WASHINGTON, 7 November — US President George W. Bush praised Islam on Tuesday as "a peace-loving faith" and celebrated Muslim nations as "vital partners" in the war on terrorism as he sent his best wishes to Ramadan celebrants. "Laura joins me in sending our best wishes for a blessed time. May you be well during Ramadan and throughout the coming year," Bush said in a statement.
Bush made no explicit mention of his efforts to rally the United Nations for possible military action to disarm Iraqi President Saddam Hussein. "America remains committed to freedom, justice, and opportunity for all people. During this season of reverence and examination, we continue to work together for a future of peace, tolerance, and understanding," he said.
Ever since Muslim militants flew commandeered airliners into the World Trade Center and the Pentagon, Bush has taken pains to praise mainstream Muslims and denounce the extremists as terrorists who hijacked Islam. "Islam is a peace-loving faith that is practiced by more than one billion people, including millions of American Muslims," he said late Tuesday.
"These proud citizens contribute to the diversity that makes our country strong, and the US is grateful for the friendship and support of many Muslim Nations that are vital partners in the global coalition to fight against terrorism." (AFP)
