JEDDAH: A Pakistani Haj delegation met with Dr. Fuad Abdulsalam Al-Farsy, Saudi Haj Minister, and discussed arrangements for the forthcoming pilgrimage. The Pakistan Haj delegation is headed by Syed Khursheed Ahmed Shah, Federal Minister for Religious Affairs. Minister Shah conveyed congratulations of President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani to King Abdullah, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, on his return to the Kingdom after medical treatment abroad. Shah said the leadership and people of Pakistan have great regards for the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and pray for his health and his long life. The minister also appreciated King Abdullah's initiative on cultural and interfaith dialogue between followers of different religions. Minister Shah also appreciated the Saudi government's provision of excellent services during the previous Haj for pilgrims. He also lauded the facilities of train services and expansion of Jamarat Bridge and the Grand Mosque. The minister said the government and people of Saudi Arabia have always helped Pakistan in difficult times and thanked the people and the leadership of Saudi Arabia for providing assistance during last year's flood. The minister also thanked the Saudi government for compensation given to Pakistani pilgrims who suffered during last Haj. The minister also requested for enhancement of Haj quota for Pakistani pilgrims from 158,000 to 179,000, provision of special services to facilitate the Pakistani pilgrims, and help prevent recurrence of the past difficulties, to which the Saudi side agreed. Al-Farsy said Pakistan is very dear to Saudi Arabia. The Kingdom, he said, wants to see Pakistan a stable, strong and prosperous nation. He said King Abdullah's liking for Pakistan and its people is well-known. Al-Farsy also assured the Pakistani minister that Saudi government will provide all possible facilities to Pakistani pilgrims. Al-Farsy underlined the need for appropriate training and conducting of awareness program for the Pakistani pilgrims. He also advised appropriate adjustment in PIA's schedule to avoid delays. The meeting was also attended by Secretary, Ministry of Religious Affairs, Shaukat Hayat Durrani and Consul General of Pakistan Abdul Salik Khan.
