By Rehan Khan
Islamabad, Thursday, 30 January 2025 (TNS): Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain on Thursday lauded the enduring partnership between Pakistan and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, emphasizing the vital role played by the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief) in supporting Pakistan’s relief efforts.
Speaking at a relief distribution ceremony as part of the 2025 assistance program, the minister acknowledged KSrelief’s unwavering support in providing essential aid to those in need.
“Today, we come together to witness yet another remarkable chapter in the strong and historic ties between our two nations. This humanitarian generosity underscores the depth of our bond,” he added.
On behalf of the Government of Pakistan, the minister expressed gratitude to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud for their steadfast commitment to the well-being of Pakistan’s people. He also commended the KSrelief team for ensuring the efficient delivery of assistance.
He emphasized that the latest relief distribution was a testament to the enduring friendship between the two nations, reflecting their shared commitment to alleviating human suffering.
He said, “As we tackle pressing challenges like food insecurity, climate change, and poverty, Pakistan looks forward to further cooperation with Saudi Arabia to build a secure, sustainable, and prosperous future.”
Concluding his remarks, the minister expressed appreciation for King Salman and the KSrelief team, acknowledging their generosity and dedication to humanitarian causes. “Together, we can continue making a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need,” he maintained.
Meanwhile, Saudi Ambassador, Nawaf bin Said Al-Malki officially launched the Shelter and Winter Kits Project 2025 reaffirming the Kingdom’s unwavering support for Pakistan.
Speaking at the ceremony, Ambassador Al-Malki said Saudi Arabia, through the KSrelief, has donated 84,500 shelter and winter kits to assist vulnerable communities across Pakistan.
He said the aid will be distributed in all four provinces, as well as Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu & Kashmir, ensuring relief for those in need during the harsh winter season.
Expressing his gratitude, the Saudi envoy stated, “It is my pleasure to participate in this ceremony on behalf of my country, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, to hand over this generous gift to our brotherly nation, Pakistan. The KSrelief continues to serve humanity globally, and in Pakistan, it remains steadfast in providing support whenever needed.”
Reaffirming Saudi Arabia’s deep-rooted ties with Pakistan, he emphasized the strong commitment of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz to further strengthening bilateral relations. “The Government of Saudi Arabia will always stand by its Pakistani brothers to elevate our brotherly relations to new heights,” he added.
The ambassador concluded by praying for peace, prosperity, and stability in both nations, underscoring the shared values and solidarity between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan.
Saudi Arabia has consistently extended humanitarian assistance to Pakistan through KSrelief, supporting disaster-stricken communities, healthcare initiatives, and poverty alleviation programs. The latest winter relief package is expected to bring much-needed comfort to thousands facing extreme weather conditions.
The KSrelief launched a significant humanitarian project to distribute 84,500 shelter, non-food items (NFIs) and winter kits across Pakistan, as part of its annual initiative to support vulnerable communities.
A formal launching ceremony was held here at the Sports Complex Islamabad. Saudi Ambassador Nawaf Bin Said Al-Maliki, Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, along with Director of the King Salman Humanitarian Aid & Relief Centre (KSrelief), Abdullah Al-Baqami, officially dispatched the winter packages.
In the first phase, KSrelief will deliver 50,000 winter kits to residents of the 50 coldest and snow-bound districts in Pakistan. Distribution will be region-specific, targeting 16,000 kits in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), 12,000 in Balochistan, 10,000 in Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), 6,000 in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), 4,000 in Sindh, and 2,000 in Punjab. These winter packages include 2 polyester quilts and a kit of warm shawls for both men and women, as well as warm clothing for children and adults.
The remaining 34,500 Shelter NFIs will be strategically allocated for disaster response, with distribution planned over three additional phases, set to conclude by December 2025.
To ensure transparency and effective implementation, the project will be carried out in close collaboration with key stakeholders, including the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), Provincial Disaster Management Authorities (PDMAs), Gilgit-Baltistan Disaster Management Authority (GBDMA), State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA), and local authorities. This joint effort is expected to benefit over 591,500 individuals, underscoring KSrelief’s commitment to alleviating hardships and improving the well-being of those in need across Pakistan.
