THE PRESIDENT: Good evening. Ramadan Kareem. Welcome to the White House. I'm pleased to host all of you, our distinguished guests, during this blessed month of Ramadan.
For Muslims in America, and around the world, this holy time is set aside for prayer and fasting. It is also a good time for people of all faiths to reflect on the values we hold common -- love of family, gratitude to God, and a commitment to religious freedom. America is a land of many faiths -- and we honor and welcome and value the Muslim faith.
I appreciate Secretary Powell being here today, the great Secretary of State of America. (Applause.) There are members of my administration scattered amongst you, and I appreciate them coming. I particularly want to thank the Secretary of Energy, Spence Abraham, for being here, as well. (Applause.)
I appreciate Your Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed, the Deputy Prime Minister and...