Saudi Arabia has increased Pakistan’s Hajj quota by 10,000 pilgrims, officials annopunced on Friday.
The decision follows a request made by Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister Muhammad Ishaq Dar during a conversation with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud.
Pakistani officials say the move reflects the strong bilateral ties and Riyadh’s continued support for the people of Pakistan.
The added quota comes as thousands of Pakistanis remain on waiting lists, and authorities say the extra slots will ease pressure on applicants ahead of this year’s pilgrimage.
Earlier this week, Pakistan launched the second phase of mandatory training for Hajj pilgrims on Tuesday, following the first phase conducted earlier this year.
“Hajj pilgrims are going as ambassadors of Pakistan. Take care of the laws there,” Yousaf told attendees. “Do not do anything that will bring disrespect to your country,” he added.
Yousaf praised the Saudi government for its impressive arrangements for pilgrims, referring to the Kingdom as a “brotherly country.” He assured that Pakistani officials had reviewed the Hajj arrangements in Saudi Arabia, vowing that pilgrims would not face any unpleasant experiences.
The minister also announced that mandatory vaccinations for Pakistani pilgrims would take place on April 20.
