Good news for Pakistan as Saudi Arabia increases its Hajj quota to 200,000

ISLAMABAD: Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has confirmed that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has increased Pakistan’s Hajj quota to 200,000 and also agreed to Pakistan’s suggestion to provide E-Visa service to its pilgrims.

Speaking to Pakistan Television, the minister said the decision was taken by the Kingdom during his telephonic conversation with Saudi counterpart Adel bin Ahmed Al-Jubeir

“The government and people of Pakistan are thankful to the Saudi government for this commendable step,” he continued.

On the other hand, Minister for Religious Affairs Noorul Haq maintained that the Saudi Arabian government has agreed to provide E-Visa service to Pakistani pilgrims on the request of Prime Minister Imran Khan.

Read more: Govt to accept Hajj applications from Feb 25

Mr Haq said the prime minster requested the Saudi crown prince about the provision of E-Visa service to Pakistani Pilgrims during his recent visit to Pakistan to create ease for pilgrims during Hajj.

“Initially the service will be available for Lahore, Islamabad and later will be launched in Karachi,” he continued.

The federal cabinet had approved its first Hajj Policy on January 30.

60 per cent quota of pilgrims has been reserved for the government sponsored Hajj scheme and remaining 40 per cent for the pilgrims who will travel through private hajj tour operators.

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