Britain's foreign secretary in a message congratulated all Muslims across the world on the start of Ramadhan.

Britain's foreign secretary, Boris Johnson, on Wednesday evening wished the Muslims residing in the UK and across the world 'Ramadan Kareem'.

Most Muslim countries began the holy month of Ramadan in the dawn of May 17. Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar that is observed by Muslims worldwide by abstaining from certain acts, mainly eating and drinking.

'Ramadan is a time of self-reflection, but also of being part of something bigger; fasting together, prayer and the gathering of families,' the British Foreign Secretary said.

'Ramadan is also about the values of compassion, charity and selflessness. Values that unite us all.'

'I want to highlight the huge contributions that British Muslims make to all areas of British life,' he said.

'At this special time of year I say to you, your friends and your relatives, Ramadhan Mubarak.'