I send my warmest good wishes to Muslims here in the United Kingdom, and right around the world, who are celebrating the festival of Eid al-Fitr.
For more than three million British Muslims, who make a huge and valued contribution to our national life, Eid is a truly special time.
Coming after the prayer and deep reflection of the holy month of Ramadan, Eid is a joyous occasion, to be celebrated with family and friends.
In the UK, we rightly take pride in being an open and diverse multi-ethnic and multi-faith democracy.
Over the last month, many British Muslims have shared with neighbours of all faiths and of none the holy practices of Ramadan – from doing charitable work to help in the local community, to coming together to break fast at the end of the day.
This spirit of fellowship and service lies at the heart of every great faith, and it is something around which we can all unite.
Sadly this month has also seen some dark and tragic events, including the truly appalling attack outside the Finsbury Park mosque.
It was the second terrorist attack on the streets of our capital city this month, and it was every bit as sickening as those which came before it.
Attacks like that seek to drive us apart, and our response to them must be to stand even closer together, united, to affirm that hatred and evil will never succeed.
So in that spirit of unity – and on behalf of the whole British people – let me wish you a happy a peaceful celebration.
Eid Mubarak.
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