Obamas greet Muslims on Eid-ul-Adha

Washington: US President Barack Obama and the First Lady Michelle extended their greetings for a happy Eid-ul-Adha to Muslims worldwide and wished safe travel to those performing Hajj.

"This year, nearly three million pilgrims from more than 160 countries - including the United States - have gathered in Mecca and neighbouring sites to perform the Hajj rituals and stand together in prayer," Obama said.

"On Eid, Muslims around the world will commemorate Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his son, and distribute food to those less fortunate - a reminder of the shared values and the common roots of three of the world's major religions," he said.

"On behalf of the American people, we extend our best wishes during this Hajj season Eid Mubarak and Hajj Mabrour," Obama added.