Recovering after 30 years of ethnic strife, we are, now progressing in the path of democracy and good governance, the President said in his Milad-un-Nabi message.

Full statement: 

“I am pleased to send this message of greetings on the occasion of Milad-un- Nabi, the historical moment of the birth of Prophet Mohammad.

This is an occasion for the people to draw attention to the teachings of the Prophet that lays emphasis on peace and harmony, which is the foundation for national unity and coexistence that reflects highly among multi-cultural, multi-religious and multi-ethnic societies herein Sri Lanka.

 
The Prophet’s own treatment with his bitterest enemies is the noblest example for his followers. At the conquest of Mecca, he stood at the zenith of his power. He proclaimed, “I trample under my feet all distinctions between man and man, all hatred between man and man.” The principles of universal brotherhood and doctrine of the equality of mankind which he proclaimed represents one very great contribution of Prophet Mohammad to the social uplift of humanity.

 
Recovering after 30 years of ethnic strife, we are, now progressing in the path of democracy and good governance. We have initiated a reconciliation process to ensure peace and harmony among the people in accordance with the teachings of Prophet Mohammed as well as all other religious leaders.
 

Tolerance, mutual understanding as well as cooperation among each and every religious group will contribute to uplift the Sri Lankan nation as a developed country. To speed up our progress towards this worthy goal, Milad-un-Nabi celebration will provide us an excellent opportunity as it is an occasion for strengthening peace and community harmony.”