Clinton wishes ‘Eid Mubarak!’ to the world’s Muslims

Secretary Clinton wishes "Eid Mubarak!" to all the world’s Muslims. She adds, "Under President Obama’s leadership, the United States is working to create new partnerships with Muslim communities. We want to build bridges, not only bridges toward peace in the Middle East, but bridges of understanding."

Her complete statement, including video:

Eid Mubarak! Since my husband, Bill Clinton, and I held the first Eid celebration at the White House in 1996, I have enjoyed marking Eid every year. I look forward to seeing old friends and meeting new ones.

And yet, in the 14 years since that first White House celebration, our world has seen unexpected changes and unprecedented challenges. Under President Obama’s leadership, the United States is working to create new partnerships with Muslim communities. We want to build bridges, not only bridges toward peace in the Middle East, but bridges of understanding. We believe we all can work toward a more peaceful and prosperous future, one based on mutual respect and cooperation.

I hosted an iftar at the State Department, and I invited many young American leaders — young American Muslims. They’re bringing their energy and spirit to solving problems and overcoming traditional boundaries. They are engaging with change-makers around the world. Their energy and enthusiasm gives me great hope for a future filled with greater understanding.

At this time of peace and celebration, I wish you and your family a joyful Eid and a very happy year ahead.

(In the photo at top, an Egyptian Muslim family poses for a photo following the dawn Eid ul-Fitr prayer at the stadium in Mansoura, 75 miles north of Cairo.)