Saudi Gazette

JEDDAH — Asif Hasan Memon, deputy consul general in the Consulate General of Pakistan here, has said I am leaving Saudi Arabia with a heavy heart due to the connection of two holy mosques of Makkah and Madinah.

Speaking to Saudi Gazette on telephone before departing to his new assignment in Brussels, Memon said this connection and associated passion of pilgrimages to the Harmain Sharifain and constant visit to the Kaba'a — a desire of every Muslim from whatever corner of the globe — made his stay here memorable. Also the memories of his time spent at the two holy places would be with him forever.

Citing that he was blessed in being assigned to the Kingdom, and that too in Jeddah, Memon said he would also miss the community and the hospitality accorded to him. “I will surely also miss the hospitality and love the Pakistani community extended to me during my 3 years stay in Jeddah,” he added.

He praised Custodian of the Two Holy Mosque King Salman and the members of the Saudi Royal family for the services and welfare measures provided to the pilgrims and visitors during Umrah and Haj.

He gave a brief account of the endeavors he had made during his tenure is assisting the seekers of consular services from the Pakistani community living in Western region and around.

He was grateful for the cooperation and support of Consul General Shehryar Akbar Khan, former Consul General Aftab Ahmed Khokhar and the entire consulate staff. He aso appreciated their efforts in highlighting the Kashmir issue in OIC, MWL, solving the old cases of passports which had trapped some people and the community's schools problems.

Memon has transferred to Embassy of Pakistan at Brussels, Belgium, as head of the mission after completing his 3 years tenure here.

Meanwhile Masood Ahmed Puri, president Kashmir Committee (KC) Jeddah chapter, hosted at Lasani (Spinzer) restaurant a farewell dinner in honor of the outgoing diplomat Asif Hasan Memon.

The dinner was attended by prominent members of KC included Munir Ahmed Gondal, Mohammed Azam Choudhry, Amir Mohammed Khan, chairman of Pakistan Journalist Forum (PJF), and friends.