KABUL - Ramazan is a month of worship. Muslims are encouraged to be charitable and forgiving, and to practise goodwill towards others. In Afghanistan, Muslims continue to face challenges towards peace due to conflict and suffering.

Islam is a religion of brotherhood, providing messages of peace, harmony and cooperation. Followers are encouraged especially in this holy month to focus on and practise these values.

The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) welcomes the arrival of Ramazan and asks all parties to respect this month for the sake of stability, tranquillity, peace and the reconstruction of Afghanistan.

With the highest respect for the beliefs of Afghanistan's Muslim population, we trust that Afghan citizens will harness the power of Ramazan to help achieve lasting peace and stability in this beautiful country.