Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents

Monday, May 26, 2003 Volume 39—Number 21 Pages 621–657

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Addresses and Remarks Communications to Congress—Continued See also Appointments and Nominations; Trade and investment policy for Sub-Saharan Meetings With Foreign Leaders Africa and implementation of the African Congressional leaders, meeting—643 Growth and Opportunity Act, message Cuban Independence Day, radio remarks to transmitting report—632 the people of Cuba—636 Healthy Forests Initiative—632 Executive Orders Philippines, state visit of President Macapagal- Protecting the Development Fund for Iraq Arroyo and Certain Other Property in Which Iraq State dinner—631 Welcoming ceremony—623 Has an Interest—646 President’s Dinner—640 Interviews With the News Media President’s legislative agenda—643 Radio address—622 News conferences U.S. Coast Guard Academy, commencement May 19 with President Macapagal-Arroyo of address in New London, CT—636 the Philippines—624 May 23 with Prime Minister Koizumi of Appointments and Nominations Japan in Crawford, TX—649 White House Office, Director of Office of Management and Budget, remarks—644 Joint Statements Communications to Congress United States of America and the Republic of Development Fund for Iraq, message the Philippines—629 reporting the declaration of national Meetings With Foreign Leaders emergency—647 Homeland Security Department, letter Japan, Prime Minister Koizumi—649 transmitting a contingent emergency Philippines, President Macapagal-Arroyo— request—648 623, 624, 629, 631

(Continued on the inside back cover.)

Editor’s Note: The President was at the Bush Ranch in Crawford, TX, on May 23, the closing date of this issue. Releases and announcements issued by the Office of the Press Secretary but not received in time for inclusion in this issue will be printed next week.

Like its predecessor, the Daily Compilation contains IMPORTANT NOTICE statements, messages, and other Presidential materials released by the White House. As an FDsys web publication, the Daily This is the last publication of the Weekly Compilation of Compilation reaches a much broader audience and is updated Presidential Documents series. frequently, as information is released by the White House The Office of the Federal Register, National Archives and press office. The Daily Compilation web site is integrated with Records Administration, has created a new publication called historical Weekly Compilation files to provide continuity and the Daily Compilation of Presidential Documents. The Daily permanent public access. The new Daily Compilation web site Compilation appears on the Government Printing Office’s is available at www.presidentialdocuments.gov. Federal Digital System (FDsys) web site and replaces the There will be no restrictions on republication of material printed Weekly Compilation series. appearing in the Daily Compilation.

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Proclamations Statements by the President—Continued House of Representatives National Maritime Day—640 ‘‘Healthy Forests Restoration Act of 2003,’’ National Missing Children’s Day—653 action on proposed—635 Prayer for Peace, Memorial Day—648 Unemployment insurance extension, World Trade Week—621 passage—645 Morocco, terrorist bombings in Casablanca— Resignations and Retirements 623 United Nations Security Council action to lift Environmental Protection Agency, sanctions on Iraq—645 Administrator, statement—639 Supplementary Materials Acts approved by the President—657 Statements by the President Checklist of White House press releases—656 Digest of other White House See also Resignations and Retirements announcements—654 Algeria, earthquake—645 Nominations submitted to the Senate—656

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Proclamation 7679—World Trade cess of the North American Free Trade Week, 2003 Agreement (NAFTA) with the Free Trade May 16, 2003 Area of the Americas, which will expand free trade benefits throughout the Western By the President of the United States Hemisphere. We are also encouraging the of America free flow of trade and investment in the Pa- cific among our partners in the Asia-Pacific A Proclamation Economic Cooperation forum and the Asso- Trade expands prosperity, helps raise mil- ciation of Southeast Asian Nations. In addi- lions from poverty, and is an engine of eco- tion, we are negotiating a free trade agree- nomic growth within our Nation and around ment with five Central American democ- the world. Trade injects new energy and vi- racies and will soon begin free trade agree- tality into the global economy by fostering ment negotiations with the Southern African the exchange of ideas and innovations among Customs Union to help spur economic people around the world. Free and open growth in these two regions. Bilaterally, I re- trade also helps promote peace and security. cently signed a historic free trade agreement During World Trade Week, we renew our with Singapore—the first of its kind between commitment to developing and imple- the United States and an Asian/Pacific coun- menting trade policies that create new op- try, and we are finalizing a similar agreement portunities and promote global economic with Chile. Free trade agreement negotia- growth. tions are also underway with Australia and My Administration is pursuing an ambi- Morocco. tious trade agenda that is restoring America’s In America, trade is also critical to main- leadership in the global trading system. We taining our economic competitiveness in the worked hard for the passage of the Trade global market. It has been estimated that one Act of 2002, which reinstated Trade Pro- in eleven American jobs—over 12 million— motion Authority after an 8-year lapse. Trade Promotion Authority re-established the abil- are supported by exports of goods and serv- ity of the United States to credibly negotiate ices. In the 1990s, exports accounted for comprehensive trade agreements by ensur- about one-quarter of our economic growth. ing that agreements will be approved or re- Our Nation’s two major trade agreements jected, by the Congress, but not amended. during this time, NAFTA and the Uruguay This gives other countries renewed con- Round, provided consumers with a greater fidence in their trade negotiations with the choice of goods at better prices, while raising United States. living standards for a typical American family To extend the benefits of trade and to im- of four by up to $2,000 a year. prove the lives of people in our Nation and My Administration is also providing assist- around the world, my Administration con- ance to help trade-impacted workers adapt tinues to pursue global, regional, and bilat- to the challenge of international competition. eral trade agreements. Through the Doha The Trade Adjustment Assistance program Development Agenda negotiations at the helps trade-impacted workers gain or en- World Trade Organization, the United States hance job-related skills and find new jobs. is seeking to strengthen the multilateral trad- The program provides eligible workers with ing system, increase market access opportu- up to 2 years of training, income support dur- nities, and promote global development. Re- ing training, job search assistance, and relo- gionally, we are working to build on the suc- cation allowances. 621 622 May 16 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

World trade allows all nations to share in have given their lives to protect our country the great economic, social, and political and to keep the peace. Our whole Nation progress of our age and provides a foundation honors their memory, and our thoughts and for a more peaceful and stable world. This prayers are with the loved ones they left be- week, we recognize the importance of free hind. trade in promoting prosperity and freedom The world has seen the tremendous capa- in the United States and around the world. bilities of the United States military. With Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, fine allies at their side, American soldiers and President of the United States of America, sailors, airmen, and marines used advanced by virtue of the authority vested in me by technology to gain historic victories in Iraq the Constitution and laws of the United and Afghanistan. Unmanned Predator air- States, do hereby proclaim May 18 through craft carried out bombing missions deep be- May 24, 2003, as World Trade Week. I en- hind enemy lines, keeping more of our pilots courage all Americans to observe this week out of harm’s way. Satellites high above the with events, trade shows, and educational Earth, at any time of day or night, provided programs that celebrate the benefits of trade detailed images of individual targets and to our Nation and the global economy. whole battlefields. At least two-thirds of the In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set bombs used by coalition forces in Iraq were my hand this sixteenth day of May, in the precision-guided by lasers or global posi- year of our Lord two thousand three, and tioning satellites, compared with just 13 per- of the Independence of the United States of cent of the bombs we used in the 1991 Gulf America the two hundred and twenty-sev- war. enth. For all the contributions of technology, George W. Bush however, the battles of Iraq and Afghanistan were won by the skill and courage of well- [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, trained, highly motivated men and women. 8:45 a.m., May 20, 2003] In the recent fighting, marines and soldiers NOTE: This proclamation was published in the charged to Baghdad across 350 miles of hos- Federal Register on May 21. This item was not tile ground in one of the swiftest advances received in time for publication in the appropriate of heavy arms in history. Pilots flew through issue. blinding sandstorms; soldiers and marines ran into the face of gunfire, at times ignoring The President’s Radio Address their own injuries to save wounded com- rades. Special Operations forces conducted May 17, 2003 daring raids to seize airfields and missile Good morning. May 17th is Armed Forces launch sites. Every branch of the service Day, when America honors the men and worked in united purpose and displayed the women who serve in every branch of the highest standards of professionalism and service. Here in the Oval Office, I’m joined honor. by some distinguished Americans, eight With the liberation of Iraq and Afghani- members of the military who fought bravely stan, we have removed allies of Al Qaida, cut during the battle of Iraq. All of them were off sources of terrorist funding, and made wounded in battle and are recovering from certain that no terrorist network will gain their injuries. All of them have earned the weapons of mass destruction from Saddam respect and the gratitude of our Nation. Hussein’s regime. Americans are proud of every man and These two battles were important victories woman who has faced the risks of war in the in the larger war on terror. Yet the terrorist cause of freedom. Many still face dangerous attacks this week in Saudi Arabia, which duty in Iraq and Afghanistan as they provide killed innocent civilians from more than half order and stability in liberated countries. a dozen countries, including our own, pro- Many are fighting on other fronts in the war vide a stark reminder that the war on terror against terror, and some brave Americans continues. Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 19 623

The enemies of freedom are not idle, and Remarks at a Welcoming Ceremony neither are we. Our Government is taking for President Gloria Macapagal- unprecedented measures to defend the Arroyo of the Philippines homeland. And from Pakistan to the Phil- May 19, 2003 ippines to the Horn of Africa, we are hunting down Al Qaida killers. So far, nearly one-half President Bush. Madam President, Attor- of Al Qaida’s senior operatives have been ney Arroyo, members of the Philippine dele- captured or killed. And we will remain on gation, Members of Congress, and distin- the hunt until they are all brought to justice. guished guests: On behalf of the American This Nation accepts the responsibilities of people, Laura and I welcome you to the keeping the peace. And the best way to keep United States. the peace is to make sure that our military This is the first state visit by the leader remains second to none. On this Armed of an Asian country during my administra- Forces Day, we are grateful to all who serve tion. You honor the American people with and sacrifice as members of the United your visit, because our two nations share spe- States Army, Navy, Coast Guard, Air Force, cial ties of history and friendship and family. and Marines. And we share a commitment to the defense Thank you for listening. of democracy and the advance of freedom. Just over a century ago, Americans and Filipinos worked side by side to liberate the NOTE: The address was recorded at 1:55 p.m. on Philippines. Nearly half a century later, in May 16 in the Cabinet Room at the White House a World War, our soldiers fought and died for broadcast at 10:06 a.m. on May 17. The tran- together in places like Bataan and Cor- script was made available by the Office of the regidor. And on this foundation of common Press Secretary on May 16 but was embargoed sacrifice, America and the Philippines built for release until the broadcast. In his remarks, the an alliance that remains strong, an alliance President referred to former President Saddam Hussein of Iraq. The Office of the Press Secretary that is essential to the peace of the Pacific. also released a Spanish language transcript of this In this new century, both our nations are address. threatened by terrorism, and we are deter- mined to fight that threat until it is defeated. Our diplomats and law enforcement and in- Statement on the Terrorist Bombings telligence officers are working arm-in-arm to in Casablanca, Morocco disrupt terror plots, to cut off terrorist financ- ing, and to bring the terrorists to justice. May 17, 2003 President Arroyo has welcomed American troops to train and advise their Philippine I strongly condemn the terrorist bombings counterparts in Philippine-led antiterror op- in Casablanca, Morocco, that have taken erations. And she has been a leader in build- many innocent lives. On behalf of the Amer- ing broader cooperation against terror ican people, I extend condolences to the fam- throughout the Asian Pacific region. ilies of the victims and our hopes for a quick Madam President, for all you have done recovery to those injured. to make our world safer, America thanks you. These acts of murder show, once again, Last week’s terrorist attacks in Saudi Ara- that terrorism respects no boundaries nor bia that killed innocent civilians from the borders. Casablanca is a city well-known for United States, the Philippines, and many its tolerance and its diverse range of religious other nations remind us that the war on ter- and ethnic communities. ror continues. The world’s free nations have These acts demonstrate that the war the courage and the determination to fight against terror goes on. Morocco is a close this war, and together we will defeat the friend of the United States, and we offer as- forces of global terror. sistance to the Government of Morocco to President Arroyo also recognizes the threat help track down and bring to justice those posed by weapons of mass destruction. And responsible. she spoke with strength and conviction of the 624 May 19 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 need to disarm the Iraqi dictator and to lib- The President’s News Conference erate the Iraqi people. Now the Philippines With President Macapagal-Arroyo of is helping Iraq take its place among free na- the Philippines tions by sending military police and medical personnel. The President and I both recog- May 19, 2003 nize that a free and secure Iraq is good for President Bush. Thank you all very much. the Philippines, is good for America, and is Please be seated. Welcome. We’ll have some good for the world. opening statements. The President and I will We share great goals in the world. We are answer some questions, two apiece per side. committed to opening markets in Asia and We’ll alternate. around the world to bring more people into It is my honor to welcome President Ar- an expanding circle of development and royo back to the White House. We took of- prosperity. And we are committed to adding fice on the same day over 2 years ago, and the moral and material resources of our we have worked closely ever since. President countries to the global fight against poverty Arroyo is a friend of America and a friend and hunger and disease. of freedom. I appreciate her strength. I ap- Partnership between our nations is sus- preciate her courage. And I appreciate you tained by the friendship between our peo- being here today, Madam President. ples. More than 2 million Americans trace The relationship between the Philippines their ancestry back to the Philippines, and and the United States is stronger today than they enrich our national life. Many Filipino at any time in our recent history. Our alliance Americans serve in our military, and I’m helps ensure the security of both our coun- proud to recognize one of them today. Army tries. This is a vital alliance. And I was Lieutenant General Edward Soriano is one pleased to inform President Arroyo that the of the highest ranking Filipino Americans in United States plans to designate the Phil- the history of America’s military. He brings ippines as a major non-NATO ally. This step pride to both our countries, and we honor will allow our countries to work together on his service in the cause of freedom. military research and development and give The Philippines was the first democracy the Philippines greater access to American in Asia and has a proud tradition of demo- defense equipment and supplies. cratic values, love of family, and faith in God. The President and I also discussed devel- President Arroyo, you are carrying this tradi- opments in Iraq. I appreciate her strong sup- tion forward, and I’m proud to call you port for the disarmament and liberation of friend. Today the First Lady and I are hon- that country. I’m also grateful that the Phil- ored to welcome you and Attorney Arroyo ippine Government plans to commit military to America and to the White House. police and medical personnel to assist in the Mabuhay! reconstruction of Iraq. The Philippines and the United States are NOTE: The President spoke at 9:11 a.m. on the strong allies in the war on terror. The murder South Lawn at the White House, where President of citizens from both our countries last week Macapagal-Arroyo was accorded a formal wel- in Saudi Arabia reminds us that this war is come with full military honors. In his remarks, far from over. The Philippine Government President Bush referred to Jose Miguel Arroyo, husband of President Macapagal-Arroyo; and is strongly committed to defeating terrorists former President Saddam Hussein of Iraq. The operating in its own part of the world, such transcript released by the Office of the Press Sec- as the Abu Sayyaf group. retary also included the remarks of President The United States is committed to helping Macapagal-Arroyo. The Office of the Press Sec- when asked. President Arroyo and I reviewed retary also released a Spanish language transcript last year’s highly successful deployment of of these remarks. U.S. troops to the southern Philippines, and we agreed to a similar deployment in the Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 19 625 near term, in which U.S. forces would sup- We became closer with the war on terror port Philippine-led antiterror operations. because the Philippines is one of the first The President and I also reviewed the de- countries to join this war on terror. And the velopments with the Moro Islamic Liberation reason why we did it is that we in the Phil- Front, MLIF. That group must abandon the ippines know what it is to suffer from the path of violence. If it does so and addresses hands of terrorism. We know the pain of ter- its grievances through peaceful negotiations, rorism. And we are with you in your leader- then the United States will provide diplo- ship against terrorism, wherever it may be matic and financial support to a renewed found. There may be others who might feel peace process. tainted or hostile about U.S. leadership in My country welcomes President Arroyo’s the war against terrorism. We believe that commitment to improve the capacity of the the U.S. leadership and engagement with the Philippine Armed Forces, and we are pre- U.S. makes the world a safer place for all pared to help. We have agreed to launch a of us to live in. comprehensive review of Philippine security But this trip is not just about terrorism, requirements and how the United States can it’s about fighting poverty. Poverty and ter- best support Philippine military moderniza- rorism are twin evils that we must fight. For tion and reform. In addition, we are prepared the Philippines, we consider the U.S. a stra- to help Philippine forces address their most tegic partner not only in security matters but pressing needs, such as mobility, equipment, also in the economy, in the fight against pov- and spare parts. erty. I appreciate the support President Bush Our countries have a strong economic rela- has announced with regard to our security tionship, and America supports President assistance and also with regard to our eco- Arroyo’s program of economic reform. We nomic assistance and economic cooperation agreed to launch an initiative to make it easi- with each other. er and less costly for Filipino workers in America to send remittances back to the Phil- And in other meetings that we will be hav- ippines. I also informed President Arroyo ing with American officials, with multilateral that the United States will be extending new agencies that are based in Washington, DC, benefits to World War II veterans from the and with the U.S. private sector, there will Philippines who fought side by side with be other developments related to this visit American forces to defend freedom. that I’m sure will enhance our relationship Finally, I’m honored to accept President with each other even more. Arroyo’s generous invitation to visit the Phil- There’s been a lot of work in preparation ippines this fall, when I intend to travel to for this state visit. I was supposed to come Southeast Asia for the APEC leaders meet- earlier. I was supposed to be here last March. ing. In the meantime, to keep our relation- President Bush. Right. ship moving forward, we’ll be sending other President Macapagal-Arroyo. And senior officers to Manila, starting with our we’ve been working on what we can have Energy Secretary, Spence Abraham. together in this state visit. But because we The Philippines and America are old postponed it and we didn’t know the date friends who are tackling a lot of new chal- of the state visit, because we didn’t know the lenges. Our relationship is strong; our rela- timetable for the war, there were many tionship is growing stronger. things that America already helped us with Madam President. in preparation for this state visit, even with- President Macapagal-Arroyo. Thank out a date. So we—I’d like to thank you, you, Mr. President. Thank you once again President Bush, for what we have been able for inviting me on this state visit. As I said to achieve before the state visit, what we are earlier, this shows how warm is the relation- achieving in this state visit, and what we will ship within our two countries. We’ve become be achieving afterwards, because of the closer because of the war on terror, but our deeper relationship that we have entered closeness is certainly rooted in our deep and into, culminated in this wonderful visit of long shared history. ours to your country. 626 May 19 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

