    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1998, Book I)]
    [January 29, 1998]
    [Pages 136-137]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Videotaped Remarks on Id al-Fitr
    January 29, 1998

        On behalf of all Americans, I want to extend my personal greetings
    to the entire Muslim community in the United States and around the world
    as you celebrate the Id al-Fitr.
        This week marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan. It's a time
    for rejoicing and celebration, a time of family and community. It is
    also a time for reflection and for recommitting ourselves to the values
    of tolerance, mutual respect, and understanding. In a world where many
    Muslims suffer the terrible consequences of war, poverty, and unrest, we
    must renew our efforts to resolve conflicts and remove the causes of
    strife.
        The United States is determined to do all it can to bring a just,
    lasting, and comprehensive peace to the Middle East. As I told Chairman
    Arafat, Palestinians should be allowed to
    realize their aspirations to live as a free people, and Israelis should
    be able to live in security, recognized by all their neighbors. Our goal
    is to help the people of the region end this age-old conflict and to
    give their children the future of hope and promise they deserve.
        Today our sympathies are with the people of Algeria and Afghanistan,
    who have endured too much suffering, and we pray that a time of healing
    will soon come for them. We are also deeply concerned by the hardships
    that afflict the people of Iraq, and we will continue working within the
    United Nations so that they receive the food and medicine they need.
        To the people of Iran, I would like to say that the United States
    regrets the estrangement of our two nations. Iran is an important
    country with a rich and ancient cultural heritage of

    [[Page 137]]

    which Iranians are justifiably proud. We have real differences with some
    Iranian policies, but I believe these are not insurmountable. I hope
    that we have more exchanges between our peoples and that the day will
    soon come when we can enjoy once again good relations with Iran.
        Let me say to the Muslims of South Asia, I look forward to visiting
    your region later this year and to deepening the bonds between the
    United States and the peoples of the subcontinent.
        On this occasion, let us rekindle our commitment to the cause of
    peace among all the peoples of the Earth. If we are dedicated in our
    belief and constant in our labor, we can build a better future, one of
    cooperation, understanding, and compassion for ourselves and for
    generations to come.
        As the new moon ushers in this holy celebration, let me say to all
    who follow the faith of Islam: As-Salaamu alaykum. May peace be with
    you, and may God grant you health and prosperity, now and in the years
    ahead.

    Note: These remarks were videotaped at approximately 6 p.m. on January
    23 in the Cabinet Room at the White House for later broadcast on the
    U.S. Information Agency WORLDNET, and they were released by the Office
    of the Press Secretary on January 29. In his remarks, the President
    referred to Chairman Yasser Arafat of the Palestinian Authority.