Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents

Monday, April 15, 2002 Volume 38—Number 15 Pages 571–618

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Addresses and Remarks Interviews With the News Media—Continued See also Meetings With Foreign Leaders News conference with Prime Minister Blair of ‘‘Charity Aid, Recovery, and Empowerment the United Kingdom in Crawford, TX, April Act of 2002,’’ proposed—611 6—577 Connecticut ‘‘Citizen Service Act,’’ remarks on proposed Meetings With Foreign Leaders legislation in Bridgeport—597 North Atlantic Treaty Organization, Secretary Republican luncheon in Greenwich—602 Human cloning legislation—608 General Lord Robertson—607 Radio address—576 United Kingdom, Prime Minister Blair—577 Tennessee Proclamations Citizens Corps in Knoxville—582 Citizens Police Academy tour in National D.A.R.E. Day—610 Knoxville—582 Middle East, remarks in Knoxville—582 Statements by the President ‘‘Terrorism Risk Protection Act,’’ proposed— House of Representatives action on pension 586 reform legislation—615 Communications to Congress Senate action on election reform legislation— India-U.S. treaty on mutual legal assistance in 614 criminal matters with documentation, Supplementary Materials message transmitting—597 Acts approved by the President—618 Interviews With the News Media Checklist of White House press releases—617 Interviews Digest of other White House United Kingdom’s ITV television network— announcements—615 571 Nominations submitted to the Senate—616 Wall Street Journal—589

Editor’s Note: The President was at Camp David, MD, on April 12, 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.

WEEKLY COMPILATION OF regulations prescribed by the Administrative Committee of the Federal Register, approved by the President (37 FR 23607; 1 CFR Part 10). PRESIDENTIAL DOCUMENTS Distribution is made only by the Superintendent of Docu- ments, Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402. Published every Monday by the Office of the Federal Reg- The Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents will be ister, National Archives and Records Administration, Washing- furnished by mail to domestic subscribers for $80.00 per year ton, DC 20408, the Weekly Compilation of Presidential Docu- ($137.00 for mailing first class) and to foreign subscribers for ments contains statements, messages, and other Presidential $93.75 per year, payable to the Superintendent of Documents, materials released by the White House during the preceding Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402. The week. charge for a single copy is $3.00 ($3.75 for foreign mailing). The Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents is pub- There are no restrictions on the republication of material lished pursuant to the authority contained in the Federal Reg- appearing in the Weekly Compilation of Presidential Docu- ister Act (49 Stat. 500, as amended; 44 U.S.C. Ch. 15), under ments.

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Interview With the United been in the region; you’ve had General Zinni Kingdom’s ITV Television Network there. April 4, 2002 The President. I thought my speech came right about the right time. Mr. McDonald. But for so long now, for Situation in the Middle East many, many days, if not weeks, people could Trevor McDonald. Mr. President, the sit- see this situation spiraling rapidly out of con- uation in the Middle East is desperate be- trol. yond words. How far are you prepared to The President. Well, the problem is, you go to resolve the crisis? can’t see the killers. You can’t see the suicide The President. Well, today, I gave a bombers. And what we’re trying to do is to speech which shows my resolve to work with rally the world to expose them and to expose all parties concerned to try to achieve a last- those who are funding them and to say to ing peace. On the one hand, I called upon Iran, ‘‘Stop it,’’ and to Syria, ‘‘You must the Arab world to fight to cut off the money, choose.’’ to stop this business about glorifying suicide That’s the problem. The invisible part of bombers by calling them martyrs, to make everything that you thought you could see, sure that the press does encourage violence you can’t see, which is killers who are going and killing and murder. And on the other into Passover-type celebrations and killing hand, I said Israel has a right to defend her- people, killing innocent people. And we’ve self—I fully understand that—but that it’s got to stop that, Trevor; we just have to. In time for her to withdraw from the occupied order for there to be peace, there must be— territory. there must be a world effort to stop the sui- And the reason I feel that way is that I cide and the killers. Those people kill for one began to worry that the foundations nec- reason: to stop the peace, to stop a plan from essary to achieve lasting peace were becom- coming into effect. ing eroded. In order for Israel to be able to exist, it requires the Arab world’s willing- And this silly notion about somehow our ness to encourage the conditions so that she Government hasn’t been involved is just silly. can exist. And in order for there to be a Pal- I mean, we’ve had Zinni there, as you said, estinian state, which I support, there needs the Vice President’s there. The Secretary of to be the conditions so that a Palestinian state State has been there in the past; he’s going can exist. And those conditions were becom- back. ing eroded, so we acted strong. Mr. McDonald. So what is different this I’m sending our very capable Secretary of time? State, Colin Powell, to the region. He goes The President. Well, this time hopefully there with the mandate of working with the there is a resolve. Hopefully, there’s a resolve leadership in that part of the world, as well to the needless killing and the loss of inno- as with the European Union and others, to cent life that responsible citizens stand up implement what the U.N. resolution—a re- and say, ‘‘Enough is enough.’’ That’s what cent U.N. Resolution 1042, which lays out I said today, ‘‘Enough is enough.’’ And I be- the steps necessary to eventually get to a po- lieve that. litical solution. I’ll tell you something else that is different. Mr. McDonald. But has this come a little Crown Prince Abdullah of Saudi Arabia laid late, Mr. President? The Secretary of State out his initiative that essentially says the Arab has been there before; the Vice President has world must recognize Israel’s right to exist, 571

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which was a significant change, and we’ve got Mr. McDonald. Let me tell you, the Brit- to seize on that bold initiative. ish Foreign Secretary, Jack Straw, says send- ing in tanks to Ramallah and to Bethlehem Chairman Yasser Arafat of the is no response to suicide bombers. You seem Palestinian Authority to imply that anything should be done to Mr. McDonald. Will Secretary of State counter terrorism. That’s the difference. Colin Powell meet Yasser Arafat? The President. No, actually—— The President. I have no idea yet. I’ll tell Mr. McDonald. And a significant one. you what he is going to do. He’s going to The President. I think I just told you that go work with the leadership to bring people I asked for Israel to withdraw the cities which together. My worry is, is that Yasser Arafat she now occupies, so the extent that that’s can’t perform. He’s been given plenty of op- what the Foreign Secretary says, that’s fine. portunities. The man I talked to is Tony Blair, and I Mr. McDonald. Has he forfeited your talked to him this morning and informed him trust? about what I was going to say. And I gave The President. He certainly hasn’t earned him—he was the first foreign leader, by the it. Here’s a man who said that he has signed way, I called to detail the speech that I deliv- onto Oslo, that he was going to fight off ter- ered at 11 a.m. here in the U.S. And he was, ror. We thought we had a cease-fire ar- one, appreciative of the phone call, it seemed ranged. We were that close to a cease-fire, like, and two, applauded what was going to and the next thing we know, there’s a suicide be in the speech. He thought, at least—I hate bomber that hits. We thought a couple of to put words in somebody else’s mouth, but months ago that we thought we had an agree- from my perspective—— ment. The next thing we know, he’s ordered Mr. McDonald. [Inaudible]—that it was a shipment of arms from Iran. about time, did he—— Now, he’s got a long way to go, and it starts with him proving that he can lead. He has The President. Those are your words, not let his people down, and there are others in his. the region who can lead and those who have called upon those others in the region to War on Terrorism lead. And Crown Prince Abdullah of Saudi Mr. McDonald. Mr. President, turning to Arabia has taken a leadership role. President the war on terror, which you declared in the Mubarak of Egypt is a leader. King Abdullah aftermath of the events of September 11th, of Jordan is a leader. hasn’t it reached something of a stalemate? And so Colin Powell is going to go to the The President. Is that a serious question? region to gather those leaders up and to start Mr. McDonald. I meant it as a serious a process hopefully that will lead to lasting peace. question. Mr. McDonald. You come pretty close to The President. Well, it’s not. Well, no. suggesting that Palestinians should look for Of course, we haven’t had a stalemate. We’re another leader. winning. I mean, we just arrested a guy The President. It’s up to them. Far be named Abu Zubaydah. We crushed the it from the American President to get to de- Taliban; they’re no longer in office. We’ve cide who leads what country. I’m just telling got schools open for the first time in Afghani- you since I’ve been the President, the man stan, where girls are going. For the first time, hasn’t performed. young girls are going to school. It’s been a glorious series of victories, thanks to friends Situation in the Middle East such as the British. We’ve got a lot more work to do—don’t Mr. McDonald. Is there an emerging dif- ference between the United States and Brit- get me wrong—but I don’t think there’s any ain about how this should be solved? stalemate to it. The President. No, I don’t think so.

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Afghanistan the coming days, will you be discussing the Mr. McDonald. At your request, the Brit- possibility of an attack on Iraq? ish are sending 1,700 more troops to Afghani- The President. I’ll be talking a lot of stan. Is there a danger that they might be- things about Iraq with him, starting with the come sucked into a never-ending commit- fact that we both recognize that Saddam ment? Hussein is a dangerous man and he harbors The President. No. No, it’s not, because and develops weapons of mass destruction— we’ve got a plan on how to get out. But first make no mistake about it—that he has got things first. We’ve got to find those Al Qaida a variety of weapons that can harm mankind killers and bring them to justice. What the and he’s not afraid to use them, including world needs to know is there are still a lot on his own people. of these murderers on the loose. And that’s And so we’ll be discussing that, and we’ll what they are. And anybody who thinks that be discussing all options. I have no imme- we can rehabilitate them just simply doesn’t diate plans to conduct military operations. know the nature of the enemy. But as one of my closest friends, personal friends amongst the world leaders, and one Usama bin Laden of my Nation’s closest allies, of course we’re going to discuss all options. Mr. McDonald. And their leaders—on Mr. McDonald. I take your point about the loose, too. no immediate plans, but in a sense, have you The President. Well, there’s one less on made up your mind that Iraq must be at- the loose. And we don’t know if Mr. bin tacked? Laden is on the loose. I don’t know if you The President. I made up my mind that know, but I hadn’t heard from him in Saddam needs to go. That’s about all I’m will- the—— ing to share with you. Mr. McDonald. I was hoping you would Mr. McDonald. And you would take ac- tell us what you think. Is bin Laden alive? tion to make sure that happens? And of The President. I have no idea. But I’ll course, if the logic of the war on terror means tell you this: He’s not making a lot of noise anything—which you have explained—then these days. And maybe he’s dug in one of Saddam must go? those holes, but there’s not a hole deep The President. That’s what I just said. enough. They’re going to get him if he’s still The policy of my Government is that he goes. alive. And these people are killers, and that’s Mr. McDonald. People think that Saddam the way we’re going to treat them. They’re Hussein has had no links with the Al Qaida international crooks, and we’re going to hunt network, and I’m wondering why you them down one by one. have—— I know there’s a certain kind of anxiety The President. The worst thing that could amongst people in the press, for example, happen would be to allow a nation like Iraq, who want this thing over with tomorrow. But run by Saddam Hussein, to develop weapons that’s not the nature of this war. This is a of mass destruction and then team up with different kind of war. This is a war that re- terrorist organizations so they can blackmail quires incredible patience and resolve. And the world. I’m not going to let that happen. make no mistake about it: I’ve got the pa- Mr. McDonald. So you’re going to go tience and the resolve necessary to win, and after him? so does my country. We’re united in this ef- The President. As I told you, the policy fort, and we’re going to do whatever it takes of my Government is that Saddam Hussein to rout out these terrorist organizations. not be in power. Mr. McDonald. And how are you going President Saddam Hussein of Iraq to achieve this, Mr. President? Mr. McDonald. You’ve been very clear, The President. Wait and see. Mr. President, turning to the question of Mr. McDonald. Do you think that the Iraq, that it’s part of an axis of evil, as I think international coalition, which you—which an you called it. When you meet Tony Blair in administration once assembled for the Gulf

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war, when Kuwait was invaded and the ag- Mr. McDonald. So whether he allows the gressors were undoubtedly the Iraqis—do inspectors in or not, he is on the list to be you think that that international coalition can attacked; he’s the next target? be assembled again for another attack on The President. You keep trying to put— Iraq? you’re one these clever reporters that keeps The President. I think the coalition can trying to put words in my mouth. be assembled to demand that Iraq let inspec- Mr. McDonald. Far from that, Mr. Presi- tors back in, like she agreed to do right after dent. the Gulf war. I don’t know why the man The President. Well, I’m afraid you do, won’t let inspectors in. He’s probably got sir. But nevertheless, you’ve had my answer something to hide, don’t you think? on this subject. And I have no plans to attack And the idea of having this man, who is on my desk. A policy of my Government is willing to murder his own people, have weap- for Saddam not to be in office. It’s in the ons of mass destruction—I’m not going to interests of the free world that he not be in let that happen, and neither will the free office, and it’s in the interests of the free world. So I’m confident that we can lead a world that he not be allowed to develop coalition to pressure Saddam Hussein and to weapons of mass destruction. And the first deal with Saddam Hussein. thing is he must show us whether or not he Mr. McDonald. You say you are confident has weapons of mass destruction, just like he about this coalition. Certainly, Britain, there promised he would do. are grave misgivings about it. And Tony Blair Mr. McDonald. And you will have to is under pressure within his own party: 51 build the job of the coalition to make sure percent of the British people think, in an that this—— opinion poll, that Saddam Hussein should The President. We’ve got a vast coalition not be attacked at this time. How are you for freedom right now. And I talk to leaders going to do that? How are you going to ac- all the time, and of course, the subject of complish that? Iraq, amongst other subjects, comes up. And I explained to them precisely what I’m ex- The President. How am I going to change plaining to you. And most people understand the minds of Britain? that history has called us into action. History Mr. McDonald. And a number of Euro- has given us an opportunity to fight for free- pean countries, too. dom, and we all will fight for freedom. The President. Well, we’ll just watch and see what happens. I’m going to work closely Situation in the Middle East with our friends and consult with our friends, Mr. McDonald. Mr. President, to really like I am doing. put your stamp on a solution in the Middle One thing Tony Blair does understand is East—which will help in other ways in fight- that Saddam Hussein is a dangerous person. ing this war against terror, as you, yourself, And I admire his courage for speaking the have said—might you be willing to convene truth, and he speaks clearly about the truth. a summit to get both sides together and to And that’s one of the reasons why I like his discuss these problems and to try to resolve advice and treasure his counsel. these? Mr. McDonald. So what you are calling The President. Well, we’ve tried summits on Saddam Hussein to do is to let the inspec- in the past, as you may remember. There tors back in—— wasn’t one all that long ago where a summit The President. Yes, of course. That’s what was called and nothing happened, and as a he said he would do. result we had a significant intifada in the Mr. McDonald. And that’s the way he can area. avoid—— The only time that’s appropriate for a U.S. The President. But this is not an issue President to call a summit, when it looks like of inspectors. This is an issue of him uphold- something can get done. And in the mean- ing his word that he would not develop weap- time, the Secretary of State is very much in- ons of mass destruction. volved in the Middle East. And I don’t know

