The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) welcomed an announcement by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah that arrangements have been made for about 18,000 pilgrims from Syria to attend Hajj in Makkah, Madinah and other holy places. About 2 million people from more than 80 countries are expected to attend this year’s Hajj, which is likely to begin on August 19. JEDDAH: The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) welcomed an announcement by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah that arrangements have been made for about 18,000 pilgrims from Syria to attend Hajj in Makkah, Madinah and other holy places, accompaned by 850 medical and administrative staff. OIC Secretary-General Dr. Yousef bin Ahmed Al-Othaimeen said the efforts of the Saudi government to facilitate pilgrimage and provide access to holy sites for all Muslims without discrimination was no surprise to the Syrian pilgrims, or anyone else, as it is a principle the Kingdom has consistently followed since its establishment. He also praised the ministry for finalizing arrangements for the pilgrimage. About 2 million people from more than 80 countries are expected to attend this year’s Hajj, which is likely to begin on August 19.