On Saturday, 20 May 2023, Ambassador Azhar attended a dinner hosted by His Excellency Senator Talha Mahmood, Federal Minister for Religious Affairs and Inter-faith Harmony in honour of the delegation of Road to Makkah Project. The event was attended by His Excellency Mr. Nawab Bin Said al-Maliki, Ambassador of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and Ambassadors/High Commissioners from other countries.
The dinner hosted by Federal Minister Talha Mahmood served as an opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the collaboration between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia in facilitating the Hajj pilgrimage. The Road to Makkah programme aims to streamline and enhance the pilgrimage experience, providing convenience and comfort to Pakistani pilgrims.
During the ceremony, Federal Minister Senator Talha Mahmood delivered a speech expressing his appreciation for Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s initiation of the Road to Makkah programme, considering it a significant initiative. He acknowledged the crucial role played by the Saudi ambassador in facilitating the programme's implementation.
Senator Talha Mahmood emphasized that the Road to Makkah programme would enhance facilities and services for pilgrims, providing them with an improved Hajj experience.
Apart from Pakistan, Malaysia, Morocco, Indonesia and Bangladesh are also in the list of privileged countries under this program. Turkiye is the latest addition to the list.