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if you want to call it a summit, but he’s going meant for them, or teach somebody how to to have meetings with leaders, attempting to read.’’ In other words, there’s a lot of small get in place Resolution 1042, which the Secu- acts that help define the face of America, rity Council has agreed to, which will lead which really do contribute to standing up to a political settlement—if all the parties against evil. participate. You’ve probably heard me speak. I truly Mr. McDonald. Mr. President, thank you, believe that this is a fight against evil. These sir. killers are evil people. They’ve hijacked a re- The President. You’re welcome. Glad ligion, and they want to commit murder in you’re here. order to justify the goals and the ambitions Mr. McDonald. Thank you, sir. of a few people. [At this point, the network took a commercial Mr. McDonald. You understand that break.] there are, sort of, different perceptions about this? For example, I heard after you made Pressures of the Presidency your latest speech about the crisis in the Mid- Mr. McDonald. How do you cope with dle East, a Palestinian spokesman said, ‘‘Yes, the pressures—— but we also live under the terrorism of occu- The President. Well, I’m a man—I be- pation.’’ Do you understand that? lieve in prayer. I believe in exercise. I’ve got The President. Sure, people have—look, a great wife; balance, as they say. Obviously, my job isn’t to try to nuance. My job is to I’m reminded of what’s important in life. tell people what I think. And when I think We’ve got a fabulous team. We’ve got one there’s an axis of evil, I say it. I think moral of the great administrations in American his- clarity is important, if you believe in freedom. tory, and it gives me great comfort to know And people can make all kinds of excuses, that the advice I get is honest, straight- but there are some truths involved. forward advice from very experienced peo- And one of the truths is, they’re sending ple. suicide killers in—because they hate Israel. That’s a truth. And you can justify it any way Aftermath of September 11 you want, but nevertheless, the role of the Mr. McDonald. Has anything surprised President, as far as I’m concerned, is to stand you about the pressures, having these cri- up and tell the truth, and I did today. I made ses—have there been any surprises since you it as plain as I could. I try to speak as plainly came into the Oval Office? as I can. I know people don’t like it when The President. I think the surprise was I say there’s evil; this is evil versus good. But how clearly I saw what we needed to do after that’s not going to stop me from saying what 9/11. I shouldn’t say surprised, I guess. I think is right. Pleased with how clearly I saw things. I was obviously emotional, but I knew what the country needed to do. And I was really Situation in the Middle East pleased with the way the country responded. Mr. McDonald. Your Palestinian inter- Mr. McDonald. How do you think Amer- locutors will say that they—you have to bal- ica has changed after those terrible events ance that against the fact that they live, as of September the 11th? they say, under this occupation. They also The President. Well, I think a lot of peo- have increasing settlements. And there is a ple are now taking an assessment about kind of tyranny, they say, they would what’s important in life. I hope moms and claim—— dads are saying, ‘‘What can I do to be better The President. Well, in my speech today, mother or father?’’ I know a lot of my fellow I recognized that they need to stop the build- Americans have asked, ‘‘What can we do to ing of settlements. And it is my Government help fight on the war against terror?’’ And that laid out the Tenet, and then the Mitchell I answer by saying, ‘‘Love somebody. Be a plans, which both sides agreed to, which will good neighbor. Help some kid who just won- lead to peace. The problem is, they haven’t ders whether the American experience is lived up to the agreement. And I’m calling

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on the Palestinians to live up to the agree- NOTE: The interview was taped at 3:07 p.m. in ment. And I’m calling on the Israelis to pull the Library at the White House. In his remarks, out of the occupied territory, the places, the the President referred to U.S. Special Envoy to cities they’ve occupied recently, trying to set the Middle East Gen. Anthony Zinni, USMC up a situation where we can achieve peace. (Ret.); President Hosni Mubarak of Egypt; King Abdullah II of Jordan; Prime Minister Tony Blair That’s what I want. I want peace. And I be- and Secretary of State for Foreign and Common- lieve it can happen, otherwise I wouldn’t be wealth Affairs Jack Straw of the United Kingdom; working so hard on it. I’m an optimist. As Abu Zubaydah and Usama bin Laden, leaders of you can see, the way we’ve got the Oval Of- the Al Qaida terrorist organization; and President fice here designed, it’s open, and it’s opti- Vladimir Putin of Russia. The President also re- mistic, and it’s sunny. That’s what I feel about ferred to the Tenet plan, the Israeli-Palestinian life. cease-fire and security plan of June 13, 2001, ne- It was right in this room where Vladimir gotiated by Director of Central Intelligence Putin came in, and I had a fantastic meeting George J. Tenet; and the Mitchell report, the Re- with him here. Finally, we’re getting rid of port of the Sharm el-Sheikh Fact-Finding Com- mittee, issued April 30, 2001. A tape was not avail- the cold war, where we hated each other. able for verification of the content of this inter- You know, if you’d been sitting in the fifties, view. This item was not received in time for publi- saying, ‘‘Can you ever imagine a U.S. Presi- cation in the appropriate issue. dent and a Russian President sitting here and talking like friends,’’ you’d have said, ‘‘Of course not. How farfetched is that?’’ The President’s Radio Address That’s what I used as an example today April 6, 2002 as what is possible in the Middle East. And I think it is possible. All of us are going to Good morning. This weekend, Laura and have to work to achieve that goal. I are hosting the British Prime Minister, Tony Blair, and his family at our ranch in Possibility of a Peace Summit Crawford, Texas. America has no better ally Mr. McDonald. But you’re not very much in our war against terrorism than Great Brit- into, sort of, big, set peace summits to do ain. that? Six months ago, when the United States The President. Well, he’d better—the launched military strikes against Al Qaida problem is, the American President, when training camps and the Taliban regime in Af- he calls a summit, better get it right. ghanistan, British forces were right by our Mr. McDonald. He puts his personal rep- side. And the success of Operation Enduring utation on the line. Freedom owes much to the strong support The President. This doesn’t have nothing from allies like Great Britain. Yet, the war to do with reputation. It has everything to against terrorism is far from over. It will con- do with the consequences if it fails. It’s not tinue in Afghanistan and beyond. the President—see, that’s the problem. It’s The world has been brutally reminded not all about the person. It’s about the people these past 2 weeks of the price exacted by who live in the region. If a summit fails, if terror. Prime Minister Blair and I will spend the President puts—lays it out there and much of our time this weekend discussing nothing happens, generally the status—the the tragic outbreak of violence in the Middle followup is worse than the status quo. East. Across the world, people are grieving And that’s what Presidents must under- for Israelis and Palestinians who have lost stand. We’re dealing with people’s lives and their lives. expectations. And I think there’s a better way When an 18-year-old Palestinian girl is in- to achieve what we want, is peace. Someday duced to blow herself up and in the process that may happen, don’t get me wrong. Some- kills a 17-year-old Israeli girl, the future itself day you may say, ‘‘I remember when I talked is dying—the future of the Palestinian people to old Bush, and there he is, sitting there and the future of the Israeli people. The with a big summit.’’ But now is not the time United States is strongly committed to find- for one. I’ve got a different strategy. ing a just settlement in the Middle East. That

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settlement must lead to two states, Israel and Secretary also released a Spanish language tran- Palestine, living side by side in peace and script of this address. security. This goal can never be realized through terrorism. It can only be realized through a The President’s News Conference political process. Arab governments, the Pal- With Prime Minister Tony Blair of estinian leadership, and the Palestinian peo- the United Kingdom in Crawford, ple must recognize that suicide bombings are Texas jeopardizing the very possibility of an inde- April 6, 2002 pendent Palestinian state. This week, I called upon the Palestinian leadership to order an President Bush. Good morning. Laura immediate and effective cease-fire and a and I are very honored to have our friends crackdown on terrorist networks. Tony and Cherie Blair and their family visit Israel, too, faces hard choices. America will us here in Crawford. We appreciate the rain always be a committed friend of Israel, and that the Prime Minister brought with him— we recognize Israel’s right to defend itself [laughter]—and so do the other farmers and against terror. Yet, to lay the foundations of ranchers in the area. Mr. Prime Minister, future peace, I’ve asked Israel to halt incur- thanks for bringing it. sions into Palestinian-controlled areas and Prime Minister Blair. My pleasure, begin withdrawing from those cities it has George. [Laughter] recently occupied. President Bush. It is always a pleasure Next week, Secretary of State Powell will for any American President to welcome the travel to the Middle East to seek broad inter- Prime Minister of Great Britain, because national support for these principles and to ours is a special and unique relationship. And work towards a cease-fire that will lead to our relationship is strong because of my re- a political settlement. I have no illusions spect for the Prime Minister. I appreciate about the difficulty of this mission. Yet, our determination is strong. We’ll work closely his advice. I appreciate his counsel, and I with nations in the region and with close al- appreciate his friendship. lies such as Great Britain to end this conflict This morning I conveyed to the Prime and to begin an era of peace. Minister the condolences of the American This could be a hopeful moment in the people for the recent passing of Her Majesty Middle East. A number of Arab leaders have Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother. This endorsed a proposal that brings them closer remarkable woman is warmly remembered than ever to recognizing Israel’s right to exist. on both sides of the Atlantic for her grace The United States is on record supporting and her strength and particularly for her in- the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian spiration she provided during the darkest people for a Palestinian state. And Israel has days of World War II. recognized the goal of a Palestinian state. Today, the bond between our peoples that I believe the region could write a new story she symbolized is stronger than ever. Our na- of democracy and development and trade tions share more than just a common lan- and join the progress of our times. Yet, guage and a common history. We also share progress requires an atmosphere of peace, common interests and a common perspective and peace requires acts of leadership, not on the important challenges of our times. acts of terror. No nation has been stronger in fighting Thank you for listening. global terrorism than Great Britain. I’m ex- tremely grateful for the Prime Minister’s courageous leadership since September the NOTE: The address was recorded at 10:20 a.m. on April 5 at the Bush Ranch in Crawford, TX, 11th. And the world is grateful for all that for broadcast at 10:06 a.m. on April 6. The tran- Great Britain has contributed in the war script was made available by the Office of the against terror, everything from special forces Press Secretary on April 5 but was embargoed for to ground forces to naval forces to peace- release until the broadcast. The Office of the Press keepers.

