AMBASSADOR Louis B. Susman:

Speeches, Remarks & Events

10 September 2009
Ambassador Susman Hosts Embassy Iftar

Mrs. Susman and I are honored to welcome you all to our new home, Winfield House, for this special occasion. Ramadan Kareem.

Thank you, Imam Shahid, for leading the prayers this evening.

I am particularly pleased, so soon after my arrival here, to have the opportunity to meet so many distinguished leaders of Muslim communities here in Britain. Thank you for agreeing to break your fast here tonight during the holy month of Ramadan. I see this evening as the first of many opportunities to get to know you better.

I plan to reach out and travel as often as possible so I can listen and learn more about all aspects of the diverse population of this nation. Marjorie and I also intend to embrace that diversity as we open up Winfield House and welcome guests in the future.

As President Obama said during the White House Iftar he hosted last week, we seek a new beginning between Americans and Muslims around the world. And central to that new beginning, is a shared responsibility to promote dialogue through mutual interest and mutual respect. The President went on to say that our "efforts are aimed at advancing our common aspirations - to live in peace and security; to get an education and to work with dignity; to love our families, our communities , and our God. It will take time and patient effort. We cannot change things over night, but we can honestly resolve to do what must be done, while setting off in a new direction - toward the destination that we seek for ourselves , and for our children. That is the journey that we must travel together."

I pledge to you that as we travel this journey together I will always be looking for ways to further our dialogue.I invite you to share your ideas with me.

Once again please know that Marjorie and I are honored to welcome you to our home, and to share this celebration with you. It is our fondest wish that we will move forward with better communication, deeper understanding, friendship, and respect.

As we break bread together let us dedicate ourselves to a better future for our children, the best legacy any generation can leave behind. I want to wish you and your families all the best for tonight, the rest of Ramadan and the following year.

May God's peace be upon you.

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