"Qari Abdul Wahid" from Nangarhar Province declared the winner of this year's competition.

Afghanistan, Kabul and Abu Dhabi July 18th, 2011: "Etisalat Afghanistan" the 100% owned company of "Etisalat UAE"    has announced the conclusion of 4th Annual Holy Quran Awards being held as part of giving back to society and celebrate  the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan which is due by end of this month .

The competition started on June 30th and organized by "Etisalat Afghanistan" for the fourth consecutive year in collaboration with Ministry of Religious Affairs & Hajj and Ministry of Information & Culture, Government of Afghanistan. The final ceremony was attended by number of distinguished personalities, high ranking government officials, officials of diplomatic missions in Kabul and members of business & media fraternity.  Mr. Qari Abdul Wahid from Nangarhar Province was declared the winner of this year's competition.

The judging panel for the competition was headed by distinguished members of the Afghanistan's society, headed by Qari Barkatullah Saleem along with Qari Amanullah Ahmadi, Qari Abdul Azim, Qari Zaiul Haq Minqad, and Dr. Abdul Qodus  representing Ministry of Religious Affairs & Hajj. Qaris under the age of 21 participated in this competition from all over Afghanistan.

Mr. Abdul Hakeem Muneeb, Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs and Hajj said, "I am  honored to participate in today`s ceremony, we all know that Quran is the only guide for humanity and we  refer to it in all aspects of  our  life .Organizing such event is vital for the development of young generations` talent and guiding them towards success and knowledge . On behalf of the Ministry of Religious Affairs & Hajj and the people of Afghanistan, I would like to extend our thanks to "Etisalat Afghanistan" for its valuable services and the generous contribution in promoting the Islamic traditions in the country besides supporting the people of Afghanistan in various fronts. "

Mr. Mobarez Rashidi, Deputy Minister of Information and Culture said, "Conducting Quran contest is a significant initiative from "Etisalat Afghanistan" that helps to revive the Islamic culture in our society and guide the new generation to the right way. We are thankful to "Etisalat Afghanistan"   for all the support they have provided till- date to develop our society."

Mr. Ahmed Alhosani, CEO "Etisalat Afghanistan"   said "Etisalat Afghanistan" is committed to revive the Islamic traditions and cultural values of Afghan society as part of its strategy in giving back to society. We are proud to organize the Holy Quran competition every year which not only highlights the Islamic roots but also serves as confirmation of Islamic values and importance of Holy Quran in our lives."

Alhosani stated "It is heartening to see the immense enthusiasm shown by young Qaris for participating in this competition every year from all over the country. It also shows their willingness in abiding by the teachings of Islam and Quran which is the main constitution and guide for Muslims and humanity to leading a good life based on harmony and mutual respect." We are thankful to Ministry of Information & Culture and Ministry of Religious Affairs & Hajj, Government of Afghanistan for their continuous support regarding this competition every year and all other areas as we remain committed to serve and connect people of Afghanistan with the best of our ability."

Qari Abul Wahid, the winner of Etisalat Afghanistan 4th Annual Holy Quran Awards was awarded cash prize of US$ 6000. Qari Abdul Wahid will now be representing Afghanistan in the upcoming Dubai International Holy Quran Award which will be held in the upcoming month of Ramadan. Cash prizes of US$ 4000 and US$ 2000 were given to the runner ups, Qari Zaifullah and Qari Israrul Haq for securing second and third position in the competition.

-Ends-

About Etisalat Afghanistan:
Etisalat Afghanistan is 100% owned subsidiary of Etisalat Telecommunications Group. Etisalat is one of the largest telecommunications companies in the world and the leading operator in the Middle East and Africa, headquartered in the UAE.  Etisalat operates in 18 countries across Asia, the Middle East and Africa, servicing over 135 million customers. Since the start of its operations in Afghanistan in 2007, the company has upheld its commitment and dedication in serving the community by playing an active role as a socially responsible entity, re-affirming its strong belief in being part of the Afghan society in areas important to their needs. Numerous social and community related projects have been launched by Etisalat Afghanistan under the pillars of environment, health, education and sports. The company is also involved in reconstruction of Mosques throughout the country as well as regular distribution of food items in the less fortunate segments of the society.

About Etisalat:
Strong commitment to excellence and innovation has seen Etisalat become one of the world's fastest-growing telecom groups, rapidly expanding across Asia and Africa.  Its UAE operations, strategically located at the crossroads of East and West, enables Etisalat to be the major hub in the Middle East for Internet, voice, broadcast, roaming and corporate data services.

Etisalat has been recognised as 'Best Operator' 10 times since 2006 and 'Best Wholesale Provider' four times in the last three years. Servicing over 135 million customers in 18 countries Etisalat continues to reach out to new customers and markets.

For more Information about Etisalat:- www.etisalat.com.
or contact :
Etisalat Group Media Desk
Ms. Nahid Mudathir Hassan
Group Senior Manager Media Relations
Email: nahelsayed@etisalat.ae
Ph: ( +971)050 - 6006556
www.etisalat.ae

© Press Release 2011