President Asif Ali Zardari visited the Saudi Pakistan Real Estate Expo (SPREX) in Lahore on Thursday, highlighting the need to deepen economic cooperation and boost investment between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
On arrival, the President was received by Punjab Governor Sardar Saleem Haider Khan and Dr Gohar Ejaz, a member of the Saudi-Pakistan Business Council, according to a Presidency news release.
Saudi Firms Showcase Projects in Makkah and Madinah
During the visit, the President was briefed on the participating companies and their projects, as well as the investment opportunities being explored in Pakistan’s real estate sector.
The Expo features pavilions of leading Saudi real estate and investment companies, with Prince Mansour bin Mohammed Al Saud, Chairman of the Saudi-Pakistan Business Council, and Abdul Aziz Al-Ashrafi, Vice Chairman of the Council, taking part.
Participating Saudi companies are exploring potential investment opportunities in Pakistan while showcasing projects in Makkah and Madinah to attract Saudi investors and promote greater cross-border investment.
Translating Fraternal Ties into Economic Partnership
Speaking at the event, the President stressed the importance of translating the longstanding and fraternal relations between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia into stronger economic partnerships, increased investment and mutually beneficial business opportunities.
He reiterated that Saudi Arabia has always stood firmly alongside Pakistan through difficult times, reflecting the enduring friendship and strategic partnership between the two countries.
The President appreciated the organisers’ efforts to bring the Pakistani and Saudi business communities together, observing that such initiatives can open new avenues for foreign direct investment, encourage private-sector collaboration and foster long-term economic partnerships.
Call for an Investor-Friendly Environment
He noted that the participation of prominent Saudi business and investment groups in the Expo reflects growing opportunities for cooperation and could contribute to a new phase of development through investment, enterprise and joint ventures.
The President also underscored the importance of providing a supportive and investor-friendly environment to facilitate foreign investment in Pakistan.
On the occasion, the new uniforms for Pakistan International Airlines crew were also displayed.
