The Saudi Embassy in Islamabad has begun processing visa applications from Pakistani citizens on the same day they are lodged. Ambassador Dr Rajeh bin Tami Al-Baqami announced the change on Friday, saying it is meant to make travel easier and to boost business, cultural and people-to-people exchanges.
The announcement was made during a meeting between the ambassador and Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik. The two sides discussed ways to deepen bilateral cooperation in the mining, petroleum and energy sectors.
Tax-neutral bonded policy for Saudi oil reserves
Malik welcomed the long-running strategic partnership between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. He said that during his recent trip to Riyadh he had conveyed the solidarity and affection of Pakistan’s leadership to His Royal Highness Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman Al Saud. He added that Pakistan regards its historic ties with the kingdom as important and intends to widen cooperation across strategic sectors.
The minister told the ambassador that Pakistan had approved a tax-neutral bonded policy modelled on international energy hubs such as Fujairah and Singapore. Under the framework, Saudi companies could hold commercial oil reserves in Pakistan without incurring local tax liabilities. Malik said this could help spread risks linked to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab Al Mandeb Strait, while giving access to Asian markets.
Malik also said strategic oil storage in Pakistan would give Saudi Arabia more room to manage its supply routes and reach regional markets.
Planned Hub refinery and refinery upgrade programme
Malik outlined plans to build a major petroleum storage and refining complex at Hub, Balochistan, with Technip Energies UK providing guidance. The prime minister and the chief of defence forces support the proposed facility, which is designed to handle Very Large Crude Carriers. Officials expect it to strengthen Pakistan’s position as a regional energy corridor serving Central Asian and Chinese markets.
The minister also pointed to the ongoing refinery upgradation programme, which aims to modernise domestic refining infrastructure, improve operational efficiency and move the country towards Euro 5 fuel standards. He said the programme offers considerable scope for Saudi investment and participation in Pakistan’s refining sector.
Malik thanked Saudi authorities at Yanbu port for giving priority to crude oil shipments to Pakistan during recent disruptions in global markets. He also discussed working with Saudi Aramco to explore larger purchases of crude oil cargoes and dedicated LPG shipments. The talks were framed around Pakistan’s energy needs, particularly the expected rise in domestic gas demand in winter.
Both sides stressed that the strong defence and strategic partnership between the two countries provides a basis for wider regional peace, stability and economic cooperation.
