Rajapaksa lauds contributions of Lankan Muslims

Colombo, Dec 9 (PTI) Lauding the contributions of muslims in the island nation, Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa has said the community which has always lived in harmony with others would be able to go back to the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE)-dominated North soon.

In his Eid message, Rajapaksa said the Muslims from the
North who were victimised in LTTE's ethnic cleansing years ago
would be able to return to their homes soon.

"Like the Muslims in the East who are now enjoying lives
without fear, the Muslims from the North will also have a
renewed life in peace and harmony", Rajapaksa said

Stating that the Hajj symbolised the spirit of unity,
Rajapaksa said this spirit should prevail throughout the life
and shared with the faithful of other religions in the larger
interest of brotherhood of man.

"The Muslims of Sri Lanka have made significant
contributions to the progress of our country. Throughout
history they have lived in harmony with the other communities
in our country, and continue to do so", the President said in
his message.

"I am pleased to send this message of greetings on the
occasion of the celebration of Eid-ul-Alha, the festival of
Hajj by the world Islamic community, including that of Sri
Lanka", he said.

After several decades, the Muslims of the Eastern Sri
Lanka are now able to live without fear and with new
opportunities for progress, he said.

"The prayers of all Muslims of this day of special
religious observances will no doubt be directed towards the
success of efforts towards peace with dignity for all", the
President said. PTI TVS
PMR