I think you need to change your obstinate view since Alexander Downer is still thanking the sheikh for his part in the rescue role. I doubt the department would still be grateful to a "liar".
Like a moth is attracted to a light glob, Andrew Bolt attracts the redneck ignorants.
Downer thanks sheikh for rescue role June 23, 2005 - 5:44PM
Foreign Minister Alexander Downer has personally thanked the Mufti of Australia, Sheikh Taj Aldin Alhilali, for the role he played in the rescue of Iraq hostage Douglas Wood.
Sheikh Alhilali travelled to Iraq last month to try to secure the release of Mr Wood and had been working closely with Nick Warner, the head of an multi-agency emergency task force trying to get the Australian freed.
Meeting at Parliament House on Thursday, Mr Downer told the sheikh that Australia appreciated the courage he had shown in going to Iraq.
"That required a lot of courage, a lot of commitment and we know you went to some tough places while you were there," he said.
"I think all Australians appreciate what you personally have done and more broadly what the Australian Islamic community has done.
"It's helped send ... a very strong message to Australia that whether you're a Christian or a Muslim or an atheist or a Hindu, if you're an Australian you're part of the team." AdvertisementAdvertisement
Mr Downer told Sheikh Alhilali that it was OK for people to hold different points of view.
"We're one team and there are things we can disagree on and that's OK in a free society," he said.
"But when it comes to helping one of our citizens we all get together and do our best."
Mr Downer said the sheikh's efforts were much appreciated by the Wood family.
