Jeddah: Saudi and Pakistani leaders agreed here Sunday on the urgent need for novel efforts involving Arab and other influential Muslim countries to solve the Middle East crisis. King Abdullah and President Pervez Musharraf held an hour-long one-to-one discussion on various issues including bilateral concerns and regional and international matters.
President Musharraf was decorated with the King Abdul Aziz Medal by King Abdullah.
According to Pakistani Ambassador Admiral Shahid Karimullah, both the leaders expressed concern over the prevailing situation in the Muslim world, including that in Palestine, Iraq, Lebanon, Afghanistan and Kashmir.
King Abdullah said, "We are enjoying our brotherly relations with Pakistan. We would always be with Pakistani brothers by all means."
The Monarch said Saudi-Pakistani relations already reflected complete unanimity of views, which contributed toward finding ways in tackling difficult regional and international issues.
"New divisions have appeared in the Middle East due to the conflicts in Iraq while Israeli aggression against Lebanon has left the country in turmoil," said President Musharraf.
The Pakistani president said he would take into account the delayed peace efforts in the Middle East, and strive along with the key Muslim countries to seek an early resolution of the Palestine issue to ease tensions in the region.
"Important issues were discussed during President Musharraf's meeting with King Abdullah that would witness key developments at the regional and global levels," said Pakistani Ambassador Admiral Shahid Karimullah.
Musharraf also briefed the Saudi leadership on the ongoing composite dialogue and his efforts to resolve all outstanding problems with India.
The president said he is willing to solve all issues between India and Pakistan. "The peace process is proceeding between the two neighbors [India and Pakistan]," said the President. Musharraf will be visiting Egypt, Syria, Jordan and United Arab Emirates during his four-day regional tour.
By Sabahat F Siddiqi
© The Saudi Gazette 2007
