By Syed Mussarat Khalil, Special Correspondent.
Jeddah-To celebrate the National days of Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, the Consulate General of Pakistan in Jeddah organized a cultural event at the Saudi Arabian Society of Art and Culture (SASA & C)
This cultural event was organized to strengthen the bonds between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia and to showcase the rich culture and heritage of both countries. The event was a great success. High-profile diplomats, leading Pakistani and Saudi entrepreneurs, a cross-section of Pakistani and Saudi community members, and representatives from Saudi and ethnic media were present on the occasion.
National anthems of Pakistan and Saudi Arabia were played at the beginning of the event. The chief guest, Mohammed Al Subaih, Director General of the Saudi Arabian Society of Art and Culture, praised the strong bond between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia and highlighted the importance of culture in promoting understanding between people. He expressed his deep concern over the recent floods in Pakistan and the resulting casualties from them. He said that as a representative of the Saudi Arabian Government; I assure Saudi Arabia will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with Pakistan and extend all kinds of support to come out of this crisis.
In his address, the Consul General of Pakistan, Khalid Majid, underlined the importance of art and culture in diplomacy. He also said that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Pakistan enjoyed excellent relations and cooperation at all levels. He commended the government of Saudi Arabia for its immense help and support to Pakistani flood victims and urged the participants to contribute generously to the KSA relief fund. The Consul General also praised the pivotal role of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, His Royal Highness King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman in fostering peace and stability in the region and the world.
The event featured a variety of cultural performances, including paintings and music from both Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. There was also a display of traditional Pakistani dresses, which are very popular with the Saudis. Shields and certificates were awarded to the key performers. The event concluded with a cake-cutting ceremony.
