Pakistan needs to adopt a wise policy to utilize opportunities in defense and strategic cooperation and various other sectors that will come its way under the Vision 2030 program drawn up by Saudi Arabia to open up new economic partnerships and talent hunts.

The Vision 2030, a detailed blueprint of policies, actions and indicators, will guide the Middle East kingdom’s transformation drive in coming years.

“Defense is an area where Islamabad and Riyadh can create a new history of cooperation. Both countries already have deep, objective-oriented and trustworthy defense relationships,” according to a commentary in Tribune.

“Moreover, both countries can also work jointly in the field of research and development to climb the ladder of advancement in the defense sector. It will be a win-win proposition for both,” it added.

The commentary suggested Pakistan devise a strategic framework of cooperation.

“First step would be to establish a joint working group to facilitate cooperation under the Vision 2030. Second, sector-specific sub-groups can be formed to further streamline work,” the commentary said.

It cautioned Pakistan will have to avoid ‘sporadic efforts’ or haphazard interventions because they will not be of any use, rather they will hurt the spirit of cooperation.

Referring to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), tribune said the project and its long-term plan can guide for developing a strategic framework of cooperation.

The commentary also suggested Pakistan work to get maximum jobs for its nationals in Saudi Arabia by building a strong base of the skilled labor force.

Pakistan needs to join hands to improve the human and social capital of Saudi Arabia through the provision of quality educationists and medical staff, it said.

With Saudi Arabia willing to benefit from Pakistan’s experience in environmental cooperation, Islamabad should work with the kingdom on concrete proposals in areas including water conservation, climate-smart cities, it said.

Pakistan should also tap the kingdom’s food market with dairy products, fruits and vegetables, and attract investment from Saudi Arabia in agriculture by adopting a program of investment in food, it suggested.

“Pakistan can also use its experience to help Saudi Arabia to build local industry and meet its needs on a sustainable basis," the commentary added.

 (SAM)