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The Federation of Islamic Associations of New Zealand (FIANZ) held its first ever Eidul Fitr Celebration at the Parliament House on 16 November 2005. We also took the opportunity to celebrate FIANZ's 25th Anniversary Silver Jubilee Celebration.
Welcome Address by Javed Khan, President of FIANZ.
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The double celebration was well attended by NZ Government officials, Parliamentarians, the Diplomatic community, other community leaders, media personnel and members of the Muslim community. We were also honoured by the presence of the First President of FIANZ, Mazhar Krasniqi, and former FIANZ Presidents.
Dr Ashraf Choudhary, Member of Parliament, was the Master of Ceremony for the evening.
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The function began with a recitation of the Holy Qur'an, beautifully rendered by Sheikh Mohammad Amir, Imam of the Wellington Islamic Centre. Rehanna Ali, Representative from the Islamic Women's Council of New Zealand, read the English translation.
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Group photo of FIANZ leaders at the "FIANZ Silver Jubilee & Eid al Fitr Celebration" at Parliament House on 16 November 2005.
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Javed Khan, President of FIANZ, gave a welcome address in which he spoke about the significance of the month of Ramadhan for Muslims. He also spoke about FIANZ as the Umbrella organisation in New Zealand serving the Muslim community. Javed Khan also spoke of the appreciation by the Muslim community of the New Zealand government and the wider community for their acknowledgement and recognition of the community.
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He reiterated the Muslim communities' enthusiasm for living in unity and harmony with the other communities in New Zealand. Greater understanding leads to greater respect which is surely a catalyst for peace and harmony for our society.
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Hon Dr Michael Cullen, Deputy Prime Minister; Hon Don Brash, Leader of the Opposition; Hon Chris Carter, Minister for Ethnic Affairs and Hon Tariana Turia, Leader of the Maori Party also spoke at the ceremony.
Address by Hon Dr Michael Cullen, Deputy Prime Minister.
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Some Ladies At The Function.
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The event was a resounding success for FIANZ. It has been given a ringing endorsement by the Government for its continued work towards advancing the interests of the Muslim community in New Zealand.
FIANZ feels very encouraged by the positive recognition and the continued support extended by the Government and the wider community of New Zealand.
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This augurs well for the community to work towards strengthening our social fabric and cohesion, making New Zealand society as a whole stronger, healthier and more vibrant.
To read the President's Speech click HERE.
To read the Deputy Prime Minister's Speech click HERE
To read the Hon Mrs Tariana Turia's Speech click HERE
To view the Photograph Gallery click HERE
We are awaiting permission to upload the speech from the Minister for Ethnic Affairs and inshaallah hope to upload it soon. We approached the Leader of the National Party but were unable to upload his speech as a copy was not retained by his office.
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