Arab News Japan

TOKYO: Japan’s Foreign Minister HAYASHI Yoshimasa extended his best wishes to “all Muslims across the globe on this year’s Eid al-Fitr.”

“I wish you all a happy and peaceful celebration. Eid Mubarak,” Hayashi said on this occasion in a message issued by the foreign ministry in Tokyo on May 1, the last day in the holy month of Ramadan in Tokyo.

“Even amidst the difficulties due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Japan and Muslim countries have steadily bolstered relations in many areas, including politics, security, economy and culture.”

Japanese Muslim organizations announced that May 2 will be the first day of Shawwal in Japan and that Eid al-Fitr prayers will be held in the country’s mosques.

“The unprecedented crisis turned out to be an opportunity to show the resilience of our friendship and trust, which has been greatly encouraging. To further strengthen our ties and deepen our cooperation, I am determined to continue proactive diplomatic efforts while emphasizing our shared values of tolerance and harmony,” the foreign minister said in his message.

“Looking ahead to the post-COVID-19 era, I sincerely hope that Japan and Muslim countries will work even more closely together to address various challenges and contribute to regional and international peace, stability, and prosperity,” he added.