Increase Hajj quota for Afghans, Muttaqi urges Riyadh

KABUL (Pajhwok): Saudi Ambassador Faisal Torki Al-Buqam has called on Foreign Minister Maulvi Amir Khan Muttaqi.

Muttaqi and Al-Bugam focused on expanding bilateral relations, improving consular services for Afghan nationals in Saudi Arabia, and exploring existing opportunities to enhance cooperation.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) said in a statement Muttaqi welcomed the ambassador, highlighting the invaluable nature of Afghan-Saudi relations.

He also underlined the importance of increasing the exchange of delegations between the two countries, the statement added.

Additionally, the minister urged the Saudi government to consider raising the quotas for Hajj and Umrah for Afghan pilgrims and further support in providing consular services to Afghans residing in Saudi Arabia.

Al-Buqam reaffirmed Saudi Arabia's commitment to supporting Afghanistan through its diplomatic presence in Kabul.

He emphasised the potential for cooperation across various sectors and noted the reopening of the Saudi embassy in Kabul was aimed to maximise opportunities for both nations.

sa/mud