In his customary Eid message this year, the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for togetherness and unity especially as the world continues to face the coronavirus pandemic. He reiterated in such times of crisis 'solidarity and unity' is imperative.

According to a report by IANS Guterres said during an interactive discussion with member states representing the Organization of Islamic Cooperation ahead of Eid al-Fitr,, "Our world is like one body. As long as one part is affected by this virus, we all are affected. Now more than ever, solidarity and unity must be our leading principles."

He talked about solidarity in every aspect of dealing with the pandemic such as a comprehensive health response with a focus on developing countries. He also asked for a unified response to the economic losses caused due to Covid-19 and priority to the most vulnerable section of the society i.e. the elderly, women, children, low wage earners, and others.

Guterres also highlighted the need to act against the rise of ethnonationalism and hate speech which is targeted at weaker sections of communities. And said that the crisis should lead to an emergence of a world that is ‘more equitable, inclusive’ and where we have ‘sustainable economies and societies that are stronger and more resilient’

He said in the report, "As millions of Muslims around the world celebrate, let us draw from the many Ramadan lessons of mercy and compassion, of dignity and rights, of mutual respect and understanding, of unity and solidarity. Let us recognize, above all, that we are indeed one body. One world. And one United Nations."