President Bush. Madam President, thank alliances and these friendships to make sure you. that we make the world more secure. We’ll start off with Tom [Tom Raum, As- President Macapagal-Arroyo. Well, sociated Press]. there’s been great progress in the war on ter- ror. But certainly, it is not yet over. The Al War on Terror Qaida and its sister terrorist organizations are Q. For both Presidents, do the recent sui- finding their way not only in Africa, not only cide—the recent terror bombings, including in the Middle East but also in Southeast Asia. the ones in Morocco and Saudi Arabia, sug- And as we have seen, therefore, terrorism gest that Al Qaida is regrouping and back knows no borders. And that’s why, while each in business? And if so, is there a chance that country must take greater responsibility for we overestimated the damage that we did to its own economic and political security, it is the organization? also important that we enhance our regional President Bush. First of all, I have said and international cooperation in this war this is going to be—always said this is going against terrorism. to be a long war, that—not only a long war, a new kind of war. We’re trying to chase Filipino-U.S. Relations down people who hide and move around in Q. Just to get direct quotes from both the dark corners of the world, and they plot, Presidents, I’d like to know exactly how the and they plan, and then they pop up and war against terrorism has affected the U.S.- kill. They don’t care about innocent life. And Philippine relations, and how you intend to we’re making progress. I mean, we are, slow- nurture this relationship beyond what is mili- ly but surely, dismantling the Al Qaida oper- tary and for a more prolonged and sustained ational network. period. But we’ve got a lot of work to do, which President Macapagal-Arroyo. Well, as I means we’ve got to continue to work together said earlier, it’s made the U.S. and the Phil- to share information, cut off money, share ippines closer to each other. And for me, be- intelligence, and hunt these people down and cause in the beginning of my term, of my get them before they get us. And that’s why tenure, we were fighting a lonely fight against I appreciate President Arroyo’s leadership. the terrorists in southwestern Philippines, I She’s tough when it comes to terror. She fully felt that when we formed the global coalition understands that in the face of terror you’ve against terrorism, then we were no longer got to be strong, not weak. She knows, like alone. The world came to know how bad ter- I know, that the only way to deal with these rorism is, something we have known for a people is to bring them to justice. You can’t long time. And the world came to help us, talk to them. You can’t negotiate with them. because in the international coalition, we You must find them, and that’s precisely what started to help one another. our alliance is continuing to do. I welcome the support of the world, and And so I’m pleased with progress we’ve I welcome the support of the U.S. in our made, but I will continue to warn the Amer- war against terrorism. ican people, like I’ve been doing for a long President Bush. Yes, I remember right time, that this is still a dangerous world we after September the 11th, President Arroyo live in. Clearly, the attacks in Saudi Arabia called me, and there was no doubt in my mean that we’ve got to be on alert here at mind where she stood. It was more than the home, that we’ve got to be diligent, that condolence call. It was a let’s-get-after-them we’ve got to understand there’s an Al Qaida call. And I knew that we had—I had a strong group still actively plotting to kill. ally and friend when it came to chasing these We’re working on the clues out of Mo- people down, which is precisely what we rocco to determine whether there’s a direct have to do. And she knows that, and that’s connection between that Al Qaida operation the strategy she’s employed. and what happened in Morocco. Time will And so you asked a question about what tell. But the world is dangerous, which means this war on terror has meant for our relation- that we’ve got to continue to renew these ship. First and foremost, it meant that I’ve Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 19 627 got a great deal of respect for your President and activity of the terrorist killers who can’t and her courage and her willingness to fight stand peace. Europe must work with us to for security of the Philippine people and to do everything we can to discourage the ter- defend freedom. And she is a great example rorist activities that derail a process toward of leadership in a part of the world that is peace. a dangerous part of the world. No, the roadmap still stands. The vision As President Arroyo mentioned, not only of two states existing side by side in peace are there, obviously, actions around the Mid- is a real vision and one that I will work to- dle East and not only do we have to make ward. But we’ve got a lot of work to do to sure our own homeland is secure, but South- convince all of us who care about peace to east Asia is a dangerous part of the world step up and fight off terror, to cut off the too. And the Philippines have witnessed this money and to find these people and bring danger firsthand, and we’ll continue to work, them to justice. at her request, along the guidelines that are No, we’re still on the road to peace. It’s necessary in your Constitution, to work for just going to be a bumpy road. And I’m not freedom and security. going to get off the road until we achieve Tom—I mean Holland, Steve [Steve Hol- the vision. land, Reuters]. Excuse me. President Macapagal-Arroyo. Well, the Middle East Peace Process road to peace is really very difficult, but it’s very important that we cooperate. And in Q. Are you going to put the Middle East Southeast Asia, I would like to say that, in roadmap on hold in the wake of the latest addition, that if we are going to fight ter- bombings? Do you still have confidence in rorism successfully and achieve peace, what Prime Minister Abbas—— is important is that we work on it together President Bush. Yes, I’ve got confidence and we have a comprehensive approach, be- we can move the peace process forward. But cause terrorism will spread like a contagion. the bombings, the recent bombings—I It will spread like SARS if we don’t address mean, Prime Minister Sharon is fixing to the poverty that represents the breeding come over here, and of course, there are ter- grounds for terrorism. rorists who want to disrupt the visit by bomb- In the Philippines, terrorism thrives and ing and killing. It’s clear there are people there that still cannot stand the thought of gets its recruits, not coincidentally, in the peace. And therefore, it reminds—it gives provinces that are the poorest, in the region me a chance to remind people in the region, that is the poorest in our country. That is if you’re interested in moving the peace proc- why I appreciate the support of President ess, join us in fighting terror. Bush not only for the security assistance in And I still believe that we need to—not the war against terrorism but also in the ef- only believe, I will move the process forward. forts to fight poverty and the socioeconomic But it is clear that the process is not going ills that plague southern Philippines espe- to be smooth so long as terrorists kill. And cially. it’s a stark reminder that there are killers who That is our roadmap to peace. Every re- can’t stand the thought of peace. And it’s sad, gion has its specific roadmap to peace. We and it’s pathetic. But—and therefore, we have some roadmaps in common; we have must all work together—and I say ‘‘we,’’ some that are specific to us. But for our re- those of us who care for peace. People in gion, it is a comprehensive approach. And the Palestinian Authority who care for peace I appreciate President Bush for under- must work with us to fight off terror. People standing the comprehensive approach and in Israel who care for peace will work with helping us through it. us to fight terror. The countries in the region President Bush. Final question. Do you that long for a peace process must under- care to call on somebody, Madam President? stand that what’s more important than proc- Q. I was about to ask about the economic ess is results, and that we’ve got to work to- side of it—— gether to cut off the funding and the support President Macapagal-Arroyo. Yes. 628 May 19 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Filipino-U.S. Relations were comfortable middle-class citizens. And Q. ——but both of you have already so one of the things you’ve got to do is to spelled it out in details. Anyway, Mr. Presi- make sure we distinguish between hate and dent Bush mentioned, and please comment poverty. on this, Mrs. President, about the non- Secondly, trade is an important aspect of NATO—designate the Philippines as a non- helping to create the conditions necessary for NATO status—— people to rise out of poverty. And we talked President Bush. Right. about our trade relationship. An aspect of Q. ——and about the MILF—your offer poverty is food, and we talked about our Ag- of assistance in the MILF problem, because ricultural Departments working together for we have poverty problem there now. the Food for Peace program and the inter- President Bush. Well, my offer of assist- change along that. In other words, all up and ance, it depends upon the MLIF choosing down—energy we talked about—all up and peace as a peaceful reconciliation of issues. down the different aspects of our society, we If they continue to want to use terror and had meaningful discussions. Not only in the force, we will be involved to the extent that Cabinet Room but prior to this and after this the President invites us to be involved, within day, our Secretaries, respective Secretaries, the Constitution of the Philippine Govern- will continue to interface to create the condi- ment. tions necessary for prosperity to reign. And the other part of the question? The other thing that’s important is the Q. Non-NATO status. Philippine Government must also assume President Bush. Non-NATO status, yes. their responsibilities. And I was very im- That puts the Philippines right up there with pressed by the discussions on tax reform. The Australia, Egypt, Israel. These are major non- President put out a bold initiative. I was most NATO allies, which means it will be easier pleased that the Speaker and the head of the for us to answer requests on military equip- Senate were here in Washington, DC, and ment, to provide parts and equipment to they were very receptive, it seemed like to make sure that the defense capabilities of the me, to some of the tax proposals that the Philippine military are modern and the chop- President laid out, to make sure that the pers fly, choppers are maintained, choppers budget of the Philippine Government is move, when the President orders up a strike, more efficient in collecting the revenues due it happens quickly. All this does is facilitate to the Government. And so, in other words, the capacity to interact with each other on it’s a comprehensive approach, and it’s one a better basis, on a priority basis. we spent a lot of time discussing. Secondly, the other thing I talked about President Macapagal-Arroyo. With re- was a comprehensive review of—and that gard to poverty, I don’t see poverty only as just means our military is going to be in- a means to fight terrorism. Fighting poverty volved with your military, the Philippine mili- is an end in itself. So I agree with President tary, in such a way as to determine needs Bush. It’s not poverty that causes terrorism. and assess whether or not we’ve got the ca- Terrorism breeds on poverty, and poverty pacity to help meet those needs. breeds on terrorism. They reinforce each Q. And the poverty problem? other, and that’s why we must fight them to- President Bush. And the poverty prob- gether. lem—listen, this Nation is committed to And I came to Washington not just about dealing with poverty. First, let me make it terrorism but fighting poverty for its own— very clear, poor people aren’t necessarily kill- for the sake of the fight. And I believe that ers. Just because you happen to be not rich many of the things that we have worked on doesn’t mean you’re willing to kill. And so together are things that fight poverty and, it’s important to understand—people are sus- incidentally, fight terrorism. But even if there ceptible to the recruitment by these extrem- were no terrorism, they certainly fight pov- ists, but I refuse to put a—put killers into erty and are—do the better for our country. a demographic category based upon income. For instance, the GSP privileges that we’ve After all, a lot of the top Al Qaida people been able to enjoy. Since my last visit with Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 19 629

