In her short remarks, the President thanked Libya and other Muslim and Christian countries that supported the Philippines’ interfaith dialogue in the United Nations.
The Chief Executive noted that Ramadan fasting is not only physical in nature, but a deeper relations with God.
"Tonight, we proclaim the greatness of God," the President said, saying she calls for a period of national reconciliation for Christians, Muslims and members of the other deonominations. The President said she is looking forward to joining the Muslim world in celebrating Eid’l Fitr on Nov. 4.
On the peace process with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), the President said it is now at its highest point and a good and fruitful end is expected soon.
Eid’l Fitr is Festival of Breaking the Fast at the end of Ramadan which the President declared as national holiday on Nov. 4.
Libyan leader Colonel Moammar Qaddafi sent his greetings to the Filipino people and the Philippine government through Amar Haribah, secretary of the Office of Da’wah of the Tripoli- based World Islamic Call Society (WICS). Qaddafi said his country is supporting the Philippine government’s interfaith dialogue initiative that Speaker Jose de Venecia submitted to the United Nations.
Libyan Ambassador Salem Adam and engineer Gamal Ahmed, Philippine director of the Tripolibased World Islamic Call Society (WICS) organized the "iftar" or dinner for breaking fast on the last few days of the holy month of fasting. De Venecia lauded Qaddafi’s effort in bringing together to Libya an international conference last year participated by Muslim and Christian religious and government leaders, including Filipinos.
"Mr. Ambassador (Salem Adam), we thank you for bringing us together," said the speaker, adding it is about time the conflicts in many parts of the world are solved through unity and cooperation among peoples of the various faiths. Datu Zaldy Uy Ampatuan, regional governor of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, appealed for end to political bickering as he reiterated his support for the President and her government. Ampatuan said peace and forgiveness can be a tool in bringing national unity and then focus on economic development.
Adam said starting this night of mercy or Lailatul Qadr, "let us show that Islam is not compatible with violence and terrorism.
"It is our duty to bring Islam to the world and explain Islam in beautiful words," said the Libyan ambassador. "Libya will continue to support the Philippine government in its quest for peace in Mindanao," said Adam.
Earlier in the afternoon, Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita expressed optimism on the outcome of the peace negotiation between the government and the MILF.
