Political Affairs
Get all the latest local news and viral content from Bharat with a focus on top national events and trending local stories.

New Haj Agreement Signed Between India and Saudi Arabia

A finalised quota of 175,025 Indian pilgrims is expected for the 2024 Haj pilgrimage to Mecca. 140,020 seats are set aside for pilgrims to travel with the Haj Committee, while 35,005 passengers can go with private operators.
Sputnik
A bilateral agreement between Saudi Arabia and India was inked on Sunday, quoting 175,025 pilgrims from New Delhi for the annual Haj in 2024.
In Jeddah, Saudi Arabia's Minister of Hajj and Umrah Dr. Tawfiq bin Fawzan signed the Bilateral Haj Agreement 2024 with Indian Minister of Minority Affairs Smriti Irani and Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan.

A total of 175,025 pilgrims from India have been confirmed for the Haj 2024, according to an official announcement. Of these, 140,020 seats are set aside for pilgrims to continue through the Haj Committee, while 35,005 pilgrims can proceed through private operators.

“Pleased to announce the formalisation of the Bilateral Haj Agreement 2024 between India and Saudi Arabia," Irani tweeted.
"I, along with Hon'ble MoS for External Affairs, Shri, presided over the signing. Also engaged in productive discussions on matters of mutual interest with Dr. Tawfiq bin Fawzan, Saudi Minister of Haj and Umrah Affairs,” Irani added.

According to Irani, the Saudi delegation conveyed their heartfelt gratitude for India's outstanding digital endeavours, especially with regard to providing pilgrims with vital last-mile information. "Our proposal to support women without Mehram making the Haj pilgrimage further underscores our commitment to inclusivity," she added

During the talks, best practice was discussed and experiences related to Haj management and administration were exchanged between the two sides.

Plans for improving medical facilities were also discussed, she said, guaranteeing the overall health of pilgrims. "I look forward to the ongoing strengthening of our bilateral relations and deeply appreciate the collaborative spirit demonstrated during these deliberations," she said.

Recent years have seen a deepening of the Indo-Saudi friendship, with consistent engagement across multiple industries. According to the press release, Haj will play a crucial role in this connection as the visit will further solidify strategic cooperation.
Israel-Hamas war
Support for Cutting Trade, Oil Ties With Israel Growing Among Arab-Islamic Nations
Discuss