ISLAMABAD, November 3, 2026: Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have agreed to strengthen cooperation in media, broadcasting, culture and people-to-people exchanges, with proposals to establish a joint working group, promote Pakistani dramas in the Kingdom and increase exchanges between media and cultural professionals.
The agreement was discussed during a meeting between Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar and Saudi Ambassador to Pakistan Raji bin Tami Al-Baqami in Islamabad on Tuesday.
Welcoming the Saudi ambassador on his appointment, Tarar said relations between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia were reaching new heights, with significant opportunities for collaboration in media, entertainment, music, tourism and digital communication.
He described the Makkah defence agreement between the two countries as a reflection of their strong defence partnership and longstanding strategic cooperation.
The minister praised Saudi Arabia’s economic and cultural transformation under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, highlighting the development of AlUla as a tourism destination and efforts to promote the historical and cultural significance of Diriyah.
Tarar said Pakistan-Saudi Arabia relations extended beyond diplomatic and political cooperation, reflecting generations of shared religious, historical and cultural ties.
During the meeting, both sides discussed opportunities to introduce Pakistani television dramas to Saudi audiences. Tarar said Pakistani dramas reflected family values, Eastern traditions and Islamic culture, making them suitable for wider audiences in the Kingdom.
He proposed exchanges involving writers, poets, artists, musicians, journalists and digital content creators to strengthen cultural understanding and professional collaboration.
The minister also invited Saudi journalists, tourists and social media influencers to explore Pakistan’s natural landscapes, historical landmarks and tourist destinations.
Highlighting the growing importance of digital communication, Tarar called for closer cooperation in countering misinformation, strengthening fact-checking mechanisms and producing content reflecting shared cultural values.
He proposed establishing a joint working group comprising focal persons and technical teams from both countries to coordinate initiatives in media and cultural cooperation.
The minister also briefed the Saudi ambassador on Pakistan’s use of social media influencers to promote public awareness and communicate government initiatives. He said a social media post concerning the Prime Minister’s Fuel Relief Scheme had received more than eight million views.
Referring to the strong people-to-people relationship between the two countries, Tarar paid tribute to Pakistani national Farman Ali Khan, who sacrificed his life while rescuing several people during the 2009 floods in Jeddah.
Saudi Ambassador Raji bin Tami Al-Baqami described Pakistan-Saudi Arabia relations as a source of pride, highlighting mutual trust, respect and cooperation in political and military affairs.
He also emphasized the importance of expanding bilateral engagement through cultural events, arts, literature and media initiatives.