Daily Times

ISLAMABAD: Minister of Defence Khurram Dastgir Khan has slammed media reports calling for the “internationalisation” of Hajj.

In an interview with Arab News, Khurram Dastgir Khan said, “We are determined not to be misled or waylaid by such stratagems. The custody of the Two Holy Mosques is a sacred trust that has been held by the Kingdom and we expect and hope that it shall continue to be,” he said.

Dastgir’s comments came on the sidelines of a keynote speech that he gave at the inauguration of the Pakistan edition of Arab News.

He said the relationship between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan has “turned a new page,” going beyond the “traditional friendship” both nations have enjoyed over several decades.

The Pakistani defence minister said the relationship had been “stuck in the ’80s” but is now transforming “into a more serious and determined partnership not only in the field of defence but also in the realm of economics and trade” to enhance and expand bilateral ties.

“Pakistan intends to be an important part of the Vision 2030 of his Highness, the Crown Prince which he has envisaged for Saudi Arabia,” Dastgir said.

Part of the defence cooperation plan Pakistan wishes to have is to manufacture “some measure of defence equipment” in the Kingdom. He said it was imperative for Islamic countries to take concrete steps toward “self-reliance” for their own “security and defence.”

“Talks are proceeding very fruitfully and we expect to have very good results,” Dastgir said.

He added that Afaal Al-Sahil, the fourth joint exercise of Pakistan and Saudi Navy operation forces currently underway until February 16, is just one of “many more exercises” to come. Pakistan expects to hold combined training with Saudi security forces alongside its army and air force to enhance operational skills against terrorism and to exchange professional capabilities.

“This cooperation has turned a new page,” said Dastgir, reiterating his country’s support for Saudi Arabia. “Pakistan has always been there for the Kingdom and we shall continue to be there.”

Published in Daily Times, February  10^th 2018.