The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' gift of dates arrives in Italy and North Macedonia
As part of its ongoing efforts to serve Islam and Muslims worldwide, the Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance delivered a gift of premium dates from the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, to the Republics of Italy and North Macedonia. This initiative falls under the Ministry's annual "Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' Dates Gift Program," reflecting the Kingdom's humanitarian message and its commitment to strengthening the bonds of brotherhood and solidarity among nations, particularly with the approach of the holy month of Ramadan.
Background of the program and its diplomatic and cultural significance
The Dates Distribution Program is one of the most prominent religious and cultural diplomacy initiatives undertaken by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Launched decades ago, the program has become a firmly established annual tradition, distributing thousands of tons of the finest Saudi dates to Muslims in dozens of countries worldwide. Dates hold a special place in Saudi heritage and Islamic culture; they are not merely a food, but a symbol of generosity and hospitality, and are closely associated with the month of Ramadan, when it is recommended to break the fast with them. The program aims to strengthen ties with Muslim communities abroad, provide them with support, and embody the values of giving that are an integral part of the Kingdom's identity.
Delivery details in Italy and North Macedonia
In Rome, the handover ceremony took place at the Saudi Embassy, where five tons of dates were donated, benefiting approximately 20,000 people. Representatives from the Saudi Embassy attended the ceremony, along with the Secretary-General of the Islamic Cultural Center in Rome, Dr. Abdullah Radwan, and the Center's President, Naeem Nasrallah. The dates will be distributed in cooperation with accredited Islamic centers and associations in Italy to ensure they reach those in need within the Muslim community.
In North Macedonia, a similar handover ceremony took place at the headquarters of the Islamic Community, where another 5 tons of dates were delivered to benefit more than 20,000 Muslims. The handover was overseen by the Religious Attaché at the Saudi Embassy in Bosnia and Herzegovina, in the presence of the Ambassador of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques to Albania, Faisal bin Ghazi Hafzi, and the Deputy Grand Mufti of the Republic, Sheikh Arsal Yaqubi. This initiative was warmly welcomed by officials at the Islamic Community, who praised the Kingdom's efforts and its ongoing support for Muslims in the Balkans.
Expected impact and dimensions of the initiative
This symbolic gift transcends its material value, leaving a positive impact both locally and internationally. Locally, in the recipient countries, the gift helps meet the needs of Muslim families during Ramadan and strengthens their sense of belonging and solidarity. Internationally, these initiatives enhance the Kingdom's position as a leading nation in the Islamic world and bolster its bilateral relations with friendly countries. They also present a positive image of Islam, based on compassion and cooperation, and contribute to building bridges of cultural and civilizational exchange between the Kingdom and the diverse peoples of the world.