President Bush, we’ve been able to have— cussed the full range of global and bilateral we’ve been able to enjoy about a billion dol- issues and reaffirmed the depth and breadth lars a year, and again, reinforced now, in GSP of ties between the United States and the privileges. And if we get to include things Republic of the Philippines. The Presidents like carrageenan in the GSP list, as we are agreed that relations are deeper and warmer negotiating now, that’s going to give a lot of today than at any time in recent history and work to all those people in the coastal areas noted that those ties are rooted in shared his- of Mindanao, especially the areas which I tory, shared values, and a common interest said are the poorest provinces in our country. in global peace and prosperity. President And then another example of getting to- Bush and President Macapagal-Arroyo paid gether in the fight against poverty is working tribute to a revitalized and maturing bilateral also on investments. And one of the things alliance and pledged to strengthen the part- that we talked about is—and one of the nership further in the years ahead. things that we’ll be getting together on would The two leaders noted with satisfaction be more insurance, OPIC insurance for U.S. that the U.S.-Philippine alliance continues to investments in the Philippines. So that’s play a vital role in ensuring mutual security, going to create more jobs. as it has since the signing of the U.S.-Phil- And President Bush talked about the re- ippine Mutual Defense Treaty over 50 years mittances of our OFWs. I hope that in 3 to ago. In recognition of this proud history and 6 months a study can be done and our OFWs continued partnership, the President an- can be—our overseas Filipinos can begin to nounced his intention to designate the Phil- send the remittances with these reduced ippines as a Major Non NATO Ally (MNNA). costs. And based on the Mexican experience, This step will allow the two countries to work the costs can go down by as much as $300 together on military research and develop- million a year. And that’s going to provide ment and give the Philippines greater access a lot of income to the Filipinos back home, to American defense equipment and sup- and the commensurate jobs that they can plies. President Bush thanked President provide. Macapagal-Arroyo for her strong and un- So all of these things are important in themselves. And incidentally, they also help equivocal support in the Iraq campaign and us to fight poverty—poverty and terrorism expressed appreciation for the Philippine at the same time. government’s plans to deploy peacekeeping President Bush. Thank you all very much. and medical personnel to assist in Iraq’s re- construction. The two Presidents reaffirmed NOTE: The President’s news conference began at their shared commitment to a free Iraq at 11:45 a.m. in the East Room at the White House. peace with its neighbors. The two leaders In his remarks, he referred to Prime Minister also agreed that North Korea’s nuclear weap- Ariel Sharon of Israel; Jose de Venecia, Jr., Speak- ons program is unacceptable and stressed er of the Philippines House of Representatives; that North Korea’s relations with the Asia- and Franklin M. Drilon, President, Senate of the Pacific region hinge on the verifiable and ir- Philippines. A reporter referred to Prime Minister Mahmoud Abbas (Abu Mazen) of the Palestinian reversible elimination of nuclear weapons ca- Authority. pability. President Macapagal-Arroyo expressed the view that the world had changed on Sep- Joint Statement Between the United tember 11, 2001 and that conflict in Iraq had States of America and the Republic been another milestone in the war on terror. of the Philippines She noted that across Asia, there is a growing May 19, 2003 capability and readiness to cooperate on maintaining peace and stability in this new President George W. Bush today wel- environment, and emphasized that the comed President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to United States’ leadership and strategic pres- the White House on the occasion of her State ence in the region are essential for the con- visit to Washington. The two leaders dis- tinuation of this positive trend. President 630 May 19 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Bush welcomed this perspective and reiter- States will train and equip a Philippine engi- ated that Asia remains a major focus of U.S. neering unit capable of performing civic ac- foreign policy. tion and humanitarian projects in conflict President Bush praised President zones. Macapagal-Arroyo’s leadership and strength President Bush condemned recent ter- in confronting terrorism in the Philippines rorist acts in the southern Philippines. Presi- and beyond and reaffirmed the U.S. commit- dent Arroyo appreciated the economic assist- ment to support Philippine efforts to defeat ance recently allocated by the United States terror in all its forms. The two leaders re- Congress to support peace in Mindanao. viewed recent progress in the war on terror President Bush stated that the United States but agreed that this effort is far from over, stands ready to provide diplomatic and finan- as demonstrated by the May 12 terrorist at- cial support to a renewed peace process with tack in Riyadh, in which both American and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), Philippine citizens were killed and wounded. provided that the MILF renounced terror. President Arroyo welcomed the additional The two Presidents agreed that the U.S.- counterterrorism security assistance for the Philippine security partnership has never Philippines in the fiscal year 2003 supple- been healthier and emphasized the impor- mental budget. President Bush emphasized tance of U.S. support for continuing efforts that the United States would continue to pro- to improve the capabilities of the Armed vide significant security assistance, training, Forces of the Philippines (AFP). Toward that equipment, and law enforcement assistance end, the two Presidents agreed to launch a to support the Philippines in the war on ter- comprehensive review of Philippine security ror, as appropriate. needs and how best the United States can Recalling last year’s highly successful de- support President Macapagal-Arroyo’s plans ployment of U.S. troops to the southern Phil- to modernize and reform the AFP. President ippines, the two leaders noted with satisfac- tion that the terrorist Abu Sayyaf Group Bush committed to help address the AFP’s (ASG) had been driven substantially from the most pressing needs, particularly in the area island of Basilan, enabling the restoration of of mobility, by providing helicopters and peace and order. The two Presidents re- spare parts. President Macapagal-Arroyo affirmed their commitment to destroy the thanked President Bush for his promise of ASG once and for all. Toward that end, Presi- assistance and pledged her government’s full dent Bush and President Macapagal-Arroyo support for, and participation in, the more agreed to hold another joint military activity comprehensive review. in the near term, in which the United States The two Presidents expressed great pride will provide support to ongoing Armed in the robust economic and trade ties that Forces of the Philippines-led operations bind the United States and the Philippines, against the ASG. as evidenced by annual bilateral trade ex- The two leaders agreed on the need for ceeding $18 billion and cumulative direct a comprehensive approach to defeating ter- private investment of $3.5 billion. The lead- rorism in Southeast Asia, recognizing that ers reviewed progress in implementing Presi- terrorism knows no borders. The Presidents dent Bush’s Enterprise for ASEAN Initiative, agreed on the need for efforts to alleviate which is aimed at generating sustained eco- poverty and other socio-economic grievances nomic growth in Southeast Asia. They wel- which can create conditions that can be ex- comed the revival of the bilateral Trade and ploited by terrorists. President Arroyo ex- Investment Framework Agreement and pressed appreciation for increased U.S. eco- agreed to resolve issues identified in its nomic and development assistance to the Trade and Investment Council consultations. southern Philippines, which reinforces the President Arroyo welcomed the U.S. decision Philippine Government’s own efforts to heal to provide tariff-free Generalized System of divisions in Philippine society. To advance Preferences (GSP) benefits to specific prod- this agenda, President Bush informed Presi- ucts requested by the Philippines and the dent Macapagal-Arroyo that the United offer of additional technical and capacity Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 19 631 building assistance on the protection of intel- operation, noting that cooperation in these lectual property rights. three areas is a priority for both countries. President Bush commended President President Bush was pleased to accept Macapagal-Arroyo for her steadfast leader- President Macapagal-Arroyo’s invitation to ship in pursuing needed economic reforms pay a reciprocal visit to the Philippines when in the Philippines, noting in particular her he travels to Southeast Asia for APEC in ‘‘Strong Republic’’ agenda aimed at rooting 2003. The two leaders agreed that to main- out corruption, expanding economic oppor- tain momentum in the bilateral relationship, tunity, and alleviating poverty. President other senior U.S. officials will travel to Ma- Bush welcomed President Arroyo’s deter- nila in the coming months, beginning soon mination to pursue reforms in revenue col- with Secretary of Energy Abraham and con- lection, energy privatization, and intellectual tinuing thereafter with senior officials from property rights protection. They further the Department of Treasury and the Agency noted their shared hope that current and for International Development (AID). continuing reforms will strengthen the Phil- NOTE: An original was not available for ippines’ eligibility for participation in the verification of the content of this joint statement. President’s Millennium Challenge Account (MCA) in the future. The two Presidents highlighted the re- Remarks at a State Dinner Honoring markable contributions of Filipinos and Fili- President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo pino-Americans to American economic life. of the Philippines Recognizing the important role that the over May 19, 2003 7 million overseas Filipino workers play in the Philippine and global economies, Presi- Welcome. Madam President, Attorney Ar- dent Bush announced that the United States royo, it is a high honor for Laura and me is launching a project to facilitate the flow to welcome you and host you at the White of remittances from Filipino workers around House. Madam President, I know you at- the world back to the Philippines. The two tended college here in Washington, so per- leaders agreed that this project would im- haps I ought to say welcome back or, as they prove the lives of millions of Filipinos by low- say at Georgetown, Hoya Saxa. [Laughter] With your visit, the Philippines and the ering the costs of remittance transactions and United States affirm our strong friendship, making it easier for funds to flow to the Phil- our common commitment to fighting terror, ippines from the United States and around and our shared determination to promote the world. freedom. The two Presidents reviewed with pride Our nations are natural partners. We are the contributions made by Philippine World connected by an ocean, united by a shared War II veterans who gave so much in defense history, and sustained by the bonds of family of freedom. President Bush announced his and culture. More than 2 million Americans intention to support legislation extending have family ties to the Philippines. And some new benefits for Commonwealth Army vet- are with us tonight, and you’re welcome. Fili- erans and guerrillas who lawfully reside in pino Americans strengthen America’s cul- the United States. He also announced con- ture, our economy, and our Government. tinuing efforts to improve medical care for And we are privileged that they call this Filipinos veterans in the Philippines by pro- country their home. viding medical equipment to the Veterans The United States and the Philippines are Memorial Medical Center in Quezon City in also joined by common values, especially the the 2004 fiscal year. value of human freedom. And when freedom Presidents Bush and Macapagal-Arroyo comes under attack, our countries respond. looked forward to the May 20 signing by Sec- Madam President, you’ve been a fierce retaries Powell and Ople of agreements on fighter of terrorism in your own country. assistance for Mindanao, law enforcement You’ve earned the respect of the American cooperation, and science and technology co- people for your resolve. And after September 632 May 19 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 the 11th, you were one of the first leaders Message to the Congress to contact me and express your strong sup- Transmitting a Report on Trade and port for the war against terror, and you have Investment Policy for Sub-Saharan not wavered. Africa and Implementation of the The President was also a strong and per- African Growth and Opportunity Act suasive voice on the need to disarm Saddam May 19, 2003 Hussein and to liberate the Iraqi people. Madam President, for your leadership and To the Congress of the United States: for your friendship, I thank you. Consistent with title I of the Trade and Seventeen years ago, the Filipino people Development Act of 2000, I am providing restored their nation’s democratic tradition a report prepared by my Administration enti- and inspired lovers of freedom across the tled ‘‘2003 Comprehensive Report on U.S. globe. In the years since, the Philippines has Trade and Investment Policy for Sub-Saha- emerged as a stronger and more confident ran Africa and Implementation of the African nation. The Philippines is building its pros- Growth and Opportunity Act.’’ perity on the foundation of markets and George W. Bush building its future on a foundation of democ- The White House, racy. These commitments are opening new May 19, 2003. opportunities for the Filipino people and set- ting a hopeful example for other nations trav- NOTE: This message was released by the Office eling the road to freedom. of the Press Secretary on May 20. President Arroyo is playing a large role in her nation’s success. Her bold and deter- Remarks on the Healthy Forests mined leadership has opened a new chapter Initiative in the friendship between our countries and May 20, 2003 is responsible for revitalizing our strong alli- ance. Thanks for coming, and good morning. I In his last poem, Jose Rizal, one of the welcome you all to the White House, and founders of the Filipino independence, re- I’m pleased all of you could be here to sup- ferred to his native land as the ‘‘Pearl of the port the preservation of a great American Orient Seas.’’ More than a century later, this treasure, our forests. ‘‘pearl’’ is admired the world over for its Nine months ago, I stood at the scene of beauty, its progress, and its wonderful peo- Squires Peak fire in Oregon. On one side ple. of a dirt road, where small trees and under- Madam President, it will be my pleasure brush had been removed before the fire to visit the Philippines later this year, with rolled through, the forest was green and alive. On the other side of the road, where you as my host. And Laura and I and the a similar thinning project had been stalled American people are honored to have you by lawsuits, the landscape was charred, and and your husband as our guests here tonight. the trees looked like matchsticks. The con- Would you please join me in a toast to the trast between these two sides of the forest enduring friendship between the Philippines was startling, and it was tragic. and the United States. Active forest management could have saved both areas. It could have saved millions NOTE: The President spoke at 8:33 p.m. in the more acres across America from the devasta- State Dining Room at the White House. In his tion of severe forest fires and insect damage. remarks, he referred to Jose Miguel Arroyo, hus- Yet, for too many years, bureaucratic tangles band of President Macapagal-Arroyo; and former and bad forest policy have prevented for- President Saddam Hussein of Iraq. The transcript esters from keeping our woodlands healthy released by the Office of the Press Secretary also and safe. The cost to America has been high, included the remarks of President Macapagal-Ar- in the loss of lives and property and in the royo. destruction of woodlands and wildlife. Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 20 633

