Islamabad, 21 August 2023 (TDI): Saudi Minister for Hajj and Umrah, Tawfiq Al-Rabiyya, arrived in Islamabad on August 20 along with a delegation for a four-day visit to Pakistan. The main purpose of the visit is to engage in discussions regarding the annual Hajj pilgrimage and to foster religious tourism between the two nations.
Upon their arrival, Al-Rabiah was warmly received by Caretaker Minister for Religious Affairs Aneeq Ahmed and Saudi Ambassador Nawaf Al-Maliki at the airport.
Muhammad Umer Butt, the spokesperson for the Pakistani religious affairs ministry, emphasized the significance of this visit for Pakistan, highlighting that the Saudi Hajj Minister has been given the status of a state guest by the government.
The Saudi delegation comprises leaders from diverse Saudi departments, including civil aviation, airlines, and representatives from Saudi Aviation.
During the visit, discussions will focus on matters concerning the facilities for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims, as well as the potential expansion of the Route to Makkah project to other Pakistani cities.
Additionally, there will be a signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at enhancing future Hajj arrangements.
The Saudi delegation has a packed schedule of meetings with Pakistani officials, including the President, Caretaker Prime Minister, and the Chief of Army Staff.
A key agenda item will be discussions about the potential increase in Pakistan’s Hajj quota, which could be determined based on the country’s new census.
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If approved by the Saudi delegation, this adjustment could make Pakistan’s Hajj quota the highest in the world.
Furthermore, during their stay, the Saudi delegation has plans to visit Karachi. They will engage with dignitaries, members of the business community, and the individuals who are actively involved in Hajj, Umrah, and religious tourism.
This gathering not only recognizes Al-Rabiah’s official visit but also highlights the strong ties and the cultural and religious exchanges between the two countries.
