“This indeed shows that recent events that had been broiling for the last three years or so had very little or no effect on may of the right thinking Buddhist people of this country, he said.

The message adds: “The number of Iftar events organised by different Buddhist organisations and individuals and their participation in events organised in several masjids and by Islamic organisations bear ample testimony in this regard.

“Furthermore, the recent unfortunate events in Beruwela and Aluthgama also brought about an extraordinary closeness of the Muslims and the unity displayed by them despite having diverse opinions on religious practices is commendable.

“In these respects the Eid ul-Fitr is indeed a very joyous occasion and I pray to Allah for the continued unity of all Muslim peoples and interfaith harmony between the different communities forming the Sri Lankan nation to prevail always. Eid Mubarak.”