17 November 2010 - On behalf of the entire United Nations family in Afghanistan, I wish to extend best wishes to all Afghan citizens on the occasion of Eid-al-Adha – a celebration of both the meaning of sacrifice and the vital importance of peace.

Eid is a time to put aside past grievances. It is also a time to unite in faith and hope for the future with family and friends.

This past year has been a challenging one for Afghanistan. But the determination of Afghans to overcome conflict and improve their lives remains tremendously resilient.

Bringing the conflict to an end will take time and much remains to be done. But Afghanistan can rightly draw on its rich history and culture in this regard. We, in the United Nations, remain with you as we all strive for peace in this country.

May peace be with you, your family and with all of Afghanistan. Eid Mubarak.