Awan, who is carrying a message from President Asif Ali Zardari, to be delivered to Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah, said: “The killing of the diplomat is an attempt to sabotage the cordial ties between the Kingdom and Pakistan.” This is the first visit of a high-ranking Pakistani official after the Saudi diplomat was gunned down. On her arrival at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, Awan was received by top Saudi and Pakistani officials, including Noura Al-Fayez, deputy minister for girls' education.

In her arrival statement, Awan said: “The Kingdom and Pakistan have had a strong bond of brotherhood and friendship, and there is no doubt that this relation will last forever.” Awan added: “Saudi Arabia plays a very important role in Pakistan’s foreign policy. We need not revisit our ties with the Kingdom, because we feel it is a time-tested and all-season friendship.” 

However, Awan is likely to face a lot questions from newsmen about the situation in Pakistan after Bin Laden’s killing and after the murder of the Saudi official.

“Moreover, the weeklong visit will provide an opportunity to Saudi and Pakistani officials to hold consultations on a range of other bilateral, regional and international issues,” said Muhammad Tariq, Pakistani press consul.

Tariq said Awan’s entourage has 15 members, including top Pakistani officials. He said the minister would hold talks with her Saudi counterpart, meet with Saudi education officials and interact with the Pakistani community.

He said the relations between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, based on mutual trust, cooperation and common beliefs, have been progressively growing. He noted that the aid and assistance provided by the Kingdom during the devastating floods and also on several past occasions are praiseworthy.

He said the visit would reaffirm the pledge that Pakistan seeks regional peace and security by improving relations with its neighbors, including Afghanistan. He appreciated the efforts of Saudi Arabia in the establishment of the International Islamic University and promotion of Islamic culture in Pakistan.

Awan, in her audience with King Abdullah, will offer her condolence over the recent demise of the king’s sister. It is also important to note that Awan’s visit to Riyadh is taking place at a time when Pakistan is working on its national budget for 2011-2012 amid declining trends reported in the country’s economy.