The Hajj symbolises the spirit of unity when millions of pilgrims speaking different languages and belonging to different nationalities and cultures proclaim the same mission - divinity, unity and greatness of God, President Mahinda Rajapaksa said in a Hajj message.

The President said: “I am pleased to send this message of greetings on the occasion of the celebration of Eid-ul-Alha, the festival of Hajj by the world Islamic community, including that of Sri Lanka.

This festival which culminates in the Hajj pilgrimage the embodiment of sacrifice, is the greatest annual event of the Islamic world, with nearly four million Muslims from the world over including 5,000 from Sri Lanka, gather at the Holy City of Mecca and pray to Allah and seek forgiveness for acts of omission and commission.

Hajj also symbolises the spirit of unity when millions of pilgrims speaking different languages and belonging to different nationalities and cultures proclaim the same mission - divinity, unity and greatness of God.

This spirit of unity should prevail throughout their lives and shared with the faithful of other religions in the larger interest of brotherhood of man.
The Muslims of Sri Lanka have made significant contributions to the progress of our country and for the happiness of all our people. Throughout history they have lived in harmony with the other communities in our country, and continue to do so.

After several decades, the Muslims of the East are now able to live without fear and with new opportunities for progress. The day will not be far off when the Muslims from the North will be able to return to their homes there are renew life in peace and harmony. The prayers of all Muslims of this day of special religious observances will no doubt be directed towards the success of efforts towards peace with dignity for all.

I wish all our Muslims a happy and peaceful Eid Mubarak.