Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday stated that the global recognition of Hajj 2026 arrangements, achieved through the continuous efforts of the Government of Pakistan and the Ministry of Religious Affairs, is a source of pride for the entire nation.
During a meeting with organizers from the Ministry of Religious Affairs and winners of private Hajj 2026, the prime minister observed that service, hard work, and integrity are the qualities that make nations great, according to a press release from the PM Office Media Wing.
Three Pakistani organizers receive Saudi award
During a briefing, the prime minister was informed that the Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia honored three Pakistani private Hajj organizers with the ‘Labbaytum Excellence Award’ for providing excellent facilities to Pakistani pilgrims. The awardees included Muhammad Affan Zeeshan of Al-Meraj Organizer (first position), Muhammad Shahid Rafique of Ibrahim Organizer (second position), and Zaeem Akhtar of Al-Fatah Organizer (third position).
Director General (DG) Hajj, Abdul Wahab Soomro, also received the ‘Labbaytum Excellence Award’ for his outstanding performance.
Meeting attendees and congratulations
The meeting was attended by Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf, Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination and Adviser to the Prime Minister Rana Sanaullah, Secretary Religious Affairs Abrar Ahmed Mirza, DG Hajj Abdul Wahab Soomro, and the CEOs of the three winning private organizers.
The prime minister congratulated all three organizers and the DG Hajj on receiving the awards and for their excellent performance. He also appreciated Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Sardar Muhammad Yousaf, as well as all officers and staff of the ministry, for making excellent arrangements for Hajj 2026.
Pride for Pakistan
The prime minister said this award from the government of Saudi Arabia is a clear recognition of the services provided to pilgrims under both the government and private Hajj schemes, and is a matter of pride for Pakistan. He further observed that through this service, the organizers have not only earned the blessings of Allah Almighty but also the prayers of the pilgrims and brought honor to Pakistan.
The prime minister expressed confidence that next year, during Hajj arrangements, they will not only maintain this standard of hard work, integrity, and service but further improve it and win more awards.
