A community iftar event with the theme "Türkiye" was organised in the famed Trafalgar Square of London, the capital of the United Kingdom, with the Presidency's Directorate of Communications serving as the primary sponsor.
As part of the traditional "Ramadan Tent Project" in the UK, about two thousand people from various nations, including Muslims as well as individuals from other religions and beliefs, attended the "Türkiye" themed iftar event held in the renowned square of the capital.
Ambassador of Türkiye to the UK, Osman Koray Ertaş, Lord Mayor of Westminster, Robert Rigby, and the founder of the Ramadan Tent Project, Omar Salha, also attended the programme organised under the main sponsorship of our Directorate.
Before the iftar, the adhan was recited on the platform set up in the square. Following the adhan, the attendees broke their fast with dates before praying in the congregation.
After the prayer, food was served to those who attended the iftar. In addition, red cloth bags prepared by our Directorate and containing Turkish delight and an Eid greeting note were handed out.
As part of the programme, a group of vocal, tanbur, oud, and kanun artists performed under the title "Mystical Voices from Anatolia" with the support of the London Yunus Emre Institute (YEE).
"Ramadan is an essential month for unity, solidarity and empathy."
Ambassador Ertaş, in his speech on the platform set up in the square for the event, said that Ramadan is an essential month during which the poor and communities in challenging conditions must be remembered and empathised with.
Ertaş pointed out the suffering of Muslims, particularly in Palestine and Sudan, and said, "In these months, we continue to remember our brothers and sisters in societies afflicted by conflicts and are polarised by racism and xenophobia."
Stating that programmes, such as open iftar events, through which unity and solidarity are cemented, are promising, Ertaş remarked:
"I believe that from Trafalgar Square, we are sending a message not only to London but also to the entire world. This is a message of peace and unity. Today, we also have non-Muslim British friends among us. We are honoured to have them here with us. For this reason, this solidarity and unity convey a powerful message."
"Iftar is a manifestation of generosity, kindness, and hospitality"
Lord Mayor of Westminster Rigby emphasised that Westminster is one of the most diverse and vibrant areas of London, bringing together people from various cultures, traditions, and beliefs.
Rigby underlined that events such as the open iftar organised in Trafalgar Square serve as a reminder of this diversity, adding,
"Tonight's gathering, which perfectly embodies these principles, brings people together to share their bread, exchange stories, and strengthen the bonds that unite us. Iftar is much more than just a meal. It is a manifestation of generosity, kindness, and hospitality. I would therefore like to thank those who organised this open iftar event for establishing such a welcoming and inclusive environment, not only for our Muslim friends observing Ramadan but also for people of all backgrounds to come together in a spirit of understanding and friendship."
"We are grateful for Mr Fahrettin Altun's support of this open iftar project."
Salha, the founder of the Ramadan Tent Project, said that the open iftar events help develop connections across diverse communities.
He emphasised that Ramadan reminds us of the divine bond between the Almighty and humanity, as well as the importance of gratitude, and stated, "Furthermore, engaging with those less privileged serves as a reminder of the multitude of individuals globally who lack the opportunity to gather in safe environments, such as this evening, to partake in an iftar meal."
Salha asserted that such events provide a chance to express gratitude to Allah, stating, "This iftar gathering exemplifies that in the heart of London, people of all faiths can safely convene to celebrate the beauty of Ramadan and showcase the diversity of this extraordinary city."
In his address, Salha offered thanks to the sponsors, including the Presidency for Turks Abroad and Related Communities (YTB), the humanitarian aid organisation Islamic Relief, and the Yunus Emre Institute (YEE), which facilitated the organisation of iftar activities, and added:
"We extend our gratitude to the Directorate of Communications of the Presidency of the Republic of Türkiye and sincerely thank Mr Fahrettin Altun for his support of the open iftar project, both last year and this year, and hopefully in the many years to come. We would like to thank all our partners and sponsors. Without their contributions, we would not be in the position we are today. Thank you very much for your presence."
"Trafalgar Square, the venue for the iftar, is a highly iconic location"
Hodan Omar, a participant in the iftar programme, told an AA correspondent, "To me, Ramadan signifies the unity of individuals, recognising that we collectively unite and stand shoulder to shoulder for a singular purpose: to be closer to Allah."
She added that the open iftar event also brought together people from different nationalities and faith groups, adding, "The venue for the iftar (Trafalgar Square) is a highly iconic location. I believe it is truly wonderful that we are introducing the spirit of Ramadan to London."
Aim to spread the spirit of Ramadan
Through the "Open Iftar" programmes carried out under the "Ramadan Tent Project," launched in the UK in 2013, free iftar is provided to the public during Ramadan.
The iftar events organised at the country's symbolic and important landmarks aim to spread the spirit of Ramadan.
