RIYADH, 7 August 2005 — Pakistan Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz yesterday conveyed his people’s condolences on the passing away of King Fahd and congratulated his successor King Abdullah.
Pakistan Ambassador Adm. Abdul Aziz Mirza announced that a $6 million mosque, named after King Fahd, is to be constructed in Islamabad to commemorate the late ruler.
The premier arrived here yesterday afternoon leading a 37-member delegation. He requested Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah to convey the condolences of his people to the bereaved royal family.
Crown Prince Sultan and Foreign Minister Prince Saud Al-Faisal were also present at Aziz’s meeting with King Abdullah.
“King Fahd was a great leader and a true friend of Pakistan,” Aziz said.
The visiting prime minister described the demise of King Fahd as a great loss to the Ummah and the world, saying his support and contribution to Pakistan’s progress would always be remembered.
“We will always cherish the memory of King Fahd as a great and wise leader who dedicated himself to international peace, harmony, the noble cause of the Ummah and welfare of Islamic societies.”
Under his leadership, Aziz said the Kingdom was transformed into a prosperous nation that became a shining example for other Muslim countries.
“We pray for the departed soul and wish Saudi Arabia continued success in future in line with King Fahd’s vision. The entire Pakistani nation joins Saudi Arabia in this hour of grief. We will remember him with a sense of gratitude, affection and respect,” the Pakistan prime minister added.
The premier also held talks with Finance Minister Dr. Ibrahim Al-Assaf on matters of mutual interest.
Last week, Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf was among the heads of state here to offer his last respects to King Fahd. Following King Fahd’s death, Pakistan declared a weeklong mourning period and flags at government departments are being flown at half-staff throughout the country.
While paying rich tributes to the leadership qualities of King Fahd, Senate Chairman Mian Muhammad Soomro remarked that King Fahd served his country, people and the Ummah with distinction and dedication.
Referring to the proposed King Fahd mosque, the ambassador said it would be constructed within the campus of the International Islamic University in Islamabad. “The mosque will be a landmark and identity of the solidarity of the Muslim Ummah,” he added.
The university has established a fund from its own resources for the construction of the mosque.
Adm. Mirza said the prime minister’s visit demonstrated Pakistan’s love and affection for King Fahd.
