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Obama Hosts Muslim Entrepreneurs

   Tonight's  gathering is a follow up to Mr. Obama's 2009 trip to Cairo,
   where he called for better ties with the Muslim world.

   VOA News 26 April 2010

   U.S.  President  Barack Obama is hosting a conference of more than 250
   entrepreneurs,  most  from  majority-Muslim  countries, in the hope of
   promoting  greater  business  ties  between  the United States and the
   Muslim world.
   The two-day conference opening Monday in Washington is the fulfillment
   of  a  pledge  Mr. Obama made last June in a speech in Cairo, Egypt to
   deepen U.S. engagement with Muslim-majority communities.
   U.S.  Deputy  National  Security  Advisor  Ben  Rhodes  told reporters
   entrepreneurship  is  a  "fundamental  American  value" and can unlock
   opportunities for people around the world.
   The conference aims to bring together young start-up entrepreneurs and
   seasoned  veterans, as well as government officials, bankers and other
   experts.  Topics will include empowering businesswomen and creating a
   positive climate for new businesses.
   Mr.  Obama  is  expected to address the summit Monday night.  Several
   Cabinet secretaries, including Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, are
   expected to participate.
   The  two-day  summit  opens big opportunities for U.S. firms that work
   with  Muslim  entrepreneurs.  But  Mr.  Obama's  initiative  might  be
   overshadowed  by  lack  of  progress  on the Israeli-Palestinian peace
   track.

   Entrepreneurs  from  more  than  50 countries are to attend. Investors
   from Israel have also been invited to attend the summit.

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