Minister of State for Religions in Bangladesh Sheikh Mohammed Abdullah stressed the role of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the service of the pilgrims, praising the distinguished relations linking his country with the Kingdom, especially with regard to arranging the affairs of Hajj and the interest in facilitating procedures related to the departure of Bangladeshi pilgrims to the Kingdom throughout the year for Hajj, Umrah or visit. In a statement to Saudi Press Agency after the departure of pilgrims during the inauguration of Makkah Road Initiative in the Republic of Bangladesh for the first time this year, he said, "The Two Holy Mosques have a special place in my heart.