Remarks at Sewing Machine Distribution Ceremony for Muslim and Christian Associations

December 27, 2007

Your Excellency Monsignor the Archbishop of Bamako, Monsieur the Curée of the Sacred Heart Parish in Bamako, President of the High Council of Islam in Mali, President of the Malian Association for the Unity and Promotion of Islam, representative of the Malian Muslin Women’s Association, members of the University Choir, representatives of the Muslim, Protestant and Catholic communities in Bamako, and honored guests,

It is an honor and a pleasure for me to join you today in this interfaith celebration of our shared values and commitment to the economic and social development of Mali.

The United States has been a proud partner and friend to the Malian people since independence, and this relationship grows stronger each year.

Our friendship is based on our shared values of democracy and tolerance, values which are highlighted in the religious freedom found in both of our countries.

It is said that the United States is the world’s most religiously diverse society.  Americans therefore feel especially at home in Mali, where Christians, Muslims, and people of other religions live side by side in peace and tolerance.

Malians show us on a consistent basis that the devoted practice of one’s own religion does not require intolerance of others, but rather translates into respect and friendship to all humankind.

Each of the associations represented here today is a living example of this fact as all of you minister to people of many different faiths and ethnicities.  We are proud to associate ourselves with your work through this donation of sewing machines, accessories, and pagnes.

Ce geste, simple mais venant du fond du cœur, témoigne de la volonté et de l’attachement du peuple américain au dialogue et à la compréhension mutuelle entre les peuples, les cultures, et les religions du monde.

It is a lovely coincidence that this year, Muslims, Christians, and people of all faiths are joined in celebrating the important holidays of Tabaski, Christmas, and New Year at almost the same time. 

It is therefore a privilege to be able to wish each and every one of you a most happy Eid, a Merry Christmas, and a blessed, peaceful and prosperous New Year.

Aw sambee sambee.

Ala ka san were jira an na kenela. 

Aw ka yaafa n ma.

Merci.