Ramadan: A letter from the First Minister of Wales

Ramadan underpins Islam’s core values of prayer and philanthropy, of feeding the poor and needy and offering support to others.

But Ramadan this year falls during an extraordinary time when the world is dealing with the coronavirus pandemic. In the shadows of COVID 19, mosques will be empty, and Iftar will not be broken or shared with anyone outside of the household here in Wales, as is the case in many other countries too.

The swift action of Muslim communities so far by adapting to different ways of worship, has undoubtedly saved lives. Thank you to you all for these actions.

In Wales, faith communities, together with Welsh Government, have built close and trusted relationships. We will continue to face the days ahead together to help the most vulnerable through these extremely difficult and testing times.   

We know refraining from religious and social gatherings will keep our families and those we care about safe and will help our communities to return to better times sooner. 

As we prepare for difficult times ahead, the Welsh Government will remain in close dialogue with our different faiths and cultures to make sure that important requirements and traditions are fully understood in our response to the pandemic. 

Ramadan Mubarak to you all – I wish you reflection and peace.

First Minister – Mark Drakeford