US President Biden wishes Muslims 'Ramadan Kareem'

US president Joe Biden has extended "best wishes to Muslim communities" in the United States and around the world in his Ramadan statement on Friday.

"This year, the simple act of breaking the fast will be an even more poignant reminder of the joys of health, family, and community," said Biden, in reference to two years of muted Ramadan observances during the coronavirus pandemic. 

The Biden family "will continue to hold in our hearts all those families grieving a lost loved one", the US president said, addressing those who were facing an empty chair at the table during Ramadan. 

Systemic health and social inequalities put racial and ethnic minority groups in the US at increased risk of death and serious illness from Covid-19, according to the Centre for Disease Control in the US. 

The president also addressed human rights issues for Muslims worldwide.

"Let us honour the simple yet profound truth that all people are equal in dignity and rights," he said. 

"That's why the United States will continue to speak out for human rights everywhere - including for Uyghurs in China, Rohingya in Burma, and other Muslim communities all over the world."

According to a recent report, Islam is soon predicted to become the second-largest religion in the US after Christianity - with Muslim voters casting ballots overwhelmingly for Biden in the 2020 presidential election. 

"From the Biden family to yours, and from the People’s House to your own homes, Jill and I wish you and your loved ones a blessed and prosperous month. Ramadan Kareem!" he finished.