Ghana's veep, Dr. Alhaji Mahammudu Bawumia, had a surprise contact with President of the Republic of Ivory Coast, Alassane Ouattara, during the pilgrimage to the Holy City of Mecca in Saudi Arabia.

The two political figures of the neighbouring countries met on Tuesday as they were of millions of Muslims across the who have travelled to Saudi Arabia for the annual pilgrimage.

The two, seen in white Islamic clothing to signify the oneness of the human race and simplicity of life took time during the hectic religious activities to discuss pertinent issues of mutual concenr to both Ghana and Ivory Coast.

The two powerful men were reduced to ordinary men even though they hold powerful positions in their countries merged with thousands of Ghanaians and Ivorians as well as millions of Muslims around the world in performing this year’s Hajj.

They spent some time praying for peace and prosperity for the countries and their citizen as they met to share a meal only clad in white cloth and barefooted without the heavy security normally associated with their movements in their respective countries.

Dr Bawumia and Ouattara while on the pilgrimage, used the spiritual exercise to pray for Africa at large.

Hajj is a mandatory religious duty for Muslims that must be carried out at least once in their lifetime by all adult Muslims who are physically and financially capable of undertaking the journey.

Dr. Bawumia left the country for Mecca last Friday to perform the Islamic pilgrimage and was accompanied by his wife, the Second Lady, Samira Bawumia.

Hundreds of thousands of Muslim pilgrims have gathered at Mount Arafat near the Saudi holy city of Mecca for prayers.

The event is regarded as the pinnacle of the five-day Hajj, which draws worshippers from across the world.

By: Eric Nana Prekoh / Ghanaguardian.com