pakistan.”
Maliki stated that he foresees a bright future for Pakistan in the wake of the ongoing CPEC project.
The Saudi envoy also showed the resolve to extend brotherly ties between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan especially in the fields of health, education, sports, culture, business and economy.
“We want Pakistan to benefit from the opportunities that will be offered by Saudi Vision 2030. A high-level Saudi business and trade delegation is scheduled to visit Pakistan next week to explore avenues of mutual cooperation,” he revealed.
Speaking of the continued Pakistan-India rift, the Saudi envoy stated that Pakistan plays a crucial role in maintaining regional peace. He said that Riyadh could act as a mediator to resolve tensions between India and Pakistan revolving around the Kashmir issue. He added that both, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are aware which countries fund and use Taliban, Daesh and Baloch separatists for their vested interests.
The envoy rubbished all claims of the Saudi king stepping down, adding that such a possibility does not exist as of now. “Saudi Arabia is moving towards a liberal and moderate state, where everyone will have equal rights and the women will be empowered. No one will be above the law and people will have access to justice,” he said.
Maliki also expressed his views about Pakistan being a peaceful country and it is being negatively portrayed. “The fact that I can move around without any protocol or security is a testament to how peaceful the country is.” He also emphasised the role of the media in strengthening the image of Pakistan globally, adding that he loves Pakistan.
