In a move reflecting the deep fraternal ties and humanitarian mission of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, represented by the Religious Attaché at the Embassy of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques in the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' Program for Iftar (breaking the fast) and Date Distribution for the year 1445 AH. The launch ceremony was held at the Grand Republican Mosque in the capital, Astana, which is the largest mosque in Central Asia and one of the most prominent modern Islamic landmarks. The ceremony was attended by the Ambassador of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques to Kazakhstan, Mr. Faisal bin Hanif Al-Qahtani, the Deputy Mufti of Kazakhstan, Sheikh Kenjitay Baikimeluly, and the Religious Attaché, Mr. Talal bin Dhaifallah Al-Maliki.
The symbolism of the place and the depth of historical relations
The choice of the Grand Mosque in Astana to host this event carries profound symbolic significance, as this Islamic edifice represents a religious and cultural beacon in the region. This initiative embodies the continuation of the strong historical relations between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Republic of Kazakhstan, which have witnessed remarkable development in recent years, particularly in the areas of Islamic cooperation and serving Muslims. These relations are built on foundations of mutual respect and a shared desire to promote the values of tolerance and moderation, as clearly demonstrated during the visit of His Excellency the Minister of Islamic Affairs to the mosque in 2022 to participate in the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions, which resulted in several significant initiatives, including the first international competition for memorizing the Holy Quran.
Details of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' program for providing Iftar meals to fasting people and distributing dates
The religious attaché explained that this year's program has seen significant expansion, with 15 tons of premium dates allocated for distribution in Kazakhstan, an increase of 5 tons compared to last year. This reflects the wise leadership's commitment to reaching the largest possible number of beneficiaries. The program aims to distribute dates to approximately 60,000 beneficiaries across 17 regions and provinces throughout the country. In parallel, the Iftar project aims to provide Iftar meals to around 3,000 fasting individuals in the cities of Astana and Almaty, contributing to bringing joy and happiness to Muslims during this holy month.
Global leadership in humanitarian work
Ambassador Al-Qahtani affirmed that these programs embody the pioneering role of 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 – in addressing the needs of Muslims worldwide. These efforts are not limited to Kazakhstan alone, but are part of a comprehensive system overseen by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs to implement a date distribution program in 120 countries and a program to provide iftar meals for fasting Muslims in 70 countries. This underscores the Kingdom's position as the beating heart of the Islamic world and a champion of cross-border charitable and humanitarian work.
