Islamic Institute
Press Release
November 18, 2002

II Chairman Attends an Iftar with Secretary Powell

On Monday, November 18, Secretary Collin Powell hosted a Ramadan If tar at the Benjamin Franklin State Dining Room at the U.S. Department of State. Secretary Powell's invitation of American Muslim national leaders to the fast-breaking dinner was part of his efforts to share an evening with American Muslims during their holy month.

In his remarks, Secretary Powell spoke of our nation's “tolerance and commitment to human dignity” where “extremism and violence are our greatest enemies [and] our greatest foes.” He also asked “not to listen to the siren song of the bigots and extremists who cloak themselves in false spirituality in an attempt to divide and to weaken us.”

Khaled Saffuri, Chairman of the Islamic Institute joined Muslim leaders for this iftar. In light of President Bush and Secretary Powell's efforts to share this blessed month with the American Muslim community, Mr. Saffuri said, “the American Muslim community appreciates our government's recognition and celebration of our holy month of Ramadan.”