PRIME Minister Stephen Harper on Wednesday issued the following statement to mark the beginning of Ramadan:

THIS evening at sunset, Muslims in Canada and around the world begin an important spiritual journey as they observe the holy month of Ramadan.

Ramadan takes place during the ninth month of the Islamic calendar to commemorate the revelation of the Qur’an to the Prophet Muhammad.

For those observing this holy month, it is a time for reflection, personal sacrifice of material comforts, and spiritual devotion through prayer, fasting and charity. Ramadan is also a time to celebrate and reconnect with family, friends and communities, as well as to reaffirm one’s commitment to uplifting humanity by further assisting those who are less fortunate.

On behalf of all Canadians, I wish Muslims in Canada and around the world a peaceful Ramadan.

Ramadan Mubarak.