(UTV | COLOMBO) – On this day of Hajj, Muslims commemorate the immense sacrifices made by Nabi Ibrahim and his family members, in honour and respect of God. During this season, a large number of Muslims, from around the world, gather at Mecca for Hajj pilgrimage, which is considered the fifth pillar of the Islamic faith, President Gotabaya Rajapaksa stated in a Hajj message.
“It is with pleasure that I offer my felicitations to Sri Lankan Muslims, as well as their fellow devotees the world over, on this occasion of Eid-ul-Adha,” he said.
“Although Muslim devotees are compelled to refrain from visiting Holy Mecca due to the COVID-19 pandemic which has enveloped the globe, I believe that the Hajj festival this year will be an occasion for them to embrace the greatness of Allah and the spirit of peaceful coexistence,” the President said.
“The Government of Sri Lanka, being aware of the significance of the Hajj festival, has provided all necessary facilities for the Muslim community to engage in their religious observances,” he added.
“I am confident that the Muslim community in Sri Lanka, which has lived in peace and harmony with all other communities throughout our history in accordance with the teachings of the Holy Quran, and contributed to the prosperity of this nation, would continue that same tradition in the future as well. I wish every Muslim in Sri Lanka a happy Eid-ul-Adha,” President Rajapaksa said.