+ A
A -
Ailyn Agonia
Doha
AMBASSADOR of Canada to Qatar HE Adrian Norfolk underscored the spirit of togetherness and generosity towards the less fortunate as among the remarkable features of the Holy Month of Ramadan.
In his official statement on the season on Sunday, the ambassador said that aside from charity, Ramadan is a time for spiritual reflection, self-improvement and forgiveness. The emphasis is on the community during the holy month, he added.
Reminiscing about his first experience of Ramadan way back in 1995 in Malaysia, Norfolk said,"I can't remember that much in detail, but I do know that I was fascinated by how the spirit of Ramadan transcended different faiths and brought together Hindu, Christian and Buddhist communities with the Muslim majority and how all seemed to manage to respect, and to co-exist with, each other's beliefs and traditions."
The ambassador also mentioned the important contributions of over one million Muslim-Canadians to his country's development.
"Islam is the second largest and fastest growing religion in Canada with over one million Muslim-Canadians. Muslims have been in Canada for almost as long as Canada has been a country the first census in 1871 reported 13 Muslims living in Canada."
"Muslim communities in Canada have made invaluable contributions that enrich our national fabric. Canadians across faiths practice their religion freely free from interference and discrimination, and in a spirit of mutual respect. Canada's cultural diversity is one of our greatest strengths and sources of pride," he said.
Norfolk also mentioned the warm and growing relations between Canada and Qatar based on mutual respect for each other and cooperation towards shared goals. On the occasion, he extended his personal greetings to the Muslim communities in Qatar.
"As one of the five pillars of Islam, Ramadan is an opportunity for Muslims to recommit their faith in God and also an opportunity to reaffirm their commitment to the principles of charity compassion and devotion. Ramadan reminds all of us to show appreciation for the countless blessings we enjoy and to put the needs of others before our own."
The ambassador said,"We, as Canadians, are so fortunate to live in a country where people of all faiths live in dignity and respect and where our diversity is celebrated as a source of our shared prosperity. I look forward to joining Muslim communities in Qatar in the weeks to come in observance of the holy month. On behalf of all Canadians, and the Embassy staff, Ruth and I wish all those observing Ramadan peace and blessings. Ramadan Mubarak!"
