US Should Keep Its Promise

VIVAnews - Muslim scholar Prof Din Syamsuddin is hoping that diplomatic efforts by US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton can improve US partnership with Islamic world as promised by US President Barack Obama.

"Obama has a commitment in respecting various religions especially Jews, Christians and Islam by quoting the [religions'] holy books on peace and affection. US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton's visit follows up the commitment. This is important and I hope that what has been promised can be materialized," Syamsuddin told VIVAnews.

Obama signaled in various occasions that he wanted to build new relations especially with the Islamic world whose grounds are to understand and to respect each other. "Although most people are sceptical, I however still have hope [on him]. He must keep his promise and we must encourage [him] together," said Syamsuddin.

Concerning the smart diplomacy approach that Clinton uttered, Syamsuddin said that the US Secretary of State should keep her promise. "We should see what form the smart diplomacy [the United States] will take," said Syamsuddin.

Most importantly, the United States should realize that the anti-America movement, especially in Islamic countries, emerged due to the wrong approaches set out by Washington. According to Syamsuddin, despite hatred against the United States, it was a refusal against US foreign policies regarding especially with the Islamic community.

"Do not consider the Islamic community as an enemy and a threat. Instead, embrace the community as a friend and strategic partner," said Syamsuddin.

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Translated by: Bonardo Maulana Wahono