No region in America is immune to this work for the U.S. Forest Service across our problem. Wildfires, diseases, and insect in- country. festations threaten the habitat of animals and We’re lucky to have some Governors, par- diminish the quality of our water. And prob- ticularly out West, who understand practical, lems on public lands hurt private lands as sensible policy, people that are working hard well. After all, the problems can leap across to help the world realize that not all the boundary lines to destroy homes and farms smarts exist in Washington, DC, that there’s and ranches and, in some cases, towns. plenty capable people outside of the Nation’s The Healthy Forests Initiative that I an- Capital. And one such Governor is with us, nounced last summer is making American and that’s Judy Martz, who’s the chairperson woodlands more safe, acre by acre. As we of the Western Governors’ Association, the approach the start of fire season, we have Governor of Montana. Thank you, Judy, for a responsibility to do even more to protect coming. our forests, and we will meet that responsi- Plus, we’ve got some good people in the bility. People who understand the responsi- Congress who care about this issue, people bility we assume when we take office are on who work in a bipartisan fashion to get the the stage with me today, namely Secretary bill through. We’ve got Members of the Gale Norton and Secretary Ann Veneman. United States Senate who are here, strong And I want to thank them for their leader- leaders on this issue, starting with Senator ship. And I want to thank you for your work. Pete Domenici from the State of New Mex- As well, I appreciate Jim Connaughton, ico, Gordon Smith from the State of Oregon, who’s the Chairman of the Council on Envi- Larry Craig from the State of Idaho, and the ronmental Quality. That means he works in birthday boy, Senator Crapo—where are the White House and helps coordinate policy you? Congratulations, Mike, happy birthday. out of the White House. Jimmy is doing a fine job. I want to thank the Members of the On stage with me today is Andrea Gilham. House. The House is going to take this bill She’s the fire management officer for the Bu- up today, as I understand. I want to thank reau of Indian Affairs. Who she represents you all for working on this: Pombo, Good- are all the people on the frontline, the yellow latte, McInnis; Walden of Oregon; Sherry shirts. She represents the people who put Boehlert of New York has been a stalwart their lives at risk, sometimes because of bad in bringing factions together on the floor of forest policy. She represents the folks who the House, and I want to thank you for that, I got to meet after touring some of the fire Sherry, for your leadership; Gilchrest of areas, who had worked themselves into com- Maryland, Taylor of North Carolina, Renzi plete exhaustion because they were serving of Arizona, and Mike Ross of Arkansas, thank their neighbors, because they were risking you all for coming. I’m proud you all are life to protect others. She represents the best here. of America, and I want to thank you all for Last year, 23 firefighters died while bat- coming here today. tling disastrous forest fires. Our professional I also want to thank Rex Mann, who’s the firefighters take risk. We need to mitigate area commander for the U.S. Forest Service. those risks by sound policy. We need to be Rex is a well-organized fellow. He’s a smart smart about how we manage our forests. man. He understands sensible policy. After Those fires last year scorched 7 million acres, all, he’s made a career of trying to make sure more than double the average of the last 10 sensible policy came into being to prevent years. Major blazes burned in 15 States devastation of our forests. I met Rex at the across our country, destroyed 815 homes. It site of a tragic fire. I saw how well-organized cost the taxpayers about $1.6 billion of fire he was, and I saw the fact that he com- suppression. The economic impact of these manded a group of great professionals, and wildfires and of mismanaged forests is wide- those would be the U.S. Forest Service pro- spread. Hard-working Americans and the fessionals. And so, Rex, thank you for com- communities that count on healthy forests ing. And I want to thank all the people who are suffering. 634 May 20 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Since 1989, five Western States, Oregon, source management. She’s the kind of person Washington, Idaho, Montana, and California, that Congress needs to listen to. She knows have lost 47,000 timber jobs. Four hundred the cost of doing too little to prevent extreme mills have closed in those States. At present, wildfires. In 1990, she was working the this year’s fire outlook seems less severe, and frontlines of the Dude fire in Arizona’s Tonto that’s good news for the men and women National Forest on the day six firefighters who wear the yellow. Yet, the danger persists, died. Andrea says, ‘‘Everybody knows what and many of our forests are facing a higher we need to do. The longer we wait, the more than normal risk of costly and catastrophic likelihood a catastrophic wildfire is going to fires. The communities from Georgia to Cali- happen. Lives and property are at risk.’’ fornia that are at significant risk for those Everybody who’s in the field knows what fires need our help. And today we pledge we need to do. Everybody whose job it is it; we pledge our help. to protect America and the communities Wildfires in unnaturally overgrown forest from wildfires know what we need to do. The burn hotter and spread faster than normal Forest—many in the Forest Service know fires. And their effects on the environment what we need to do. Enough on the House can be devastating. The fires sterilize soils floor, I hope, know what we need to do. and trigger soil erosion. They decimate our We’ve just got to make sure that enough Sen- forests, killing even giant sequoias that have ators know what we need to do to propose survived centuries of smaller fires. They de- and get through the Healthy Forests Initia- stroy the habitats of endangered species. Last tive. year, the fire in Hayman, Colorado, damaged And the initiative I’ve laid out is beginning the habitat of several species, for example, to make sense. We’ve begun to cut through including the Mexican spotted owl. the bureaucratic redtape, and there’s a lot One reason for these deadly fires is found of redtape here, as the people on the front- in decades of well-intentioned but misguided line can tell you. Since 2000, the Federal forest policy which has allowed dangerous Government has more than doubled the undergrowth to build up on the forest floor. amount of money budgeted for firefighting— During seasonal droughts, these small trees and that is good—for firefighting and fire and underbrush act as ladders for fires to prevention. For ’04, we budgeted an 8-per- reach to the tops of our oldest and tallest cent increase. And I want to thank the Mem- trees. They make forests vulnerable to insect bers of the Congress and the Senate who are infestation and disease. working with us on that project, to make sure Sound science shows that we can prevent we’ve got enough money to let these good such fires by managing forests with con- folks do what they’re supposed to do, on be- trolled fire, cleaning out the underbrush, and half of communities all across the country. thinning the areas that are vulnerable to in- This year, we’ve reduced the undergrowth tense fires and insect attacks. This is common that fuels fires on more than 1.3 million acres sense, and it is the consensus of scientists, of forest and rangelands. That was nearly wildlife biologists, forestry professionals, and twice as many as were treated in the year firefighters, the very people who have dedi- 2001. We’re moving at a record pace. We’ve cated their lives to keeping our forests still got a long way to go. There’s a lot more healthy and our community safe. work to do. One-hundred-and-ninety-five This is policy that came from the grass- million acres are vulnerable to devastating roots to the White House. We’ve asked ex- forest fires. For the sake of our forests and perts on how best to deal with the problem. for the sake the communities, we’ve got to See, we see a problem, and we want to deal act quickly, and that’s why we’ve gathered with it for the good of the country. here. Andrea Gilham is a fire management offi- I appreciate the Congress’ hard work on cer and a member of the Blackfeet Tribe in the ‘‘Healthy Forests Restoration Act.’’ I ap- Browning, Montana. She has been fighting preciate the House moving the bill today. I fires since she was 19 years old, 2 years ago. urge Congress to get it done, to get it to my [Laughter] She has a degree in forest re- desk as quickly as possible. The bipartisan Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 20 635 bill—and I emphasize ‘‘bipartisan bill’’— And the situation is dire across America. builds on the success of the Healthy Forests We need to listen to the voices of reasoned Initiative. It sets the goal of thinning trees people. We need to get the politics out of and cleaning out underbrush and restoring this, and we need to focus on what’s best the health to 20 million acres. I hope Con- for America, is what we need to do. We need gress says, when we’re successful in the 20 to bring people together, for the sake of our million, we need to get after the 175 million forests, for the sake of those who work to more acres. see that our forests are healthy, for the sake This bill sets priorities for forest manage- of those who sacrifice to fight the fires. That’s ment by authorizing work in the areas that what we need to do here in Washington, DC. are closest to rural communities and work We need less bickering, less politics, and where there’s the greatest risk for environ- more sound, commonsense policy. And that’s mental damage. It’s a practical piece of legis- what we’re talking about right here today. lation. It’s good, commonsense environ- And the reason why that is necessary is mental policy, is what we’re talking about. because our forests are a treasure, and we The ‘‘Healthy Forests Restoration Act’’ are their stewards. We must preserve them. helps the people closest to the problem by We must protect the people and commu- allowing local citizens to help plan projects nities who depend on them. We must fulfill for nonprofit, for profit, and for stewardship our promise to the next generation—that’s groups. And these citizens can benefit eco- what we must do—and leave behind a world nomically from selling the smaller trees that as blessed and as beautiful as the one our are cleared out from the forests. parents left us. Local citizens can be great allies in the ef- Thank you for your interest in this impor- fort to protect our forests. Ron Bell is with tant subject. May God bless your work, and us today—where are you, Ron? There he is. may God continue to bless the United States Hi, Ron—thought you would have gotten a of America. Thank you. better seat. [Laughter] He spent 22 years in the Army before coming home to manage NOTE: The President spoke at 10:55 a.m. in the his family cattle and tree farm near Bates- Jacqueline Kennedy Garden at the White House. ville, Arkansas. About 6 years ago, when Ron The Office of the Press Secretary also released noticed the health of the forest in his area a Spanish language transcript of these remarks. deteriorating from insect infestation, he de- cided to do something about it. Ron, his wife, and their two sons spent an entire winter Statement on House of cleaning out the diseased and lower-quality Representatives Action on the trees that were crowding out the taller trees Proposed ‘‘Healthy Forests in his 40-acre forest. Restoration Act of 2003’’ When he was finished, the forest was May 20, 2003 healthier. The bugs were gone, and he had made about $15,000 from the sale of the un- Today’s action by the House on the dergrowth that he cleared away. Today he ‘‘Healthy Forests Restoration Act of 2003’’ belongs to a group of nearly 200 landowners is an important step toward implementing in central Arkansas who are working to man- the kind of active forest management that age their woodlands and to keep the bugs is good for both the environment and our out. Ron says some of the landowners who economy. It will save lives and the national live near national forest areas are worried be- treasure of our great forests, with their wild- cause the Government moves too slowly in life, trees, waters, habitat, and other natural treating our own forests. Here’s what he says: resources. ‘‘The conditions are preventable with a little I urge the Senate to act quickly on this bit of management. You don’t just have to much needed legislation. As this year’s fire throw up your hands. There are times you season progresses, we must equip Federal need to get in there quickly, when the situa- land managers with the tools they need to tion is dire.’’ protect lives and communities, restore forest 636 May 20 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 health, and safeguard habitat and water- ready to become officers in our Nation’s old- sheds. est continuous seagoing service. You have shown each day that you ‘‘revere honor’’ and that you ‘‘honor duty.’’ You have made your Radio Remarks to the People of families, your professors, and your country Cuba on Cuban Independence Day proud. On behalf of the American people, May 20, 2003 thank you for choosing a life of service, and congratulations on a great achievement. Today, Cubans around the world celebrate I bring with me a small graduation present. May 20th, Cuban Independence Day. On be- Pursuant to the longstanding tradition, I half of the people of the United States, I send greetings to the Cuban community. My hope hereby grant amnesty to all cadets on restric- is for the Cuban people to soon enjoy the tion for minor conduct offenses. [Laughter] same freedoms and rights that we do. Dicta- I leave it up to Admiral Olsen to determine torships have no place in the Americas. May the definition of ‘‘minor.’’ [Laughter] God bless the Cuban people who are strug- Coast Guard Academy life is demanding, gling for freedom. Thank you. and it should be because you are entrusted with solemn responsibilities in peace and in NOTE: The President’s remarks were recorded in war. America counts on the Coast Guard to Spanish at 9:50 a.m. on May 16 in the Cabinet enforce maritime law, to secure our water- Room at the White House for later broadcast on ways and ports, to rescue those in distress, Radio Marti. The Spanish language transcript and and to intercept illegal drugs. In this new an English translation were released by the Office of the Press Secretary on May 20. This text follows century, we will count on you even more. the English translation. The men and women of this class are the first ever to graduate into the Department of Homeland Security, which is charged with Commencement Address at the protecting the American people against ter- United States Coast Guard Academy rorist attacks. You are bringing a long tradi- in New London, Connecticut tion of duty to this new and urgent tasks. May 21, 2003 Terrorists who seek to harm our country now face your ‘‘Shield of Freedom.’’ Every citizen Thank you very much. Thanks for the can be grateful that the Coast Guard stands warm welcome. Admiral Collins and Admiral watch for America. Olsen, Secretary Ridge, Lieutenant Gov- The Coast Guard is also playing a vital role ernor Rell, Mr. President—I’m glad you’re in America’s strategy to confront terror be- here; thank you for coming, sir—Congress- fore it comes to our shores. In the Iraqi the- man Simmons, the fine professors of the U.S. ater, Coast Guard cutters and patrol boats Coast Guard Academy, distinguished guests, and buoy tenders and over a thousand of your proud family members, and the graduates, finest active duty and reserve members pro- thank you for your welcome, and thank you tected key ports and oil platforms, detained for the honor of speaking to the newest offi- Iraqi prisoners of war, and helped speed the cers of the United States Coast Guard. You know, I was born in this State, just delivery of relief supplies to the Iraqi people. down the road. [Laughter] I’ve still got rel- Many have returned safely to port, and many atives living here. [Laughter] And it looks like remain on duty in the Persian Gulf. All have some of them were up late last night painting helped to liberate a great people, and all have Pride Rock. [Laughter] brought a great credit to the uniform of the This is a proud day for the Class of 2003. United States Coast Guard. I know you’ve worked hard to get here. In Iraq, America’s military and our allies You’ve persevered through the rigors of carried out every mission and exceeded every Swab Summer. You’ve faced difficult trials expectation. Heavy units of armor and infan- in the classroom, aboard Eagle. And now, try moved with speed and agility that kept with silver dollars in your pockets, you’re the enemy in a state of constant surprise and Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 21 637 deadly confusion. Airstrikes and cruise mis- ated continents and concentration camps. siles destroyed the power centers and meet- We are the Nation of the Marshall plan, the ing places of the regime, while targets were Berlin airlift, and the Peace Corps. We are carefully examined to protect the innocent the Nation that ended the oppression of Af- from harm. Our forces confronted an enemy ghan women, and we are the Nation that that rejected every rule of warfare and moral- closed the torture chambers of Iraq. ity, but our men and women in uniform America’s national ambition is the spread showed their decency and kept their honor. of free markets, free trade, and free societies. In a month of battle, American armed serv- These goals are not achieved at the expense ices set an example of skill and daring that of other nations; they are achieved for the will stand for all time. benefit of all nations. America seeks to ex- America will not relent in the war against pand not the borders of our country but the global terror. We will hunt the terrorists in realm of liberty. every dark corner of the Earth, and we’re Our vision is opposed by terrorists and ty- making good progress. Nearly one-half of Al rants who attack a world they can never in- Qaida senior operatives have been captured spire. This vision is also threatened by the or killed. We will deny the terrorists the sanc- faceless enemies of human dignity, plague, tuary and bases they need to plan and strike, starvation, and hopeless poverty. And Amer- as we have done in the battle of Afghanistan. ica is at war with these enemies as well. We will not permit terror networks or terror The advance of freedom and hope is chal- states to threaten or blackmail the world with lenged by the spread of AIDS. Today, on the weapons of mass destruction, as we have continent of Africa, nearly 30 million people shown in the battle of Iraq. Our country has are afflicted with HIV/AIDS, including 3 mil- been attacked by treachery in our own cities, and that treachery continues in places like lion children under the age of 15. The Afri- Riyadh and Casablanca. We have seen the can Continent has lost 7 million agricultural ruthless intentions of our enemies. And they workers. In some countries, almost a third are seeing our intentions: We will press on of the teachers are HIV-positive. A 15-year- until this danger to our country and to the old boy living in Botswana has an 80-percent world is ended. chance of dying of AIDS. It is a desperate Yet, the national interest of America in- struggle for any person or any nation to build volves more than eliminating aggressive a better future in the shadow of death. threats to our safety. We also stand for the Yet, this shadow can be lifted. AIDS can values that defeat violence and the hope that be prevented, and AIDS can be treated. overcomes hatred. We find our greatest secu- Lives can be saved, and others extended by rity in the advance of human freedom. Free many years. In my State of the Union Ad- societies look to the possibilities of the fu- dress in January, I put forward an Emergency ture, instead of feeding old resentments and Plan for AIDS Relief directing $15 billion bitterness. Free countries build wealth and over the next 5 years to fight AIDS abroad. prosperity for their people in an atmosphere And we will especially focus our efforts on of stability and order, instead of seeking 14 African and Caribbean nations where weapons of mass murder and attacking their HIV/AIDS is heavily concentrated. neighbors. Because America loves peace, I’m pleased that both Houses of Congress America will always work and sacrifice for have now passed a bill authorizing these the expansion of freedom. funds. I look forward to signing the bill next The advance of freedom is more than an week. The Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief interest we pursue. It is a calling we follow. is the largest single upfront commitment in Our country was created in the name and history for an international public health ini- cause of freedom. And if the self-evident tiative involving a specific disease. truths of our founding are true for us, they With this dramatic expansion of America’s are true for all. As a people dedicated to civil efforts, we will prevent 7 million new HIV rights, we are driven to defend the human infections, treat at least 2 million people with rights of others. We are the Nation that liber- life-extending drugs, and provide humane 638 May 21 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 care for 10 million HIV-infected individuals join, not hinder, the great cause of ending and AIDS orphans. hunger in Africa. When I travel to Europe next week, I will We must also give farmers in Africa, Latin challenge our allies to make a similar com- America, and Asia and elsewhere a fair mitment which will save even more lives. I chance to compete in world markets. When will remind them that the clock is ticking, wealthy nations subsidize their agricultural that every single day 8,000 more people will exports, it prevents poor countries from de- die from AIDS in Africa. There will be veloping their own agricultural sectors. So I 14,000 more infections. I will urge our Euro- propose that all developed nations, including pean partners and Japan and Canada to join our partners in Europe, immediately elimi- a great mission of rescue and to match their nate subsidies on agricultural exports to de- good intentions with real resources. veloping countries so that they can produce The advance of freedom and hope in the more food to export and more food to feed world is also challenged by an ancient enemy, their own people. famine. Our world produces more than The advance of freedom is also under- enough food to feed its 6 billion people. Yet mined by persistent poverty and despair. tens of millions are at risk of starvation, and Half the human population lives on less than millions more lack water fit for drinking. This $2 a day. Billions of men and women can crisis also is concentrated in Africa. We have scarcely imagine the benefits of modern life the ability to confront this suffering, and we because they have never experienced them. accept the duty as old as the Scriptures to For decades, many governments around comfort the afflicted and to feed the hungry. the world have made sincere and generous America is already the largest provider in efforts to support global development. Far the world of food relief, giving more than too often, these funds have only enriched $1.4 billion in global emergency food aid and corrupt rulers and made little or no dif- one-half of all contributions to the World ference in the lives of the poor. It’s time for Food Program. And we are determined to governments of developed nations to stop do more. I’ve committed to a nearly $1 bil- asking the simplistic question: How much lion initiative to provide clean drinking water money are we transferring from nations that to 50 million people in the developing world. are rich? The only question that matters is: I’ve also asked Congress to provide $200 mil- How much good are we doing to help the lion for a new famine fund, which will give people that are poor? The only standard us the flexibility to act quickly when the first worth setting and meeting is the standard of signs of famine appear. I call on other nations results. to follow our lead by establishing their own The lesson of our time is clear: When na- emergency funds. By saving time in respond- tions embrace free markets, the rule of law, ing to crisis, we will save lives. and open trade, they prosper, and millions We can also greatly reduce the long-term of lives are lifted out of poverty and despair. problem of hunger in Africa by applying the So I have proposed the creation of a new latest developments of science. I have pro- Millennium Challenge Account, an entirely posed an Initiative to End Hunger in Africa. new approach to development aid. This By widening the use of new high-yield money will go to developing nations whose biocrops and unleashing the power of mar- government are committed to three broad kets, we can dramatically increase agricul- standards: They must rule justly; they must tural productivity and feed more people invest in the health and education of their across the continent. people; and they must have policies that en- Yet, our partners in Europe are impeding courage economic freedom. this effort. They have blocked all new To fund this account, I have proposed a biocrops because of unfounded, unscientific 50-percent increase in America’s core devel- fears. This has caused many African nations opment assistance over the next 3 years. to avoid investing in biotechnologies, for fear Under this proposal, our annual development that their products will be shut out of Euro- assistance eventually will be $5 billion greater pean markets. European governments should than it is today. I urge the Congress to give Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 21 639 its full support to the Millennium Challenge the great ideals of America. And by these Account. And when I’m in Europe, I will call efforts we will build a lasting, democratic on America’s partners to join us in moving peace for ourselves and for all humanity. beyond the broken development policies of Congratulations. May God bless the Class the past and encourage the freedom and re- of 2003. May God continue to bless the form that lead to prosperity. United States of America. Semper paratus. These goals—advancing against disease, hunger, and poverty—will bring greater se- curity to our country. They are also the moral NOTE: The President spoke at 11:37 a.m. at Nel- purpose of American influence. They set an son W. Nitchman Field. In his remarks, he re- ferred to Adm. Thomas H. Collins, USCG, com- agenda for our Government, and they give mandant, U.S. Coast Guard; Rear Adm. R.C. idealistic citizens a great cause to serve. Olsen, Jr., USCG, superintendent, United States President Woodrow Wilson said, ‘‘America Coast Guard Academy; Lt. Gov. M. Jodi Rell of has a spiritual energy in her which no other Connecticut; and President Thomas E. nation can contribute to the liberation of Remengesau, Jr., of Palau, who presented a com- mankind.’’ In this new century, we must mission to the first Coast Guard Academy grad- apply that energy to the good of people ev- uate from Palau. The Office of the Press Secretary erywhere. also released a Spanish language transcript of this For more than four decades, the volun- address. teers of the Peace Corps have carried the good will of America into many parts of the world. Interest in this program is greater than Statement on the Resignation of ever before. I’m determined to double the Christine Todd Whitman as size of the Peace Corps over the next 5 years. Administrator of the Environmental Today I would like to announce a new USA Protection Agency Freedom Corps initiative called Volunteers for Prosperity, which will give America’s May 21, 2003 highly skilled professionals new opportunities Christie Todd Whitman is a trusted friend to serve abroad. The program will enlist and adviser who has worked closely with me American doctors and nurses and teachers to achieve real and meaningful results to im- and engineers and economists and computer prove our environment. specialists and others to work on specific de- velopment initiatives, including those that I Christie Todd has been a dedicated and have discussed today. These volunteers will tireless fighter for new and innovative poli- serve in the countries of their choice for how- cies for cleaner air, purer water, and better ever long their project takes. Like genera- protected land. tions before us, this generation of citizens In just over 2 years, we have acted in a will show the world the energy and idealism comprehensive way to reduce pollution from of the United States of America. diesel fuel sources and implemented an inno- I see that idealism in the faces of our sol- vative initiative to better protect our water diers and sailors and airmen and marines. I quality and watersheds. We are cleaning up see that idealism in the faces of this Academy abandoned industrial sites and turning them class. The men and women of the Coast into assets for the communities in which they Guard are ‘‘always ready’’ to defend the secu- are located. We are also making great rity of this Nation. You are ‘‘always ready’’ progress on the Clear Skies Initiative that I to rescue those in trouble. These two com- outlined to significantly reduce pollution mitments define your mission, and they de- from powerplants by 70 percent. fine America’s role in history. We understand Christie Todd Whitman has served my ad- that strength is necessary to confound the ministration exceptionally well. I thank her designs of evil men. And we know that the for her outstanding service to our Nation and compassion and generosity of this land can wish her well as she returns home to New aid the suffering and inspire the world. We Jersey. will use the great power of America to serve 640 May 21 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Proclamation 7680—National of America at sea, they also help protect our Maritime Day, 2003 homeland. May 21, 2003 In recognition of the importance of the U.S. Merchant Marine, the Congress, by By the President of the United States joint resolution approved on May 20, 1933, of America as amended, has designated May 22 of each year as ‘‘National Maritime Day,’’ and has A Proclamation authorized and requested that the President Today, as in the past, America depends on issue an annual proclamation calling for its our maritime services to help ensure our se- appropriate observance. curity, promote our prosperity, and advance Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, the universal hope of freedom. We honor the President of the United States of America, service and proud history of our merchant do hereby proclaim May 22, 2003, as Na- mariners and also recognize their important tional Maritime Day. I call upon the people contributions in strengthening our economy. of the United States to celebrate this observ- For generations, merchant marines and ance and to display the flag of the United commercial sailors have assisted in the de- States at their homes and in their commu- fense of our Nation. Most recently, more nities. I also request that all ships sailing than 5,000 merchant mariners supported Op- under the American flag dress ship on that erations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Free- day. dom by serving aboard 157 ships moving es- In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set sential supplies to our troops. As they con- my hand this twenty-first day of May, in the tinue to support our troops in the ongoing year of our Lord two thousand three, and war on terror, their mission continues to be of the Independence of the United States of dangerous and difficult, and remains vital to America the two hundred and twenty-sev- our efforts to defend the peace. enth. We also remember the vital role the Mer- chant Marine has played in past conflicts. George W. Bush More than 6,000 merchant mariners lost their lives during World War II, and more [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:45 a.m., May 23, 2003] than 700 U.S. merchant ships were lost. Even before the United States declared war, mer- NOTE: This proclamation will be published in the chant mariners were making perilous runs to Federal Register on May 27. Europe with desperately needed supplies. President Franklin Roosevelt, the first Presi- dent to issue a proclamation honoring mer- Remarks at the 2003 President’s chant mariners, wrote of their role during Dinner wartime: ‘‘They have delivered the goods May 21, 2003 when and where needed in every theater of operations and across every ocean in the big- Thank you all. Thanks for the warm wel- gest, the most difficult and dangerous trans- come. It’s always nice to have a nice quiet portation job ever undertaken.’’ We are dinner with a few friends. [Laughter] Can’t grateful for the contributions and sacrifices tell you how much we appreciate you com- of America’s merchant mariners before and ing, though. after World War II, in Korea, Vietnam, the First I want to thank my friend George Persian Gulf, and around the world today. Allen for putting together this fine event. I In addition to their efforts to support our want to thank all those who’ve helped. I par- troops, merchant marines play a vital role in ticularly want to thank all of you all for com- moving the goods that we produce around ing from all across the great country. Thank the United States and throughout the world. you for your support. It makes a huge dif- Their work provides jobs and economic ben- ference to our ‘‘Grand Party.’’ Your participa- efits to our country, and strengthens our tion in the process makes a great difference economy. By operating as the eyes and ears to our great country. Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 21 641

