MAKKAH, 16 February 2003 — Haj Minister Iyad Madani has indicated that the Kingdom plans to reduce the number of pilgrims to match the capacity of holy sites so that they can be better accommodated.
He also urged all foreign countries to adhere to their pilgrim quotas.
Addressing a reception given to foreign Haj missions, Madani also disclosed plans to apply the Haj regulations, which are currently applicable only to Saudis, on all GCC citizens and residents. Madani congratulated the overwhelming majority of pilgrims who fulfilled their religious duties peacefully, comfortably and successfully.
Addressing the reception, Jordanian Minister of Endowments and Sacred Places’ Affairs Dr. Ahmed ibn Mohammed Hilayel expressed his gratitude to the government for providing excellent services to pilgrims. He called on Arab and Islamic countries to double their efforts to brief pilgrims on the proper performance of Haj rituals. The heads of Haj missions from Oman, Nigeria, Singapore, Sri Lanka and Uzbekistan also thanked the government in their speeches. (SPA)
