ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari Monday felicitated the intending pilgrims for Hajj this year, and asked them to pray for the prosperity and progress of the country and to seek Allah Almighty’s help in overcoming all challenges. This is for the first time, after the government of Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, that every intending Haji, who had applied would be able to perform the most important Muslim obligatory ritual of Hajj.
Around 88,000 Hajis have been selected under the policy. The policy of selecting Hajis was based on ‘First come-First served’ basis but the President directed a review so that all who so desire are able to perform Hajj this year. The President also felicitated Syed Khursheed Shah, Federal Minister for Religious Affairs, and his Ministry and asked them to ensure best possible arrangements, so that the Hajis may perform the religious obligation with complete peace of mind. – APP