HRH The Prince of Wales praises Islamic Relief's work over the past 25 years

HRH The Prince of Wales praised international aid agency Islamic Relief for its "outstanding work in providing humanitarian aid to literally millions of the most vulnerable people over the past quarter of a century." The comments came as part of a speech made by the Prince of Wales at the charity’s 25th anniversary Gala Dinner at the Grosvenor House Hotel, Park Lane, London on 17th December 2009.

The celebratory event brought together Islamic Relief's supporters from around the world and also marked the contribution and achievements of the British Muslim community who have helped make Islamic Relief the global humanitarian operation it is today, working in over 30 countries.

As Guest of Honour, and in the presence of many other dignitaries, HRH The Prince of Wales, said: "Islamic Relief's fine achievements bear witness to the energy, dynamism and selflessness of our British Muslim community.

We hear rather too much misleading information about a small minority of your community and not nearly enough about the vastly more numerous acts of compassion and commitment which characterise the work of Islamic Relief and its supporters. That, Ladies and Gentlemen, is why I was so happy and proud to come here this evening, to celebrate these achievements with you.”

The Prince of Wales also paid personal tribute to the “vision, passion, and sheer dedication of a truly extraordinary and remarkable man,” Dr Hany El Banna, co-founder of Islamic Relief.

The CEO of Islamic Relief Worldwide, Saleh Saeed, said: "Back in 1984, setting-up an international NGO based upon Muslim principles and practice was not an entirely feasible proposition.

As a result, I am all the more proud of the thousands of dedicated staff, volunteers, supporters and donors who have enabled us to deliver emergency relief and sustainable development programmes in a working alliance with some of the world's most vulnerable communities."

The Gala Dinner comes at the end of a year of celebrations around the work marking the achievements of Islamic Relief over the past 25 years, thanking its many supporters and paying tribute to the strength and spirit of those it has been able to reach through its work.