The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' program for providing Iftar meals to fasting people begins in Kazakhstan
The Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Call and Guidance, represented by the Religious Attaché at the Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the Republic of Kazakhstan, launched the activities of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ program for breaking the fast and the program for distributing luxury dates, in the courtyard of the Grand Republican Mosque in the capital Astana, which is the largest Islamic edifice in the Central Asian region.
The inauguration ceremony took place in the presence of the Ambassador of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques to Kazakhstan, Mr. Faisal bin Hanif Al-Qahtani, the Deputy of His Eminence the Mufti of Kazakhstan, Sheikh Kenjitay Baikemeluly, and the Religious Attaché, Mr. Talal bin Dhaifallah Al-Maliki, amidst a remarkable presence of officials and dignitaries of Kazakh society, reflecting the depth of the fraternal ties between the two countries.
The symbolism of the place and the depth of historical relations
The selection of the Grand Republican Mosque in Astana to host this annual event underscores the spiritual significance of this unique architectural landmark and serves as a launchpad for the Kingdom's mission to promote Islamic solidarity. These events gain added momentum given the long history of close religious cooperation between the Kingdom and Kazakhstan. Attendees recalled the historic visit of His Excellency the Minister of Islamic Affairs, Sheikh Dr. Abdul Latif bin Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh, to the mosque in 2022 to participate in the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions, which resulted in the launch of the first international Quran memorization competition in Kazakhstan, with the participation of 21 countries, thus establishing a solid foundation for joint cooperation.
Expansion of giving and record numbers
This year's Ramadan programs witnessed a significant expansion in the volume of aid provided, with 15 tons of premium dates allocated for distribution in Kazakhstan, an increase of 5 tons compared to last year. This distribution aims to reach approximately 60,000 beneficiaries across 17 regions and provinces throughout the country. In parallel, the Iftar program provides meals for nearly 3,000 fasting individuals in the cities of Astana and Almaty, reflecting the Kingdom's commitment to reaching the widest possible segment of the Muslim community during this holy month.
The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' program for providing Iftar meals to fasting people: A message of global leadership
In a press statement, Ambassador Al-Qahtani affirmed that these initiatives are not merely fleeting acts of charity, but rather a manifestation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's leading role in serving Islam and Muslims worldwide. He noted that the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' program for providing iftar meals and distributing dates is being implemented this year according to a strategic plan that includes distributing dates in 120 countries and setting up iftar tables in 70 countries. This highlights the tremendous efforts exerted by the Ministry, under the leadership of His Excellency Minister Dr. Abdul Latif Al-Sheikh, to build bridges of communication and affection with Muslim communities.
For his part, the Deputy Mufti of Kazakhstan appreciated this generous gesture, stressing that the program has become an annual tradition eagerly awaited by Muslims in Kazakhstan, due to its spiritual and symbolic significance as a gift from the land of the Two Holy Mosques, praising the pivotal role of the Kingdom in supporting Muslim causes and promoting the values of brotherhood and social solidarity.
