DATE=10/28/03

TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT

TITLE=BUSH ISLAM (S)

NUMBER=2-309162

BYLINE=PAULA WOLFSON

DATELINE=WHITE HOUSE

CONTENT=

VOICED AT:

INTRO: President Bush is reaching out to Muslim leaders, seeking their support for the war on terrorism and trying to ease tensions created by the controversial remarks of an American army general. V-O-A's Paula Wolfson reports from the White House.

TEXT: The president invited Muslim leaders to the White House for an Iftaar dinner the evening meal that breaks the daily dawn-to-dusk fast during the holy month of Ramadan.

///BUSH ACT///

America is a land of many faiths. And we honor and welcome and value the Muslim faith.

///END ACT///

During the event, Mr. Bush emphasized again that America is waging war on terrorism, not on Islam. He did not mention the controversial comments of U-S Army Lieutenant General William Boykin, who likened the war on terror to a battle between followers of Christianity and Islam. But he made clear he does not share the general's views.

///BUSH ACT///

America rejects all forms of ethnic and religious bigotry. We welcome the values of every responsible citizen, no matter the land of their birth.

///END ACT///

About 80 guests attended the dinner. They included ambassadors from many countries with sizable Muslim populations. (signed)

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