ISLAMABAD (Special Correspondent) – Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan and the newly appointed Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Dr. Rajeh Albugamy, met on 31 October 2026 to discuss strategies for expanding bilateral trade, investment, and agricultural cooperation. The high-level meeting in Islamabad focused on deepening economic ties between the two nations through enhanced government-to-government and private-sector partnerships.

Key Points

• Federal Minister Jam Kamal Khan and Ambassador Dr. Rajeh Albugamy met to discuss trade and investment growth.
• The discussion emphasized aligning Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 with Pakistan’s industrial production capabilities.
• Both parties explored cooperation in agricultural development and modern technology adoption for market competitiveness.
• The meeting addressed the potential for the Pakistan–Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Free Trade Agreement.

Strategic Economic Alignment

Minister Jam Kamal Khan highlighted the historic nature of the relationship, noting that the Government of Pakistan has prioritized building stronger connections over the past three years. He emphasized that Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 offers a significant roadmap for strengthening industrial competitiveness and diversifying economic output. By leveraging Pakistan’s production capabilities, both nations aim to foster mutually beneficial growth.

The Minister stressed that expanding the national export base and facilitating private-sector engagement are essential to achieving tangible trade outcomes. He pointed toward the adoption of modern technologies and improved quality standards as the primary vehicles for meeting the requirements of the Saudi market.

Regional Connectivity and Future Cooperation

Ambassador Dr. Rajeh Albugamy reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s commitment to the partnership, particularly regarding regional connectivity and the agriculture sector. The two sides discussed the ongoing progress of the Pakistan–GCC Free Trade Agreement, with the Minister noting that its early implementation would significantly enhance market access.

Both delegations agreed to maintain regular, proactive coordination to ensure that the bilateral trade goals are met through sustained follow-up. The Ministry of Commerce remains committed to identifying new avenues for partnerships that solidify the longstanding brotherhood between the two countries.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the main outcome of the meeting between Jam Kamal Khan and the Saudi Ambassador?

The two leaders agreed to maintain regular coordination to advance bilateral trade, investment, and agricultural cooperation, focusing on strengthening long-term economic ties.

Which trade agreement was discussed during the high-level meeting?

The meeting included discussions on the Pakistan–Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Free Trade Agreement and the importance of its early signing and implementation to enhance market access.