29 November 2001

Dobriansky Says Iftaar Highlights America's Religious Diversity

Under Secretary of State for Global Affairs Paula Dobriansky welcomed American Muslim community leaders to a Ramadan Iftaar (traditional breaking of the fast) at the State Department on November 29, telling them that the gathering "highlights America's religious diversity, of which we are very proud."

Dobriansky told the assembled guests, "You have helped us to pursue a foreign policy that better represents Americans of every race, religion, and ethnicity."

Following is the text of Under Secretary Dobriansky's remarks.

Under Secretary Dobriansky: Good evening. I am Paula Dobriansky, the Under Secretary of State for Global Affairs. And it is a pleasure to welcome you all to the State Department and to share this Iftaar with you.

Tonight's gathering is important to us for several reasons. As you know, the State Department has been working hard for the last years to reach out to the American Muslim community. We have conducted roundtables and other activities in which many of you have participated. We have learned a great deal from many of you and you have helped us to pursue a foreign policy that better represents Americans of every race, religion and ethnicity. We look forward to continuing these efforts.

In addition, tonight's gathering highlights America's religious diversity, of which we are very proud. The religious freedom that Americans enjoy is something we strive to promote for everyone in countries throughout the world. This includes protecting the freedom of Muslims to worship and observe their faith, whether they are in the minority or in the majority.

I am delighted that you are here, and look forward to continuing to work with you. I wish you all a Ramadan Kareem.