Sardar Muhammad Yusuf, Pakistan’s federal minster for religious affairs, praised the Pakistan Haj Volunteers Group (PHVG), an organization formed by members of the expat community living in the Kingdom, for serving pilgrims each year.

The minister addressed a large number of people from the expat community at the Pakistani Embassy School, Azizia, Jeddah.

The minister said: “Pakistan government appreciates the contribution of PHVG in this regard and pledges to support the organization when ever needed. The government is committed to do whatever it can to ensure Pakistanis perform Haj without facing problems during their stay at the holy cities.”

The minister distributed recognition awards among the members of the group for doing their best to serve the guests of God during the last Haj season.

Speaking at the event, Pakistani Ambassador Manzoor ul Haq said he was much delighted to know about the contribution of the group, vowing to remain in touch with it during his tenor in the Kingdom.

Syed Abu Ahmed Aakif, director general of Haj affairs, applauded the members of the group and highlighted the benefits of voluntarism, saying it can bring positivism in society.

He urged Pakistani youth to join welfare societies to serve Pakistan and its people.

Earlier, M. Ismail, PHVG coordinator, highlighted the facilities and programs the group offers to Pakistani pilgrims each year.

Professor Waseem Bukhari, a prominent member of the group, focused on the history of the organization along with some of its major contributions in serving the guests of God.

The event began with the recitation of the Holy Qur’an and a naat.

Souvenirs were presented to the minster and his team by PHVG. Arab News received a certificate of appreciation for its service to the English-reading expat community of the Kingdom.