Reaching out

Obama's keynote address at the University of Cairo was an unmistakable and credible offer to improve dialogue and intensify partnerships with the Muslim world. In a stark departure from the confrontational rhetoric of his predecessor, George W. Bush, Obama appealed to Muslims to acknowledge the values and responsibilities they share with the United States. In doing so, his words served to highlight the various achievements of Muslims both around the globe and within the United States.

The president's call for a new beginning went beyond merely complimenting Islam and quoting excerpts from the Koran. It was a message of mutual respect. Obama signaled he was prepared to take Muslims' concerns and perspectives into account while casting a critical eye over his own nation. But he also made clear what he, as the president of the United States, expects of his peers.

Obama called on Israel to halt the expansion of settlements in the West Bank and commit to a two-state solution to the Arab-Israeli conflict with a clarity that would have been unthinkable under the previous administration. He also sent an unmistakably direct message to Palestinians, and Hamas in particular, by urging regional leaders to recognize Israel's right to exist and cease violence.

Obama left no doubt that the United States would maintain its close relationship with the Jewish state, even in the face of international criticism. He also said that although he considered the Arab peace initiative a solid basis for negotiation, he did not necessarily expect it would lead to concrete results. Although many Muslims in the audience would have preferred to have heard something different, others could perhaps take comfort in the fact that Obama was at least being candid -- and more honest than any other US president has been in recent times.

The most disappointing aspect of Obama's speech was the lack of detail on how the White House plans to engage Muslim governments on human rights, and how the US should pursue strategic and economic interests in Muslim countries.

On the whole, however, Obama succeeded in communicating two core messages. First, that democracy is a basic human right, and not just a political system exported by the United States. Second, that the White House is prepared to learn from past foreign policy mistakes, and will seek to engage Muslim nations as partners and allies as it continues its war on terror.

Obama's speech intended to build a bridge to the Muslim world. Now the words have been spoken, actions must follow -- and not just from the United States.

Rainer Sollich heads DW-RADIO's Arabic service (sje)

Editor: Jennifer Abrahmsohn