Commander in a Special Ramadan Message Spells Out Significance of Co-Existence &;amp; Mutual Understanding

It is with great pleasure I extend this message of greetings on the happy and solemn occasion of the Eid-Ul-Fitr festival celebrated today by the faithful followers of Islam in the Sri Lanka Army.

This festival is of great significance as it marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan from sunrise to sunset and religious observances by those of the Islamic faith. Devotees of Islam rejoice and celebrate unique cultural customs of their ancestors throughout the world today, having observed the teachings of the holy Quran and Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) during the month of Ramadan.

Therefore, this is a time when Muslims reflect upon the wisdom and guidance that come with faith, and the responsibility that human beings have towards one another, and to the Almighty God.  These rituals remind us of the principles that Sri Lankans hold in common, and Islam’s role in advancing justice, progress, tolerance, and the dignity of all human beings.

For many centuries since their arrival in Sri Lanka, the Muslim community has lived in peace and harmony with the Sinhalese, Tamils and all other communities to whom this country is the motherland.  The strong message of peace, understanding and co-existence found in Islam has helped this unity founded on goodwill and charity. This is fully in keeping with the tradition of tolerance and understanding among different religions that has been an important aspect of our culture and civilization.

Muslims in Sri Lanka will be glad for the opportunity they have had to carry out their religious observances without hindrance in the peace that now prevails in our motherland. I look forward to the contributed partnership of the Muslims of Sri Lanka in forging the Sri Lankan Nation, living with dignity and harmony with all, and contributing to the achievement of peace in the country.
 
Let us lead a life of purity upholding the great Islamic concepts and availing the opportunity to pray for the prosperity of Mother Lanka.  

I wish all the followers of Islam in Sri Lanka a happy Eid-Ul-Fitr.

Eid Mubarak!