The following is the text of the message:

“As the Islamic community of Sri Lanka joins its brethren in faith the world over to celebrate Eid-Ul-Alha, the festival of Haj, I am pleased to send this message of greetings on this important religious event.

The celebration of Haj is focussed on the gathering of millions of the faithful in the Islamic faith at the Holy City of Mecca, facing which direction Muslims pray five times each day, for this annual religious ceremony of great significance.

The spirit of unity that pervades this festival is seen by the millions of pilgrims speaking different languages, from different nationalities and cultures gathering in the mission that proclaims the greatness of Allah and the spirituality that Islam has brought to the world.

Several thousand Muslims in Sri Lanka participate in the annual Haj pilgrimage through the facilities provided by the government to enable them to renew their commitment to the teachings of the Quran and Prophet Muhammed, and pray for peace, brotherhood and understanding among all people of the world.

The teachings of the Holy Quran have helped the Muslims in Sri Lanka to live in harmony with other communities in our country through many centuries, as they continue to do so today.

This spirit of harmony nurtured by their religious teaching, has enabled them to make a significant contribution to the progress of our country.

In keeping with the tradition of Haj, the prayers of all Muslims on this day of special religious observances will no doubt be directed towards peace and unity, with dignity for all.

I wish all Muslims of Sri Lanka a happy and peaceful Eid-Ul-Alha.”