All of us who serve this country have im- can no longer hide behind the innocent, the portant responsibilities. You’ve got respon- world will be a more peaceful place. The ter- sibilities at home to love your children with rorists will have fewer places to hide. Tyrants all your heart and all your soul. You’ve got will no longer be free to enslave their people. responsibilities in your communities to love Freedom has arrived in far corners of the a neighbor like you’d like to be loved your- Earth. self. If you’re a CEO in corporate America, Every friend of this country and every you have a responsibility to tell the truth to enemy of this country can be certain America your employees and shareholders. And we will always work to keep the peace, and we have responsibilities here in Washington, will always keep our word. DC, to work together to keep this Nation We’re working hard to change the tone in strong and secure and prosperous and hope- Washington, DC, and I believe we have. ful, and we accept that responsibility. We’ve raised the debate to focus on results I appreciate so very much the Speaker of and progress, and we’re achieving great re- the House, Denny Hastert. He is such a good sults for the American people. One reason Speaker. We want to keep him as the Speak- we’re able to do so is because I put together er. And the same goes for the majority leader a fabulous team. To the Cabinet members in the United States Senate, Senator Bill here, I want to thank you for your service. Frist. It is a joy to work with these two fabu- But I do want to mention one member of lous Americans. my team that is not with us tonight but is I’m also honored to be on the—sharing doing a fabulous job for America, and that’s the stage with the Senate dinner chairman, the finest Vice President our Nation has ever Senator Orrin Hatch from Utah; the chair- known, Vice President Dick Cheney. man of the National Republican Campaign Committee from the State of New York, Now, my mother may have a different Congressman Tom Reynolds; the House din- point of view—[laughter]—but I got the ner chairman, Congressman Dave Camp mike. [Laughter] from Michigan. I want to thank all the Sen- The Vice President and members of the ators and Members of the House of Rep- Cabinet and everybody else who works for resentatives who are here. America is fortu- me is resolved to keep the vow we made to nate to have you—your service on behalf of restore honor and dignity to the office of the all of us. President of the United States. I want to thank the members of the Cabi- And I’m proud of the United States Con- net who are here. I want to thank the Oak gress. The Congress is focused on results, Ridge Boys for sharing their beautiful voices. and they have delivered tremendous results Most of all, I want to thank you all for sup- for the American people: Major tax cuts so porting us and what we’re doing for the coun- the working people can keep more of their try. own money; education reform; Homeland For the last 21⁄2 years, this country has Security Department to better secure Amer- faced incredible challenges, and those chal- ica; trade legislation. No, this Congress, in- lenges brought out the best in America. The stead of endless bickering and needless par- testing of America has revealed the spirit of tisanship, has focused on what’s—doing right America. The world has seen that we are cou- for the American people. And I’m proud of rageous, resolute, tough when we have to be, what you all have done. and a compassionate people. The world has We’ve come a long way in 21⁄2 years, but seen the strength and the idealism of the we’ve got a lot more work to do. We’ve got United States military. Thanks to the skill and a lot to do. First, America is committed to courage of our troops and the technology of expanding the realm of freedom and peace our military, the world has seen that the for our own security and for the benefit of guilty have more to fear from the United the world. And second, in our own country States of America. we must work for a society of prosperity and Thanks to the skill and bravery of our compassion, so that every citizen has a troops and coalition forces, because the guilty chance to work and succeed and realize the 642 May 21 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 great promise of the United States of Amer- months ahead is to strengthen this economy, ica. to create the conditions for job growth, and Across the world it has never been more to provide economic security and oppor- clear that the future of freedom and peace tunity for all our American citizens. Pros- depend on the actions of the United States. perity is the result of hard work and the This Nation is freedom’s home and defender. dreams of the American people. The role of We welcome this charge of history, and we Government is not to create wealth but the will keep it. environment in which work and entrepre- As we saw again last week in Saudi Arabia neurship pay off. and in Morocco, the war on terror continues. Republican Members of the House and Our work is not done. The enemies of free- Senate understand that. Each body has now dom are not idle, and neither are we. This passed additional tax relief to leave more country will not rest. We will not tire. We money into the hands of the American peo- will not stop until the danger to civilization ple. See, we understand this: The money we is removed. talk about in Washington, DC, is not the Our national interest involves more than Government’s money. The money we talk eliminating aggressive threats to our safety. about in Washington, DC, is the people’s Our greatest security comes from the ad- money. vance of human liberty, because free nations Chairman Thomas in the House and do not support terror. Free nations do not Chairman Grassley in the Senate are working attack their neighbors. Free nations do not hard to reconcile any differences, and I’m threaten the world with weapons of mass confident they’ll be able to do so and get murder. As Americans, we believe that free- a package to my desk that I can sign into dom is the deepest need and hope of every law. The Members of the House and the human heart. And we believe that freedom Senate are results-oriented people. When is the right of every person and the future they see a problem, they act. We want every- of every nation. body in America who wants to work to be America also understands that unprece- able to find a job. dented influence brings tremendous respon- Economic security also depends on a good sibilities. We have duties in the world. When education for every child. I came to Wash- we see disease, starvation, and hopeless pov- ington with a deep desire to pass funda- erty, we cannot and we will not turn away. mental reforms in education, to bring high On the continent of Africa, America is now standards, accountability, regular testing to committed to bringing the healing power of every public school in America. With a solid medicine to millions of men and women and bipartisan majority, we passed the No Child children who suffer from AIDS. Left Behind Act. This is a good start, but I want to thank the United States Con- it’s only a start. And now we’re working with gress. I want to thank the House, once again, Governors and chief school officers of every for voting for the package today to make sure State to make reform a reality. Every child that the great compassion of America is felt can learn the basics of reading and math, and in some of the most hopeless corners of the every school must teach those basics. The world. I want to thank Henry Hyde and Dick days of excuse-making are over, and now we Lugar and Bill Frist, who guided this impor- expect results in every classroom, so that not tant legislation through both Houses, a piece one single child in America is left behind. of legislation which I look so forward to sign- We can use our past success as a model ing next week before I go overseas. And for meeting other priorities currently before when I go overseas, I will remind our part- the Congress. Members of the Congress are ners in Europe about our great heart, our working with us now to strengthen and mod- great compassion, and call upon them to join ernize Medicare, to give seniors more health us in this great work. care choices and access to prescription drugs. We have challenges at home, and there’s All of us on the Federal payroll get a choice not doubt in my mind we are equal to those in health care plans. Seniors ought to have challenges. Our most urgent mission in the the same choices. If choice is good enough Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 22 643 for Federal workers, it is good enough for into the world; a culture which says, ‘‘You the seniors in America. have a responsibility to help a neighbor in Together, we’ve been working to cut down need.’’ on frivolous lawsuits and pass meaningful We can see the culture of service and re- medical liability reform. People who have sponsibility is rising around us in America. been mistreated by doctors deserve a day in We started what’s called USA Freedom court. Yet the system should not reward law- Corps, where response has been fantastic. yers fishing for large settlements. The med- Our fellow citizens from all walks of life, all ical liability issue is a national problem that political parties, have joined in making sure requires a national solution. The House has that people who hurt receive the love and passed a good bill, and the Senate should affection they need. Our faith-based charities follow suit. are strong and vibrant in America. We’ve got I also continue to work with the Congress people who are willing to sacrifice on behalf to pass a comprehensive energy plan to less- of others, those who wear the uniform, the en our dependence on foreign oil. police and the firefighters. We’ve got people We must also advance our agenda of com- who are now serving in their communities passionate conservatism. We have a responsi- and being held up as examples—positive ex- bility to apply the best, most innovative ideas amples—so that children can learn the mean- to the task of helping our fellow citizens in ing, the real meaning of hero. No, America’s need. We must continue to work for mean- culture is changing and changing to the bet- ingful, real welfare reform, to bring work and ter. dignity into the lives of more and more It is such an honor to be the President Americans. The Congress should finish work of a great country. Our Nation has faced on a faith-based bill to support the armies mighty challenges over 21⁄2 years. We’ve of compassion, for mentoring children and been endured terrorist attacks, yet we have caring for the homeless and offering hope grown stronger. We’ve led the world in the to the addicted. fight against terrorism. We freed a great peo- I appreciate the hard work of Orrin Hatch ple from a ruthless dictator and eliminated and Bill Frist to make sure that our judiciary the threat posed to world peace. functions properly. I have submitted superb We met every challenge, and we will meet nominations to our Federal courts. The con- every challenge that comes, because this is firmation process in the United States Senate the greatest country on the face of the Earth. should be about justice, not about empty pol- And the reason it is, is because of the great itics. strength and compassion of the American We have a full agenda for America, and people. a clear and optimistic vision for our future. It is such an honor to be here. May God We believe in an ownership society. We want bless you all, and may God bless America. Americans to own their own health plan. We want Americans to be able to start their own NOTE: The President spoke at 7:20 p.m. at the Washington Convention Center. In his remarks, businesses. We want more families to own he referred to Senator George Allen of Virginia, homes. We want people to be owning a piece chairman, National Republican Senatorial Com- of their retirement, so that every person has mittee; and entertainers the Oak Ridge Boys, who the dignity and independence that come sang the national anthem. from ownership, assets and property that they can call their own. We also have a vision for a responsibility Remarks Following a Meeting With society. We’re changing the culture in this Congressional Leaders country, from one that has said, ‘‘If it feels May 22, 2003 good, just go ahead and do it,’’ and ‘‘If you’ve got a problem, blame somebody else.’’ The President’s Legislative Agenda culture is shifting to one in which people The President. I just had a great meeting know they’re accountable for what they do, with Members of the House and Senate. The they’re responsible for children they bring Vice President and I came up to congratulate 644 May 22 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 the Speaker and the leader on a season of Remarks Announcing the accomplishment. We’ve got an obligation to Nomination of Joshua Bolten To Be help those who suffer. America’s a great, Director of the Office of strong country. We’re also a compassionate Management and Budget country. And I thank the Members of the House May 22, 2003 and Senate for passing an AIDS bill that will The President. Good morning. The Of- help the people of Africa, a really good piece fice of Management and Budget is one of of legislation, a great piece of work by the the most important agencies in our Govern- Speaker and the leader and other Members. ment. This agency has a central responsibility I also came to congratulate them on the for implementing the full range of this ad- soon-to-be passage of an economic jobs-and- ministration’s agenda, from growing the growth bill. This is a Congress which is able economy and creating jobs to ensuring a to identify problems facing the American strong national defense and a secure home- people and get things done. These are can- land. I depend on the OMB Director to keep do people, and I’m real proud of the work a watchful eye on the taxpayers’ money, to they’ve done. reform the operations of our Government, I look forward to signing the economic re- to make them better managed, more ac- covery bill soon. The principle of the bill is countable, and driven by results. pretty simple, that we believe the more I also depend on the Director to provide money people have in their pockets, the honest and thorough information on the state more likely it is somebody is going to be able of our budget and to offer sound advice as to find work in America. In other words, the we carry out our national priorities. For this more money somebody has, it means some- essential position, today I nominate one of body is more likely to demand a good or a my closest and most trusted advisers, Joshua service, which means somebody will produce Bolten. a good or a service, which means somebody For more than 4 years, first in Austin and is likely to find work. now in Washington, I have counted on Josh This bill I’m going to sign is good for for his knowledge, his clear thinking, and his American workers. It is good for American sound judgment. From his work in the pri- families. It is good for American investors, vate sector and practice of law in the invest- and it’s good for American entrepreneurs and ment banking world, Josh has a broad per- small-business owners. These two bodies are spective on commerce and international fixing to go on a well-deserved break. And economy. From his experience in both the when they come back, we’re going to work executive branch and on Capitol Hill, Josh together on reforming of Medicare. Bolten understands the workings of the Fed- Q. Mr. President? eral Government as well as anybody in this The President. And furthermore— city. And most important, from his tenure [laughter]—thank you for your time. [Laugh- as my Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy, Josh ter] Thank you. knows the philosophy and priorities of my administration. NOTE: The President spoke at 9:34 a.m. outside Josh Bolten is brilliant. He is tireless. He the House Chamber at the Capitol. In his re- remains calm in any storm. He is a man of marks, he referred to Senate Majority Leader Bill complete integrity. No member of my staff Frist of Tennessee. has served with greater skill or earned greater respect amongst his colleagues than Josh Bolten. I’m honored that he’s agreed to join my Cabinet. Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 22 645

