On February 19, President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev received a delegation led by the Minister of Hajj and Umrah Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, who is on an official visit to the country.

At the start of the meeting, Minister Al-Rabiah conveyed greetings and best wishes from Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince, Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud. As a special gesture, he presented a piece of the Kiswa, the sacred covering of the Kaaba, as a gift from the Saudi King to the people of Uzbekistan.

Uzbekistanʼs leader extended heartfelt gratitude to Saudi Arabiaʼs leadership for their generous gift and the excellent conditions provided for Uzbek pilgrims during their stay in the Muslim worldʼs spiritual centers Mecca and Medina. Last year alone, over 800,000 Uzbek citizens performed Umrah, while 15,000 undertook the Hajj pilgrimage.

During the meeting, authorities emphasized enhancing the quality of services and facilities for Uzbek pilgrims, prioritizing their safety and comfort during their visit to Saudi Arabia.