Erdoğan sent a video message to the MAS – ICNA Convention which was held for the 20th time this year and attracted tens of thousands of Muslims from around the world each year.

In his message, Erdoğan said: “In the Qur'an, Allah reveals that “Surely with Hardship Comes Ease." Mawlana, one of our spiritual leaders, literally interpreted Allah’s message by saying ‘After hopelessness, there is so much hope. After darkness, there is a brighter sun’. This divine message has been manifested in our political and daily lives, as well as in our glorious struggle for our country, nation, and ummah. Even though we faced challenges and hardships, each time we were blessed with the ease that follows the challenge.”

Expressing that there would be relief following the Covid-19 pandemic, Erdoğan added: “To accomplish this, we must continue our struggle resolutely, without despair, but with caution and acceptance of predestination.”

Erdoğan stated that individuals who lost their jobs as a result of the pandemic should be helped, and efforts should be intensified to ensure the wellbeing of society.

Erdoğan said: “We must further strengthen our solidarity against movements such as animosity towards Islam, xenophobia and cultural racism that have risen with the pandemic. Muslims can achieve peace only if they unite. We cannot allow our global brotherhood to be harmed as a result of ethnic and cultural differences. Regardless of origin, skin color, tribe, culture, sect, or character, all Muslims are brothers and sisters.”

Stressing that terrorism has no place in our faith, just as nationalism, dissension, and incitement do not, Erdoğan went on to say:

“Instead of retreating into our own shells in the face of mounting threats to our existence, we should endeavor to take our rightful place in society as self-assured Muslims with an all-encompassing and welcoming worldview. I believe that if we accomplish all of these things, Allah will open the doors of mercy for us.” (ILKHA)