First batch of Lankans for 2017 Haji pilgrimage

The first batch of Sri Lankans for the 2017 Haj pilgrimages left to Saudi Arabia on Sunday from the Bandaranaike International Airport. Minister of Postal and Muslim Affairs Abdul Haleem, State Minister A.H.M. Fowzi, Saudi Ambassador to Sri Lanka Sheikh Hamood bin Jarman Al Asmari and Director of the Muslim Cultural Department Ash. Sheikh M.R.M. Malik were among those present at BIA. This year the Saudi Government has given permissions for 2,840 Sri Lankans to perform Haj - Text and Pic by Ashraff. A. Samad