Mister Secretary General of the High Islamic Council
Mister Advisor to the Minister of Islamic Affairs and Original Teaching
Honored Imams
Political and Civil Leaders
Esteemed guests

It is a great pleasure for me today to host this Iftar dinner in your honor.  The month of Ramadan is one of the holiest periods for Muslims.  It is the month that the Quran was revealed by God. It is a time for prayer, meditation and aiding the poor and the indigent.

Ladies and Gentlemen

This month is also a time for family and friends to gather to thank God for his grace through charitable actions. Millions of Muslim Americans, no less than all Muslims around the world, honor the tenets of Islam, which preaches peace and submission to the will of God. I salute my fellow Americans who profess faith in Islam, because they add to the rich diversity that is one of America’s strengths. They also remind us of the freedom of religion that is equally an enduring pillar of American society.  The month of Ramadan is the perfect time to reflect on this and remind ourselves of the virtues we share with other citizens around the world. 

Ladies and Gentlemen

Through the fast of Ramadan, Muslims throughout the entire world renew their commitment to live in peace, mercy and with probity. We hope that this Ramadan will be for all of you a period of blessed grace, well-being and peace, not only for Muslims but all peoples of the world. 

I wish you a good fast and good Ramadan.
Thank you

Dennis Hankins,
Chargé d’Affaires of the United States Embassy in Mauritania
Nouakchott, October 4, 2007