This is an occasion for Muslims to reflect upon the teachings of the Holy Prophet that laid emphasis on Peace and Harmony and the embodiment of all that is noble, encompassing kindness, selflessness and charity among other values seen in the life of the Holy Prophet, stated President Mahinda Rajapaksa in his message on the celebration of Meelad - un - Nabi, birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammed.

We look forward to the spirit of brotherhood and amity taught by the Holy Prophet Muhammed in helping to build a new Sri Lanka of tolerance, understanding and reconciliation and thereby helping Sri Lanka's development process, the President further stated.


Following is the full text of the message:

I am pleased to send this message of greetings to the followers of Islam in Sri Lanka, as they join their brethren in faith the world over, to celebrate Meelad - un - Nabi, the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammed.

This is an occasion for Muslims to reflect upon the teachings of the Holy Prophet that laid emphasis on Peace and Harmony and the embodiment of all that is noble, encompassing kindness, selflessness and charity among other values seen in the life of the Holy Prophet.

Sri Lanka celebrates Meelad - un - Nabi as a national event and celebrations this year are held at Kalkuda in the Batticaloa District with due emphasis on the religious and cultural activities of the Muslim population there.

Muslims of Sri Lanka will have greater joy in the celebration of this important event this year as they are now able to do so in a peaceful environment in all parts of the country with the establishment of democracy throughout Sri Lanka. We look forward to the spirit of brotherhood and amity taught by the Holy Prophet Muhammed in helping to build a new Sri Lanka of tolerance, understanding and reconciliation and thereby helping Sri Lanka's development process.

I send my warmest greetings to the followers of Islam in Sri Lanka on this important day with an appeal to play an active role for the strengthening of peace, mutual understanding and tolerance among all communities.