The United States Ambassador to the Gambia, Mr .Barry L. Wells last Wednesday organized what he called 'Iftarr dinner' and prayer for Gambian religious leaders at his residence in Fajara.

Speaking at the ceremony, Ambassador Barry Wells said the Iftarr has become a tradition now not only in The Gambia but in most United States Embassies around the world.

Mr. Wells told the gathering that the dinner and prayer that they organized in The Gambia is an event of great joy for them in the Embassy because it enables them to interact closely with the religious leaders. He said it is also a clear demonstration by the U.S government that the United States supports and respects Islam and its 2.8 million followers in the U.S.

"Fasting during the month of Ramadan is one of the five fundamental pillars of Islam. It was during this holy month that the Quran was revealed to Prophet Muhammed (SAW) beginning with a simple word Iqra," said ambassador Wells.

He noted that fasting itself is a concept shared by many faiths, including Christianity, as a way to bring people closer to God.

"President Obama reiterated his commitment to a new beginning between America and Muslims around the world in his Ramadan message to Muslims", says the ambassador.

Mr. Wells also thanked the government of the Gambia for establishing and maintaining ties with the U.S in many areas. He concluded by thanking the imams for responding to the invitation. He said their input, which they have transmitted to Washington, was very useful.

"With these brief remarks I would like to thank you all for responding to break the fast with us, Ramadan Kareem," he concluded.

The Iftarr was attended by some government officials, imams, officials of U.S embassy and other Muslim leaders and guests.