In a move to strengthen Islamic brotherhood and promote solidarity among nations, the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia presented a gift of premium dates from the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, to the Republic of Turkmenistan. The official handover ceremony took place at the Kingdom's embassy in Ashgabat, in the presence of the Deputy Head of Mission, Nayef bin Saud Al-Sahli, Turkmen officials, and a number of imams and prominent Islamic figures from the country.
A well-established annual initiative
This gift, weighing five tons and expected to benefit more than 20,000 people, comes as part of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' Dates Distribution Program, a global initiative overseen annually by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs. The program aims to reach Muslims worldwide, particularly with the approach of the holy month of Ramadan, when dates hold significant religious and cultural symbolism as a Prophetic tradition for breaking the fast. This year, the program encompasses more than 120 countries, reflecting the Kingdom's leading role in serving Islam and Muslims and fostering human and cultural understanding.
Diplomatic and cultural importance
The importance of this initiative extends beyond its humanitarian dimension; it also serves as a vital tool of Saudi diplomacy, aimed at deepening bilateral relations with friendly and brotherly nations. The relationship between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Turkmenistan, established following the latter's independence, is founded on mutual respect and shared Islamic ties. Such symbolic gifts are a sincere expression of the depth of these fraternal relations and contribute to enhancing the Kingdom's positive image as a key supporter of the causes of the Islamic world.
Appreciation and gratitude
Representatives of the Turkmen Fatwa Council expressed their deep gratitude to the government and leadership of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for this generous annual initiative. They commended the Kingdom's ongoing efforts to serve Muslims worldwide, particularly the exceptional facilities and services provided to Turkmen pilgrims during Hajj, emphasizing that such gestures strengthen the bonds of affection and solidarity between the two nations. The distribution of these dates to mosques, Islamic centers, and needy families in Turkmenistan has a direct and positive impact, reflecting the spirit of compassion advocated by Islam.
