CHANGES HEADLINE, LEDE, ADDS BRITISH PREMIER'S REMARKS
BERLIN (AA) – The leaders of Germany and the UK wished Muslims in their countries a happy Eid as they marked the end of the holy month of Ramadan.
“The festival at the end of Ramadan is one of the great religious festivals in our country,” German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier said in a statement, adding that after a month of reflection and renunciation, Muslim families, friends and neighbors will now come together to celebrate.
Steinmeier said the Eid al-Fitr festival is also an opportunity to strengthen dialogue and understanding between different cultures and religions in Germany.
“I hope that people of other faiths and non-believers will take this opportunity to engage in conversation with Muslims and know more about one of the two important festivals in Islam,” he said.
“In our culturally diverse society, the more we approach each other with curiosity, openness and respect, the more successful would be the harmonious coexistence of differences,” he added.
Steinmeier also thanked Muslims who organized campaigns in recent weeks and months to mobilize support for the victims of the devastating Feb. 6 earthquakes in Türkiye and Syria.
“Muslims, Islamic communities and organizations from Germany have supported the people in the disaster area with donations and aid campaigns, and they continue to do so. My heartfelt thanks goes to all the helpers today,” he said.
A country of over 84 million people, Germany has the second-largest Muslim population in Western Europe after France. It is home to nearly 5 million Muslims, according to official figures.
British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak also sent his warmest wishes to Muslims in the UK as they marked Eid.
"Eid is a timely opportunity to acknowledge the shared values which bind us together, particularly your compassion and dedication to contribute to charity and philanthropy," he said in a statement.
"This was evident earlier this year, through the community’s outstanding response to support the victims of the earthquakes in Turkey and Syria.”
Paying tribute to the "incredible" contribution the Muslim community makes to the country, he said: "Whether it be in business, sports, media, our public services, or of course our NHS (National Health Service) and armed forces, British Muslims are helping to make the country the success it is."
"Eid Mubarak to everyone observing it today," he said, adding that he looks forward to welcoming representatives from the British Muslim community to Downing Street to celebrate.