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The Prime Minister and I both understand And as you might expect, we’ve had very that defeating global terror requires a broad detailed discussions covering all the issues, based, long-term strategy. We understand from the topics of the moment through to the importance of denying terrorists weapons issues like trade and bilateral issues between of mass destruction. And we understand the us. Of course, much of our discussion has importance of adapting NATO to meet new focused on the situation in the Middle East. threats, even as NATO prepares to take on And I agree entirely with what the President new members and forges a new relationship said just a moment or two ago, not just in with Russia. relation to what must happen in the imme- The Prime Minister and I also agree that, diate term but also as to the only basis upon even as we work to make the world safer, which there will be and can be a viable and we must also work to make the world better. lasting peace there, that is a state of Israel, Our countries will continue to work closely secure in its own borders, recognized by the to bring greater hope and opportunity to de- entirety of the Arab world, and also a viable veloping nations. Palestinian state where people can live side We also had extensive conversations about by side with each other. the situation in the Middle East. Both our We discussed, of course, the issues of nations are strongly committed to finding a international terrorism and weapons of mass just settlement. Both of us agree on the fun- destruction. I would like to pay a particular tribute to the President for his courage and damental elements that a just settlement for his leadership in the aftermath of the 11th must include. We share a vision of two states, of September. And I think that it is worth Israel and Palestine, living side by side in reflecting that over these past few months, peace and in security. although very much still remains to be done, We agree that this vision will never be real- we have accomplished, nonetheless, a very ized through terrorism and that it can only great deal in Afghanistan and in the pursuit be realized through a political process. We of those responsible for that terrible event agree that the Palestinian leadership must on the 11th of September. And we will con- order an immediate and effective cease-fire tinue to work in any way we can in order and crackdown on terrorist networks. And we to make sure that this scourge of inter- agree that Israel should halt incursions in the national terrorism is defeated. Palestinian-controlled areas and begin to We also agreed and made it very clear, withdraw without delay from those cities it as well, that the issue of weapons of mass has recently occupied. destruction cannot be ducked. It is a threat. The Prime Minister and I agree to work It is a danger to our world, and we must closely in the weeks and months ahead on heed that threat and act to prevent it being these difficult issues. We have a common realized. reading of history. We understand that each In addition, I was grateful for the Presi- of our nations stands taller when we stand dent’s kind words about the contribution together. And that’s why our nations will con- Britain has made in Afghanistan. We made tinue to stand together against freedom’s en- that willingly, because we believe it is impor- emies. And that’s why we’ll continue to work tant not just that we root out the last rem- together, for not only the good of our own nants of the Al Qaida terrorist network in people but for good of peace in the world. Afghanistan but also that we help that coun- Mr. Prime Minister. try to go from being a failed state, failing Prime Minister Blair. Thank you, Mr. its region and its people, to a state that offers President. First of all, if I could begin by some hope of stability and prosperity for the thanking you and the First Lady for their very future. kind and gracious welcome that you have And finally, I would like to say a special given to myself and my family, and also thank thank you to the President for his words on the people of Crawford and McClellan Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother—that County for their kind welcome, too. And it’s will be deeply appreciated by people of Brit- a real pleasure to be with you here. ain. And as you may know, there have been

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many Americans as well as British people need be said. [Laughter] He’s got three chil- paying their respects to the Queen Mother dren. as she lies in state. Ours is, indeed, a very Q. Can I just follow up from that and ask special and unique relationship between the President and the Prime Minister, what Britain and the United States of America. happens now if the Israelis continue to ig- And I have no doubt at all that under the nore what you’ve been asking them to do? leadership of President Bush, that relation- President Bush. I don’t expect them to ship will strengthen still further. And for that, ignore. I expect them to heed the call, heed Britain is glad—I know that the United the call from their friends the United States, States is—but I believe it is good for the and heed the call from their friends the wider world, too. Great—the people of Great Britain and the President Bush. We have now agreed to leadership of Great Britain. take three questions apiece. We’ll start with Q. But if they don’t? Ron Fournier [Associated Press], a fine man President Bush. Well, that’s—as I told who works for AP—got a couple of kids, you, I think they will heed the call. cares deeply about the future. [Laughter] Prime Minister Blair. I think that most Prime Minister Blair. I’m just thinking people in Israel will realize that they don’t of how I introduce mine, now. [Laughter] have two greater friends in the world than Q. Flattery will get you nowhere, sir. the United States of America or Britain. And President Bush. I’ve noticed. [Laughter] we both understand, as well, the appalling nature of the acts of terrorism that they have Israeli Incursions Into Palestinian been subject to. We understand that. But we Territories are also trying to help secure a way out of Q. Israel is moving deeper into Palestinian the present impasse, so that we can get into territories, and there are reports today that a political process where some of these un- she has launched attacks on southern Leb- derlying issues can be resolved satisfactory anon. Have you failed, Mr. President, to con- for the long term, because the bloodshed and vince Prime Minister Sharon to pull back his the carnage and innocent people dying, in troops? And why did you wait so long to de- the end, is not a solution to this issue. So mand the withdrawal and only today adding I believe that Israel will heed the words of the caveat, ‘‘without delay’’? President Bush and will do so knowing that President Bush. My administration’s— he speaks as a friend to Israel. my words to Israel are the same today as they were a couple of days ago: Withdraw without President Saddam Hussein of Iraq delay. I made the decision to give the speech Q. Mr. President. when I did because I was concerned about President Bush. I don’t know you well the ability for those of us who were interested enough, Adam [Adam Entous, Reuters] to in a long-term solution to take hold. I was be able to sing your praises. [Laughter] worried about the balance being tipped to Q. Thank you. Mr. President, you have yet the point where we weren’t able to achieve to build an international coalition for military a long-lasting peace. action against Iraq. Has the violence in the I gave the speech at the right time. And Middle East thwarted your efforts? And I expect Israel to heed my advice, and I ex- Prime Minister Blair, has Bush convinced pect for the Palestinians to reject terror in you on the need for a military action against the Arab world. As Israel steps back, we ex- Iraq? pect the Arab world to step up and lead— President Bush. Adam, the Prime Min- to lead against terror, to get into an imme- ister and I, of course, talked about Iraq. We diate cease-fire, begin the implementation of both recognize the danger of a man who’s U.N. Resolution 1042. willing to kill his own people harboring and Q. Can I follow up, please? developing weapons of mass destruction. President Bush. No. Nice try. This guy, Saddam Hussein, is a leader who Prime Minister Blair. Andy Meyer, who gasses his own people, goes after people in works for the BBC, and really nothing else his own neighborhood with weapons of—

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chemical weapons. He’s a man who obviously about that, for all the reasons I gave earlier, has something to hide. and—you know, reasons to do with weapons He told the world that he would show us of mass destruction, also to do with the ap- that he would not develop weapons of mass palling brutality and repression of his own destruction, and yet, over the past decade, people. But how we now proceed in this situ- he has refused to do so. And the Prime Min- ation, how we make sure that this threat that ister and I both agree that he needs to prove is posed by weapons of mass destruction is that he isn’t developing weapons of mass de- dealt with, that is a matter that is open. And struction. when the time comes for taking those deci- I explained to the Prime Minister that the sions, we will tell people about those deci- policy of my Government is the removal of sions. Saddam and that all options are on the table. But you cannot have a situation in which Prime Minister Blair. I can say that any he carries on being in breach of the U.N. sensible person looking at the position of resolutions and refusing to allow us the capa- Saddam Hussein and asking the question, bility of assessing how that weapons-of-mass- would the region, the world, and not least the ordinary Iraqi people be better off with- destruction capability is being advanced, out the regime of Saddam Hussein, the only even though the international community has answer anyone could give to that question made it absolutely clear that he should do would be, yes. so. Now, as I say, how we then proceed from Now, how we approach this, this is a mat- there, that is a matter that is open for us. ter for discussion. This is a matter for consid- President Bush. Maybe I should be a lit- ering all the options. But a situation where tle less direct and be a little more nuanced, he continues to be in breach of all the United and say we support regime change. Nations resolutions, refusing to allow us to Q. That’s a change though, isn’t it, a assess, as the international community have change in policy? demanded, whether and how he is devel- President Bush. No, it’s really not. Re- oping these weapons of mass destruction— gime change was the policy of my prede- doing nothing in those circumstances is not cessor as well. an option, so we consider all the options Q. And your father? available. President Bush. You know, I can’t re- But the President is right to draw attention member that far back. [Laughter] It’s cer- to the threat of weapons of mass destruction. tainly the policy of my administration. I think That threat is real. How we deal with it; that’s ‘‘regime change’’ sounds a lot more civil, a matter we discuss. But that the threat exists doesn’t it? The world would be better off and we have to deal with it, that seems, to without him. Let me put it that way, though. me, a matter of plain common sense. And so will the future. Q. Prime Minister, we’ve heard the Presi- dent say what his policy is directly about Sad- See, the worst thing that can happen is dam Hussein, which is to remove him. That to allow this man to abrogate his promise and is the policy of the American administration. hook up with a terrorist network. And then Can I ask you whether that is now the policy all of a sudden you’ve got one of these shad- of the British Government? And can I ask owy terrorist networks that have got an arse- you both, if it is now your policy to target nal at their disposal, which could create a Saddam Hussein, what has happened to the situation in which nations down the road get doctrine of not targeting heads of states and blackmailed. We can’t let it happen; we just leaving countries to decide who their leaders can’t let it happen. And obviously, the Prime should be, which is one of the principles Minister is somebody who understands this which applied during the Gulf war? clearly, and that’s why I appreciate dealing Prime Minister Blair. Well, you know it with him on the issue. And we’ve got close has always been our policy that Iraq would consultations going on, and we talk about it be a better place without Saddam Hussein. all the time. And he’s got very good advice I don’t think anyone can be in any doubt on the subject, and I appreciate that.

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Chairman Yasser Arafat of the Afghanistan. They can’t see a direct linkage Palestinian Authority to Saddam Hussein. Q. Thank you, Mr. President. You say that Would you accept that there isn’t a direct in the war against terrorism, people are ei- linkage and how, therefore—— ther with us or against us. Whose side is President Bush. First of all, I wouldn’t Chairman Arafat on, and do you think the accept that. But can’t they see linkage be- world would be a better place without him? tween somebody who’s willing to murder his President Bush. I think Chairman own people and the danger of him possessing Arafat—I was asked on British TV the other weapons of mass destruction, which he said day, have I lost trust in Chairman Arafat? he would not develop? I see the linkage be- And I said, ‘‘Well, he never earned my trust, tween somebody who is willing to go into because he hasn’t performed.’’ his own neighborhood and use chemical Somebody told me there’s a story floating weapons in order to keep himself in power around that somehow I am blaming the Clin- and at the same time develop a weapon that ton administration for what’s going on in the could be aimed at Europe, aimed at Israel, Middle East right now. Let’s make this very aimed anywhere, in order to affect foreign clear, that in my speech I said that Mr. Arafat policy through his—you know, I can’t imag- has not lived up to the promises he made ine people not seeing the threat and not at Oslo and elsewhere to fight off terror. He holding Saddam Hussein accountable for hasn’t performed. I appreciate what Presi- what he said he would do, and we’re going dent Clinton tried to do. He tried to bring to do that. peace to the Middle East. I am going to try History has called us into action. The thing to bring peace to the Middle East. I admire about this Prime Minister is, he But in order to earn my trust, somebody doesn’t need a poll or a focus group to con- must keep their word. And Chairman Arafat vince him the difference between right and has not kept his word. He said he would fight wrong. And it’s refreshing to see leaders off terror. He hasn’t. He needs to speak speak with moral clarity when it comes to clearly, in Arabic, to the people of that region the defense of freedom. and condemn terrorist activities. At the very I intend to speak with clarity when it minimum, he ought to at least say something. comes to freedom, and I know Prime Min- And you know, there’s all kinds of excuses. ister Tony Blair does as well. And we will But in order to achieve lasting peace, both hold Saddam Hussein accountable for bro- sides must make constructive steps, and ken promises. And that’s what a lot of our we’re prepared to help and will help. That’s discussion over there on Prairie Chapel why the Secretary of State is going to the Ranch has been about. And other than eating region. But Chairman Arafat has failed in his lunch, which we’re fixing to go do, we’re leadership, and he has let the people down. going to continue our discussions. He had opportunity after opportunity to be Prime Minister Blair. You talked about a leader, and he hasn’t led. And I’m dis- no linkage there. There is a reason why appointed. United Nations resolutions were passed, nine of them, calling upon him to stop developing President Saddam Hussein of Iraq weapons of mass destruction. I mean, there Q. Present company doubtless excepted, is a reason why weapons inspectors went in one could think of quite a lot of world leaders there, and that is because we know he has the world might be better off without. been developing these weapons. President Bush. Thank you for the excep- We know that those weapons constitute a tion. threat. Three days after the 11th of Sep- Q. And I’m not sure necessarily whether tember when I made my first statement to the Prime Minister would agree with you on the House of Commons in Britain, I specifi- Yasser Arafat. But can I ask you, I think what cally said then this issue of weapons of mass Europeans have a problem with about ex- destruction has got to be dealt with. And the panding any war on terror to Iraq is linkage. reason for that is that what happened on the They can see a linkage between Al Qaida and 11th of September was a call to us to make

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sure that we didn’t repeat the mistake of al- Police Phil E. Keith and Captain Don Green of lowing groups to develop destructive capa- the Knoxville Police Department. A tape was not bility and hope that, at some point in time, available for verification of the content of these they weren’t going to use it. They develop remarks. that destructive capability for a reason. Now, we’ve made it very clear to you how Remarks to Reporters Following a we then proceed and how we deal with this— all the options are open. And I think after Tour of the Citizens Police Academy the 11th of September, this President in Knoxville showed that he proceeds in a calm and a April 8, 2002 measured and a sensible but in a firm way. Now, that is precisely what we need in this Situation in the Middle East situation too. Let me say one thing before I leave. First And as I say to you, never forget he knows of all, I meant what I said to the Prime Min- perfectly well what the international commu- ister of Israel. I expect there to be withdrawal nity has demanded of him over these past without delay. And I also meant what I said years, and he’s never done it. to the Arab world, that in order for there President Bush. Thank you all. to be peace, nations must stand up, leaders Prime Minister Blair. Thank you. must stand up and condemn terrorism, ter- rorist activity. NOTE: The President’s news conference began at There is a mutual responsibility to achieve 11 a.m. in the gymnasium at Crawford High peace, and it’s going to require leadership School. In his remarks, he referred to Cherie on both sides. And the United States is firmly Blair, wife of Prime Minister Blair, their daughter Kathryn, and Mrs. Blair’s mother, Gale Booth. A committed to achieving peace and is firmly reporter referred to Prime Minister Ariel Sharon committed—I am firmly committed to what of Israel. I expect from both parties. I repeat, I meant what I said about with- drawal without delay, and I mean what I say Remarks During a Tour of the when I call upon the Arab world to strongly Citizens Police Academy in condemn and act against terrorist activity. Knoxville, Tennessee NOTE: The President spoke at 12:06 p.m. at the April 8, 2002 Knoxville Police Department Training Facility. In Thanks, I’m honored to be here. I’m here his remarks, he referred to Prime Minister Ariel Sharon of Israel. to explain to the Nation the importance of citizens becoming involved with prepared- ness in their communities. And I want to Remarks on the Citizens Corps in thank the chief and the mayor, and thank Knoxville you, Captain, for providing an outlet for good citizens who love their country, and who gen- April 8, 2002 erally have asked the question, ‘‘What can Thank you all so very much. I’m sure glad I do to make my community a better place?’’ to be back in Knoxville, Tennessee. I want The reason we’ve come to Knoxville is be- to thank you for your warm welcome. I want cause this is a model program. And I want to thank you for your hospitality. And I want other people to see what is possible. I also to thank you all for coming today to give me want them to see the good citizens in action, a chance to talk about some—to talk about like yourselves. I want to thank you—I’m a the future of this great country and why I’m grateful President, for a grateful nation, for optimistic about the future of this great coun- helping your community. try and why I’m so proud to be an American, NOTE: The President spoke at 11:43 a.m. in Train- to be the President of this great country. ing Room A of the Knoxville Police Department It makes sense to come to the Volunteer Training Facility. In his remarks, he referred to State to talk about the need for our citizens Mayor Victor H. Ashe of Knoxville; and Chief of to help each other. I can understand why the

