TORONTO – World leaders have sent special greetings to the Muslim community to mark the end of Ramadan and `Eid Al-Fitr, commending their spirit of giving and integration.
“After a month of fasting and reflection, `Eid is a time for Muslims to come together to feast, celebrate, and share their good fortune with others,” said Prime Minister Trudeau in his message.
“Muslim communities continue to make Canada stronger, more open, and more prosperous. Today, let’s celebrate their major contributions to our country.”
“On behalf of our family, Sophie and I extend our warmest wishes to all those celebrating `Eid al-Fitr – `Eid Mubarak!”
Sending my best wishes to everyone celebrating Eid al-Fitr and the end of Ramadan. Eid Mubarak! https://t.co/nuyCfpzVbv pic.twitter.com/IupwDqg7Ih
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) June 14, 2018
UK Prime Minister Theresa May also shared a tweet, saying “The end of the holy month of Ramazan is a time for Muslims to come together with family, friends, and neighbours. It’s an opportunity for spiritual renewal.”
“The end of the holy month of Ramadan is a time for Muslims to come together with family, friends and neighbours. It’s an opportunity for spiritual renewal.” PM @Theresa_May on Eid al-Fitr pic.twitter.com/j8ABD1JjDp
— UK Prime Minister (@10DowningStreet) June 14, 2018
Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn also shared a warm message to Muslims, praising the community’s efforts.
US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania have extended `Eid greetings to Muslims around the world.
“Melania and I wish Muslims across the US and around the world a blessed `Eid Al-Fitr,” Trump said in a statement released by the White House Press Secretary’s office.
“Today, as we reflect on the important place religion has in the story of America and in the lives of those who are faithful, we hope that the spirit of peace and goodwill that surrounds and infuses this Eid celebration continues throughout the year and around the world,” he said.
President Trump: “Melania and I wish Muslims across the United States and around the world a blessed Eid al-Fitr.” Read @POTUS‘ message on Eid al-Fitr. https://t.co/NHk5feCwhC
— U.S. Embassy in the Philippines (@usembassymanila) June 15, 2018
US Secretary of State also tweeted, “On behalf of the @StateDept, I extend my best wishes to our Muslim friends and partners celebrating Eid al-Fitr. As you mark this special holiday with loved ones, I wish you peace and prosperity in the coming year. #EidMubarak”
On behalf of the @StateDept, I extend my best wishes to our Muslim friends and partners celebrating Eid al-Fitr. As you mark this special holiday with loved ones, I wish you peace and prosperity in the coming year. #EidMubarak
— Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) June 15, 2018
The three-day `Eid Al-Fitr festival is one of the two main religious celebrations in Islam, together with `Eid Al-Adha.
After special prayers to mark the day, festivities and merriment start with visits to the homes of friends and relatives.
And while traditionally everyone wears new clothes for `Eid, children look forward to gifts and traditional `ediya (cash).
During `Eid days, families and friends exchange visits to express well wishes and children, wearing new clothes bought especially for `Eid, enjoy going out in parks and open fields.