South Africa's president on Monday extended his sincere greetings to Muslims observing the holy month of Ramadan, while also expressing solidarity with those fasting amid war-torn conditions in places like Palestine.
"We remember that for millions of people, Ramadan is being observed under conditions of conflict, war, displacement and oppression. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the peoples of Palestine, Yemen, Sudan, the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, Western Sahara, Mali and others for whom this holy month is a time of great hardship and suffering," Ramaphosa said on Monday, the first day of the Muslim holy month.
The South African leader emphasized the values of peace, tolerance and unity promoted by Ramadan, urging nations across the world to work collectively toward protecting the vulnerable and ending conflicts and wars globally.
"May the message of Ramadan that preaches peace, tolerance and unity serve as an impetus for the international fellowship of nations to do all within their means to protect the most vulnerable and put an end to conflicts and wars everywhere," he said.
Reflecting on South Africa's 30 years of freedom anniversary, President Ramaphosa highlighted the importance of Ramadan in fostering an appreciation for religious freedom, the diversity of beliefs enshrined in the country's Constitution and the richness of its multicultural heritage.
He described Ramadan as a time of spiritual devotion, physical sacrifice and charitable outreach, noting that it embodies the principles of tolerance and humanity embraced by all faith communities.