EMBASSY OF SRI LANKA COMMEMORATES RAMADAN

An Iftar reception was held at the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Washington D.C. on 15th October to commemorate the Holy month of Ramadan the most important month in the Islamic calender. It was attended by a cross-section of the Sri Lankan Muslim community resident in the greater Washington area and representatives of the Sri Lanka related associations in the area.

The concept of hosting commemorative events at the Embassy for each of the religions practiced by Sri Lankans was initiated last year. Consequently this year, The Thai Pongal was celebrated in January. In May a Sangika Dana was held at the Embassy to commemorate Wesak Poya Day and a commemorative event will be held in December to celebrate Christmas.

In his remarks at the ceremony, Ambassador Bernard A.B. Goonetilleke, said such events are intended to not only help us appreciate our respective cultures and demonstrate the continued unity amongst us, but also to ensure that the Embassy was viewed as an inclusive institution, which caters to the cultural, social and religious needs of all Sri Lankans.

Mr. Mohamed Mushin spoke on the significance of Ramadan and a reception followed the breaking of the fast and Maghrib Prayers.

Embassy of Sri Lanka
Washington DC
USA

17 October 2006