KABUL (Pajhwok): The deputy minister of Hajj and Religious Affairs and Saudi Arabia’s ambassador in Kabul have discussed expanding bilateral ties, increasing Hajj and Umrah quotas for Afghans and strengthening cooperation.
According to the Ministry of Hajj and Religious Affairs (MoHRA), Deputy Minister Hafiz Mawlawi Mohammad Hamid Haseeb and Faisal bin Talaq Al-Baqimi reviewed ways to enhance relations, expand visa quotas and boost cooperation in multiple sectors, with particular focus on Hajj and Umrah arrangements.
Haseeb said relations between Afghanistan and Saudi Arabia were rooted not only in political engagement but also in deep religious, cultural and historical ties based on Islamic brotherhood.
He described the organisation of the Hajj pilgrimage as a key area of cooperation between the two countries.
For his part, Ambassador Al-Baqimi underscored the importance of strengthening bilateral relations, noting that Saudi Arabia considered the Afghan people as religious brothers and had maintained longstanding support and cooperation.
He also stressed the need for greater coordination and exchange of expertise between religious scholars of both countries in areas such as guidance, preaching and other religious affairs.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to further enhancing ties and expanding cooperation, particularly in the Hajj and Umrah sector.
kk/sa