Remarks on the U.S. Department of State's Annual Report on International Religious Freedom

(12:32 p.m. EDT)

SECRETARY RICE: Good afternoon. Today, I have transmitted to Congress the 9th Annual Report on International Religious Freedom. We hope that this report, which is also available on the Department's website, will continue to serve as a resource for all in the United States and in the international community who share our concerns about religious freedom. We also hope that it will serve to encourage those whose plight is documented in this report and whose right to believe, practice and worship freely is denied by their governments.

It is fitting that this week also marks the congruence of two major religious faiths. All around the world and here in the United States, Muslims are observing the month of Ramadan and Jews are observing Rosh Hashanah. By continuing the American tradition of worshiping freely and respectfully, American Jews and American Muslims are strengthening the freedom and pluralism that defines for us what it means to be an American.

Religious liberty is deeply rooted in our principles and history as a nation, and it is our belief in this universal human right that leads us into the world to support all who want to secure this right in this lives and in their countries.

Freedom of religion is also integral to our efforts to combat the ideology of hatred and religious intolerance that fuels global terrorism. This past Tuesday was the sixth anniversary of the September 11th attacks. As we reflect on the tragedy of that day, we are reminded of the true importance of this report and we reaffirm our commitment to help us shed light on all countries where citizens are subjected to government censorship, hate crimes, discrimination and violence for their thoughts and beliefs.

With this year's Report on International Religious Freedom, the State Department is helping to advance President Bush's vision of a world that is growing in freedom and peace. Through our bilateral relationships, our work in international forums, and our many ongoing discussions on this issue with people across the globe, the United States will continue working to promote religious freedom, to nurture tolerance and to build a more peaceful world for people of all faiths.

It is now my pleasure to introduce Ambassador Hanford, who will provide details about the report. Thank you.

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