Uzbek government issues resolution on organizing 2002 hajj pilgrimage


Uzbek Radio
December 8

In view of the forthcoming Muslim month of pilgrimage in February-March 2002, the Uzbek government has authorized the interior and security agencies "to ensure the general security of the pilgrims and to prevent any undesirable events which might occur" during the pilgrimage period. It also sets down the amount of money that the pilgrims can exchange for travel, and orders the national airline carrier and Health Ministry to help with travel and health arrangements. According to the decree, the National Bank for Foreign and Economic Affairs will ensure the privileged commission-free purchase of 1,482 dollars for each Uzbek pilgrim according to the list confirmed by the Muslim Board of Uzbekistan.

Uzbek Airways national air company will create suitable conditions and reduce the costs of air tickets for pilgrims flying on the Tashkent-Jiddah [Saudi Arabia]-Tashkent route in February-March 2002.