Auckland, May 25: New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern won hearts of netizens for her warm and touching greetings to the Muslim community on occasion of Eid ul Fitr 2020. Unlike a statement issued by most world leaders to wish adherents of Islamic faith, Ardern released a video message to reach out to Kiwi Muslims on the special occasion. Eid in Australia on May 25 as Shawwal Crescent Moon Not Sighted, New Zealand Celebrates Eid-al-Fitr Today.

Ardern began her message with "Assalam Alaikum", the traditional salutation used by Muslims to greet each other. She spoke about the importance of values transmitted through Ramadan and Eid, while also stating that the festival is being observed in a first-of-its-kind manner due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“This is a difficult time for everyone including our Kiwi Muslims and I’ve been pleased to see New Zealand is responding with unity, kindness and generosity," Ardern said.

“Although you might not be able to come together and connect as you normally would. As we all stay in our bubbles. I wish you all the very best on this special occasion. Eid Mubarak! (sic)," she further added.

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Ardern had similarly drawn praise for the manner in which she addressed the terrorist attack on two mosques in Christchurch in March 2019. The fatal attack had claimed the lives of more than 70 people, as a white supremacist launched open fire at a Friday congregational prayers. In her reachout to the victims' kin following the attack, Ardern had even donned the hijab or head-covering to show her respect towards the Islamic values.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 24, 2020 02:36 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).