Thousands attend open iftar event at London’s Trafalgar Square

By Burak Bir

LONDON (AA) - Despite rainy weather, thousands gathered Monday at London's iconic Trafalgar Square for an open iftar, or fast-breaking meal, during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

The meal was part of a Türkiye-themed event with the main sponsorship of Türkiye’s Communications Directorate.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan was among the participants at the gathering hosted by the Ramadan Tent Project, an award-winning charity founded in 2013.

After the recitation of the adhan, or call to prayer, Muslims broke their fasts, which was followed by a congregational prayer.

Participants were given red bags with Eid Mubarak (Happy Eid) cards and Turkish delights prepared by the Communications Directorate.

Speaking on stage, Khan said the open iftar initiative has brought more than 10,000 people together in 28 days during this year's Ramadan.

Praising the initiative, he said that making friends is the wonderful thing at open iftar events.

"The joy of these open iftars is we get to share our religion with non-Muslims. These iftars are the best antidotes to those who want to spread hatred," he said.

Later, Khan took part in delivering iftar meals to the attendees in the square.

Omar Salha, the founder of the Ramadan Tent Project, noted they are proud to welcome people of all faiths to come and explore why Ramadan means so much to the millions of Muslims living in the UK and the millions who are observing it across the globe.

"I want to pay tribute as well to our incredible partners and supporters and sponsors, because without them, we would not be able to deliver such high quality events and deliver such amazing experiences to you all."

Among the partners, Salha thanked Türkiye's Yunus Emre Institute and the Presidency for Turks Abroad and Related Communities (YTB) for their support to the event.

He also hailed the Yunus Emre Institute for showcasing Turkish culture, music, food and heritage in London.

"Finally, the biggest thanks goes out to Türkiye’s Communications Directorate, who actually have donated and given out to you all an Eid gift, which is a beautiful touch. All of those red bags have come from (them). We thank them from the bottom of our hearts," he said.

"We thank (Türkiye's Communications Director) Fahrettin Altun as well for his ongoing support, which means a lot to us, and also the beauty of showcasing the Turkish hospitality and service that we share very, very close as part of our faith as well," he added.

Speaking to Anadolu, Zahra, who attended the event for the first time, said it exudes a beautiful atmosphere.

"It is quite nice to see from diverse backgrounds that everyone is gathered to celebrate iftar although it's raining right now," she noted.

"It's nice to see that a Turkish sponsorship is going on," she added, thanking Türkiye for the sponsorship and being part of the Ramadan event.