ISLAMABAD: Minister for Federal Education and Professional Training Shafquat Mehmood has said Pakistan attaches great importance to relations with Saudi Arabia as both are time tested friends.

Speaking in a meeting with President, International Islamic University, Islamabad Dr Hathal Homoud Al-Otaibi who called on him in Islamabad today, he said brotherly ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia go back decades and those are getting stronger by every passing day.

During the meeting, issues of mutual interests including sharing experiences in distance learning, initiatives for promotion of quality education and role of universities in societies building were discussed.

Earlier, IIUI President briefed the Education Minister on IIUI's vision, future plans and strategy for academic excellence.