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foes of the University of Tennessee dread have a soldier in harm’s way, they deserve hearing ‘‘Rocky Top.’’ [Laughter] I mean, it the best pay, the best support, the best kind of fired me up, standing behind the— equipment possible. I have submitted a [applause]. It reminds me of that great volun- budget to the United States Congress that teer spirit. Of course, in Texas, we really ap- reflects the nature of the conflict with which preciate those Tennessee volunteers coming we’re faced. I’ve asked for the largest in- down to help us out. crease in defense spending in 20 years, not And I appreciate the Citizens Police Acad- only because it will fulfill our commitment emy I went to today. It shows the best of to support our troops but because it recog- your city. You have a great mayor working nizes that this country is in our war for the with a really fine police chief, who are pool- long pull, that we’re interested in defending ing the resources, who are providing an ave- freedom no matter what the cost. nue, an outlet for people who care about your You know, I can’t imagine what went community, a place for them to come and through the minds of those who felt like they learn the skills necessary to help protect the could attack America. I can’t imagine. They good people of Knoxville, should an emer- must have thought we were so materialistic gency arise. and so self-absorbed and so weak that all we I’ve come to highlight what works, so oth- would do was file a lawsuit. [Laughter] They ers around the country, if they’re found out we’re a different type of nation interested—— than they thought. They found out this Na- tion will do what it takes to defend that which [At this point, there was a disturbance in the we hold dear, and what we hold dear is free- audience.] dom. ——if your’re interested in doing what is And it’s important for the young, in par- right—to encourage your citizens to become ticular, but all Americans to understand that involved. And so I want to thank the city of we seek—we don’t seek revenge; we seek Knoxville, Tennessee, for showing Ameri- justice. It’s hard for some to believe, but cans—for showing Americans how best to there are people in this world who hate what help their communities. [Applause] Thank America stands for. They hate the fact that you all. we believe people should worship freely. I also want to thank the mayors and county They hate the fact that we believe there officials from cities from around our country. ought to be honest political discourse. They I had the honor of flying over from Wash- hate the fact that we believe in human rights ington today with the fine Mayor of Wash- and the dignity and worth of each individual. ington, DC, my friend Tony Williams. I also These people hate America. They are cold- was with Mayor Jim Hahn from Los Angeles blooded killers, and the United States will and others here, all of whom are utilizing hunt them down one by one and bring them their positions to encourage our citizens to to justice. become more involved in our communities. And thanks to our United States military And I want to thank you all so very much and thanks to a coalition we put together— for coming. We’ve got some mayors from and thanks to the coalition we have put to- Texas, small towns, large towns, Republicans, gether, we have freed the people of Afghani- Democrats, all of whom care deeply about stan from one of the most repressive regimes our country. in the history of mankind. Not only are we I want to thank so very much the members steadfast in our desire to defend that which of the Tennessee congressional delegation we believe; we also are willing to commit re- for being here as well. You’ve sent a fine sources to free a nation. Several weeks ago, group of folks to Washington. I enjoy work- young girls went to school for the first time ing with them. I appreciate their service to in Afghanistan. the country, and I want to thank you all for I’m proud of the United States of America. coming. I’m proud of our people. I’m proud of our I want to remind our fellow citizens that resolve. I’m proud of the unity. I’m proud we have a volunteer military, that we’ve of the patience of the American people. The asked our citizens to volunteer to protect our American people know what I know, that we country. And my attitude is, so long as we have been called into action, that history has

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given us a chance to lead, that history under- country. We’re doing a much better job of stands—that we now understand that his- communicating between law enforcement tory’s call is to lead our vast coalition against agencies. You see, you’ve got to know that terrorists and to defend freedom, no matter anytime we get a hint, a scintilla of evidence what the cost. And my fellow Americans, I that somebody might be thinking about doing can assure you so long as I’m the President, something to America, we’re responding. I will lead this world’s coalition to defend We’re sharing information. We’re on alert, our freedoms, no matter what the cost. and we’re working overtime. And we’re I’ve heard talk about the budget and peo- working diligently to make sure the enemy ple saying, ‘‘Well, the budget is too big for doesn’t hit us again. defense.’’ Listen, the price of freedom is But there’s some things that citizens can high. I understand that. But it’s not too high, do as well. People oftentimes ask me, ‘‘What as far as I’m concerned. This Nation can can I do to help?’’ Well, let me give you some show the world what we stand for, and we suggestions today. One way to help is to vol- can show future generations what we’re unteer. And I said to the fellow citizens, give made out of. 4,000 hours of volunteer service for the rest Now, it’s important for us to remain of your life. If you want to help America, strong, and it’s important for us to do what step up and serve your community. And we say we’re going to do in the world. I said there are ways to do that. There are ways loud and clear, ‘‘Either you are with us, or to do so on the forefront of the war—on the you’re against us.’’ And I also said, ‘‘If you’re strategy to make sure America is better pre- going to harbor a terrorist or feed a terrorist pared. or think you can hide a terrorist, you’re just I have created what’s called USA Freedom as guilty as the ones who came and murdered Corps. It’s a chance for citizens from all walks innocent Americans, and we’re going to hold of life to serve, to serve by serving in you accountable.’’ AmeriCorps, where you can help teach— And we’re making good progress. We’re where you can help people realize that the making good progress. We’re hunting them American experience is meant for us all. Or down, and that’s what has to happen. And you can teach. Or Senior Corps—senior citi- we’re doing it in a way that sometimes zens can serve in the Senior Corps programs. doesn’t make it in the newspapers. I under- Or the Peace Corps—we’ve had thousands stand that. You know—and sometimes it of people now call in to say they want to doesn’t have all the sensationalism that some serve America’s interest in the Peace Corps on the TVs would like to see. But you’ve just by helping to spread America’s values. There got to know that your Government is steady are ways to serve. and deliberate and patient. There is no cave Today I’m talking about the Citizens deep enough to hide from the arm of justice Corps. It’s an opportunity to work with local of the United States of America. officials to make the homeland security more And while I recognize that the best way prepared. Interestingly enough, when I made to secure our homeland is to find the enemy the call for people to serve, we had over a wherever they hide, there’s some stuff we million hits on the Web site for the Citizens need to do at home too. And we’re doing Corps, and 25,000 Americans stepped up and it. And that is to have a homeland security said, ‘‘We want to help. We want to apply strategy that recognizes the importance of for Citizens Corps applications.’’ first-responders. I want to thank the police And here—there are ways to help. We and fire officers and EMS teams not only need volunteers who are trained in emer- in Knoxville but around the country for your gency preparedness and response to partici- sacrifice on behalf of the citizens of your pate in what we call Community Emergency community. Response Team programs. They first started We’ve got a strategy that makes sure our in Los Angeles, Mayor Hahn was telling me. border security works better, a strategy that All the cities represented here on this stage responds to any bioterrorism-type attack. have now got CERT programs. It gives peo- We’re doing a good job of buttoning up our ple a chance to be a part of an emergency-

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response mechanism, both urban and rural, gency. It makes a lot of sense to say to a in America. If you’re interested in helping, retired doc or a retired nurse, ‘‘You know, dial up the phone and the Web site I’m about you’ve still got your skills. You still care about to give you, so that you can be a part of emer- people. Here’s a good way for you to serve gency preparedness in your communities. the community.’’ We need this participation We need volunteers on the Neighborhood from our citizenry. It’s not only good for each Watch programs. Neighborhood Watch—I community; it’s good for the citizens to know hope you’re familiar with it—is a way for that they’re helping to serve a great nation communities to be—citizens to become in- by serving their community. volved with making each neighborhood more And so for those of you out there who are secure. Neighborhood Watch is a structure interested in participating, I want you to call which already exists. We want to expand it up this number, 1–877–USA–CORPS*, or to in America. We want more folks to be a part dial up on the Internet, of the Neighborhood Watch program, to www.citizencorps.gov. This is a way where make our communities more prepared. you can help America. The Government will Operation—what’s called—we call it ter- help as well. I put in my budget $203 million rorism information program; it’s a tip pro- to help on the Citizen Corps programs, 50 gram. This is a program where truckers can of which will be immediate, through the sup- report anything that might be suspicious to plemental. local authorities. One of the most innovative In other words, we’re willing to fund. But tip programs in the country took place in what we can’t do is, we can’t hire people. Maine. Governor King, in working with the You’ve got to step up in the Citizen Corps. local FBI, signed up a lot of lobstermen, so The money is meant to enable. You’re meant when they’re out there pulling their pots to to provide the manpower. So when a fellow get the lobsters, if they see something sus- American says, ‘‘What can I do to help? What picious taking place along the Maine coast, that they share information with the local ju- can I do to help America be prepared bet- risdictions, local law enforcement jurisdic- ter,’’ here’s a way you can help and make tions. If people see anything suspicious, util- a huge difference in the communities in ity workers, you ought to report it. This is which you live. a way to organize that which already happens And there’s another way to help too. It’s in our communities on a daily basis and a by loving a neighbor like you’d like to be way to make the homeland more secure and loved yourself. You’ve probably got a sense more prepared. of my strong feelings about the enemy. I be- We’ve got what’s called the VIP program, lieve they’re evil. The best way to fight evil VIPS, and that’s Volunteers in Police. And is to do some good. Let me qualify that— that’s what we’ve talked about today here in the best way to fight evil at home is to do Knoxville. I don’t know if you know this or some good. The best way to fight them not, but I would say the vast majority of po- abroad is to unleash the military. lice departments need volunteer labor to It is so important for citizens in this coun- help make their departments function. The try to put a face on America for the world chief here in Knoxville was telling me that to see, the true face. And that’s by loving he could not live without the fact that we’ve somebody, and that’s by caring for somebody got a lot of volunteers right from your com- who needs a hand. You know, it doesn’t take munity, probably your neighbors, that go much to help define the true face of America; down there on a daily basis, to help make it really doesn’t. It can mean just walking the police department function more across the street to a shut-in, and saying, ‘‘I smoothly. This is a good way to help in your care for you. Is there anything I can do to community, if you’re interested in helping. make your day brighter?’’ It certainly means And then we have what’s called the Med- mentoring a child, putting your arm around ical Reserve Corps. This is a chance for active a child, and say, ‘‘You know, America is and retired doctors and nurses to lend a hand in preparing any community for an emer- * White House correction.

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meant for you, and I love you.’’ It means or- spirit that makes me so optimistic about the ganizing a program in your church or your future of this great country. synagogue or your mosque, to help hear the I want to thank you all so very much for universal call of loving somebody just like coming. I want to thank you for your strong you’d like to be loved yourself. support for our country. I want to thank you There are pockets of despair in America, for your patience. I want to thank you for and we need people of love to go into those your understanding about what lies ahead for pockets, people of faith to go into those pock- the country. But most of all, I want to thank ets of despair, to help this country realize you for working hard to make your neighbor- its potential. If you want to join in the war hood and your community the best place it against terror, you can join the Citizen Corps, can possibly be for each one of us who’s lucky or you can act out of compassion and concern enough to call themselves an American. to help make somebody’s life brighter. It is And I want you to know, I can’t tell you the gathering momentum of millions of acts what an honor it is to be the President of of kindness and decency and compassion the greatest land on the face of the Earth. which show the world the true face of Amer- God bless. ica. Not only are we strong militarily, but we’ve got great hearts and great compassion about our fellow human—men and women. NOTE: The President spoke at 1:30 p.m. at the And therefore, my fellow Americans, if you Knoxville Civic Coliseum. In his remarks, he re- want to join us, if you want to make the coun- ferred to Mayor Victor H. Ashe of Knoxville; try stronger, participate; help somebody in Mayor Anthony A. Williams of Washington, DC; need. You know, I truly believe that out of Mayor James K. Hahn of Los Angeles, CA; Gov- this evil is going to come incredible good. ernor Angus S. King, Jr., of Maine; and Phil E. Keith, chief of police, Knoxville Police Depart- I believe that by remaining strong in the face ment. of terror, that we can lead the world to peace. I believe there’s going to be some problems in the world that can be solved with Amer- Remarks on the Proposed ican strength and American leadership and ‘‘Terrorism Risk Protection Act’’ a coalition that refuses to bend when it comes to the defense of terror. And out of evil will April 8, 2002 come some incredible good in America, some incredible good. Thank you very much. Ed, thank you very Many of you know what I’m talking about much. I didn’t realize you were so eloquent. when I say that families have taken a good [Laughter] But I know you’re a good leader, look at what’s important in their life. Moms and I know you care deeply about the people and dads have now said that they’re going you represent, and so does Jimmy Hoffa and to love their children with all their heart and Joe Hunt, and so do the people—the employ- all their soul. They’re going to focus their ers here. I want to thank you all for coming love and attention on being the best parent to help me talk about this important issue they can possibly be, as we’ve taken a good facing the country, and that is how to make look at the value systems that are important sure people stay working. That’s what we’re for our future. talking about. You know, Flight 93 told me a lot about You know, the enemy hit us pretty hard America. Here we were in the midst of this on September the 11th. I just came in from beginning of the new war of the 21st century, Tennessee, where I was talking about one and some men and women on a flight de- way to respond to the attacks is for people cided that they needed to save others. They to volunteer in their communities and help were on cell phones with their loved ones. make their neighborhoods a better place. I They told them they loved them. They said told them, I said, they must have not—they a prayer. They said, ‘‘Let’s roll,’’ and they miscalculated. They hit us and thought we saved lives on the ground. It is that spirit were so weak that all we would do is probably that is alive and well in America, and it’s that file a lawsuit. [Laughter]

