The State Department Joins the Arabic Twitter Conversation

The State Department wants to become part of the Twitter revolution, joining the social media site to transmit messages to the Arab world in Arabic. Social media sites like Twitter and Facebook galvanized the pro-democracy protests still rocking Egypt, and since the launch of its Arabic Twitter account yesterday, the State Department tweets (@USAbilAraby) are adding to the conversation.

 “The U.S. ministry of foreign affairs understands the historic role of social media in the Arab world, and we want to become part of your discussions.”

President Obama said that ultimately, the future of Egypt is in the hands of the Egyptian people.

Vice President [Joe] Biden to Vice President [Omar] Suleiman: It’s imperative to stop the harassment of civil society and lift the emergency law.

The United States supports the principles and systems of democracy and institution-building, and does not give its support to specific personalities.

Secretary Clinton: The transition to democracy will succeed only if it is deliberate, comprehensive, and transparent.

President Obama: There is no possibility here for [Egypt] to return to its earlier condition.

Secretary Clinton: There must be clear and concrete progress towards open, free, and responsible systems in the region.

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