In a show of appreciation, Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Aneeq Ahmed, conveyed his gratitude to the Saudi government for their unwavering cooperation and support in the arrangements for the annual Hajj pilgrimage.
This sentiment was expressed during a meeting with Saudi Ambassador Nawaf bin Said Al-Malki and Muslim World League Regional Director Saad bin Masood Al-Harsi. The primary focus of the discussion revolved around future Hajj arrangements and mutual interests.
Enhanced Facilities and Streamlined Processes
Minister Aneeq Ahmed commended the successful recent visit to Saudi Arabia and underscored the improved facilities provided to Pakistani pilgrims this year. Notably, Karachi had been included in the Road to Makkah project, aimed at streamlining the immigration and customs processes for pilgrims departing from the bustling metropolis. This development is poised to expedite the movement of pilgrims and ensure their swift accommodation upon arrival in Saudi Arabia.
Revolutionary Seerat Museum Project
The Minister also shed light on the groundbreaking establishment of a Seerat Museum in Islamabad, a project that promises to be revolutionary. He revealed that the foundation stone for this remarkable museum, which will focus on the life and teachings of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), is scheduled to be laid by Muslim World League Secretary-General Sheikh Dr. Muhammad bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa on November 15. Minister Aneeq emphasized the dynamic and vital role played by the Muslim World League in various initiatives.
Enhanced Facilities and Further Cooperation
Saudi Ambassador Al-Malki assured that there would be continuous enhancements in the facilities provided for Hajj pilgrims in the upcoming seasons. He specifically highlighted Pakistan’s inclusion in the Road to Makkah project, an exclusive programme currently involving only seven countries worldwide.
Muslim World League Regional Director Saad bin Masood Al-Harsi shared detailed insights into the forthcoming construction of the Seerat Museum in Islamabad, an impressive project spanning 8,000 square meters. He underscored the importance of swift construction and the foundation-laying activities set to commence next month.
In conclusion, the meeting reinforced the strong cooperation between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia in facilitating the Hajj pilgrimage and highlighted the significant progress being made in projects aimed at serving the Muslim community.