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But they found out that we’re thinking a In terms of our economy, no question that little differently in America and that, when the attacks of September the 11th hurt our it comes to our freedom, we will do what economy. I mean, it affected employment in it takes to defend freedom. And I want to big ways. Many of you know that. I see Bill remind you all that this is a long struggle Marriott; his business was affected, deeply that’s going to take a while, that there are affected. And thanks to some focused efforts, Al Qaida killers still on the loose. There are things are improving. But as far as I’m con- people who hate America. They hate what cerned, the notion about where we stand in we stand for. They hate the fact that Demo- terms of our economy really depends upon crats and Republicans both love our country whether or not people are able to find work equally. They hate the idea that we worship and whether or not they think they’re going freely. They hate the concept that we debate to have work tomorrow. That’s how I judge issues in open. They hate freedom. They just whether or not we’re healthy. If someone is hate it, and they are going to try to hurt us. looking for work and can’t find work, that They are. means we’re not healthy. If someone is work- And the best way to secure the homeland ing and they’re worried about whether is to find them one by one, and we are. That’s they’re going to be working tomorrow, that exactly what we’re going to do. And the— means we’re not healthy, as far as I’m con- we’ve unleashed the proud United States cerned. military, and the men and women who wear And therefore, public policy must do ev- our uniform are really doing us proud. erything we can to create an environment in I also want you to know that—it’s just im- which jobs are steady and growing. I thought portant to know that we don’t seek revenge; tax relief was very important to make sure we seek justice. That’s what we’re doing. And that the environment was such that people we’re not conquerors, but we’re liberators. could find work. I am really proud of our Nation. I’m proud I know energy policy is very important, and of the fact that young girls went to school we spent a great deal of time with Jimmy for the first time in Afghanistan. That really and Ed talking about how to get a good en- makes me feel really good about what we’re ergy bill out of the Congress. It’s an energy doing. I’m proud about the fact that we’re bill, by the way, that is needed more than not leaving the country behind, that not only ever, particularly given the fact that there’s have we liberated people from the clutches been some threats recently by Saddam Hus- of this barbaric regime but we’re staying sein that he’s going to try to cut off energy around to help them with their security and supply to affect the United States. I mean, help them to develop into a nation that can what more reason do we need than to have protect herself and a nation that will be a good energy policy in the United States to good neighbor in an important part of the diversify away from somebody like him? world. And we need to do something on terrorism We have made some pretty good progress insurance as well. This is an issue that I don’t in a quick period of time. But you’ve got to think a lot of Americans understand very remember we live in a world in which some- well, and we’re going to use this opportunity times, in all due respect, the media expects to explain it. I’m going to do my best to ex- things to end quickly. This isn’t going to end plain it. Tom Ridge and Larry Lindsey will quickly. So long as there is terrorists, we need follow up. to find them. So long as there is nations It’s an issue because it is a jobs issue. If which develop weapons of mass destruction people can’t buy insurance on a construction and therefore try to hold the U.S. or our project, they’re not going to build the project. friends and allies hostage through blackmail, And if they don’t build the project, some- we’re going to have to deal with it—just body’s not working. That’s the simplest way going to have to deal with it. History has I can describe the issue at hand. called us into action, and I’m not going to And we have a lack of insurance coverage let our children and grandchildren down. now as a result of the enemy attack. I don’t And I know you’re not, either. think they actually sat down and said, ‘‘Gosh,

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if we attack, we’ll affect the insurance indus- gress, it’s not going forward. And that’s not try of America.’’ I think that was an unin- right. tended consequence of theirs, but neverthe- We’re worried about charities that may be less, it was a consequence. forced to cut back on services to the needy And we in Washington must deal with it because of the high cost of insurance. Pen- and must deal with it in a hurry, because sion funds for teachers and other workers the pace of new construction is dropping dra- that hold real estate assets may experience matically in America. Banks and investors lower rates of return because of higher ter- and others will not finance construction rorism insurance costs. That affects some- projects that do not have terrorism insurance. one’s retirement system. The transportation In order to build a project, in order to em- industry will face strains from the lack of af- ploy people, you’ve got to borrow money, and fordable terrorism insurance. you can’t borrow money unless there’s ade- Secondly, while we’re doing everything we quate terrorism insurance. And that’s not can to stop terrorist attacks, the economy being provided today. must be prepared to handle an attack if they Nonresidential construction is down 3 per- do occur. We spend a lot of time here in cent compared to January of 2002, and down Washington sniffing down every lead, looking 17 percent compared to February of 2001. for every opportunity to run down a clue as That’s an issue that the Congress must deal to—somebody might be trying to get us. And with. If people who want to work can’t find I am confident—I know we’re doing every- work, something is wrong with the economy. thing we can, but I can’t predict with 100 They should not be fooled by the statistics. percent accuracy whether or not another at- If people who are working a construction job tack won’t occur. are uncertain as to whether or not there will And therefore, we’d better find terrorism be a job for them tomorrow, that is a prob- insurance because without it, it would be a lem, and we need to deal with it. And when catastrophic problem if there is another at- you see construction—nonresidential con- tack. It would make it really hard for our struction permitting down to the extent to economy to recover a second time if there’s which it is, it is a problem. And I expect the an attack, without adequate terrorism insur- Congress to act. ance. I mean, on the one hand we’re talking The Hyatt Corporation has acquired a new about jobs, and on the other hand we’re talk- site for a 1.5 million square foot office build- ing about recovery if there’s an attack. ing in downtown Chicago. That ought to be Now, we passed a bill in the House that encouraging news. It ought to be encour- basically put the Federal Government as a aging news for my friend the mayor. It ought stopgap for terrorism insurance. Above a cer- to be encouraging news for people who wear tain level of claim, the Federal Government the hardhat and work, the ironworkers and would step in. And that’s important. And now the construction workers. But they’ve got a it’s in the Senate, and the Senate needs to problem finding terrorism coverage, and so respond and act. The Senate needs to get they’re not getting financing for the project. this bill done quickly. All they’ve got to do Somebody wants to build it; they can’t get is talk to people in this room, Republicans the money to do it because the insurance isn’t and Democrats alike. This isn’t a bill that available. This project is valued at $400 mil- says, gosh, if it passes, it’ll help somebody’s lion, will lead to the creation of 2,500 jobs, political party. That’s not what this is all if the Hyatt Corporation could get insurance. about. This is a bill that helps workers and There are other examples as well. A $2 helps strengthen our economy. billion resort in Nevada—you’ve got some in- This is an important piece of legislation. fluence out there, Jimmy—[laughter]—could I’ve heard some talk in Capitol Hill that the provide 16,000 jobs, is on hold because they facts don’t justify this type of legislation, the can’t get insurance for terrorism. Imagine facts don’t justify the Federal Government that. You know, you’ve got the chance to em- stepping in as a stopgap. They’re not looking ploy 16,000 people, but because something at the right set of facts, as far as I’m con- hasn’t happened in the United States Con- cerned. And so I expect, for the good of our

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economy and for the good of the country, NOTE: The President spoke at 4:27 p.m. in Presi- that the Senate act. dential Hall in the Dwight D. Eisenhower Execu- And I want to thank you all for your inter- tive Office Building. In his remarks, he referred est in this bill, and I ask you to contact Mem- to Edward C. Sullivan, president, Building and bers of the United States Senate. We believe Construction Trades Department, AFL-CIO; there is bipartisan support for this bill. We James P. Hoffa, general president, International believe that if it ever makes it to the floor, Brotherhood of Teamsters; Joseph J. Hunt, gen- it passes. And I know that we can work with eral president, International Association of Iron- workers; J.W. ‘‘Bill’’ Marriott, Jr., chairman and the House version, if it’s somewhat different, chief executive officer, Marriott International, to get something done quickly. Inc.; President Saddam Hussein of Iraq; and This is good for workers. This is good for Mayor Richard M. Daley of Chicago, IL. He also America. This is a way to really handle a referred to H.R. 3210, the proposed ‘‘Terrorism tough situation and to make our country Risk Protection Act’’; and S. 1748, the proposed stronger. ‘‘Terrorism Risk Insurance Act of 2001.’’ Now, the strength of the country, it really is in the hearts and souls of our people. Peo- ple say to me, ‘‘Are you an optimistic fellow Interview With the Wall Street about the future of America?’’ The answer Journal is, absolutely. Absolutely. I believe out of this evil that faced us will come some incredible April 8, 2002 good. I truly do. I believe that we’ll achieve Q. Thanks for doing this. This is really— peace. If we’re firm and tough and stand I appreciate it a lot. strong against terror, continue to lead a coali- The President. You bet. tion of freedom-loving nations, that we’ll Q. It’s a big event tomorrow for the Wall achieve peace in areas where people don’t Street Journal. think we can achieve peace. I truly believe that. I know some parts of the world look The President. Well, I understand—yes, like they’ll never be peaceful, but I don’t be- I understand you’re kind of changing your lieve that. format. And I know at home, if we make the right Q. Yes. It will look different, color. moves, people are going to find work. But The President. What about the sketches? more importantly, I know this country is What happened to the poor sketches? going to respond to evil because we’re a lov- Q. They’ll still be there. You’ll still get one. ing nation and respond to evil by helping Counselor Karen Hughes. This is— people in need. journal—— My hope is that Americans seize this mo- Q. Somewhat short. ment and show the world the true face of Q. Subdued color. Champagne, as they America. And it’s a face that is really defined call it. by millions of acts of kindness that take place The President. What is your job? on a daily basis. It happens when somebody Q. I’m the Washington bureau chief. mentors a child, or a mom tells her baby ‘‘I The President. What is Al Hunt’s job? love you’’ every day, or somebody walks Q. He’s the executive Washington editor. across the street and says to a shut-in, ‘‘I care I can’t define that exactly for you; somebody for you.’’ That’s the America I know. That’s the America that really is the country that’s else will have to do that for you. going to defeat evil—by acts of goodness and The President. Somebody upstairs some- kindness. where. I’ve never been more upbeat about a na- Q. He’s the guy you have to worry about. tion in my life, because I know the true The President. Good. That’s why he’s strength of the country. And the true here. [Laughter] strength of the country is the American peo- Q. It’s a good day to be here. It’s a good ple. day to be talking to a former oil guy, actually. Thanks for coming by. The President. Yes.

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Iraqi Oil Exports/Energy Policy I thought Ari told me that there had been Q. And I thought maybe we would start some movement on the—— there. You saw what the Iraqis said today Press Secretary Ari Fleischer. They said about cutting off oil exports. they’re not going to follow a call for an em- The President. Taking production off for bargo; OPEC has said that. Q. a month? And in terms of—if you have Iraq, if you have Iran, possibly Libya, you still have Q. Yes. And the Iranians and the Libyans a substantial effect on the market, couldn’t have said similar things. Do you worry about it? some form of another Arab oil embargo or The President. Well, it could, absolutely. some form of oil embargo by some people? There is excess supply, and we’ll just see how The President. Here’s my thoughts on it plays out. But to me, it indicates that— that. One, it means that we need an energy well, that’s another reason why we’ve got to policy that encourages diversification away be very cautious about making bold pre- from places like Iraq. You know, the ANWR dictions about the economy. We’re an en- debate has been amazing to watch because ergy-dependent nation. And as a result, it’s— of the amount of misinformation that has you know, it points up to part of the fragility been laid out there. But the reason I bring of our economy. In other words, when you’re up ANWR is because it just so happens that dependent, a price spike can affect growth, once production is up and running on a very obviously. small footprint in the middle of this vast So I’m pleased with some of the progress country, we can produce as much oil as Iraq being made, but as I told the folks there in produces on the world market. this speech I just gave on terrorism insur- A good energy policy is one that obviously ance: You know, people can try all the num- encourages conservation and new tech- bers and prognostications and all they want; nologies but is also one that helps America I’m the kind of fellow who believes that if diversify away from sources of crude oil in somebody can’t find work or is worried about places like Iraq. And I—the first I heard of their job, we’ve got a problem. And bad en- this, I said this is a—justifies more than ever ergy policy or the failure to have energy pol- the call for exploration in areas where tech- icy or the fact that we’re dependent upon nology will allow us to do so in environ- unstable countries is a reason why I am— mentally friendly ways. do not believe that we’re out of the economic I also saw the response of other nations, woods yet. nations that were willing to step up and in- Q. Is what Iraq is doing, does it amount crease production, and I appreciate that as to a hostile act against the U.S.? well. The President. Well, I wouldn’t call it a My other reaction is that Saddam Hussein friendly gesture. It is—you know, this is a is willing to cut off production even though man who obviously hates America. And he’s it affects his own people. It helps define the not just affecting America, by the way; it’s nature of this regime. I’ve told people as I’ve affecting countries—all countries. If, in fact, made the case for—about my strong feelings his action has the—is able to run the price about Iraq, that this is a person who is willing of crude up, it’s going to affect Europe; it’s to poison his own people. Now it looks like going to affect poor nations; it’s going to af- he’s willing to cut off revenues so that he fect poor people around the world. This is can’t feed his own people. Anyway, I’m not— a guy who has tried to manipulate the market I mean, axis of evil. for short-term gain for the wrong reason, is Q. You mentioned the statements by other a person who is unfriendly to all nations, as countries. Did you—have you heard anything far as I’m concerned. from Saudi Arabia? Did Secretary Powell Q. You would like a better energy policy; hear from Saudi Arabia? that’s fine, and that’s understandable. In the The President. I haven’t, not yet. He’s, shorter term, if you’ve got a problem, there as a matter of fact, eating dinner with Crown are some other options you can consider. You Prince Abdullah as we speak. No, I just— could think about SPROs out there.

