ADDIS ABABA – Ethiopian Islamic Affairs Supreme Council (EIASC) disclosed that the agreement concluded with Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is crucial in availing Ethiopian Hajj pilgrims a seamless service in their stay in the Islam’s Holy Sites.
On Sunday, EIASC President, Mufti Hajji Omar Idris, and, Dr. Hussain bin Nasser Al-Sharif, Undersecretary of Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, signed an agreement in Mecca for arranging Hajj affairs for the 1441AH.
Approached by The Ethiopian Herald, Hajj and Awqaf Division Head with EIASC, Sheikh Menurkerim Rashid said that the agreement would have paramount importance in effectively regulating the arrival of Ethiopian pilgrims for Hajj.
The deal is also beneficial to monitor requirements that Ethiopian pilgrims are expected to meet during their stay in Mecca to perform the rituals.
Citing last year’s Hajj travel, Sheikh Menurkerim noted that the Council’s partnership with public and private entities was so successful and helpful in enabling 11,000 Ethiopians to go to Mecca, a historic high figure. “Consolidated efforts are underway to increase the number in this year,” he added.
Direct flights will commence between Addis Ababa and Mecca to enhance pilgrims’ convenience, he went on to say, and the Council is partnering with Saudi Arabian security organs to ensure the safety of Ethiopian pilgrims in and around Mecca.
Further, Sheikh Menurkerim indicated that the Council is closely working with government organs including Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Culture and Tourism to promote Ethiopia’s good deeds to Islam among world Muslims.
Information obtained from Saudi Press Agency (SPA) indicated that the two sides also discussed several issues of common interest in the field of Hajj, including the facilities provided to the pilgrims to conclude their procedures easily.
The Hajj is a five-day pilgrimage to Islam’s holiest place Mecca, and this year it is expected to begin on July 28th and last until August 2nd.
The Ethiopian Herald January 8/2020
BY BILAL DERSO
