Dhaka (AsiaNews) - "Day by day selfishness grows in the world. For this reason, together we need to create a harmonious society in which we can have peace, unity, humility and openness to others. Every religion leads us on this road. Good Eid al-Fitr to our Muslim brothers," said Mgr Bejoy Cruze OMI, bishop of Sylhet and president of the Episcopal Commission for Christian Unity and Interreligious Dialogue, as he extended his best wishes to Bangladesh's Muslims at the end of Ramadan.
"Ramadan," the prelate said, "is a holy month during which Muslims spend their time fasting, praying, paying zakat and confession. At this time, they forge a strong relationship with God."
Christianity and Islam, the bishop said, "have similarities with regard to the concepts of brotherhood and love. Both religions believe in the one God and that man is God's best creation. All human beings are blood relatives and we are all children of Adam and Eve. For this reason, we are all brothers and sisters of one family. "
Quoting the Prophet Muhammad, Mgr Cruze said, "the best human being is the one who does good to others and the worst one is the one who injures others."
In an official statement, Social Welfare Minister Promod Mankin, a Catholic, sent greetings to the country's Muslim community.
"Today an unacceptable situation is going on all over the world. Conflict is going on in Gaza, Iraq, Ukraine and other countries. Hundreds of people are dying and this saddens us. We ask for a stop to the killings and we hope that this Ramadan will bring peace and brotherhood among people."