When confirmed by the Senate, Josh will selves, rejoin the world economy, and remain take over from a superb public servant, Mitch at peace with their neighbors. The nations Daniels. Mitch has watched over the budget of the world have demonstrated their unity with a sharp eye and the common sense of in their commitment to help the Iraqi people a strong executive. He’s insisted on good on their path toward a better future. management of the people’s money. He’s The Security Council’s resolution affirms done his job with great energy and consistent that the United Nations will have an appro- good humor. I have a feeling that Mitch’s priate vital role in Iraq’s reconstruction and days in the public service are not over. I want transition to a new government. It establishes to thank Mitch for serving our country so a strong and important framework for many very well. nations to participate in these activities. I And now I’m pleased to introduce my look forward to the Secretary-General’s ap- choice as the next Director of the Office of pointment of a Special Representative as we Management and Budget, Josh Bolten. work together to help Iraq recover from [At this point, Joshua Bolten made brief re- three decades of brutal dictatorship. I also marks.] look forward to the establishment of an Iraqi The President. Thank you all. Thank you Interim Administration that is broadbased all very much. and represents all of Iraq’s people so that Iraqis can participate as quickly and as fully NOTE: The President spoke at 9:58 a.m. in the as possible in the revitalization of their coun- Oval Office at the White House. The transcript try. released by the Office of the Press Secretary also The United States and its coalition part- included the remarks of Director-designate Bolten. ners will remain in Iraq as long as necessary to help put Iraq on the path toward democ- racy, with a united, representative govern- Statement on the Earthquake in ment that respects human rights and the rule Algeria of law. We call on all countries to join in May 22, 2003 helping the Iraqi people achieve this goal as quickly as possible. On behalf of the American people, I ex- tend condolences to the people of Algeria for the terrible losses caused by yesterday’s Statement on House of earthquake. I was deeply saddened to learn Representatives Passage of an of the hundreds of deaths, the many injuries, Unemployment Insurance Extension and the major damage in towns east of Al- May 22, 2003 giers and in the capital city. Our prayers are for the victims, their families, and the entire I commend the House of Representatives Algerian nation. The United States stands for passing an unemployment insurance ex- ready to help. tension that will continue important addi- tional assistance for American workers as our Statement on United Nations economy recovers. Combined with action on Security Council Action To Lift the jobs-and-growth package, Congress has Sanctions on Iraq taken important steps to help America’s un- employed workers. I also urge Congress to May 22, 2003 pass legislation to create the innovative Re- Today’s unanimous vote by the United Na- employment Accounts I proposed to give tions Security Council adopting Resolution certain unemployed individuals additional 1483 to lift sanctions on Iraq will help the benefits and incentives to find work. I look Iraqi people to rebuild their country and forward to signing these measures into law. work toward a more prosperous and secure future, one in which they will govern them- 646 May 22 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Executive Order 13303—Protecting Sec. 2. (a) As of the effective date of this the Development Fund for Iraq and order, Executive Order 12722 of August 2, Certain Other Property in Which 1990, Executive Order 12724 of August 9, Iraq Has an Interest 1990, and Executive Order 13290 of March May 22, 2003 20, 2003, shall not apply to the property and interests in property described in section 1 By the authority vested in me as President of this order. by the Constitution and the laws of the (b) Nothing in this order is intended to United States of America, including the affect the continued effectiveness of any International Emergency Economic Powers rules, regulations, orders, licenses or other Act, as amended (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.) forms of administrative action issued, taken, (IEEPA), the National Emergencies Act (50 or continued in effect heretofore or hereafter U.S.C. 1601 et seq.), section 5 of the United under Executive Orders 12722, 12724, or Nations Participation Act, as amended (22 13290, or under the authority of IEEPA or U.S.C. 287c) (UNPA), and section 301 of the UNPA, except as hereafter terminated, title 3, United States Code, modified, or suspended by the issuing Fed- I, George W. Bush, President of the eral agency and except as provided in section United States of America, find that the threat 2(a) of this order. of attachment or other judicial process Sec. 3. For the purposes of this order: against the Development Fund for Iraq, Iraqi (a) The term ‘‘person’’ means an individual petroleum and petroleum products, and in- or entity; terests therein, and proceeds, obligations, or (b) The term ‘‘entity’’ means a partnership, any financial instruments of any nature what- association, trust, joint venture, corporation, soever arising from or related to the sale or group, subgroup, or other organization; marketing thereof, and interests therein, ob- (c) The term ‘‘United States person’’ structs the orderly reconstruction of Iraq, the means any United States citizen, permanent restoration and maintenance of peace and se- resident alien, entity organized under the curity in the country, and the development laws of the United States or any jurisdiction of political, administrative, and economic in- within the United States (including foreign stitutions in Iraq. This situation constitutes branches), or any person in the United an unusual and extraordinary threat to the States; national security and foreign policy of the United States and I hereby declare a national (d) The term ‘‘Iraqi petroleum and petro- emergency to deal with that threat. leum products’’ means any petroleum, petro- I hereby order: leum products, or natural gas originating in Section 1. Unless licensed or otherwise Iraq, including any Iraqi-origin oil inven- authorized pursuant to this order, any attach- tories, wherever located; and ment, judgment, decree, lien, execution, gar- (e) The term ‘‘Development Fund for nishment, or other judicial process is prohib- Iraq’’ means the fund established on or about ited, and shall be deemed null and void, with May 22, 2003, on the books of the Central respect to the following: Bank of Iraq, by the Administrator of the Co- (a) the Development Fund for Iraq, and alition Provisional Authority responsible for (b) all Iraqi petroleum and petroleum the temporary governance of Iraq and all ac- products, and interests therein, and pro- counts held for the fund or for the Central ceeds, obligations, or any financial instru- Bank of Iraq in the name of the fund. ments of any nature whatsoever arising from Sec. 4. (a) The Secretary of the Treasury, or related to the sale or marketing thereof, in consultation with the Secretary of State and interests therein, in which any foreign and the Secretary of Defense, is hereby au- country or a national thereof has any interest, thorized to take such actions, including the that are in the United States, that hereafter promulgation of rules and regulations, and come within the United States, or that are to employ all powers granted to the President or hereafter come within the possession or by IEEPA and the UNPA as may be nec- control of United States persons. essary to carry out the purposes of this order. Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 22 647