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The President. Could do that. The President. Well, I mean, we’re look- Q. There are gas taxes that could be re- ing at all options. And Iraq is an important duced. Either of those options appeal to you? country. By the way, chasing down the Al The President. We’ll look at all options. Qaida killers is still a priority, even though If, in fact, his threat—look, we’re the kind the Middle East has flared up. I’m in no of people that deal with problems; that’s what hurry on a lot of issues. I’m a patient man; happens in the White House. You’re dealt I’m a deliberate person. I understand we live a problem, and we deal with it. And we’ll in a world where people are constantly say- look at all options. But let’s—I think we need ing, ‘‘Gosh, after 6 months, how come this to be a little careful about predicting whether isn’t over?’’ Some people say that; most or not this man is going to have the effect Americans don’t feel that. They understand he wants to have until—— that we’re in the long, long pull. So you’ve got to put everything in context. President Saddam Hussein of Iraq And the way I am, I’m a deliberate, patient Q. The effort to do something about Sad- man when it comes to conducting this war, dam Hussein has obviously been kind of put thorough war, to defend our freedom. And on hold while this Middle East situation gets I have said publicly that the idea of an Al sorted out. It could take a long time to sort Qaida terrorist network hooking up or out the Middle East situation. How long does matching up with or allied with—let me start it stay on hold? over—‘‘allied with,’’ I think, is a more under- The President. Well, not necessarily. standable word—a nation that has developed Q. Not necessarily—— a weapon of mass destruction is a scenario The President. I wouldn’t—you made— that I will not leave our children saddled repeat your question. I think you made a with, in other words. pretty strong assumption in your question. And again, my timeframe is longer rather Q. Well, it’s only based on the 20 years than shorter. In other words, the fact that of history. we haven’t proved whether or not Saddam— The President. No, what did you just say, or bin Laden is alive or dead or—he may though—seriously, I’m not being critical. I’m be dead, may be alive, that fact just simply just curious. Again, you just said my plans doesn’t bother me. Because if he is alive, for Iraq have been placed on hold? we’re going to get him eventually, and if he’s Q. Yes. Is that incorrect? dead, that’s fine, too. The President. Iraq is a problem, and But we’re making progress there, just again, another reason why it’s a problem, we quietly, steadily making progress. Abu witnessed today. And we are constantly talk- Zubaydah is a very good example; for those ing with our friends and allies about Iraq. of you who follow the Al Qaida network, you I spent a great deal of time this weekend understand the significance of an Abu talking to Tony Blair about Iraq. As I’ve said, Zubaydah capture. And anyway, I don’t know all options are on the table for Iraq, and that’s if I answered your question properly. In about all I’ve—pretty much about all I’m going to say. I don’t know what you meant other words, it almost implied that things by—— have to be immediate on all fronts; otherwise, Q. It would be wrong to say that your plans there’s not a focus. And that’s just not the are on hold? case. The President. You see, I assume from Q. Just as a prognostication—— your question that we’re not really thinking The President. Just as a hypothetical? about Iraq now, that somehow, because the Q. See, that’s not what I was going to say. Middle East has flared up, any thought about You can define it, I guess. Iraq or keeping a coalition together on The President. Okay. Iraq—— Q. Do you think if we’re sitting here a Q. I was thinking more action rather than year from now talking, Saddam Hussein is thought. still going to be in power in Iraq?

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The President. That’s one of those reached at which it would be very difficult hypotheticals. [Laughter] I’m not going to achieve peace. We want peace. We have to—— laid out the vision for peace, and Israel has recognized the Palestinian state. Israel has Gas Taxes signed on to Tenet and Mitchell, as has the Q. Let me go back to something I men- PLO. And my point is that Israel has recog- tioned earlier, gas taxes. Any reason for Re- nized the framework for peace, and it’s time publicans to start thinking about rolling back for her to start pulling out in order to allow some gas taxes at this point? all of us who care about peace to be able The President. I think you’re asking me— to work to get peace in the region. you’re speculating on something that hasn’t Q. Have you been told by the Israelis that occurred yet. this is a response, the beginning of a response Gas Prices to what you asked for in the last few days? The President. I have not been told that. Q. Just to follow up on that, though, how All I can tell you is they’re beginning to with- much of a—do you have any sense of how draw, at least from these two cities, as of an much of an increase in the price of oil or hour ago. the price of gas we could see as a result of Q. What did you think of the Prime Min- this? ister’s speech to the Knesset? Have you had The President. No, I don’t yet. I under- a chance to—— stand you all are trying to make news, but The President. Today? this is—this is a fresh statement by—so we’ve Q. Yes. just got to see how the world reacts. The President. But one thing is for certain: The fact that I didn’t see it. I had a— people are concerned points up the fact that the only thing I’ve heard from him was, we we had better do something for the good of had a good conversation on Saturday. our country in terms of diversification of sup- Q. A good conversation? ply away from sources of crude oil in places The President. Yes. I mean, it was good like Iraq. in the sense that he knows where I stand, and he heard my—it was a good, frank dis- Israeli Withdrawal From Palestinian cussion, let me put it to you that way. Ari Territories told me that the word was moving around Q. The other part of your Middle East that it was a very hostile conversation. It problem today is obviously on the West wasn’t. It was just a very frank discussion Bank. You don’t seem to have gotten much about two leaders who are concerned about of a response. the region. The President. Actually, there is some Q. What he said today was basically—I new news. IDF announced they were with- don’t know if I can get you the exact words— drawing out of two Israeli cities. What are but, ‘‘We’re going to keep going until we’re the names of them, Steve? done.’’ It didn’t say when that was going to Deputy National Security Adviser Had- be. ley. Tulkarm and Qalqilya. The President. I just can tell you they The President. Qalqilya. That’s right. And started pulling out of cities. that’s a beginning. If responsible leaders Q. When you talked to him, or just in gen- want peace, they must—there are clear eral, are there consequences if that doesn’t things that they must do. The Arabs must continue? condemn and fight terrorism. They must cut The President. It’s going to continue. off funding. They must stop propagandizing Q. Sorry? about the great heroic martyrdom of suicide The President. I think it will continue. killers. They must explain clearly that Israel Q. The withdrawal? has a right to exist and they intend, as leaders, The President. I think he heard what I to coexist with Israel in a peaceful way. said, and I repeated it again today, prior to The Israelis must continue withdrawal. I this news. And Colin Powell’s mission is to was very concerned that a point had been continue to work to set the framework for

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political discussions, and part of that is for ground there. Burns, I believe—Burns is Israel to withdraw. with Powell. So we’ve got our experts there that understand the area very well. And Pow- Secretary of State Powell’s Visit to the ell has got an agenda, which is to move the Middle East process toward a political settlement. And Q. And as part of the Powell mission, do obviously, we’ve laid the conditions out in you anticipate him meeting with Arafat? my speech on Thursday, as to what it will The President. It depends on the cir- take. And he’s got the U.N. resolution stand- cumstances at the time. He’s got full latitude ing behind him, a blueprint toward where to do what he thinks is necessary to get the we need to get, and there are responsibilities process headed toward a political settlement. on both parties. Chairman Yasser Arafat of the Crown Prince Abdullah of Saudi Arabia Palestinian Authority Q. Somebody suggested to me that one Q. And if Yasser Arafat does what sort of reason that you dispatched Secretary Powell things between now and when Security Pow- was that the Saudis were—that you had some ell gets there, is that more likely to happen? frank conversations with the Saudis over the The President. That’s up to Powell. But last few days, including one in which they obviously—listen, Yasser Arafat, as I’ve indicated the Crown Prince might not make said—somebody asked me the other day, it to Crawford, Texas, unless the have I lost trust in him? I said, ‘‘Well, he situation—— never earned my trust.’’ The President. No. The way you earn trust is by leading and Q. Can you describe the conversations by, you know, not squandering missed oppor- with the Saudis on this point? tunities—squandering opportunities, cre- The President. Well, listen, the Saudis are ating missed opportunities after missed op- just as concerned as other nations in the re- portunities, to provide—here you’ve got a na- gion. But the idea of saying, ‘‘You must do tion, America. I’m the first President, I be- this, or else I’m not going to come to lieve, to have ever gone to the United Na- Crawford,’’ just isn’t—that didn’t happen. tions and laid out a vision for a Palestinian Not only didn’t it happen, it wouldn’t be a state at peace with Israel. And this is an ad- very smart thing for anybody to do. It’s just ministration that laid out the Tenet plan, em- not the way I—it’s not the way we do things braced the Mitchell plan that was, I guess, in this administration. finalized on my watch but started under President Clinton’s watch. So you’ve had two Energy/National Economy administrations working toward a blueprint Q. Let me go back to oil for just a second, for peace. And Mr. Arafat, instead of focus- and then I think you want to switch to some- ing and seizing and using his energy to thing else. Have you gotten, in any kind of achieve this vision, has not led. So he’s never conversations with the Saudis, any assurances earned my trust. that they are not in the oil embargo business Q. So who leads, if Arafat doesn’t? anymore and that they’ll try to make sure The President. Arafat is the leader. That’s others don’t—— who we’re dealing with. The President. I’m sure the subject will come up with Colin and the Crown Prince, Secretary of State Powell’s Visit to the but this has been relatively—you know, this Middle East is new. Q. Do you have any interest in having Q. Right. Powell see alternative Palestinian leaders The President. So it’ll be a topic of con- while he’s there? versation. The President. I think Colin ought to visit Q. Yes. Yes. with whomever is necessary to move the The President. And as Ari said, he felt peace agenda, and he’ll just use his judg- like that the OPEC, as well as the Saudis— ment. We’ve got General Zinni on the again, tell me the news; I haven’t seen it.

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This is all breaking since I just arrived from And we need more nuclear power as well. Knoxville. That’s why the Yucca Mountain issue is an Counselor Hughes. The President has issue. We need clean coal technology. We been in Tennessee. need a comprehensive effort. And we need The President. Ari watched the whole conservation as well. The interesting fact that speech on C–SPAN in Knoxville, didn’t you? came out of the California energy crisis was Press Secretary Fleischer. Yes. They said that they increased their conservation by they’re not going along with the call. about 10 percent, which is significant and The President. So we just have to see. necessary and good. Q. But it’s your—the recovery is fragile I believe that some of the—I’ve got faith enough that there are things that can still that technology will—that we will have new throw it off track. automobiles. But it’s not going to be quick The President. Oh, I think so. I don’t enough to deal with immediate issues in the think the recovery is a given. And that’s why Middle East, for example. In other words, we need to have this terrorism bill, terrorism down the road there is going to be some new insurance bill. I mean, there are things that technology. We’ll still be driving, all of us; Congress can do, and I think there are some we’ll still be driving, and we’ll be driving cars signed signals we need to send. We need a that make us less dependent on foreign trade bill. We need an energy bill—that will sources of crude and are much cleaner burn- help—even though it won’t happen imme- ing. diately. Diversification won’t happen imme- diately. It will help calm nerves. It means Corporate Management Reform that the long term is more optimistic than Q. You wanted to switch to corporate—— not. Q. Yes. Well, you were talking about things So there are things we need to do. Cali- that potentially threaten the recovery. Do fornia, the California energy situation wasn’t you think that the—I don’t know if ‘‘crisis’’ a year ago. And yet, it seems like it was years in confidence is too strong a word, but the ago that California looked like it was running feeling, you know, the concerns about cor- out of energy. And to me, that was a wake- porate governments is a serious—— up call. Where are we going to get our gas The President. I think it’s a serious—I from to fuel the electricity, the new plants think it’s an issue that we need to look at that were built in California? and look at very carefully. I think the markets And you know, the Prime Minister of Can- reflect the fact, though, that most investors ada is thrilled that we’re increasing demand, have still got confidence in our economy and because he’s a major supplier of gas, and in corporate America. But reforms are nec- we’re going to have to work with them. That’s essary, and the CEOs need to be held ac- why I’ve got this hemispheric energy group, countable for full exposure or full detail of Mexico, Canada, the United States, meeting assets and liabilities. There needs to be pen- as to how to increase supplies in our hemi- sion review. If officers sell, the employees sphere, the need for pipelines, and where ought to be able sell. There ought to be bet- they ought to go. ter information sharing. There ought to be In other words, that’s important. And Mex- more diversification. ico, herself, is grappling with a constitutional On the other hand, we’ve got to make sure issue on energy. We export about 8 percent that we don’t disincent companies for 401(k) of our natural gas to Mexico. And obviously, compensation. I think it’s a vital part of build- to the extent that Mexico is able to attract ing up savings for our workers. capital and explore for more gas, it’s good There are discussions now about options, for Mexico in terms of jobs; it’s good for their how we handle options. I think options are cash flow; and it’s good for the energy picture important. I think they’re a good incentive in our hemisphere. program. I think once options earn the In my judgment, obviously, we’ve got to money, that they ought to be calculated in go to Alaska. It’s a part of a strategy to diver- the dilution of—yes, be part of the—that sify away from unstable sources of energy. they ought to be dilutive in their earnings

