LONDON – British Prime Minister Theresa May has sent her greetings to all Muslim communities for the holy month of Ramadan, in Britain and around the world, in a special message marking the start of the holy month on Saturday, May 27.

“Ramadan is a unique and special time for Muslims in Britain and around the world. It is a time for them to renew their faith in God and increase their devotion and spirituality,” May said in her message published Friday on the UK government website.

“A time when, despite the long summer days, Muslims across Britain will find strength through devotion to fulfill one of the five pillars of their religion,” she added.

The British Premier praised Muslims efforts to help the less fortunate and engage with the larger community during the blessed month.

“Ramadan fosters a strong sense of community spirit, reflected in the way mosques open their doors and welcome people of all faiths and none to share in the Iftar meal – something I have experienced in my own constituency of Maidenhead,” May said.

“It is an important chance for people from all walks of life to meet together, discuss and share experiences with their neighbors, and to increase familiarity and foster friendships.”

Finally, she urged Muslims to mark Ramadan as a month of peace and religious devotion.

“This Ramadan, let us celebrate the way in which this festival of peace, reflection and religious devotion brings people closer together,” May said.

“And let us say to Muslims here in Britain and across the world, Ramadan Kareem.”

MP Jeremy Corbyn, the leader of the Labour party, also shared a video message, congratulating Muslims on the arrival of the holy fasting month.

Britain is home to a Muslim community of nearly 2.8 million.

In 2011, think tank Demo found that Muslims in the United Kingdom are more patriotic than the rest of population.

Responding to the statement “I am proud to be a British citizen”, 83% of Muslims said they are proud of being British.

Muslims in UK and most Muslim countries started fasting on Saturday, May 27, on the first day of the holy month of Ramadan.

In Ramadan, adult Muslims, save the sick and those traveling, abstain from food, drink, smoking and sex between dawn and sunset.

Muslims dedicate their time during the holy month to be closer to Allah through prayers, self-restraint and good deeds.