Ramadan is a time to celebrate mutual respect, tolerance and peace: Tunisian envoy

“Islam is neither an ideology nor a disease; it is just a religion, which concerns the faith and belief of its followers.” Nabil Lakhal, Ambassador for Tunisia

Canberra: His Excellency Mr Nabil Lakhal, Ambassador of the Republic of Tunisia delivered the chief address at a ftar dinner celebrating Ramadan. The event was hosted by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) for Arab Ambassadors in Canberra.

Lakhal

Assalamou aalikoum wa rahmatou allahi wa barakatouhou; May peace and the mercy of God be upon you

On behalf of the Council of Arab Ambassadors to the commonwealth of Australia, it is my great pleasure to extend our distinguished greetings to all the presences and our warm wishes to persons observing the fasting of the holy month of Ramadhan.

May Allah bless this holly month for you and your family and may your worship and fasting be accepted.

Ramadhan is a time to celebrate mutual respect, tolerance, co-existence and unity. These values of Islam are all the more relevant in this beautiful country of Australia, which has been, and will continue to be, built on diversity, multiculturalism, tolerance and mutual respect.

During this holy month, our duty is not only to refrain from drinking and eating but also to help our neighbours and to be tolerant and benevolent with all people regardless of their faith or religion.

Islam is neither an ideology nor a disease; it is just a religion, which concerns the faith and belief of its followers.

Australian Muslims, who have generously and honestly  played and continue to play an important role in the construction of Australia, should  be proud of what they have done and  what they are doing for the prosperity of their country.

Finally, I would like to convey special thanks to DFAT for taking this laudable and kind initiative to host this Iftar for the first time.

Ramadhan kareem