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per share calculations. To me, that seems like bility for leadership to conduct themselves a reasonable way to handle that issue so that in a responsible way. I’ll leave the details to people fully understand the effect of options the Justice Department, but the idea of hold- being granted. ing people accountable or entities account- Q. But not as Chairman Greenspan has able is a very important part of ushering in suggested, expensing? the responsible era. And we’ll let—there are The President. My personal opinion is all kinds of pundits, and I’ve heard this, that, that—and I think most of the people in my and other. We’ll just let the Justice Depart- administration feel like the best way to cal- ment answer those questions about the tac- culate—you know, earnings are earnings. tics. And earnings per share is the calculation of- Q. Do you think corporate America had tentimes used in an investment decision. And kind of gotten away from that responsibility? so we ought to state the earnings for what The President. I think—I do think there they are and affect the earnings per share. have been periods where the growth and the Listen, Alan Greenspan is very smart; I hate apparent creation of wealth gets so kind of to get into a debate with him. But my view easy, in a way, that people forget—not all is, is that it achieves both objectives. One, people but some forget. what are the true earnings of the company? I remember the oil business in the early And two, what is the dilutive effect of options eighties, and people would say, ‘‘The price in the money? We may perhaps get to the is going to 100.’’ You know? And investment same end that he is trying to achieve, and decisions were pretty lax. It just seemed like that is a full accounting of options. To me, there was this kind of euphoria that swept that’s a reasonable way to do that. up this particular sector. And every IPO hit, and everybody was in the money and options. Arthur Andersen/Corporate It just seemed like the sky was the limit. Responsibility There was never going to be any reality. Q. One of the things that’s happening right And during those periods of time, some- now is that, obviously, Arthur Andersen is times, some fail to remember that they have teetering on the brink. Are you—is it possible a responsibility to people other than them- the Justice Department went a little too far selves—namely, shareholders. And when we and a little too hard after Arthur Andersen? look back at this period, I think we’ll find Are you comfortable with the idea that they some incidents of that. might go away, as a result of what the Justice You asked me whether or not those inci- Department has done? dents would cause lack of confidence in the The President. Well, I believe people future. I don’t think so at all, and I think ought to be held responsible for decisions the market reflects that. On the other hand, made, and I will refer—I’ll ask you to refer it does call us to action, and that’s one of your questions to the Justice Department as the reasons why we’ve laid out a series of to their tactics and decisions. Since they filed initiatives to deal with this issue. the suit, they’ll be good at explaining it to I worry about a board of directors that are you. too acquiescent to a CEO, beholden not to Q. But there are policy—I mean, there are the shareholder but to the CEO. That con- policy issues involved. And some people say cerns me. I’m not sure of the law that you the way the Justice Department went at it can pass necessarily, but I do think there is is—you know, threatened to put thousands a culture that can evolve out of this period of people on the street who were totally inno- of time which will remind people they have cent and all of this. a responsibility as leaders of a corporation. The President. There is a need to hold Q. Can you do anything to make that evo- people responsible. I oftentimes talk about lution happen? responsibility era—each of us need to be per- The President. Well, I think it is hap- sonally—you know, personal responsibility. I pening. I can’t, as the President, call upon, also make sure I broaden that to corporate reform and change and call people to ac- responsibility as well. There is a responsi- count, in a broad sense. I mean, I’m not

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going to get involved in every lawsuit that Q. Doesn’t it feel like we’re further away comes down the pike, but I can remind peo- from any kind of a resolution than we’ve been ple that we have a responsibility as citizens. in a long time? And there is a big responsibility in cor- The President. Well, I—listen, I hate the porate America amongst the CEOs who treat killing. Yes, in one way it seems like we’re their workers with respect. I was particularly a long way away from peace, obviously, when grateful of the automobile manufacturers to you turn on your TV and see death, suicide promote product with keeping their workers’ bombers blowing up Passover celebrations, livelihoods in mind. I thought that was noble young Arab girl blowing up a young Israeli during this period of time. That sometimes girl. stands in contrast to a corporate stereotype But I also know if the innate goodness of where people say, you know, ‘‘I don’t really mankind and that there are people who un- care about the livelihood of the workers. For derstand that this way is—as I said, enough me, I’m going to bottom line, focus imme- is enough. I think there is enough good will diate bottom line.’’ There is a responsibility in the region, inherent goodness of the peo- that these leaders have. ple on both sides of the issue that we’ll ulti- mately have leadership say, ‘‘We’re sick of Situation in the Middle East this, and now let’s work together.’’ I don’t know if it’s going to be a month Q. Can I just return to the Middle East or a year, however long. But nevertheless, for a second? I can’t get over it. When—— this is a—and you have to look at it that way. The President. You’re writing about it for You have to believe that peace is possible, your whole life. and I believe it is. Ask Jerry Seib if peace Q. I know. I’m stuck. I’m in a rut; I admit is possible. He knows this issue better than it. It’s pathetic. [Laughter] me. The President. No, it’s important. But I believe it is, and my administration Q. Sometimes. will continue to work as if it is achievable. The President. You know, it’s an issue And one of our jobs is to pick and choose that has consumed enormous amounts of the time when we spend capital, be judicious time by this administration and every admin- in how we approach these issues, to not cre- istration preceding me in modern history. ate false expectations, to be realistic about Q. It’s lifetime employment for journalists, what’s possible, and lead. too. But in order to lead, you’ve got to see a The President. It’s an important issue. It’s better day. And I feel that. This picture right an issue in which we’ve got enormous stake. here says—it’s a Tom Lea. He wrote the line, It is an issue that—there has to be a vision ‘‘Sarah and I live on the east side of the of peace; there has to be a commitment to mountain. It is the sunrise side, not the sun- peace. And my job is to lay out that vision set side. It’s the side to see the day that is and to lead parties to the steps necessary to coming, not to see the day that is gone.’’ And achieve the vision. And it’s going to take a I love that picture, because I love the man while. and I love Texas; because I also love the Step one, in order to get there, is with- quote, because it is a frame of mind nec- drawal of troops, from the Israeli perspective; essary—it’s a frame of mind that a President and for the Arabs, to stand up and be ac- must have in order to be a good President. countable for holding—cutting off financing And I believe that there are a lot of people of terrorists and disrupting terrorist net- in the Middle East, average, hard-working works. These are people that do not—the mothers and fathers, who want to see a better terrorists and bombers do not want peace. day. And we’ve got to lead to that better day. They want to kill to prevent peace. Q. Just to finish that thought, though— NOTE: The interview began at 5 p.m. in the Oval as you’ve often said, you’re an optimistic per- Office at the White House. In his remarks, the son. President referred to Prime Minister Tony Blair The President. Yes. of the United Kingdom; Usama bin Laden and

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Abu Zubaydah, leaders of the Al Qaida terrorist and seizures; (7) assisting in proceedings re- organization; Prime Minister Ariel Sharon of lating to seizure and forfeiture of assets, res- Israel; U.S. Special Envoy to the Middle East titution, and collection of fines; and (8) ren- Gen. Anthony Zinni, USMC (Ret.); Assistant Sec- dering any other form of assistance not pro- retary of State for Near Eastern Affairs William hibited by the laws of the Requested State. Burns; Prime Minister Jean Chretien of Canada; and Jerry Seib, Washington bureau deputy chief, I recommend that the Senate give early Wall Street Journal. The President also referred and favorable consideration to the Treaty and to the Tenet plan, the Israeli-Palestinian cease- give its advice and consent to ratification. fire and security plan of June 13, 2001, negotiated by Director of Central Intelligence George J. George W. Bush Tenet; and the Mitchell report, the Report of the Sharm el-Sheikh Fact-Finding Committee, issued The White House, April 30, 2001. A tape was not available for April 8, 2002. verification of the content of this interview.

Remarks on the Proposed ‘‘Citizen Message to the Senate Transmitting Service Act’’ in Bridgeport, the India-United States Treaty on Connecticut Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters With Documentation April 9, 2002 April 8, 2002 Thank you all very much. I appreciate so very much your warm welcome. I am de- To the Senate of the United States: lighted to be here in Bridgeport, Con- With a view to receiving the advice and necticut. I want to spend some time with you consent of the Senate to ratification, I trans- today talking about the spirit of our country, mit herewith the Treaty between the Gov- the great American spirit which has been ernment of the United States of America and tested in recent times. But history will record the Government of the Republic of India on that we’ve met the test. Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters, I saw some of that spirit today in the South signed at New Delhi on October 17, 2001. End Community Center. I met a fine execu- I transmit also, for the information of the tive director named Tony Tozzi, and thank Senate, the report of the Department of you, Tony, for your hospitality. I saw mem- State with respect to the Treaty. bers of AmeriCorps who were mentoring The Treaty is one of a series of modern children. I saw members of the Senior Corps, mutual legal assistance treaties that the the Foster Grandparent Program who, as op- United States has concluded or is negotiating posed to kind of settling in, these Senior in order to counter criminal activities more Corps members decided to continue to give effectively. The Treaty should be an effective something to our society. And many are giv- tool to assist in the investigation and prosecu- ing the most important gift of all, and that tion of a wide variety of modern crimes, in- is to teach a child how to read. I want to cluding terrorism-related crimes, drug traf- thank you. ficking, and ‘‘white collar’’ crimes. The Trea- I appreciate Catherine Milton, the vice ty is self-executing. president and executive director of Save the The Treaty provides for a broad range of Children. Thank you very much, Catherine, cooperation in criminal matters and related for your focus. proceedings. Mutual assistance available I want to thank my friend Steve Goldsmith under the Treaty includes: (1) taking the tes- for taking on the important assignment of timony or statements of persons; (2) pro- being the chairman of the Corporation for viding documents, records, and items of evi- National and Community Service. One of the dence; (3) locating or identifying persons or things I feel very passionate about is our need items; (4) serving documents; (5) transferring to inspire the armies of compassion, which persons in custody for testimony or other exist in neighborhoods all throughout Amer- purposes; (6) executing requests for searches ica. And you’ll hear me talk a little later on

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about the need to fight evil by doing some tion, itself, is going to take a while. You know, good. And one of Steve’s jobs is to help gath- we live in an age where things happen so er the spirit of America and channel it and quickly that one of my concerns after Sep- focus it so everybody understands the Amer- tember the 11th was the farther we got away ican experience, the hope of America belongs from September the 11th, the more our grief to them, no matter where they live or how was behind us, that I thought the American they were raised. people might forget that which is at stake. I want to thank my friend the Governor That’s not the case—much to the chagrin of of Connecticut, Johnny Rowland, and the the killers, who continue to want to bring first lady, Patty Rowland, for being here as harm to America. well. I want to thank Chris and Betsi Shays, Make no mistake about this, that we’re in the Congressman and wife from this district. for the long pull because there are people And I also want to thank two other members who hate us. They hate what we stand for, from the Connecticut congressional delega- and they’re killers. They use killing to justify tion, friends of mine, Nancy Johnson and their beliefs, and I’m not going to let that Rob Simmons. Thank you all for being here. stand. My job is to protect the American peo- Thanks for coming. ple. And our job is to stand strong so that You know, I can’t imagine what went our children and our children’s children will through the mind of the evil people when know the freedoms that we knew growing they attacked America. I’m trying to—I’ve al- up. That’s what’s at stake, my fellow Ameri- ways tried to figure out who they thought cans; at least that’s how I view it. And so they were attacking. You know, what were long as I’m the President, that’s going to be they thinking? They must have thought that the view of this Government. this Nation had no character, that we were In 6 short months we have made remark- so materialistic and self-absorbed that we able progress. We really have. You know, I wouldn’t act, that we might just—all we’d do was sue them. [Laughter] They didn’t under- said early on, I said to the people, ‘‘You’re stand the true character of the American either with us, or you’re against us.’’ I said, country, the Nation. ‘‘Either you’re standing with the United You see, we love freedom. We love the States of America in our quest and desire freedom to worship the way we see fit. We to protect freedom, or you’re not. There is welcome all faiths in America, Christian no middle ground.’’ And I’m proud to report faiths, Jewish faith, Muslim faith. We wel- the coalition—there has been a vast coalition come faith. We believe in freedom to wor- of nations that have joined us, nations of all ship. We believe in freedom to speak out stripes, all who understand what’s at stake. loud. We believe in freedom of the press. I also said that if you harbor a terrorist and We believe in free elections. We believe in you feed one, you’re just as guilty as the mur- the dignity and worth of every individual. derers who came to New York City and That’s what we believe. Washington, DC. And as a result of a great And if somebody attacks those beliefs, United States military and a military of many we’ll respond. That’s the character of our of our friends, we have liberated a country. country, is that when we believe something, It’s important for the young here to hear we stand up for it. We are slow to anger, this: We didn’t go into Afghanistan as con- but when angered, watch out. We also are— querors; this great Nation led a coalition of we’re a nation that does not seek revenge. military folks to go into Afghanistan as lib- That’s not in the American character, as far erators. It’s hard for Americans to know and as I’m concerned. We seek justice. We’re a to believe, but many young girls were not nation of justice. This Nation has also showed allowed to go to school in Afghanistan be- remarkable character in this way: We’re pa- cause of the barbaric nature of the Taliban tient; we’re a patient nation; and we’re a dis- regime. But thanks to the United States, and ciplined and focused nation. thanks to our friends and allies, girls now go Americans understand that the new war to school in Afghanistan, for which I am of the 21st century, the struggle for civiliza- mighty proud.

