As part of its ongoing efforts to serve Muslims worldwide during the holy month of Ramadan, the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, represented by the Religious Attaché at the Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in India, has launched the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' programs for distributing dates and providing iftar meals for fasting individuals in the Republic of Sri Lanka. The launch ceremony took place at the Kingdom's embassy in Colombo, with high-level diplomatic and official attendance.
The ceremony was attended by the Ambassador of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques to Sri Lanka, Khalid bin Hamoud Al-Qahtani, and the Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs of Sri Lanka, Mohamed Munir Muzaffar, in addition to a number of officials from the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, heads of Islamic associations and centers, and prominent religious and media figures in the country. This event underscores the deep fraternal ties that bind the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Republic of Sri Lanka.
Details of aid and beneficiary numbers
The ministry revealed details of this year's support, which includes distributing approximately 5 tons of the finest Saudi dates. This program aims to reach 20,000 fasting individuals. Simultaneously, a program to provide iftar meals for fasting people was launched, targeting nearly 5,000 beneficiaries across various regions and cities in Sri Lanka, bringing joy to their hearts and meeting their needs during the holy month.
Historical context and leading role of the Kingdom
These programs are part of an annual tradition upheld by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, stemming from its leading position in the Islamic world and its pivotal role in serving the causes of Muslims. These efforts are not limited to providing in-kind assistance; rather, they represent a message of solidarity and mutual support that transcends borders, reflecting the Saudi leadership's commitment to addressing the needs of Muslims across the globe, especially during major religious occasions.
These initiatives are particularly important in Sri Lanka, where they contribute to strengthening social cohesion and supporting the Muslim minority, providing them with a spiritual atmosphere conducive to observing the fast. The Sri Lankan Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs expressed his deep gratitude and appreciation to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince – may God protect them – affirming that these humanitarian initiatives leave a positive impact on the Sri Lankan people and strengthen the bonds of brotherhood between the two nations.
Global scope of Islamic affairs programs
It is worth noting that the Ministry of Islamic Affairs is implementing the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' Dates Distribution Program this year across a wide geographical area encompassing 120 countries worldwide, while the Iftar (breaking the fast) program covers 70 countries. These figures reflect the Kingdom's significant logistical and organizational capabilities to ensure that aid reaches those in need, reinforcing the values of generosity and giving that characterize the blessed month of Ramadan.
