State Department Spokesman-at-Large Phillip Reeker in Singapore

State Department Spokesman-at-Large Phillip Reeker

State Department Spokesman-at-Large Phillip Reeker made a return visit to Singapore January 12, meeting with leading members of the Muslim community, the media, and ministry civil servants. At a round table organized by MUIS, the Islamic Council of Singapore, he discussed American foreign policy in the Middle East, and the global fight against terrorism. Rejecting the idea of a clash of civilizations, reiterating the message that U.S. policy makers do not link Islam with terrorism or see Muslims as terrorists, the State Department official described recent American efforts to reach out and engage the Islamic world, including the many Muslim-majority nations in Asia and Africa. He also discussed at some length American and coalition efforts and challenges in Iraq and Afghanistan. During a program set-up by MITA's Public Relations Academy, Mr. Reeker spoke on the topic of “Public Consultation and Shaping Public Views.” He stressed the need for government officials to be transparent and open, and to communicate with citizens in as many ways and as often as possible. Mr. Reeker described how the State Department reaches out to American citizens and interest groups, soliciting their views and recommendations when formulating policy, and then he gave several examples of what his office does to explain and advocate the Administration’s policies to the general public.