AMBASSADOR'S SPEECHES

Ambassador’s Remarks at If-Tar Dinner

Ambassador Hooks speak with members of Governing Board of the National Islamic Council during an If-Tar dinner at his residence (Photo: Yacouba Soro/US Embassy)

October 21, 2005

El Hadji Imam Koudous, President of the National Islamic Council

Members of the Governing Board of the National Islamic Council

Imams of the mosques of Abidjan

Ladies and Gentlemen, Presidents of the Muslim Associations

El Hadji and El Hadja

My colleagues from the American Embassy

I extend to you a warm and sincere welcome.  You honor us with your presence in my home this evening.

Just as you are gathered here at the Residence to end a day of reflection, prayer and fasting, later tonight millions of American Muslims across the United States will also gather with family and friends in their homes, community centers, and in more than 1200 mosques to celebrate the If-Tar.

This is a special night, one that I find inspirational.   When I look around me, I see men and women of different generations, faiths and nationalities.  But we share a mutual commitment – we have a common bond -- to respect and honor the religion and sacred practices of others.  And we are all the better for it.

In the United States as well, during the holy month of Ramadan American Islamic groups and associations are reaching out to their non-Muslim neighbors and colleagues at work, inviting them to learn more about the values of Islam.   And we are all the better for it.

Let me end my remarks by quoting a passage from the message that President Bush sent to Muslims in the United States and throughout the world as they began their observance of Ramadan.  He said this:

“Throughout our history, America has been blessed by the contributions of people of many different faiths.  Our Muslim citizens have helped make our Nation a stronger and more hopeful place through their faith, generosity, and compassion.  May this be a blessed Ramadan for Muslims in the United States and around the world. Ramadan mubarak.”`