ISLAMABAD, 20 April 2006 — President Gen. Pervez Musharraf conferred Hilal-e-Pakistan on Prince Alwaleed ibn Talal, chairman of the Kingdom Holding Company, at an impressive ceremony at the presidency yesterday.
The award was conferred on Prince Alwaleed for his all-out support to Pakistan, tremendous contribution to the promotion of Saudi-Pak friendship and his commitment to the causes of the Ummah.
In the citation at the ceremony, the Cabinet secretary said Prince Alwaleed represented the best values of the Saudi people and society.
“He has always supported Pakistan and contributed to its progress and prosperity,” the citation said.
“He has made sincere efforts for promoting understanding and harmony between the adherents of different faiths. His commitment to the cause of education is widely acknowledged. The charitable institutions established by him throughout the Islamic world are indeed a source of inspiration. Prince Alwaleed has been a sincere friend and he has made tremendous contribution to the promotion of Saudi-Pak friendship,” it added.
After the Oct. 8 earthquake Prince Alwaleed visited affected regions and helped in alleviating the suffering of the survivors.
In recognition of his support for Pakistan and his commitment to the causes of Ummah, President Musharraf conferred on him the prestigious Hilal-e-Pakistan.
Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz, National Assembly Speaker Chaudhry Amir Hussain, federal ministers and senior civil and military officials were present on the occasion.
Earlier, Prince Alwaleed called on President Musharraf. The president extended his gratitude to the prince for his assistance to the quake-affected areas. Prince Alwaleed thanked the president for the award.
Earlier in a statement, Saudi Ambassador to Pakistan Ali Awadh Asseri said Prince Alwaleed intended to increase his investments in Pakistan.
Prince Alwaleed also met Prime Minister Aziz. He told reporters after the meeting: “It’s my pleasure to be in Pakistan and I feel honored to be awarded Hilal-e-Pakistan by the president.”
This is Prince Alwaleed’s third visit to Pakistan in less than one year. He said his talks with Prime Minister Aziz were very encouraging. He said his company would set up two five-star hotels in Pakistan within the next few months, one in Lahore and another in Islamabad.
