GCC Secretary-General Meets with Chinese Ambassador to Saudi Arabia

Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi - File Photo
Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi - File Photo
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GCC Secretary-General Meets with Chinese Ambassador to Saudi Arabia

Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi - File Photo
Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi - File Photo

Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Secretary-General Jasem Albudaiwi met on Tuesday with Chinese Ambassador to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Chang Hua.
During the meeting, they discussed several topics related to enhancing relations between the two sides, including the latest developments in the negotiations for a free trade agreement between the GCC and China, SPA reported.
They also reviewed progress on the joint action plan between the GCC and China for the 2023–2027 period, as well as exchanged views on the latest regional and international developments.



Saudi Council of Senior Scholars: Performing Hajj without a Permit Is a Sin

Pilgrims are seen at the Hajj last year. (EPA)
Pilgrims are seen at the Hajj last year. (EPA)
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Saudi Council of Senior Scholars: Performing Hajj without a Permit Is a Sin

Pilgrims are seen at the Hajj last year. (EPA)
Pilgrims are seen at the Hajj last year. (EPA)

Saudi Arabia’s Council of Senior Scholars stressed on Sunday the need to obtain a permit for anyone wishing to perform the Hajj pilgrimage.

In a statement, it warned that performing the pilgrimage without the permit “is a sin” and would “lead to several dangers and impact the safety and health of pilgrims and the services provided.”

Meanwhile, the Holy Makkah Municipality said 22,000 of its members and members of other entities are dedicating their services and capabilities to implement this year’s Hajj season plan.

The municipality has provided 28 centers in the holy sites to offer the best services to the pilgrims.

In remarks to Asharq Al-Awsat, municipality spokesman Osama al-Zeitouni said it has backed up its efforts with several electronic platforms and apps that would help boost the efficiency of services and speed up procedures.

It has also dedicated a large fleet of equipment and human cadres and set up integrated plans and work programs that cover the entirety of the Hajj, he added.

The municipality's efforts include and are not limited to training members on crisis, disaster and crowd management. Dedicated teams will be in place to handle emergencies caused by rain or fires, as well as handling waste and garbage, providing protection against insects and regularly disinfecting camps.

The municipality has dedicated a team to monitor the markets, grocery stores and restaurants to ensure the safety of food provided.