Pakistan has extended an offer to Bangladesh to share its expertise in Hajj management, aiming to improve the overall pilgrimage experience for Bangladeshi pilgrims while strengthening bilateral cooperation between the two countries.
The offer was made during a meeting in Islamabad between Pakistan’s Minister for Religious Affairs, Sardar Muhammad Yousaf, and Bangladesh’s High Commissioner to Pakistan, Iqbal Hussain Khan. According to official reports, both sides discussed various aspects of Hajj arrangements and explored opportunities for enhanced collaboration in religious affairs.
Sardar Muhammad Yousaf emphasized that improving Hajj and Umrah facilities remains a top priority for the Pakistani government. He highlighted that Pakistan ranks among the leading countries in terms of the number of Hajj pilgrims and possesses extensive experience in managing large-scale pilgrimage operations.
He stated that Pakistan is ready to share its knowledge, systems, and best practices with Bangladesh to help streamline arrangements and ensure a smoother and more comfortable journey for pilgrims. The proposed cooperation includes coordination in logistics, accommodation, transportation, and overall management of pilgrimage services.
The initiative reflects improving relations between Pakistan and Bangladesh in recent years. Both countries have taken steps to enhance diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties, moving beyond historical tensions and focusing on mutual growth and cooperation.
Approximately 179,210 Pakistani pilgrims are expected to perform Hajj this year, with around 120,000 traveling under the government scheme and the remaining through private tour operators. Pakistan’s experience in handling such large numbers is seen as a valuable resource for countries looking to improve their own pilgrimage systems.
During the meeting, both sides also expressed interest in further strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation in various sectors beyond religious affairs. The discussion also comes amid increased connectivity and trade between the two countries, including the resumption of direct flights and growing commercial links.
Overall, Pakistan’s offer to support Bangladesh in Hajj management highlights a shared commitment to facilitating pilgrims and promoting stronger ties within the Muslim world.