The Secretary of the Treasury may redele- petroleum and petroleum products, and in- gate any of these functions to other officers terests therein, and proceeds, obligations, or and agencies of the United States Govern- any financial instruments of any nature what- ment. All agencies of the United States Gov- soever arising from or related to the sale or ernment are hereby directed to take all ap- marketing thereof, and interests therein. propriate measures within their statutory au- A major national security and foreign pol- thority to carry out the provisions of this icy goal of the United States is to ensure that order. the newly established Development Fund for (b) Nothing contained in this order shall Iraq and other Iraqi resources, including relieve a person from any requirement to ob- Iraqi petroleum and petroleum products, are tain a license or other authorization in com- dedicated for the well-being of the Iraqi peo- pliance with applicable laws and regulations. ple, for the orderly reconstruction and repair Sec. 5. This order is not intended to, and of Iraq’s infrastructure, for the continued dis- does not, create any right, benefit, or privi- armament of Iraq, for the costs of indigenous lege, substantive or procedural, enforceable civilian administration, and for other pur- at law or in equity by a party against the poses benefiting the people of Iraq. The De- United States, its departments, agencies, en- velopment Fund for Iraq and other property tities, officers, employees, or agents, or any in which Iraq has an interest may be subject other person. to attachment, judgment, decree, lien, execu- Sec. 6. This order shall be transmitted to tion, garnishment, or other judicial process, the Congress and published in the Federal thereby jeopardizing the full dedication of Register. such assets to purposes benefiting the people George W. Bush of Iraq. To protect these assets, I have or- The White House, dered that, unless licensed or otherwise au- May 22, 2003. thorized pursuant to my order, any attach- ment, judgment, decree, lien, execution, gar- [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, nishment, or other judicial process is prohib- 11:28 a.m., May 23, 2003] ited, and shall be deemed null and void, with respect to the following: NOTE: This Executive order will be published in the Federal Register on May 28. (a) the Development Fund for Iraq, and (b) all Iraqi petroleum and petroleum products, and interests therein, and pro- Message to the Congress Reporting ceeds, obligations, or any financial instru- the Declaration of a National ments of any nature whatsoever arising from Emergency With Respect to the or related to the sale and marketing thereof, Development Fund for Iraq and interests therein, in which any foreign May 22, 2003 country or a national thereof has any interest, that are in the United States, that hereafter To the Congress of the United States: come within the United States, or that are Consistent with section 204(b) of the or hereafter come within the possession or International Emergency Economic Powers control of United States persons. Act, 50 U.S.C. 1703(b) (IEEPA), section 5 In addition, by my memorandum to the of the United Nations Participation Act (22 Secretary of State and Secretary of Com- U.S.C. 287c) (UNPA), and section 301 of the merce of May 7, 2003 (Presidential Deter- National Emergencies Act, 50 U.S.C. 1631, mination 2003–23), I made inapplicable with I hereby report that I have exercised my au- respect to Iraq section 620A of the Foreign thority to declare a national emergency to Assistance Act of 1961, Public Law 87–195, deal with the unusual and extraordinary as amended, and any other provision of law threat posed to the national security and for- that applies to countries that have supported eign policy of the United States by the threat terrorism. Such provisions of law that apply of attachment or other judicial process to countries that have supported terrorism against the Development Fund for Iraq, Iraqi include, but are not limited to, 28 U.S.C. 648 May 22 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

1605(a)(7), 28 U.S.C. 1610, and section 201 tions Act, 2002, I hereby request and make of the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act. available $250 million for the disaster relief I also have ordered that Executive Order program of the Department of Homeland 12722 of August 2, 1990, and Executive Security (DHS). Order 12724 of August 9, 1990, which These funds would allow DHS to continue blocked property and interests in property providing assistance for disasters in several of the Government of Iraq, its agencies, in- States, including the recovery from damaging strumentalities and controlled entities and winter storms on the East Coast and recent the Central Bank of Iraq that are in the tornado disasters in the Midwest. These United States, that hereafter come within the funds also would be available for ongoing re- United States, or that are or hereafter come sponse to prior disasters and to ensure that within the possession or control of United DHS has resources on hand to provide timely States persons, including their overseas response to future disasters. branches, and Executive Order 13290 of I designate these funds made available March 20, 2003, which confiscated and vest- today as an emergency requirement pursuant ed certain Government of Iraq accounts, to section 251(b)(2)(A) of the Balanced shall not apply to the Development Fund for Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act Iraq or to Iraqi petroleum or petroleum of 1985, as amended. products, and interests therein, and pro- The details of this action are set forth in ceeds, obligations, or any financial instru- the attached letter from the Director of the ments of any nature whatsoever arising from Office of Management and Budget. I concur or related to the sale and marketing thereof, with his comments and observations. and interests therein. Sincerely, I have delegated to the Secretary of the Treasury, in consultation with the Secretary George W. Bush of State and the Secretary of Defense, the authority to take such actions as may be nec- essary to carry out the purposes of the Execu- Proclamation 7681—Prayer for tive Order, including the promulgation of Peace, Memorial Day, 2003 rules and regulations. I have also authorized May 22, 2003 the Secretary of the Treasury to employ all powers granted to the President by IEEPA By the President of the United States and UNPA to carry out the purposes of the of America Executive Order. I am enclosing a copy of the Executive Order I have issued. A Proclamation George W. Bush On Memorial Day, America undertakes its solemn duty to remember the sacred list of The White House, brave Americans who have sacrificed their May 22, 2003. lives for the cause of freedom and the secu- rity of our Nation. By honoring these proud Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and Coast Letter to the Speaker of the House of Guardsmen lost throughout our country’s Representatives Transmitting a history, we renew our commitment to up- Contingent Emergency Request for holding the democratic ideals they fought the Department of Homeland and died to preserve. Security Each Memorial Day, we pray for peace May 22, 2003 throughout the world, remembering what was gained and what was lost during times Dear Mr. Speaker: of war. From the bravery of the men at Valley In accordance with provisions of Public Forge, to the daring of Normandy, the cour- Law 107–73, the Departments of Veterans age of Iwo Jima, and the steady resolve in Affairs and Housing and Urban Develop- Afghanistan and Iraq, our men and women ment, and Independent Agencies Appropria- in uniform have won for us every hour that Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 23 649 we live in freedom. During this year’s observ- to observe the National Moment of Remem- ance, we particularly recognize the coura- brance beginning at 3:00 p.m. local time on geous spirit of the men and women in our Memorial Day. I urge the press, radio, tele- Nation’s Armed Forces who are working with vision, and all other media to participate in our coalition partners to restore civil order, these observances. provide critical humanitarian aid, and renew I also request the Governors of the United Afghanistan and Iraq. As we honor those who States and the Commonwealth of Puerto have served and have been lost, we better Rico, and the appropriate officials of all units understand the meaning of patriotism and of government, to direct that the flag be citizenship, and we pledge that their sac- flown at half-staff until noon on this Memo- rifices will not be in vain. rial Day on all buildings, grounds, and naval Throughout our history, the decency, char- vessels throughout the United States, and in acter, and idealism of our military troops all areas under its jurisdiction and control. have turned enemies into allies and oppres- I also request the people of the United States sion into hope. In all our victories, American to display the flag at half-staff from their soldiers have fought to liberate, not to con- homes for the customary forenoon period. quer; and today, the United States joins with In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set a strong coalition in the noble cause of liberty my hand this twenty-second day of May, in and peace for the world. On this day, Amer- the year of our Lord two thousand three, and ica honors her own, but we also recognize of the Independence of the United States of the shared victories and hardships of our al- America the two hundred and twenty-sev- lied forces who have served and fallen along- enth. side our troops. The noble sacrifices of our service men George W. Bush and women will not be forgotten. Every name, every life is a loss to our military, to [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:48 a.m., May 27, 2003] our Nation, and to their loved ones. Ameri- cans stand with the families who grieve, and NOTE: This proclamation was released by the Of- we share in their great sorrow and great fice of the Press Secretary on May 23, and it will pride. There will be no homecoming on this be published in the Federal Register on May 28. Earth for those lost in battle, but we know that this reunion will one day come. In respect for their devotion to America, The President’s News Conference the Congress, by a joint resolution approved With Prime Minister Junichiro on May 11, 1950, as amended (64 Stat. 158), Koizumi of Japan in Crawford, Texas has requested the President to issue a procla- May 23, 2003 mation calling on the people of the United States to observe each Memorial Day as a President Bush. Welcome. I’m honored day of prayer for permanent peace and desig- to welcome my very good friend, the Prime nating a period on that day when the people Minister of Japan, to Crawford. He was a gra- of the United States might unite in prayer. cious host when I visited Japan, and Laura The Congress, by Public Law 106–579, has and I are pleased to return the hospitality. also designated the minute beginning at 3:00 We have met nine times during my Presi- p.m. local time on that day as a time for all dency. I know the Prime Minister well. I Americans to observe the National Moment trust his judgment. I deeply respect his lead- of Remembrance. ership. Our meeting today affirms the close Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, and unique relationship between our two na- President of the United States of America, tions. do hereby proclaim Memorial Day, May 26, For the past half-century, America has 2003, as a day of prayer for permanent peace, been committed to the security of Japan and and I designate the hour beginning in each to the stability and prosperity of the entire locality at 11:00 a.m. of that day as a time Asia Pacific region. Japan and the United to unite in prayer. I also ask all Americans States have a global alliance, a partnership 650 May 23 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 based on shared interests and a shared belief for anything less than the complete, in the cause of freedom. verifiable, and irreversible elimination of The Japanese Government demonstrated North Korea’s nuclear weapons program. its commitment to peace and freedom, along We discussed the fact that China has start- with America, that Saddam Hussein’s regime ed to play an important role in our efforts live up to its international obligations. I ap- to address this challenge. At talks held in Bei- preciate the Prime Minister’s strong leader- jing last month, China called on North Korea ship on Iraq as well as Japan’s diplomatic and to renounce nuclear weapons and live up to financial support for key regional states af- its agreements. The Prime Minister and I fected by the conflict. agreed that we must broaden these talks to Today Japan is committed to playing a include Japan and South Korea and, at some- leading role in Iraq’s long-term reconstruc- time later, perhaps others. We are confident tion, will also provide immediate assistance that our diplomatic approach will bring a for schools, medical supplies, and sanitation. peaceful solution. Yet we agreed that further Japanese forces will provide logistical support escalation of the situation by North Korea for humanitarian and reconstruction activi- will require tougher measures from the intel- ties. I thank the Prime Minister for his lead- ligence community. ership. Finally, I assured the Prime Minister that Around the globe, Japan and America are the United States will stand squarely with addressing threats to our common security Japan until all Japanese citizens kidnapped and meeting our common responsibilities. by North Korea are fully accounted for. I We are partners in the war on terror. In Af- strongly condemn the kidnapping of Japa- ghanistan, Japanese naval ships helped refuel nese citizens by the North Koreans. coalition vessels in the fight against the Nearly 150 years have passed since the Taliban. Today we’re working together to United States and Japan opened up diplo- complete a major highway that will help unify matic relations. Since then, we have gone Afghanistan, strengthen that country’s econ- from strangers to adversaries to the very best omy, and weaken the grip of the warlords. of friends. I look forward to building on our Our two nations are committed to the fight strong relationship to meet the challenge of against global poverty, hunger, and disease. our times. We are committed to completing the WTO Mr. Prime Minister. global trade negotiations, so we can advance Prime Minister Koizumi. I’d like to ex- prosperity around the world. press my heartfelt appreciation to the Presi- The Prime Minister and I also discussed dent and the First Lady for their heart- his policies for reinvigorating the Japanese warming welcome and hospitality. We were economy, including his plans for encouraging able to have in-depth and very candid discus- investment, corporate restructuring, and sions in a warm and friendly atmosphere. banking reform. I support the Prime Min- In the 150 years since the arrival of Com- ister’s efforts, and I support the Prime Min- modore Perry to the shores of Japan, we have ister’s reforms. A vibrant, dynamic Japanese developed into strong allies, and we’ve been economy is in America’s interest, and it is able to confirm those strong relations be- in the world’s interest. tween our two countries, not just in the con- Our two countries are also determined to text of a bilateral relationship but also in the confront the threat from weapons of mass global context. The Japan-U.S. security ar- destruction and the missiles used to deliver rangements are a pillar that supports our alli- them. The Prime Minister and I agree that ance. We decided to further promote con- we will deepen and accelerate our coopera- sultations between our Governments and to tion on missile defenses. make our cooperation in the security area On the threat from North Korea’s nuclear even stronger. program, the Prime Minister and I see the Ballistic missile defense is an important problem exactly the same way. We will not agenda in Japan’s defense policy, and Japan tolerate nuclear weapons in North Korea. We will further accelerate its consideration. In will not give into blackmail. We will not settle addition, we concurred on the importance of Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 23 651 reducing the burden on the people of Oki- President has been making in the Middle nawa. East. I shall be visiting Egypt and Saudi Ara- Now, the other pillar is the economy. The bia on this trip, and together with the Arab Japanese and U.S. gross domestic products countries, I would like to engage in efforts together would account for 40 percent of to reconstruct Iraq. global GDP. So it is vital for the world econ- The issue of North Korea’s nuclear weap- omy, not just the Japanese and U.S. econo- ons is a grave challenge to entire world. We mies but for the world economy, that the Jap- will not at all tolerate the possession, the de- anese and—or rather, it is vital for our two velopment, or the transfer of nuclear weap- countries as well as for the entire world econ- ons by North Korea. North Korea must omy that the Japanese and U.S. economies promptly and completely dismantle all nu- are healthy. clear weapons development programs in a And the most important mission of my verifiable manner, and we agreed that we Cabinet is to revitalize the Japanese econ- would resolve this issue peacefully. omy. And I have the support of President Coordination among Japan, the United Bush in my efforts to further accelerate States, and the Republic of Korea is crucial structural reforms. And to achieve that goal, to that end. Continuation of the multilateral I’ll tackle deflation. I shall never allow a fi- talks is important, and participation by Japan nancial crisis to occur. So, not just in the se- and the Republic of Korea is essential. Fur- curity area but also in the economic area, ther escalation of the situation by North and others as well, I would like to promote Korea would require tougher measures. further cooperation between our two coun- In any event, Japan will crack down more tries on various issues, from the perspective rigorously in illegal activities, and the North of Japan-U.S. alliance in a global context. Koreans will have to understand that threats We are determined in the pursuit of our and intimations will have no meaning whatso- fight against terrorism and proliferation of ever. It is extremely important for Japan to weapons of mass destruction. Now, of course, comprehensively resolve the various issues, we have different roles and different means including nuclear weapons, missiles, and ab- to play out those roles. But to root out ter- duction, based on the Pyongyang Declara- rorism, Japan and the United States should tion. And without the resolution of these continue with firm determination to join issues, normalization of relations will not their forces. occur. Now, on Iraq, the President made a dif- And I wish to express my sincere apprecia- ficult and brave decision for a just cause, and tion to the President for his strong support I supported this, and our decision was right. on the abduction issue. With Memorial Day coming up, I would like In any case, I would like to take this occa- to express my heartfelt condolences to the sion to express my heartfelt respect to the brave U.S. men and women in uniform who President for the strong leadership he has sacrificed their lives for the cause as well as exerted since the 9/11 terror attacks the year to their families. before last as well as the strong determina- I welcome the adoption of Security Coun- tion he showed in addressing—as a wartime cil Resolution 1483. And I saw eye-to-eye President. And I would like to say that Japan with President Bush that we shall continue will, as much as possible, strive with the to cooperate with each other in order to build United States for world peace and stability. up international cooperation. Japan will ac- Yesterday and today I spent many hours— tively support Iraq’s nation-building. and I’ve never spent so many hours dis- And I believe that taking advantage of this cussing various issues with a head of state cessation of combat in Iraq, and through the or head of government. And we discussed reconstruction of Iraq, we should—the all sorts of issues very candidly and in-depth. world, as a whole, should cooperate together I learned from the President that the word in order to bring about peace and stability ‘‘Texas’’ also means ‘‘friend.’’ So, my appre- in the Middle East. And I would like to ex- ciation, my heartfelt appreciation goes to the press my respect for the active efforts the President and Mrs. Bush for their very warm 652 May 23 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 hospitality and to the personal friendship that And a question for Prime Minister. Would the President has shown. you consider legislating new law to enable President Bush. Absolutely. that? Listen, we’ll answer two questions a side, President Bush. Let me answer first. I alternating. Please address—so don’t—one expect Japan to participate to the extent that of these things where you ask me and ask the Prime Minister deems is necessary to ful- the Prime Minister or vice versa. Let’s just fill the commitment. He tells me he’s going ask one question to one of us as we rotate to help in the reconstruction of Iraq. I be- back and forth, if you don’t mind. lieve him. Scott [Scott Lindlaw, Associated Press], Prime Minister Koizumi. Well, this ques- will you please set the example. tion related to the dispatch of Japanese self- defense forces. We are already considering Middle East Peace Process the dispatch of self-defense force airlift capa- Q. Thank you, Mr. President. I just have bilities in the countries neighboring Iraq for one question, and that’s that Sharon em- humanitarian purposes. braced the roadmap today. How significant More specifically, with regard to the ques- is that? Where do we go from here? And tion of sending self-defense forces into Iraq will you meet with him and Abbas in Egypt for aiding Iraq’s reconstruction, now that the or Europe? U.N. resolution has passed, upon return to President Bush. Prime Minister Sharon Japan we shall study in detail what Japan can accepted the roadmap, and that’s progress. do for the reconstruction of Iraq. At any rate, He accepted it because I assured him that the question of what Japan can do for helping the United States is committed to Israel’s se- Iraq reconstruction is a matter for Japan to curity and that, since we’re committed to decide. Israel’s security, as we move forward we will I also believe it is important that Japan address any concerns that might arise regard- make contributions for Iraq’s reconstruction ing Israel’s security. in a prudent manner, in view of Japan’s own I’m exploring the opportunities as to strength. And we shall cooperate with the whether or not I should meet with Prime United States; we shall cooperate with the Minister Abu Mazen, as well as Prime Min- United Nations for the reconstruction of ister Sharon. If a meeting advances progress Iraq. So we shall consider what Japan can toward two states living side-by-side in peace, do as an initiative-taking country for the re- I will strongly consider such a meeting. construction of Iraq. I’m committed to working toward peace President Bush. Randy [Randall in the Middle East. Last week I talked to Mikkelsen, Reuters]. the Prime Minister of Israel as well as to the Prime Minister of the Palestinian Authority, North Korea and I met with the Finance Minister of the Q. Mr. President, you said today that an Palestinian Authority. I understand it’s going escalation of North Korea of its nuclear ac- to be difficult to achieve peace, but I believe tivities will require tougher measures. But it can happen. right now they possess nuclear weapons you Do you want to call on a member of the say you won’t tolerate. So at what point Japanese press? would you need to increase pressure if they simply do nothing? Japan’s Role in Iraqi Reconstruction President Bush. Well, the first step was Q. I’d like to ask questions relating to the to convince China to participate in the proc- Japanese self-defense forces in connection ess of saying to North Korea that acceptance with the assistance for Iraq’s reconstruction. by the international community and potential First question for President Bush. Would you help will come when they change their be- expect Japanese contributions to the extent havior and their attitude toward nuclear that the Japanese self-defense forces would weapons. This message has been delivered, go into Iraq on the ground for supporting and the North Koreans are thinking about Iraq’s reconstruction? it. Should they choose to move forward, Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 23 653 which we hope they do, then we will have President Bush. I’m impressed by Annika the Japanese and South Koreans join the dia- Sorenstam. I hope she makes the cut. I’m log so that there’s now five of us sitting pulling for her, and I hope I’ll be watching around the table, all discussing how to see her on Saturday and Sunday. that the Korean Peninsula is nuclear-weap- Thank you all. ons-free. And the importance of this meeting today NOTE: The President’s news conference began at should say to the world that Japan and the 11:30 a.m. at the Bush Ranch. In his remarks, he referred to former President Saddam Hussein United States stand shoulder-to-shoulder on of Iraq; Prime Minister Ariel Sharon of Israel; the issue of North Korea’s nuclear weaponry. Prime Minister Mahmoud Abbas (Abu Mazen) I believe that we can solve this peacefully. and Finance Minister Salam Fayyad of the Pales- I believe that diplomacy can work. And as tinian Authority; and Annika Sorenstam, a leading importantly, Japan and the United States will golfer in the Ladies Professional Golf Association, not be blackmailed by North Korean threats, who played in the Professional Golf Association’s and that’s important for the North Korean Bank of America Colonial tournament. A reporter leadership to know. referred to Chairman Kim Chong-il of North Q. I’d like to ask this question of—to both Korea. Prime Minister Koizumi spoke in Japa- nese, and his remarks were translated by an inter- leaders. On this—I understand that in your preter. meeting today you reconfirmed that you’ll seek peaceful resolution of this North Korean nuclear issue. The question is, do you think Proclamation 7682—National that North Korea, that regime under the Missing Children’s Day, 2003 leadership of Kim Chong-il can really be a May 23, 2003 counterpart in negotiations for a peaceful resolution of the problem? By the President of the United States Prime Minister Koizumi. On this point of America let me first say that President Bush was stat- ing very clearly that our response to North A Proclamation Korea would be different from that to Iraq. On National Missing Children’s Day, we Now, the U.S. position, I understand, is that join with families, law enforcement officials, all options will remain available, but the and child advocates to highlight our commit- United States, or President Bush was saying ment to stopping the abduction and exploi- that he was confident that a peaceful resolu- tation of children. During this year’s observ- tion can be achieved. ance, we celebrate the progress we have Japan certainly will also seek a peaceful made in safeguarding children, and we renew resolution. And I would like to engage in var- our dedication to protecting our most vulner- ious ways to appeal to the North Koreans able citizens and our most valuable re- and make them understand that instead of sources. becoming isolated from the international The Department of Justice estimates that community, it is most important for them to more than 50,000 children will be victims of become a responsible member of the com- nonfamily abductions each year. While the munity of nations, and that is most important rate of recovery in such kidnappings is ap- not just for North Korea itself but for the proximately 99 percent, the trauma of abduc- peace and stability of the Korean Peninsula tion affects far too many. No young person and for the entire world. in America should ever know the terror of President Bush. Thank you very much. abduction, and no family should ever have to experience the nightmare of having a loved one suddenly taken. Annika Sorenstam The safety and well-being of our children Q. A golf question, sir? is a shared responsibility for all Americans President Bush. Golf? and for Federal, State, and local authorities. Q. What do you think about Annika My Administration is making the prevention Sorenstam? and investigation of child abductions a top 654 May 23 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 priority. We are working to use available re- hoping and waiting. We grieve with every sources to educate our citizens about how family that has suffered the loss of or injury to prevent child abductions. We are also cre- to a child. We will continue the fight against ating new lines of communication between the threats that our children face. authorities and the public to help find and Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, safely return missing children to their fami- President of the United States of America, lies. We will continue to vigorously prosecute by virtue of the authority vested in me by and severely punish those who would harm the Constitution and laws of the United our children. States, do hereby proclaim May 25, 2003, as To further these efforts, in August 2002, National Missing Children’s Day. I call upon my Administration released a new guide- Americans to join me in commemorating this book, ‘‘Personal Safety for Children: A Guide observance by celebrating those children for Parents’’ to teach parents steps to im- who have been returned to their loved ones, prove their children’s safety. Since then, cop- remembering those young people who are ies have been distributed to public and pri- missing, and continuing to work together on vate schools and public libraries throughout every front to protect our children from the country, in both English and Spanish. In those who would seek to harm them. October 2002, I convened the first White In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set House Conference on Missing, Exploited, my hand this twenty-third day of May, in the and Runaway Children to promote public year of our Lord two thousand three, and awareness of the issues and to generate rec- of the Independence of the United States of ommendations and best practices from ex- America the two hundred and twenty-sev- perts. And in December 2002, I signed legis- enth. lation creating the Dot Kids domain, a child- George W. Bush friendly zone on the Internet. The sites on this domain are monitored for content and [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, safety, offering parents peace of mind know- 8:45 a.m., May 28, 2003] ing that their children can learn in a safe and healthy environment. NOTE: This proclamation will be published in the Federal Register on May 29. Last month I signed the PROTECT Act, an important law that provides valuable new ways to deter, investigate, prosecute, and punish crimes against America’s children. The PROTECT Act also builds on my Ad- Digest of Other ministration’s ongoing efforts to expand and White House Announcements improve the AMBER Alert program, which has become an increasingly important tool to help rescue kidnapped children by quickly The following list includes the President’s public getting key information about the missing schedule and other items of general interest an- child and the suspect to the public. This law nounced by the Office of the Press Secretary and not included elsewhere in this issue. formally establishes the Federal Govern- ment’s role in the AMBER Alert system and equips the Department of Justice to help May 17 State and local officials develop, enhance, In the morning, at Camp David, MD, the and coordinate AMBER plans across Amer- President had an intelligence briefing. ica. Our Nation has come to know the names May 18 and faces of far too many children because During the day, the President returned to they have been the victims of acts of cruelty Washington, DC. and violence. These crimes break our hearts and stir our anger. Our Nation shares the May 19 joy of the parents who are reunited with their In the morning, the President had intel- children, and prays with those who are still ligence and FBI briefings and met with the Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 655

