Saudi Cabinet Greenlights Air Transport Pact with Pakistan
Saudi Arabia's cabinet, chaired by King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud in Jeddah, on Tuesday approved an air transport services agreement with Pakistan, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported. The move is expected to significantly enhance air connectivity between the two countries.
Details of the Agreement
The approval was granted during a cabinet meeting, and SPA announced it via a post on X: “Approval of an agreement between the Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Government of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan in the field of air transport services.” This agreement builds on previous accords, including one signed in August 2023 that aimed to increase flight frequencies and reduce airfares for citizens.
Impact on Travel and Expatriate Community
The agreement is vital for both nations, given that thousands of Pakistanis travel to Saudi Arabia annually for Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages and for employment. According to official figures, over two million Pakistani expatriates live and work in the Kingdom, frequently traveling between the two countries. The new pact is expected to streamline travel and boost economic ties.
Broader Regional Connectivity Efforts
Pakistan has also been seeking to strengthen air links with China and Central Asian states to enhance bilateral trade and investment. This agreement with Saudi Arabia marks a key step in Islamabad's broader strategy to improve regional connectivity.
