Thursday, June 4, 2009

"I Have Come Here To Seek A New Beginning. . ."


President Obama's historic address in Cairo today marks a potential new era in our relationships with Muslim countries. Obama hit all of the right notes in emphasizing the need to reject and to counter violent extremism in defending the U.S., while encouraging Muslim nations to become more tolerant of divergent religions and viewpoints. Especially moving were his remarks about the need for women to have an equal role in society in order to progress and to prosper.

He also spoke strongly about a "two-state" solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, often refering to Palestine as a future nation. He also insisted that the Likudnik government of Israel stop expanding settlements on the Palestinian West Bank, a source of great concern to those wanting peace in the region.

Huffington Post has the video and speech transcript, and some good sidebar stories and reactions throughout the Muslim world.

(photo: CNN)