JEDDAH – Indian Minister for Women and Child Welfare and Minority Affairs Smt. Smriti Irani arrived in Jeddah with a delegation two days ago for the purpose of participating in two important meetings.
Saudi Minister of Haj and Umrah, Dr. Tawfiq Al-Rabiyya, has met India’s Minority Affairs Minister Smriti Irani in Jeddah on Sunday.
A bilateral Hajj agreement was signed between India and Saudi Arabia during the meeting. Mrs. Smriti Irani was accompanied by Minister of State for Foreign Affairs V Muraleedharan.
Mrs. Smriti Irani said on her Social Media account that the two ministers discussed plans to improve medical facilities to ensure the welfare of all Haj pilgrims, among other matters of mutual interest. She said “The Saudi delegation expressed sincere appreciation for India’s exceptional digital initiatives, particularly in providing essential last-mile information to pilgrims. Our proposal to encourage participation of women without Mehram in Haj pilgrimage further underscores our commitment to inclusivity.” She also wrote on Social Media “Discussions also encompassed plans for the enhancement of medical facilities, ensuring the comprehensive well-being of all pilgrims. I deeply value the collaborative spirit exhibited during these deliberations and eagerly anticipate the continued fortification of our bilateral relations.”
Honorable MoS for External Affairs V Muraleedharan, Ambassador of India to Saudi Arabia Dr. Suhel Ajaz Khan, Consul General of India, Jeddah Muhammad Shahid Alam and officials of both the countries were also present on the occasion of signing the Haj agreement.
Discussions also encompassed plans for the enhancement of medical facilities, ensuring the comprehensive well-being of all pilgrims. Honorable Minister Smriti Irani said she deeply values the collaborative spirit exhibited during these deliberations and she is eager to anticipate the continued fortification of Indo-Saudi bilateral relations.
