MESSAGE TO THE NATION FROM
THE HON. PATRICK MANNING
 PRIME MINISTER OF TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO
EID UL FITR 2008

I am pleased to extend greetings to the national community on the joyous occasion of Eid ul Fitr 2008.

During the last month, the Muslim community of Trinidad and Tobago joined with the adherents of Islam worldwide in following one of the five pillars of the religion by fasting with fervent prayer and devotion during the holy month of Ramadan. During this period they exercised the tremendous discipline required for this intensified worship. These efforts are commendable, and are very worthy of emulation.

The Muslim community of Trinidad and Tobago has made an enduring contribution to the economic, social and cultural development of our nation. They first arrived in our country during the nineteenth century, and like all our ancestors, worked hard to lay the foundations of modern day Trinidad and Tobago.

Today our Muslim community is an integral part of the wonderful and harmonious diversity for which our country has become well-known throughout the world. As we move towards our goal of  transforming our country into a developed nation, our plural  society will continue to rely on the Muslim community, and all others, to move with unity of purpose which is  indispensable for the future cohesiveness and viability of Trinidad and Tobago.

On this joyous occasion we salute our brothers and sisters of Islam and extend Eid greetings to all the people of Trinidad and Tobago.