Terrorism Times

Barack Obama was sworn in as the 44th president of the United States of America, becoming the nation's first black chief executive.

In his speech, the 47-year-old highlighted America's "patchwork heritage" as a strength and this day a reminder of "who we are and how far we have traveled."

"This is the meaning of our liberty and our creed," he said to a crowd thousands strong. "Why a man whose father less than 60 years ago might not have been served at a local restaurant can now stand before you to take a most sacred oath."

Obama, taking the oath of office on the slim Lincoln bible, centered his speech around the "gathering clouds" of economic insecurity and terrorism. He urged the nation to remember the spirit of which America was founded.

"At these moments, America has carried on not simply because of the skill or vision of those in high office," he said, "but because We the People have remained faithful to the ideals of our forbearers, and true to our founding documents."

Vice President Joe Biden was sworn in 10 minutes before Obama, taking U.S. Supreme Court Justice John Paul Steven's cues with practiced ease. Obama stumbled over the words of the Presidential oath, misread by U.S. Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts, but recovered with a quick smile.

WASHINGTON: As many as 300 young Muslim leaders from over 70 countries, including nine from India, in an open letter asked the US President Barack Obama and the world to adopt measures that can ease tensions and foster peace with the Muslims.

While the open letter was published in The Washington Post yesterday before Obama was sworn in, a statement issued on behalf of these Muslim leaders later in the afternoon said this letter is relevant given Obama's determination to find a "new way forward" with the Muslim world based on "mutual interest and mutual respect" — a goal that he mentioned in his inaugural address this afternoon.

"To those leaders around the globe who seek to sow conflict, or blame their society's ills on the West — know that your people will judge you on what you can build, not what you destroy," Obama said.

"To those who cling to power through corruption and deceit and the silencing of dissent, know that you are on the wrong side of history; but that we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist," Obama said.

The open letter is based on the last week's Muslim Leaders of Tomorrow (MLT) conference in Doha. It outlines four key policy recommendations, which the statement said, Obama can implement to ease tensions and foster peace with the Muslim world. The letter urges Obama and other leaders to prioritise development of the youth and minorities and respect mutually held values; and pursue honest dialogue and diplomacy to resolve conflicts.

"We urge you, the world leaders of today, to take these steps, so that we, the Muslim Leaders of Tomorrow, can help steer our world towards a better future for all. We are dedicated to working with you to realise this vision. The time for change is now," said the open letter.