Dr. Ahmed Al-Mandhari, Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, said that nearly two billion Muslims in the Eastern Mediterranean Region and all over the world will celebrate the blessed Eid Al-Fitr. On this occasion, I wish everyone in the region and beyond a blessed, happy, safe and healthy Eid.
He added: This is the third Eid Al-Fitr that we celebrate since the outbreak of the Corona pandemic, as our daily lives are still affected by this unprecedented public health emergency. Sadly, some of us will celebrate this year without family members or loved ones. I would like to send my sincere condolences to those who have suffered an unimaginable loss.
More than two years after the outbreak of the pandemic, we cannot allow the status quo to become a fait accompli, or allow ourselves to give in. Current generations deserve to live in a better world in which the virus is contained, and to enjoy life to the fullest extent possible; Future generations deserve to be armed with the knowledge and tools to prevent future pandemics that could cause extreme fear, grief, and severe disruption to livelihoods and economies.
He added: Many of us are also feeling tired, and are looking forward to living in a world where face masks, physical distancing, school closures and travel restrictions are no longer the norm. However, our personal comfort should not put others at risk of severe illness or death, and that the presence of corona is part of our daily lives does not mean giving in to the virus and letting our guard down.
As we celebrate Eid Al Fitr this year, let the feeling of happiness, hope, compassion and unity that comes with this occasion continue beyond Eid until it becomes a part of our daily lives, and sadness and loss are replaced by recovery and hope for everyone everywhere. It is not enough to wish for a better world free of Corona, the actions we will take will determine our situation at this time next year. It is up to all of us to achieve this as reflected in our regional vision “Health for All by All”.