HISTORIC PRESS RELEASE : Number 10 marks Eid ul Adha [December 2009]

The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 2 December 2009.

The Prime Minister has welcomed Muslims from across the UK to Downing Street for a reception for Eid ul Adha.

The annual festival, which marks the end of the Hajj – the pilgrimage to Mecca – was celebrated by Muslims around the world last week.

Speaking about Eid ul Adha, Gordon Brown said:

“Marking the end of the Hajj, this most holy occasion commemorates our common humanity and reminds us of the importance of devotion, fairness and the equality of all human beings before God.

“It allows those of us of other faiths, and none, to reflect on the unique Islamic contribution to Britain and to share with you in celebration of all that has been achieved by British Muslims across so many walks of life. Today Muslims around the United Kingdom and the world will be reflecting on many challenges that face us and the deep moral issues like conflict, poverty and climate change. Together we can stand up to these challenges and move forward to a better world.”