WASHINGTON, June 27: The United States is establishing a new diplomatic position — special to the Organisation of the Islamic Conference — to bolster its relations with the Muslim world, President George W. Bush said on Wednesday.
The move marks the first time a US president has made an appointment to the Islamic Conference. The special envoy, who has not yet been named, will be a liaison to the OIC, an intergovernmental organisation representing more than 50 Muslim states.
“Our special envoy will listen to and learn from representatives from Muslim states, and will share with them America’s views and values,” Mr Bush said in a ceremony honouring the 50th anniversary of the Islamic Centre, a mosque and cultural centre in Washington.
“This is an opportunity for Americans to demonstrate to Muslim communities our interest in respectful dialogue and continued friendship,” Mr Bush said.
The Islamic Centre is located on one of Washington’s main boulevards -- Massachusetts Avenue -- which also has a synagogue, a Lutheran church, a Catholic parish, a Greek Orthodox chapel and a Buddhist temple.
Mr Bush had also visited the centre six days after the 9/11 attacks in the United States. In his speech on Wednesday, Mr Bush noted that his visit was aimed at “denouncing incidents of prejudice against Muslim Americans” many of whom had felt targeted after the terrorist attacks.
The smell of incense welcomed Mr Bush to the mosque originally dedicated by President Dwight D. Eisenhower 50 years ago.
“We live in a time when there are questions about America and her intentions. For those who seek a true understanding of our country, they need to look no farther than here,” Mr Bush said.
