Media Contact:

Jody Couser
Press Officer
pressofficer@democratsabroad.org

For Immediate Release
June 5, 2009

Democrats Abroad International Chair Lauds President Obama’s Efforts Towards a New Beginning Through Unprecedented Outreach to Muslims Around the World

[Geneva, Switzerland] – Speaking in Cairo yesterday where members of Democrats Abroad were present, President Obama continued his efforts to strengthen our national security through unprecedented outreach to the Muslim community. In his speech, the President proposed a new beginning for the United States and Muslims around the world, based on mutual interest and mutual respect, including a sustained effort to listen, learn and respect one another.

Democrats Abroad International Chair Christine Schon Marques issued the following statement:

“Today President Obama took an important step towards increasing our national security and improving our relations with Muslims around the world. In his remarks in Cairo, the President recognized his respect for Islam and the many contributions Muslims have made to all of civilization. He spoke of how American Muslims – nearly seven million living in the U.S. today -- have enriched our country’s story and called on us all to focus on the mutual interests we have with Muslims around the world so that we may confront our mutual problems together.

“The President reminds us once again that the surest way to solve our problems is through seeking common ground. Our shared goals look to a world that is made more secure by confronting violent extremism, preventing nuclear proliferation, and strengthening democracy and human rights. As Democrats, we continue to support the President’s efforts to strengthen our security by engaging with the Muslim community and creating a culture of mutual respect.”

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www.democratsabroad.org

Democrats Abroad is the official overseas branch of the U.S. Democratic Party. With members in 164 countries around the globe, Democrats Abroad holds eight positions on the Democratic National Committee and sends a voting delegation to the Democratic National Convention to select our presidential candidate.