March 5, 2002

Mubarak awarded Torch of Liberty

    The torch was given by Senator Richard Lugar and former Deputy State Secretary and Boeing Deputy Director Thomas Pickeing. Addressing the ceremony, Pickeing said "thank you for allowing the Volunteers of America to demonstrate its appreciation for your enduring commitment to the peace and prosperity of Egypt.

    The Volunteers of America groups thousands of volunteers from all walks of life serving at home and abroad.

    "Our leadership stands ready to undertake whatever task close to your heart for the people of your nations," he said, expressing readiness to offer scholarships to the Egyptian young people suffering from shortage of financial resources. "And now Mr. Mubarak, I am deeply honored to provide you with the Volunteers of America Torch of Liberty. With this award comes our appreciation for the legacy of peace and prosperity you trying to achieve to Egypt and the world." he added. 

    Addressing the ceremony, Mubarak said "I am extremely grateful to the "Volunteers of America" and to Senator Lugar and Ambassador Pickering for honouring me with the distinguished "Torch of Liberty" award. I have always admired the positive role of this respectable organization in helping many individuals, families and communities through its comprehensive charitable non-profit human services.

    At these post September 11 difficult times, it is essential that we all stress the unity of the world in combating terrorism and creating better understanding between different cultures, civilizations and religions.

    The activities of your organization are really essential in this regard, because it tackles the human side of life which is the common basis that all human beings share.

    At the time we, the leaders, will continue our efforts to bring our nations closer and to enhance the visions of peace, tolerance and coexistence, it is the activities of such a valuable organization that really show the depth of relations between the American and Egyptian peoples.

    Through such seed funding support which "Volunteers of America" is offering today to help create more small businesses in Egypt and to promote more tourism through wider media coverage, you reach out not only to young Egyptians but also to the whole friendly people of Egypt.

    Thank you for presenting me with this valuable award, and for the seed funding support. I wish "Volunteers of America" every success in upholding its theme "there are no limits to caring".