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'A New Beginning' - MPAC Welcomes President Obama's Speech to The Muslim World

June 04, 2009

Earlier today, the Muslim Public Affairs Council held a press conference in response to President Barak Obama’s speech in Cairo, Egypt. MPAC leaders hailed the speech as an essential new beginning in Unites States Policy and relationships with the Muslim world.

“The President proved he is the best ambassador for America to the Muslim world,” said MPAC Senior Advisor Dr. Maher Hathout. “He demonstrated admirable leadership by addressing issues others are hesitant to explore.”
President Obama’s speech distinguished his administration as willing to seriously engage in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. This break from tradition is not only refreshing but highly encouraging. His statement on settlements in the Occupied Territories is a complete shift in policy that gives peace a chance for success.

“Our President’s message was clear, he aims to change U.S. foreign policy while asking the Muslim world to re-orient their views towards the United States,” said MPAC Executive Director, Salam Al-Marayati. This shift is a profoundly different approach from past administrations. “By speaking to the pain and challenges of Muslim people’s around the globe, President Obama, is effectively winning Muslim hearts and minds. The new approach is essential in gaining confidence and building a solid relationship between the Unites States and the Muslim world.  More importantly, President Obama today dealt a severe blow to bin Laden.”

“Responsibility now lays on the shoulders of all of us, as American citizens, to support and implement the President’s plan and to see his promises actualized,” said MPAC Southern California Government Relations Director, Aziza Hasan. A well-articulated message of genuine respect, MPAC calls on all people to join the President’s hopeful tone and ability to reach out and connect to all people. “By quoting the Quran and Islamic history, President Obama demonstrated a willingness and interest in the Muslim world that allows for greater understanding and harmony. He addressed difficult issues head-on while remaining respectful. This new tone, paves an essential path towards a new beginning.”