BUSH SENDS EID AL-FITR GREETINGS TO MUSLIMS
(Text: White House statement, November 24)
President Bush and First Lady Laura Bush sent their greetings to
Muslims throughout the world celebrating Eid al-Fitr, the end of
Ramadan.
In a November 24 statement issued by the White House Press Secretary,
Bush described Islam as "a religion that inspires its followers
to lead lives based on justice, compassion, and personal responsibility."
The president encouraged other Americans to reflect upon shared
values and to celebrate the country's diversity.
"By working together to advance peace and mutual understanding,
we help build a future of promise and compassion for all,"
he said.
Following is the text of Bush's statement:
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THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
November 24, 2003
November 24, 2003
I send greetings to Muslims celebrating Eid al-Fitr, the Festival
of Breaking the Fast.
This festival marks the end of the month-long fast of Ramadan,
the holiest period of the Islamic year. Eid al-Fitr is a time to
give thanks to God for the blessings of renewed faith, to perform
acts of charity, and to share traditional food and good wishes with
family and friends. Islam is a religion that inspires its followers
to lead lives based on justice, compassion, and personal responsibility.
During this joyful season, I encourage people of all faiths to
reflect on our shared values: love of family, gratitude to God,
a commitment to religious freedom, and respect for the diversity
that adds to our Nation's strength. By working together to advance
peace and mutual understanding, we help build a future of promise
and compassion for all.
Laura joins me in sending our best wishes for a joyous celebration.
Eid mubarek.
GEORGE W. BUSH
(end text)
(Distributed by the Bureau of International Information Programs,
U.S. Department of State. Web site: http://usinfo.state.gov)
