Emphasis on the depth of fraternal relations
The Minister of Islamic Affairs of the Republic of Maldives, Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, affirmed that the initiatives of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, represented by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' programs for providing Iftar meals to fasting Muslims and the gift of premium dates, embody a generous gesture reflecting the deep-rooted fraternal relations between the two brotherly countries. This statement was made during his remarks at the launch ceremony of the two programs in the capital, Malé, in the presence of a number of prominent political and religious figures.
The Minister explained that these annual initiatives reflect the strong bonds of love, cooperation, and Islamic and humanitarian solidarity that underpin the relations between the two countries, praising the Kingdom's leadership for its unwavering support of the Muslim world. He expressed his deepest gratitude and appreciation to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Prime Minister – may God protect them – for their sincere dedication to serving Islam and Muslims across the globe.
Historical background of Saudi giving programs
The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' seasonal programs, especially during the holy month of Ramadan, are an integral part of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's humanitarian and religious diplomacy. Historically, the Kingdom has consistently launched relief and charitable projects targeting Muslims worldwide, stemming from its position as the heart of the Islamic world and the cradle of the Two Holy Mosques. The program for distributing dates and providing iftar meals for fasting Muslims is an annual tradition implemented by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance in dozens of countries, benefiting millions of Muslims and strengthening the spirit of unity and solidarity during this blessed month.
The importance and expected impact of the initiative
Locally in the Maldives, this initiative holds particular significance, as it helps alleviate the burden on needy families and provides one of the most important food items on the breakfast table: dates, which hold great religious symbolism. Regionally and internationally, these programs reinforce the Kingdom's position as a leading nation in humanitarian and Islamic work, demonstrating its commitment to the values of solidarity and compassion. They also strengthen diplomatic and people-to-people ties between Saudi Arabia and the beneficiary countries, and convey a clear message about the tolerant values of Islam, based on generosity, moderation, and balance.
Praise for the efforts of the Ministry of Islamic Affairs
Minister Shaheem Ali Saeed commended the significant role played by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance in the Kingdom, under the leadership of His Excellency Minister Sheikh Dr. Abdul Latif bin Abdulaziz Al Sheikh. He praised the Ministry's tireless efforts and pioneering programs that have contributed to strengthening Islamic values and spreading the spirit of solidarity among Muslim nations. He affirmed that these blessed efforts reflect a constant commitment to conveying the Kingdom's humanitarian and da'wah message to various countries of the Islamic world, serving the causes of Muslims and promoting the values of moderation and tolerance. He concluded his statement by asking God Almighty to reward the Kingdom, its leadership, government, and people with the best of rewards, to perpetuate its blessings of security, stability, and prosperity, and to bless its benevolent endeavors.
