Union Minister of Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju has successfully signed the bilateral Haj agreement for the year 2024 during his official visit to Saudi Arabia. The significant diplomatic achievement took place in Jeddah, marking a crucial step in facilitating the annual Islamic pilgrimage for Indian citizens.
Historic Agreement Signing Ceremony
The signing ceremony witnessed Union Minister Kiren Rijiju representing the Indian government while Saudi Arabia's Haj and Umrah Minister, Dr. Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, signed on behalf of the Kingdom. This bilateral Haj agreement establishes the framework and guidelines for the upcoming 2024 pilgrimage season, ensuring smooth arrangements for Indian pilgrims undertaking the sacred journey to Mecca and Medina.
The agreement was finalized on December 29, 2023, during Minister Rijiju's visit to the Kingdom. This timing is particularly important as it allows sufficient preparation time for both governments to make necessary arrangements for the thousands of expected pilgrims.
Comprehensive Preparations for Future Pilgrimages
During his visit, Minister Rijiju demonstrated exceptional foresight by not only focusing on the immediate 2024 pilgrimage but also initiating preliminary discussions for the 2026 Haj season. The minister conducted thorough reviews of the facilities and infrastructure that will accommodate Indian pilgrims during future Haj operations.
Rijiju visited the Haj Terminal at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, where he assessed the arrangements specifically designed to handle the influx of pilgrims. His inspection included evaluating the facilities and services available to ensure comfortable transit for Indian citizens arriving for their spiritual journey.
Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation
The Union Minister's engagement extended beyond formal agreement signings as he held substantial discussions with Saudi Haj and Umrah Minister Dr. Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah. Both leaders explored various aspects of enhancing cooperation to improve the overall Haj experience for Indian pilgrims.
The ministers discussed potential areas of collaboration that would streamline processes and provide better services to pilgrims from India. This diplomatic engagement underscores the strong bilateral relations between India and Saudi Arabia, particularly in matters of religious tourism and cultural exchange.
Minister Rijiju's proactive approach in reviewing preparations for the 2026 Haj pilgrimage, nearly three years in advance, demonstrates the Indian government's commitment to ensuring well-organized and hassle-free spiritual journeys for its citizens. This early planning initiative is expected to set new standards in pilgrimage management and facilitate improved coordination between the two nations.
