KABUL - On behalf of the United Nations in Afghanistan I extend my greetings to all the people of Afghanistan and to all UN staff in the country as we start to celebrate Eid-ul-Adha.  Download UNAMA Press Statement in English  Dari  Pashto 

We hope that this year's festivities will take place in an atmosphere of tolerance and respect and with a new commitment to peace in Afghanistan.

Days like this give us the opportunity to reflect on the universal values of peace, harmony and cooperation that are at the heart of the Muslim faith.

The United Nations has the deepest respect for Islam and Islamic traditions which are cherished in Afghanistan and respected by the whole UN family of states and organisations.

This gives me an opportunity to call on all parties to the conflict in Afghanistan to honour the true spirit of peace and harmony embodied in the festivities of Eid-ul-Adha, and to allow the people of Afghanistan to enjoy their ceremonies free of bloodshed, suicide attacks, explosions and hatred.

On behalf of the United Nations in Afghanistan, I wish all Afghans Eid Mubarak.