Governor KP Seeks Direct Flights Between Peshawar and Madina

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi has called for the establishment of a Saudi consulate in Peshawar and the launch of direct flights by Saudi Airlines between Peshawar and Madinah to facilitate pilgrims, workers and business travelers.

He made the proposals during a meeting with Saudi Ambassador to Pakistan Nawaf bin Saeed Ahmed Al-Maliki at Governor House Peshawar on Tuesday.

Governor Kundi welcomed the ambassador and briefed him on the history, culture and strategic importance of Peshawar and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Both sides discussed Pakistan-Saudi relations and explored opportunities to expand cooperation in trade, investment, energy, tourism and cultural exchanges.

Kundi said Pakistan and Saudi Arabia share deep religious, historic and diplomatic ties. He said a large number of people from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa live and work in Saudi Arabia, including many serving in areas linked to the two holy mosques.

He said a Saudi consulate in Peshawar would make consular services more accessible for workers, pilgrims and businesspeople from the province.

He also said direct flights from Peshawar to Madinah would improve air connectivity and ease travel for passengers heading to Saudi Arabia for religious and employment purposes.

The governor also highlighted Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s investment potential, saying the province has major reserves of oil, gas and minerals and supplies low-cost electricity to the national grid.

He also pointed to the province’s tourism and archaeological assets, particularly the ancient Gandhara civilisation and historic sites in and around Peshawar.

Kundi said stronger cooperation with Saudi Arabia could attract investment in energy, minerals, tourism and infrastructure.

Ambassador Al-Maliki thanked the governor for his hospitality and said Saudi Arabia values its longstanding friendship with Pakistan. He also praised Kundi’s efforts to promote a positive image of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

During the visit, the Saudi ambassador toured different sections of Governor House, watched a traditional regional dance performance and recorded his impressions in the official guest book. Kundi later presented him with a traditional woodwork gift from Dera Ismail Khan.