KP governor seeks direct Peshawar-Madinah flights
KP Governor Faisal Karim Kundi has called for the launch of direct Saudi Airlines flights between Peshawar and Madinah and the establishment of a Saudi consulate in Peshawar to make travel and consular services more convenient for the public.
The proposals were made during a meeting with Saudi Ambassador to Pakistan Nawaf bin Saeed Ahmed Al-Maliki at the Governor House in Peshawar. Governor Kundi welcomed the ambassador and highlighted the history, culture and strategic importance of Peshawar and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
During the meeting, both sides discussed Pakistan-Saudi Arabia relations and explored ways to expand cooperation in trade, investment, energy, tourism and cultural exchanges.
Kundi said Pakistan and Saudi Arabia share deep religious, historic and diplomatic ties. He noted that a large number of people from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa live and work in Saudi Arabia, including many serving in areas associated with the Two Holy Mosques. He said establishing a Saudi consulate in Peshawar would make visa and consular services more accessible for workers, pilgrims and businesspeople across the province.
The governor also proposed launching direct Saudi Airlines flights between Peshawar and Madinah, saying the service would improve air connectivity and make travel easier for pilgrims, workers and other travellers. Highlighting the province’s economic potential, Kundi said Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has abundant reserves of oil, gas and minerals and contributes low-cost electricity to the national grid.
Also Read: Tech-skilled youth can transform Pakistan, says Maryam Nawaz
He also highlighted the province’s tourism and archaeological attractions, particularly the ancient Gandhara civilisation and historic sites in and around Peshawar. He said stronger cooperation with Saudi Arabia could attract investment in the energy, minerals, tourism and infrastructure sectors.
Saudi Ambassador Nawaf bin Saeed Ahmed Al-Maliki thanked the governor for his warm hospitality and said Saudi Arabia highly values its longstanding friendship with Pakistan. He also appreciated Governor Kundi’s efforts to promote a positive image of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
During the visit, the ambassador toured different sections of the Governor House, watched a traditional regional dance performance and recorded his remarks in the official guest book. Governor Kundi later presented him with a traditional wooden handicraft from Dera Ismail Khan.