National Security Council. Later, he met pri- May 21 vately with President Gloria Macapagal-Ar- In the morning, the President had intel- royo of the Philippines in the Oval Office. ligence and FBI briefings. Later, he traveled The two Presidents then held an expanded to New London, CT. bilateral meeting in the Cabinet Room. In the afternoon, the President returned In the afternoon, the President met with to Washington, DC. Vice President Dick Cheney and Republican Later in the afternoon, in the Oval Office, congressional leaders on the Truman Balcony the President met with Finance Minister to discuss proposed tax cut legislation. Salam Fayyad of the Palestinian Authority to During the day, the President met with discuss peace efforts in the Middle East. Secretary of State Colin L. Powell. Later, also in the Oval Office, he met with former Senator John Danforth, Special May 20 Envoy to the Sudan, and Secretary of State Colin L. Powell to discuss the peace process In the morning, the President had a tele- in the Sudan. phone conversation with Prime Minister The White House announced that the Mahmoud Abbas (Abu Mazen) of the Pales- President will travel to Poland, Russia, and tinian Authority to discuss peace efforts in France beginning May 30 to meet with for- the Middle East and the war on terror. He eign leaders and participate in the G–8 Sum- then had intelligence and FBI briefings and mit in Evian-les-Bains, France. met with the National Security Council. The President announced his intention to Later in the morning, the President met appoint Louis Wade Sullivan (who, upon ap- with President Rafael Hipolito Mejia pointment, will be designated Chair) and Eu- Dominguez of the Dominican Republic in gene Hale as members of the President’s the Oval Office to discuss bilateral trade rela- Board of Advisors on Historically Black Col- tions. President Bush then had a telephone leges and Universities. conversation with Prime Minister Ariel Shar- on of Israel to offer condolences concerning the recent terrorist bombings in Israel. May 22 In the afternoon, the President met with In the morning, the President had an intel- the Homeland Security Council. Later, in ligence briefing. recognition of Cuban Independence Day, he Later in the morning, the President trav- held a roundtable discussion in the Roosevelt eled to the Bush Ranch in Crawford, TX. Room with Cuban dissidents and former po- While en route aboard Air Force One, he litical prisoners. had a telephone conversation with President The White House announced that the Jacques Chirac of France to discuss the glob- President will welcome President Pervez al economy, the continuing threat of inter- Musharraf of Pakistan to Camp David, MD, national terrorism, and the upcoming G–8 on June 24 to discuss regional and inter- Summit. national issues and bilateral relations. In the afternoon, the President and Mrs. The President announced his intention to Bush greeted Prime Minister Junichiro nominate Penrose C. Albright to be Assistant Koizumi of Japan. Later, the President took Secretary of Homeland Security for Plans, Prime Minister Koizumi on a tour of the Programs, and Budgets. Bush Ranch. The President announced his intention to In the evening, the President and Mrs. reappoint the following individuals as mem- Bush had dinner with Prime Minister bers of the Board of Directors of the Federal Koizumi. National Mortgage Association: Victor Hen- derson Ashe (community interests); Molly May 23 Hering Bordonaro (real estate); William In the morning, the President had an intel- Robert Harvey (mortgage lending); Manuel ligence briefing. J. Justiz (public); and Taylor C. Segue III The White House announced that the (homebuilding). President will welcome President Luiz Inacio 656 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Lula da Silva of Brazil to the White House Statement by the Press Secretary on the on June 20. President’s meeting with President Mejia The President declared a major disaster in Dominguez of the Dominican Republic Mississippi and ordered Federal aid to sup- Fact sheet: National Policy on Ballistic Mis- plement State and local recovery efforts in sile Defense Fact Sheet the area struck by severe storms, tornadoes, and high winds on May 5–8. Released May 21 Transcript of a press gaggle by Assistant Press Secretary Sean McCormack and USA Nominations Freedom Corps Director John Bridgeland Submitted to the Senate Statement by the Press Secretary: President Bush To Travel to Poland, Russia, and The following list does not include promotions of France members of the Uniformed Services, nominations Statement by the Press Secretary: Announce- to the Service Academies, or nominations of For- eign Service officers. ment of Intent To Negotiate a United States- Bahrain Free Trade Agreement Submitted May 22 Statement by the Press Secretary on the ap- pointment of Frances Fragos Townsend as Brian F. Holeman, Deputy Assistant to the President and Dep- of the District of Columbia, to be an Asso- uty National Security Adviser for Combating ciate Judge of the Superior Court of the Dis- Terrorism trict of Columbia for the term of 15 years, vice Mary Ellen Abrecht, retired. Fact sheet: The Advance of Freedom and Hope

Released May 22 Checklist Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Sec- of White House Press Releases retary Ari Fleischer Announcement of nomination for Director of The following list contains releases of the Office the Office of Management and Budget of the Press Secretary that are neither printed as items nor covered by entries in the Digest of Announcement of nomination for an Asso- Other White House Announcements. ciate Judge of the Superior Court of the Dis- trict of Columbia Released May 19 Released May 23 Transcript of a press briefing by Press Sec- retary Ari Fleischer Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Sec- retary Ari Fleischer Statement by the Press Secretary announcing that the President signed H.R. 289 Statement by the Press Secretary: Visit of President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva of Brazil Fact sheet: Announcements Related to the Visit of President Arroyo Statement by the Deputy Press Secretary on disaster assistance to Mississippi Released May 20 Statement by Secretary of State Colin L. Transcript of a press briefing by Press Sec- Powell and National Security Adviser retary Ari Fleischer Condoleezza Rice on the U.S.-Israel discus- Statement by the Press Secretary: Visit by sions on the Roadmap for Peace in the Mid- President Musharraf of Pakistan dle East Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 657

Acts Approved by the President

Approved May 19

H.R. 289 / Public Law 108–23 Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge Complex Expansion and Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge Expansion Act