Special Envoy Hussain Concludes Trip to Afghanistan

April 30, 2012

Special Envoy Hussain Concludes Trip to Afghanistan

Rashad Hussain, appointed by President Obama as the Special Envoy to the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), recently concluded a one week trip to Afghanistan where he engaged civic, religious, and government leaders in open dialogue to deepen cultural understanding between the United States and Afghanistan.

Special Envoy Hussain’s successful visit involved a range of engagements, including  meetings with President Hamid Karzai, Foreign Minister Rassoul, and government and community leaders in Ghazni, Wardak, Paktika, and Paktya; discussions with students; and conversations with Muslim leaders, Ulama, and Members of Parliament.  His visit also included a discussion with students at a madrasa that receives English language programming support from the U.S. Embassy.

One highlight for Special Envoy Hussain was his opportunity to visit the Hakim Nasir Balkhi Cultural Center where he had the opportunity to view the world’s largest hand written Holy Quran.  Special Envoy Hussain told a group of Muslim leaders and Members of Parliament that it was "one of the most beautiful things I have ever seen.  Afghans should be very proud that it was produced here, is housed here, and will remain here, as it remains in the hearts of Muslims around the world." He noted that, “what America, the international community, and Afghanistan seek to accomplish together is consistent with Islamic values: promoting peace and stability, confronting terrorism, improving education, and protecting the rights of all.