Barak Hussein Obama's Speech: Frank and Constructive
The speech of US President Barak Obama in Cairo was the first of its kind in history.No western leader before him addressed the entire Muslim world on issues of great relevance to both the West and the Muslim world.In his speech he discussed the contribution of Islam to civilization, the false stereotypes used about Islam and Muslims, the political issues of Iraq, Afghanistan, Palestine, the need for new beginning in relatioms between Muslim world and the West .He said "I've come here to Cairo to seek a new beginning between the United States and Muslims around the world, one based on mutual interest and mutual respect, and one based upon the truth that America and Islam are not exclusive and need not be in competition. Instead, they overlap, and share common principles -- principles of justice and progress; tolerance and the dignity of all human beings.----- . But I am convinced that in order to move forward, we must say openly to each other the things we hold in our hearts and that too often are said only behind closed doors. There must be a sustained effort to listen to each other; to learn from each other; to respect one another; and to seek common ground. As the Holy Koran tells us, "Be conscious of God and speak always the truth." (Applause.) That is what I will try to do today -- to speak the truth as best I can, humbled by the task before us, and firm in my belief that the interests we share as human beings are far more powerful than the forces that drive us apart.---- I know there are many -- Muslim and non-Muslim -- who question whether we can forge this new beginning. Some are eager to stoke the flames of division, and to stand in the way of progress. Some suggest that it isn't worth the effort -- that we are fated to disagree, and civilizations are doomed to clash. Many more are simply skeptical that real change can occur. There's so much fear, so much mistrust that has built up over the years. But if we choose to be bound by the past, we will never move forward. And I want to particularly say this to young people of every faith, in every country -- you, more than anyone, have the ability to reimagine the world, to remake this world." We welcome Barak Obama's initiative from the great Muslim city of Cairo.The tone of sincerity was apparent and most of us were touched by his speech. There are doubters everywhere who will say that this is only diplomacy and there will not be any change.We do not agree with them.The world can have peace and progress through dialogue, listening to each othe as President Obama has said.This is not to suggest that we agree with everything.It is not necessary.It never happens that we always agree on all points.We particularly feel that the invasion of Afganistan was not necessary..We also agree with his view that Middle East should be kept nuclear weapon free.Though he urged Iran not to go for nuclear weapons and did not mention Israel, it was clear from his words "nuclear free middle east " that he does not want Israel to have nuclear weapons. In any event we sincerely appreciate his speech and urge him to take steps as he has said. -----
