President Volodymyr Zelenskyy took part in the Muslim Iftar and said that now it will be an annual tradition at the official level.
Source: “Ukrinform“, “Ukrainian Truth”
Details: During Iftar, with the participation of Muslim military personnel, representatives of the diplomatic corps and the Mejlis of the Crimean Tatar people, Zelensky said that this would be the beginning of a new tradition during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.
Direct speech: “Today we are starting such a tradition for Ukraine – Iftar at the official level – together with our heroes, present Muslim soldiers, together with the Mejlis of the Crimean Tatar people, together with representatives of the entire Muslim community of Ukraine. And by this we affirm that Ukraine values every person, appreciates every community.”
Details: The President stressed that diversity, secured by respect, is part of the character of an independent Ukraine.
“And may this character of ours always be strengthened and direct it to good deeds,” he said.
Zelensky assured that Ukraine is grateful to Muslims within the state and the entire Muslim community of the world, who, like Ukrainians, strive for peace and protection from evil.
Direct speech: “Ukraine will always remember those who fight so that there is freedom and security throughout our territory. We are all united by faith, and we certainly are not allowed to know the whole path ahead, but we are all sure of one thing: we cannot be broken, we cannot be divided and not erase, especially our main thing is not to erase our values, because we walk with respect for the sake of unity and for the sake of freedom.
We trust the One who gave us this most important thing, who gave us life, and we believe that the day will come when He will give us the Victory.”
Addition: In an evening video message, Zelensky explained the innovation: “From this year, such a special event of respect will be held annually with the participation of the head of state. Today, for the first time (it took place) in the Ukrainian Crimean Tatar Center.”
Reference: Iftar – breaking the fast, evening meal during the month of Ramadan. Held after evening prayers local time.
At the end of the twentieth century, Muslims began to organize Iftar in different countries, not only for Muslims. They use it to strengthen ties between representatives of different nationalities living in the country, to get acquainted with the life of Muslims.
