Pakistan to stand with Saudi Arabia in all odds: Qureshi

ISLAMABAD: Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi Wednesday categorically said Pakistan would stand with Saudi Arabia in case of any threat to the latter's sovereignty.

"Pakistan's sovereignty is linked with the peace and stability of Saudi Arabia. It will stand with Saudi Arabia in all odds," he said in his meeting with Saudi Acting Foreign Minister Ibrahim bin Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Assaf, on the sidelines of Meeting of Foreign Ministers' Council of Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), being held in Jeddah.

Foreign Minsiter Qureshi lauded Saudi Arabia's mediatory role during the tense situation between Pakistan and India, adding that Pakistan would not accept India's membership of OIC.

He expressed gratitude to Saudi government increasing Hajj quota for Pakistanis up to 0.2 million.

Qureshi mentioned that people of Pakistan cherished the visit of Saudi Prince Muhammad bin Salman, who won their hearts by announcing release of 2107 Pakistani prisoners from Saudi jails.

He requested early completion of formalities for the repatriation of Pakistani prisoners.

Qureshi also apprised the Saudi minister of the challenges faced by Pakistani workforce and students in Saudi Arabia.

Minister Ibrahim bin Abdulaziz thanked Foreign Minister Qureshi his participation at the OIC meeting and assured him that the problems of Pakistani community would be addressed soon.