IN a recent diplomatic endeavour, Director of Education of the Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana (CIOG), Shaikh Moin-ul-Hack, and the Head of the Guyana Islamic Trust (GIT), Shaikh Abdul Aleem, engaged in a significant meeting with His Excellency, Tawfiq Bin Fawzan Al Rabiah, the Minister of Hajj and Umrah of Saudi Arabia, in Riyadh.

The meeting, characterised by a spirit of cordiality, focused on addressing challenges encountered by Guyanese and Caribbean pilgrims during their sacred journey of Hajj to Mecca.

The primary objective was to streamline the processes associated with air and land transportation, as well as accommodation, ensuring a more accessible and comfortable experience for pilgrims during the Hajj period.

Both Shaikhs expressed satisfaction that the concerns raised during the meeting would be earnestly addressed, promising positive resolutions to enhance the pilgrimage experience for the Guyanese and Caribbean pilgrims.

Additionally, the leaders explored the possibility of facilitating a complimentary Hajj for individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and distinction in serving their communities but face financial challenges in undertaking the pilgrimage.

This initiative, if realised, could provide an opportunity for those deserving individuals to participate in the sacred journey despite financial constraints.

Before the pivotal meeting with Minister Al Rabiah, Shaikh Hack and Shaikh Aleem held discussions with the Honourable Minister of State for Saudi Arabia, His Excellency Adel Al Jubair. During this meeting, the leaders updated Minister Al Jubair on Islam and related activities in Guyana, emphasizing the country’s high level of religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence among adherents of various faiths and ethnic groups.

Expressing their gratitude, both the CIOG and the GIT acknowledged His Excellency, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, President of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana, for his instrumental role in facilitating the visit to Saudi Arabia and the subsequent meetings.

The collaborative efforts between Guyana and Saudi Arabia aim to strengthen ties, foster understanding, and address the needs of the Islamic community, particularly concerning the significant pilgrimage of Hajj.