Ms. Reita Toussiant, Acting Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs;
Mr. Amir Mohammed, Guest Speaker;
Mr. Tedwin Herbert, Acting Deputy Permanent Secretary
Directors and Heads of Section;
Members of Staff;
Assalamu Alaikum.
I extend warm greetings to each and every one of you as we gather together today, on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr, and in particular, Ramadan.
On Friday 15th June, 2018, our Muslim brothers and sisters throughout Trinidad and Tobago and the world, observed Eid-ul-Fitr, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan. Ramadan is the ninth month in the Islamic Calendar and is observed as a month of fasting to commemorate the first revelation of the Qur’an to the Prophet Mohammed according to Islamic belief.
During the month of Ramadan, fasting begins at the break of dawn and concludes at sunset. Fasting helps to attain Taqwa (performing of actions which please Allah and abstaining from those actions that displease Him). The act of fasting during Ramadan, therefore acts as a foundation for Muslims to not only develop self-restraint, but to improve on the moral and spiritual character of the individual. In this regard, Ramadan is a priceless opportunity for individuals to take action and become better servants to humanity.
The theme for this year’s Eid-ul-Fitr observance, “Understanding Ramadan’s Wisdom.” In this regard, the discipline of fasting during Ramadan reminds us of the principles we all share. We are reminded to reflect upon the wisdom and guidance that comes with faith, and the responsibility we hold for one another, and to God.
Today, I encourage you, the staff of the Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs, to be enriched by the positive and valuable teachings associated with Ramadan, and apply them to your personal and professional lives. Patience, self-restraint and compassion for the less fortunate are among the qualities which will help us to foster a more cohesive and harmonious society, based on empathy and respect for all.
Thank you.
Click to view statement document- Feature Remarks for Eid-ul-Fitr Celebration
