In preparation for the annual Hajj pilgrimage, banks in Pakistan are expanding their services to cater to applicants participating in the Government Hajj Scheme.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs has declared that, in order to facilitate pilgrims in submitting their applications for the upcoming Hajj, banks will now operate on Saturdays and Sundays.
The Ministry’s spokesperson emphasized that applications are actively being welcomed under the government’s Hajj Scheme. In a concerted effort to assist applicants, banks have agreed to extend their operational hours over the weekend, a decision aimed at ensuring convenience and accessibility for individuals eager to partake in the sacred journey.
This development comes in response to a notification issued by the State Bank of Pakistan, which addressed the Ministry’s request. According to the notification, individuals interested in applying for Hajj, whether through the regular or sponsorship scheme, can approach the designated banks for assistance and submission of their applications.
The Ministry’s spokesperson clarified that the acceptance of Hajj applications will persist until Tuesday, December 12. This extended timeline provides aspirants with greater flexibility in completing their application process, ensuring that interested individuals have ample opportunity to apply for this significant religious pilgrimage.
Pakistan Is Set To Receive $700 Million From IMF On 12th Of January, A Day After Board’s Meeting
Meanwhile, the International Monetary Fund’s Executive Board is set to review Pakistan’s progress on January 11 next year, aiming for approval that would unlock $700 million under the standby arrangement (SBA).
The IMF’s spokesperson issued a statement on Friday about the board’s upcoming meeting on January 11, 2024.
Pakistan had previously reached a staff-level agreement with the IMF under the $3 billion SBA and now awaits the board’s approval to access a second tranche.
However, a recent report in The News indicated that Pakistan’s first review for approval wasn’t on the agenda for the IMF’s Executive Board meeting scheduled from December 1 to December 15.
