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Iran due in talks with Saudi over next hajj season

Xinhua, January 21, 2017 Adjust font size:

An Iranian delegation will visit Saudi Arabia by the end of February to discuss the next hajj season, Okaz local newspaper reported on Saturday.

Iran was among 80 countries that have received invitation to take part in the season, despite that Iran decided to boycott the last Hajj season, in which it cited the reason for fearing the safety of its pilgrims after the deadly stampede in Hajj of 2015.

More than 450 Iranians were among 2300 pilgrims who died in stampede in Mina area.

The Minister of Hajj and Umrah Dr Mohammed Saleh Benten confirmed that Iran was invited to coordinate with Saudi Hajj authorities about the next season.

He highlighted that all pilgrims are welcomed regardless of their nationalities or sects.

Saudi Arabia announced in January 2016 the cut of political ties with Iran and ban citizens from travelling there. The country clarified while announcing the end of ties that Iranian pilgrims will always be welcome in Saudi Arabia.

This reaction was made after angry Iranian protesters stormed the Saudi diplomat mission to protest the Saudi execution of 47 individuals on terrorism charges. Endit