The Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, represented by the Religious Attaché at the Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Bosnia and Herzegovina (whose jurisdiction also covers the Republic of Kosovo), launched the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' programs for distributing dates and providing iftar meals for fasting Muslims for the year 1445 AH in the Republic of Kosovo. The launch ceremony took place at the headquarters of the Islamic Community in the capital, Pristina, in the presence of high-level diplomatic and religious figures, reflecting the deep fraternal relations between the two brotherly countries.
Program details and number of beneficiaries
The ceremony, held on the fifth day of Ramadan, was attended by the Ambassador of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques to the Republic of Albania and Kosovo (non-resident), Faisal bin Ghazi Hafzi, and the Deputy Grand Mufti of the Republic of Kosovo, Sheikh Ahmed Sadri, along with a number of prominent Islamic and political figures. This generous initiative aims to distribute five tons of premium dates, with the date program expected to benefit approximately 20,000 people. The program for providing iftar meals to those fasting will cover nearly 4,000 beneficiaries throughout the holy month, bringing the total number of beneficiaries to 24,000 people from various segments of the population in need.
An extension of Saudi global giving
These programs are part of the ongoing humanitarian efforts undertaken by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, under the leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince – may God protect them – to address the needs of Muslims worldwide during the holy month of Ramadan. These initiatives are an integral part of the Kingdom's pioneering mission to serve Islam and Muslims, and to promote the values of social solidarity and compassion among members of the Islamic community. The Ministry of Islamic Affairs implements these programs in dozens of countries around the world, adhering to the highest quality standards to ensure that aid reaches those who need it most.
Saudi-Kosovar relations and the Kingdom's leading role
This initiative holds particular significance given the special place the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia holds in the hearts of the Kosovar people. Saudi Arabia was among the first countries to support Kosovo's independence and development. Saudi support extends beyond seasonal relief efforts to include support for religious and educational institutions and the restoration of mosques, thus strengthening the moderate Islamic identity in the Balkans. This annual event underscores the sustainability of Saudi charitable work and the wise leadership's commitment to building bridges of communication and affection with friendly and brotherly nations.
The initiative's impact and societal repercussions
For his part, Ambassador Faisal Hafzi affirmed that the launch of these programs embodies the Kingdom's commitment to standing by its brothers in Kosovo. He noted that these food baskets and iftar meals contribute to alleviating the financial burdens on many families and bring joy to the hearts of those fasting. Officials from the Islamic Community of Kosovo expressed their profound gratitude and appreciation to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, its leadership and people, for this generous and unsurprising contribution, praying that God protect the Kingdom and grant it continued security, safety, and prosperity.
