WASHINGTON – US President Donald Trump, who had called for “a total andcomplete shutdown of Muslims entering the United States”, in a statement onTuesday lauded “the richness Muslims add to the religious tapestry ofAmerican life.”

Trump’s statement issued to mark the start of the holy month of Ramazan isin marked contrast to his past comments on Muslims.

“With the rising of tonight’s moon, I send my greetings and best wishes toall Muslims observing Ramazan in the United States and around the world,”he said in the statement.

“During the holy month of Ramazan, Muslims commemorate the revelation ofthe Holy Quran to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) through fellowship and prayer.Many observe this holy time by fasting, performing acts of charity,reciting prayers, and reading the Holy Quran,” he continued.

The US president added that Muslims observing Ramazan strengthencommunities, help the needy and serve as examples of how to live areligious life.

“Ramazan reminds us of the richness Muslims add to the religious tapestryof American life. In the United States, we are all blessed to live under aConstitution that fosters religious liberty and respects religiouspractice,” said Trump, who is still trying to impose a travel ban on peoplefrom Muslim-majority nations of Iran, Libya, Somalia, Syria and Yemen.