Kiren Rijiju visits Saudi Arabia to finalise Hajj 2025 agreement

New Delhi, Jan 15: Union Minister for Minority Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, completed a significant visit to Saudi Arabia from January 11 to 14, aimed at enhancing preparations for the upcoming Hajj pilgrimage.

During his trip, the minister signed the Bilateral Agreement for Hajj 2025, attended the inaugural session of the Hajj & Umrah Conference and Exhibition, and engaged in crucial discussions with Saudi dignitaries.

The Bilateral Agreement, finalised on January 13 with Saudi Minister of Hajj & Umrah H,E Dr. Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al Rabiah, establishes a quota of 1,75,025 Indian pilgrims for the upcoming Haj. Minister Rijiju participated in the 4th edition of the Hajj & Umrah Conference and Exhibition in Jeddah, which attracts global experts to discuss best practices and innovations in Hajj and Umrah services.

In one-on-one meetings, Rijiju and Minister Al Rabiah focused on enhancing cooperative efforts to ensure a safe and fulfilling experience for Indian pilgrims. Additionally, he met H.E. Eng. Saleh bin Nasser Al Jassar, Saudi Minister for Transport & Logistic Services, to improve transportation logistics for pilgrims, and HRH Prince Saud bin Khalid bin Faisal Al Saud, Deputy Governor of the Madinah Province, to discuss arrangements for pilgrims’ stays in Madinah.

A comprehensive review of facilities for Indian pilgrims was also conducted, with visits to the Indian Haj Pilgrims’ Office and Hajj Terminals at the Jeddah and Madinah airports, assessing transport, administrative setups, and healthcare services.

The minister’s visit underscores the strong strategic ties between India and Saudi Arabia, highlighting the importance of the Haj pilgrimage in fostering bilateral relations and deepening the cultural connections between the two nations.