Georgia’s Prime Minister congratulates Muslims as Ramadan begins

Georgia’s Prime Minister Giorgi Kvirikashvili is congratulating the Muslim population in Georgia at the beginning of Ramadan - a strict month-long fast where nothing can be eaten during sunlight hours.

Kvirikashvili released a special statement wishing Muslims in Georgia wealth, longevity, success, and peace of mind as they embark on a month of dedicated fasting.

From the bottom of my heart I congratulate our fellow Muslim citizens on the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan,” the PM said.

Ramadan is extremely important for each Muslim. I wish for peace, well-being and happiness for each of you.”

Kvirikashvili stressed the friendship between Georgia’s Muslin and Christian citizens started centuries ago.

I believe this relationship will deepen further. We will continue to strengthen our brotherhood and strengthen our country together.”

Ramadan is an annual observance and is regarded as one of the five Pillars of Islam. The fasting period lasts 29 to 30 days, based on visual sightings of the crescent moon.

Muslims, and people living in Muslim countries, fast from dawn until sunset. Muslims are forbidden to consume food and water while the sun is up and can only eat before sunrise and after sunset.

Fasting for Muslims during Ramadan typically includes increased offering of prayers and recitation of the Quran. The spiritual discipline is meant to train the human soul in deeper mindfulness and self-restraint.

Today millions of Muslims around the world started the holy month of Ramadan. For the next 30 days Muslims will abstain from eating and drinking from sunrise to sunset.