President Obama Hosts a White House Iftar

Remarks by President Obama at White House Iftar Dinner
Obama honors contributions of Muslims Americans in United States

"Together, we have a responsibility to foster engagement grounded in mutual interest and mutual respect. And that’s one of my fundamental commitments as President, both at home and abroad. That is central to the new beginning that I’ve sought between the United States and Muslims around the world. And that is a commitment that we can renew once again during this holy season."

(Read full remarks)

President Obama extends his best wishes to Muslims around the world during Ramadan

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Highlights from the speech of the Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton at the Council on Foreign Relations

Washington, D.C., July 15, 2009

“Whether in Latin America or Lebanon, Iran or Liberia, those who are inspired by democracy, who understand democracy is about more than just elections – that it must also protect minority rights and press freedom, develop strong, competent and independent judiciaries, legislatures and executive agencies, and commit for democracy to deliver results – these are the people who will find that Americans are their friends, not adversaries.”

“We will also reach out beyond governments, because we believe partnerships with people play a critical role in our 21st century statecraft.  President Obama’s Cairo speech is a powerful example of communicating directly with people from the bottom up.  And we are following up with a comprehensive agenda of educational exchanges, outreach, and entrepreneurial ventures.  In every country I visit, I look for opportunities to bolster civil society and engage with citizens, whether at a town hall in Baghdad – a first in that country; or appearing on local popular television shows that reach a wide and young audience; or meeting with democracy activists, war widows, or students.”

(Click here to read full speech)

 

Remark by the President Obama on a New Beginning

Cairo, Egypt, June 4, 2009

  The centerpiece of President Barack Obama’s five-day visit to the Middle East and to Europe was his speech June 4 at Cairo University on U.S. relations with the Muslim world.

 

(Click here to read full speech)