Islamabad, Sept. 27 (INP): Speaker National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq reassured that the government and the people of Pakistan will always stand by Kingdom of Saudi Arabia safeguarding its territorial integrity and sovereignty. Speaking at a reception held here at a local on the occasion of 87th National Day of the Kingdom, he said the two countries are attached with each other with deep love and affection. They will continue work together for the betterment of their people. He paid rich tributes to wise leadership of King Salman, taking his country to a new height. He also spoke about the deep-rooted historical and cultural relations of the two countries. People of Pakistan consider the Kingdom as their most valuable and time-tested friend, he added. The reception, hosted by the Saudi ambassador to Pakistan Nawaf Saeed Al Malkiy was largely attended by a cross-section of the people including ministers, religious and political leaders, parliamentarians and diplomats, besides senior civil and military officers. Those prominent those who graced the occasion included , Governor Punjab Rafiz Rajwana, leader of the House in Senate Raja Zafarul Haq, head of Parliamentary Committee on Kashmir Affairs Maulana Fazlur Rehman, Pakistan Muslim League chief Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain, Sheikh Rashid Ahmed, Rehman Malik, Dr. Fardus Ashiq Awan and Sherry Rehman. Attiring traditional Saudi dress, Nawaf Saeed Al Malkiy warmly welcomed the guests upon their arrival. The national anthems of Pakistan and Saudi Arabia were played. The Saudi ambassador along with the guests cut the ceremonial cake. Stalls depicting particular traditional culture of Saudi Arabia were also made that attracted attention of the participants. The Saudi envoy in his welcome address highlighted the significance of the two countries’ diplomatic and strategic relationship. He reiterated the resolve of the Saudi leadership supporting Pakistan for its socio-economic development. Pakistan, he said is their dearest friend. They, he added, attached high importance to their relations with brotherly country Pakistan. They are linked with each with religious bonds and common sentiments, he added. At the end of the ceremony the guests were also provided with gift bags containing various booklets and copies of the Holy Quran in English and other languages. INP/JAVED