Hollande opens Haj show

French President Francois Hollande opened a first-of-its-kind Haj exhibition at the Institut du Monde Arabe here Tuesday and commended Saudi Arabia’s efforts to promote tolerance and peaceful coexistence and prevent violence and terrorism.
He described the Haj as an important annual event in which nearly three million pilgrims from around the world take part. The exhibition showcases 230 rare artifacts, photos and calligraphic writings depicting the history and progress of the Haj over the years.
“Organizing the Haj has become a huge responsibility,” the president said, while praising the great endeavors being made by the Saudi government to ensure the welfare and security of pilgrims. “The exhibition highlights the Haj’s religious, cultural and humanitarian aspects.”
He said the exhibition reflects the strong relations between France and the Arab world. “It also conveys messages of understanding to the other, tolerance and shunning violence and extremism,” he said, pledging support to the show, which will continue for three months.
Hollande praised Saudi Arabia’s pioneering efforts in confronting terrorism and its recent decree preventing Saudi citizens from joining the Syrian civil war and other foreign battles. “We will take a similar step within a few days to dissuade, prevent and punish those who are tempted to fight where they have no reason to be,” the president said.
Deputy Foreign Minister Prince Abdul Aziz bin Abdullah thanked Hollande for opening the exhibition, saying the president’s participation has given a new dimension to the event.
“The Haj is a spiritual journey to the House of God in search of peace, satisfaction and security,” the prince said, adding that it highlights the common identity of monotheistic religions. “The modern world is in need of these values to promote global peace and harmony,” the minister said while stressing the historic Saudi-French relations.