The Free Muslim Coalition (a nonprofit organization made up of American Muslims and Arabs of all backgrounds who feel that religious violence and terrorism have not been fully rejected by the Muslim community in the post 9-11 era) has this: (emphasis mine)
"...However, it is wrong to accept management by one foreign owned company and reject another foreign owned company when both companies are located in nations that are strong allies of the United States.
Indeed, the United Arab Emirates is a great friend to the United States. They have been loyal friends in the war on terror and they are excellent friends to the U.S. military. The United Arab Emirates provides docking rights for more U.S. Navy ships than any other nation in the region.
Moreover, the United Arab Emirates has adopted American style capitalism and tolerance. The UAE is a success story that is helping to shape the Arab world in a positive way. The UAE has opened its doors completely to Americans and American businesses. Relations between the UAE and United States are so good that the UAE spends billions of
dollars in America and only accepts U.S. Dollars for the sale of their oil and gas. Their loyalty to the United States helps keep the American Dollar strong and the American economy moving forward. Thus, just as the UAE opens its arms to America,
America should open its arms to the UAE.
Finally, by closing the door on one of our closest allies, the U.S. would be sending the wrong message to voices of moderation in the Middle East and a gift to voices of extremism. We are certain that Muslim extremist groups like Al-Qaeda and HAMAS would jump on this issue by arguing that Americans hate all Arabs and Muslims including their allies. The Free Muslims have argued time and time again that the United States must do a better job of supporting moderate Arabs and Muslims. The uproar against this ports deal is misplaced and the Free Muslims stand by President Bush for fighting back against the voices of bigotry."
via Lone Star Times (commenter)
We either believe in bringing Democracy to the Middle East or we don't. If we who support this war in the belief that it is a turning point for the future in regard to freedom and Democracy for Arab nations, do not also believe that we can do business and support our friends in the Arab world, then we might as well give up on that dream of Democracy.We cannot say how wonderful it is that we fight for the freedom of the Iraqi people and then turn our backs on Arab FRIENDS. This is not the time to send mixed messages. Our message must be one of outreach and friendship to nations who are wondering if we are sincere in our efforts in Iraq.
We must encourage positive steps and positive role models that reveal the virtues of Democracy and capitalism and freedom.
|