Dr. Bandar bin Abdulaziz Balila visited Phnom Penh and met with Cambodian Deputy Minister Hajj Ashari Ayub to discuss support for Muslims in Cambodia.
The officials explored ways to improve religious and social support systems for Cambodian Muslims.
Deputy Minister Ayub commended Saudi Arabia's global efforts in Islamic welfare, including educational and humanitarian aid provided to Cambodia.
Phnom Penh, August 18, 2024 – Dr. Bandar bin Abdulaziz Balila, the esteemed Imam and preacher at the Grand Mosque and a prominent member of the Senior Scholars Council, embarked on an official visit to Phnom Penh, Cambodia. This visit, organized and overseen by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah, and Guidance, is a testament to Saudi Arabia's ongoing efforts to enhance international relations and extend support to Muslim communities around the world.
During his stay, Dr. Balila held a significant meeting with Hajj Ashari Ayub, the Deputy Minister of Sects and Religions of Cambodia, at the Ministry of Religions. The discussions were centered on key issues concerning Islamic affairs and the well-being of the Muslim community in Cambodia. Both officials engaged in a detailed dialogue on various strategies and initiatives aimed at bolstering religious and social support systems. They deliberated on ways to enhance the support mechanisms for Muslims in Cambodia, with a focus on addressing their needs effectively and ensuring the advancement of Islamic values within the region.
In a press statement following the meeting, Deputy Minister Ayub expressed profound appreciation for the Saudi government's unwavering commitment to serving Muslims globally. He praised the Kingdom's extensive efforts in supporting Islamic welfare, which includes significant contributions to pilgrim support and humanitarian aid. The Cambodian official notably recognized Saudi Arabia’s substantial impact in Cambodia through initiatives such as providing scholarships for Cambodian students, constructing mosques and educational institutions, and delivering vital medical services to the local populace.
Dr. Balila’s visit highlighted the critical role of international cooperation in advancing Islamic education and humanitarian support. The dialogue between Dr. Balila and Deputy Minister Ayub underscored a mutual dedication to improving religious and educational opportunities for Muslims in Cambodia. This engagement is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader strategy to reinforce its international relationships and bolster its role as a leading advocate for Islamic education and humanitarian efforts.
The visit also emphasized the Kingdom's continued commitment to supporting the development of Islamic institutions and communities globally. By fostering these international partnerships, Saudi Arabia aims to promote greater understanding and cooperation between nations, furthering its mission to uphold and propagate Islamic values and provide humanitarian aid where it is most needed.
