PRIME Minister Justin Trudeau on Friday issued the following statement on Ramadan:

“Tonight, at sundown, Muslim communities in Canada and across the world will mark the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan.

“Over the coming weeks, family and friends will gather in homes and mosques to pray. After fasting from dawn till sunset, they will share a traditional evening meal called iftar. For those practising, this is a sacred time to reflect and celebrate.

“The sacred month comes at a particularly challenging time, as the humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to unfold. Canada reaffirms our support for a sustainable ceasefire in Gaza, the release of all remaining hostages, and the safe, unimpeded access to humanitarian relief for civilians.

“During Ramadan, let us also take the time to recognize the invaluable contributions that the nearly 1.8 million Muslims who call Canada home make each day to our country. From coast to coast to coast, they enrich our communities and help make Canada more prosperous, diverse, and inclusive.

“On behalf of the Government of Canada, I extend my wishes for a blessed and peaceful Ramadan to all those practising.

“رمضان مبارك

“Ramadan Mubarak.”

PREMIER David Eby said: “Tonight at sundown, Muslim communities in British Columbia and around the world mark the beginning of Ramadan.

“Over the coming weeks, family and friends will gather to pray and give back to others through acts of generosity and kindness. A day of fasting from dawn to dusk concludes with iftar, the traditional meal shared at sundown.

“This year marks another painful time for the Muslim population in our province as the humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to unfold. As Muslim communities observe Ramadan, it is important we stand in solidarity against Islamophobia and all forms of hate. All of us in British Columbia should continue to build bridges with our neighbours of all faiths and backgrounds. Bringing people together to acknowledge our shared values helps make British Columbia a stronger and ever more welcoming place.

“I wish everyone observing this sacred month a blessed and peaceful time of reflection.

“Ramadan Mubarak!”

FEDERAL NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh said: “Ramadan kareem!

“Today marks the start of the holy month of Ramadan. This month of fasting from sunrise to sunset is a time for spiritual renewal, generosity, kindness and prayer. For Muslims, Ramadan is the month of community and sharing.

“Ramadan reflects a value all Canadians share — looking out for one another. As Canadians, we take care of our neighbours.

“Right now, it’s a difficult time for many Muslims around the world and here at home. This Ramadan many Muslims’ minds are on conflicts and targeted violence around the world including in Palestine and Sudan. It’s more important than ever for all Muslim Canadians and non-Muslim Canadians to come together and support one another.

“On behalf of all New Democrats, I wish all Muslim Canadians a peaceful month filled with community and loved ones.”