ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari emphasized the need for “greater unity and cooperation” among Islamic countries during his meeting with Sheikh Dr. Salah bin Muhammad Al-Budair, the prayer leader of the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah, according to state-run media reports.
Sheikh Al-Budair arrived in Pakistan on Thursday for a seven-day visit, during which he is scheduled to meet top government officials and lead Friday prayers at the Shah Faisal Mosque in Islamabad. Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, also known as the Prophet’s Mosque, holds deep historical and spiritual significance in Islam, being the site where Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is buried. The imams of this sacred mosque are highly respected across the Muslim world for their religious devotion and scholarly wisdom.
During the meeting, President Zardari highlighted the strong relations between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, founded on shared faith, history, and brotherhood. He expressed satisfaction with the growing ties between the two nations and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to further strengthening bilateral relations. Zardari also praised Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for his leadership in driving reforms in Saudi Arabia.
The president underscored the importance of promoting cultural and people-to-people connections to bring Pakistan and Saudi Arabia closer. Sheikh Al-Budair’s visit is expected to enhance these ties further, with plans to meet prominent Pakistani scholars and visit universities during his stay.
This visit, like previous ones by prayer leaders from the Grand Mosque in Makkah, is seen as a crucial step in fostering religious and cultural bonds between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, reinforcing the strong relationship between the two countries.