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That is the character of the American peo- kind of moving along; we thought oceans ple. We’re plenty tough when we need to would separate us from any threats; kind of, be, and we’ll remain tough. But we’re also you know, perhaps in a culture of self-absorp- compassionate. We care deeply about our tion. And all of a sudden, people on an air- fellow citizens in this world. We care deeply plane called their loved ones, told them they about the plight of children, no matter where loved them, said a prayer, and sacrificed to they may live. That’s our nature. And that’s save somebody else’s life. how I feel about it at home too. I feel like To me, that was one of the most meaning- out of this evil is going to come some incred- ful moments of September 11th and on. It ible good. I believe—I believe—that out of spoke of a spirit that—of America that recog- this evil will come peace in regions of the nizes there’s something greater than our- world that we never dreamt would be peace- selves, the need to serve our fellow mankind. ful. These folks did it in the most courageous of It’s not going to be easy, and we’re going ways, but we can do it in other ways as well to have to lead. And we’re going to have to here at home. be diligent and resist and fight terror wher- And so in my State of the Union or my ever we find it. But we’ve got a good chance speech to the Nation—whatever you want to for long-lasting peace. And at home there is call it, speech to the Nation—[laughter]— going to be some incredible good that comes I asked Americans to give 4,000 hours over out of this evil, because Americans have got the next—over the rest of your life of service great character, and Americans care for their to America. That’s what I asked. I said, 4,000 neighbors in need. hours. Now, many of you already do that. People say, ‘‘What can I do to join the war So this is—there you go—this is a drop in against terror?’’ And I say, love your neighbor the bucket for you. I understand that. But just like you’d like to be loved yourself. If many Americans don’t. So 4,000 hours of you want to fight evil, find somebody to help. service for the remainder of your life. I set And I’m prepared to help you find somebody that as a goal, and Americans are responding. to help, if you want help. If you want to find Many have heard the call. a way to help your country, that’s what I’m And in order to channel that enthusiasm, here to talk about. There are all kinds of ways we set up what’s called the USA Freedom to help; don’t get me wrong. I mean, you Corps. And inside the USA Freedom Corps, can go to your church or synagogue and we’re focused on three distinct areas, one, mosque and help a lot. You can help a lot. the Citizen Corps. You can help a program—devise a program I was in Knoxville, Tennessee, yesterday to feed the homeless, help put a program heralding the Citizen Corps program. This together that goes into some of the pockets is a chance for people to help the police, the of despair in America and spread love, one firefighters, the local emergency medical person at a time. That’s what you can do to teams to respond to any disaster that might help. occur. And if you’re interested in helping the Service and voluntarism are an integral brave men and women of the police force part of the American character. or fire force or emergency medical teams in DeToqueville discovered that years ago, and your community, join. Join the Citizen Corps. if he were to come back, he’d be just as proud It is a way to help secure America and pre- of America now as he was then, when it came pare America for a disaster if one should to the willingness of our citizens to serve each come. other. And then, of course, AmeriCorps and Sen- You know, I have been so impressed by ior Corps are an integral part of the USA the living spirit in America. It’s been unbe- Freedom Corps. These are programs that lievable to see firsthand how alive this coun- recognize that in America, we can change our try has become, how focused our Nation is country one heart and one soul and one con- on serving something greater than ourself. science at a time. You see, I used to like to Perhaps it had to do with the vivid lesson say that Government can hand out money, of Flight 93. Here we are; we’re a nation but what Government cannot do is put hope

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in people’s hearts. That requires a loving, authorization of these programs. The discus- hopeful person to do just that. And I view sions are beginning to come up this week, AmeriCorps and Senior Corps as ways to tap so part of my speech is to lay the groundwork into the great talent and strength and com- for how I think the reauthorization of these passion of America to help people in need. important Federal initiatives proceed. And then we’ve got the Peace Corps, and And one of the things is funding, of course. the Peace Corps is a great way for Americans That’s an important part of any process. And to help teach the world about the universal I’ve asked for $290 million in new funding values that we hold dear, the true nature of for these programs for the year 2003. And America, which sometimes is distorted it’s to help meet these goals: 25,000 addi- around the world. People don’t have the true tional, new AmeriCorps members, 25,000 picture of our country. And one way to make more than we have now today all across the sure they do is to have compassionate citizens country; 100,000 new Senior Corps mem- go into communities all around the world to bers; and two hundred to three hundred teach—to teach all kinds of things. But the thousand students in the Federal workstudy most important lesson they teach is that program. That’s what we’re aiming at; that’s we’re a loving country, that we care deeply the goal we’ve set. Some say it’s too ambi- about the citizens of the world. tious—nothing is too ambitious for America, And so if you’re interested in helping the as far as I’m concerned. country in those three areas, you can call 1– And here are some ways we can help make 877–USA–CORPS. Pick up your phone and the programs more effective. First, by re- dial—[laughter]—or if you’re one of these moving barriers that discourage seniors from high-tech souls, usafreedomcorps.gov. And joining the Senior Corps. Now, remember, you’ll find a way to help the country. This the Senior Corps has got programs within it will give you a chance to participate. And this like the Foster Grandparent Program, pro- is just one way, I emphasize. It’s one oppor- tunity. And by the way, through this Web grams all aimed at using the talents of our site, you’ll find other programs in the com- seniors to help make citizens’ lives better munities in which you live that will provide where people are losing hope, where despair an outlet for your energy and your compas- is too common and too prevalent. sion. Now, under the current law, volunteers You need to know that just so people— cannot join some Senior Corps programs there is a gathering momentum of millions until they reach the age of 60. I think we of acts of kindness that are taking place in need to lower it. And so I chose 55, my age. the country. We’ve had—29,000 people re- I guess I’m now eligible for Senior Corps, quested applications for the Peace Corps in if they’d finally give me a chance to partici- 6 months. Applications to join AmeriCorps pate. My mother is not going to believe I’m are up by more than 70 percent. Twenty- eligible for Senior Corps. [Laughter] But if five thousand people have signed up for the we can get this through the Congress, I will Citizens Corps. In other words, Americans be. are responding, and for that, all of us are We need to encourage programs to ex- grateful. pand, to give people an outlet and a chance And one of the things I’m here to talk to participate. And we need to eliminate in- about is how to expand America’s service come tests that keep seniors out of the pro- programs and how to make them better and gram. Believe this or not—believe it or not— how to bring in new volunteers and, at the some people are not allowed to participate same time, make sure that which we’re fund- in Senior Corps because they make too much ing works, that we’re actually meeting some money. That doesn’t make any sense. And goals. I’m confident that the Congresspeople here I look forward to working with the Con- recognize that we’ve got to make sure Senior gress. I’m going to talk to the Members who Corps is open to as many people who are are traveling back with me to Washington, willing to put up their hand and say, ‘‘I love DC, after these events, to talk about the re- America, and I want to help.’’

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Many seniors participate in AmeriCorps, by tutoring, by becoming involved in commu- and that’s good. That’s what we want. Under nity programs which change America one a new proposal that I’m making to Congress, person, one soul, one conscience at a time. seniors who join AmeriCorps should be able One of the things we hear is that Gov- to earn what we call a Silver Scholarship. In ernors and mayors and local authorities are other words, when you work for AmeriCorps frustrated by the bureaucracy in Washington, you get a scholarship if you go on to college. DC. I understand. I’ve been there, myself. A senior who has already been to college I have been frustrated, when I was the Gov- should be able to earn that same scholarship ernor of Texas, with the bureaucracy in and donate that to a member of their family, Washington. Goldsmith’s job, as well as Les’, if they so choose. It makes sense to have the executive director, is to reduce the older Americans helping younger Americans amount of bureaucracy and to trust the States and at the same time helping their families and local authorities more, to give the States as well. and local authorities more flexibility as we— I want to read this, by a girl named Nicole how to apply these monies to meeting the who works in Baltimore. She’s an needs of the local folks. AmeriCorps member. Perhaps some of the It is very important that Washington—it’s AmeriCorps members will understand what important that Washington provide flexibility she’s saying when I read this to you: ‘‘None in selecting the groups and charities in which of it would have happened if I had not done AmeriCorps volunteers will be placed. We’ve AmeriCorps. AmeriCorps redirected my life got to trust the local folks to understand local forever. I know the direction my life is in: problems. You know, I like to tell people, service to others, particularly the poor.’’ not all the wisdom of the world is in Wash- This is Nicole’s reflection upon what it ington, DC. [Laughter] meant to work for AmeriCorps. It is a beau- tiful spirit, an important spirit for America. But we also want to make sure people are And so we’re trying to figure out ways to held accountable. We want to make sure make sure that AmeriCorps is attractive to when we spend money, that it meets needs. young—to the Nicoles of the country. Right And so Steve and the good folks at the Cor- now, AmeriCorps members who complete a poration for National Community Service are year of service receive an education award going to develop clear standards and reason- worth almost $4,700; $4,700 that will help able measures of performance so that we them go to school. And that’s good; it’s really know whether or not we’re being successful. good. Under the proposal I’m making is that I think that’s really important. I think that’s that award ought to be tax exempt and the what the American taxpayer expects. They $4,700 ought to have a cost-of-living adjust- expect results, and I expect results. ment. And so if a program is failing, we ought As well, we need to reform the Federal to be willing to blow the whistle on failure, workstudy programs. These are programs just for the good of the people. We’re trying which encourage students to work off their to help. And when a program is successful, Federal loans. It makes sense if you borrow we ought to be praising the program and its money, that you ought to work them off. And success and the people who are helping. the fundamental question is, how do we let It is important, as well, that we make sure them work it off? Right now, 7 percent— that we create a new standard of account- only 7 percent of the workstudy funds are ability for service-learning programs in required to be devoted to students who tutor, America too. The whole purpose of account- mentor, or perform other forms of service ability in government is to make sure that in their community, 7 percent. And so we we’re succeeding. And in this case, we’re think that we ought to raise that number to aiming for a noble goal, and this is a hopeful 50 percent, to say that we recognize that an America, a promising America, an America incredibly valuable contribution to our soci- that says clearly to everybody: This wonderful ety is to allow 50 percent of the students to experience and this great land belongs to you work off their Federal loans by mentoring, just as much as it belongs to somebody else.

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I’ve come to talk a little bit about the char- is a compassionate, joyous nation, that will acter of the country, and it’s a character not allow evil to prevail and, in turn, make being defined by the moment at hand. His- sure our neighbors are loved just like they’d tory will look back at us; generations will look like to be loved themselves. back at us; and I believe they’re going to say, You can understand why I’m optimistic thanks, thanks to the people who stood about our country, because I am the Presi- strong when it came to defending freedom, dent of the greatest Nation on the face of thanks to those who sacrificed in our military, the earth. Thank you for coming. May God thanks to the Congress for making sure the bless. May God bless America. military had the resources necessary to take on a long struggle. Listen, you’ve just go to know, there’s no NOTE: The President spoke at 10:43 a.m. at the cave deep enough—there’s no cave deep Klein Auditorium. In his remarks, he referred to enough—for the long arm of American jus- Leslie Lenkowsky, chief executive officer, Cor- poration for National and Community Service. tice. There is no calendar. There is no cal- The President’s principles for the proposed legis- endar on my desk that says, if we don’t get— lation were outlined in ‘‘Principles and Reforms if so-and-so doesn’t show up, then this thing for a Citizen Service Act,’’ made available April ends. That’s just not the way I think. I’m a 9 on the White House Web site. patient man, and so is the American people, much to the chagrin—much to the chagrin of the enemy that still wants to take us on. Remarks at a Republican Luncheon And we’ll look back at the history of Amer- in Greenwich, Connecticut ica, though—I believe this is going to hap- pen—and say what a fantastic period of time April 9, 2002 it was for kids to grow up in our country Thank you for that warm welcome. It’s where we insisted upon quality education for nice to be back in the State in which I was every child, where there was after-school born. I was running for Congress one time, programs available, manned by loving citi- and they accused me of not being able to zens who put their arm around those who represent the people of west Texas because might seem hopeless and say, ‘‘I love you a I was born in Connecticut. And I said, ‘‘Heck, lot. I love you a lot, and you’re going to col- I just wanted to be close to my mother on lege.’’ that day.’’ [Laughter] This is a time when you’re going to find, I believe, in American history where our I know I’ve got a lot of people here are Government, instead of fearing faith and friends of Mother and Dad’s. I just want you faith-based programs, welcomes faith and to know they’re doing great, and so am I, faith-based programs into the compassionate and so is my wife. I’m sorry Laura couldn’t delivery—[applause]. This will be a time in be with us today. She went to the Queen American history when those of us in Wash- Mother’s funeral in London, and she’s flying ington, DC, or in the State capitals, recognize back tonight. But let me just tell you, for that oftentimes the most hopeful and prom- somebody who is a public school librarian, ising programs of help come from places of who wasn’t all that thrilled about politics and worship. It doesn’t matter what their religion all that in love with politicians, she’s made is; the people hear that universal call to love a fabulous First Lady; she really has. She’s somebody just like they’d like to be loved brought a lot of comfort to the Nation when themselves. we needed to be comforted, and she brings This is a period of time when America, a quiet dignity that I’m most proud of. instead of cowering in the face of terrorism, I also want to thank my friend Johnny stood defiantly in the face of evil; when not Rowland. I’m here because I want the people only did we fight for freedom, but we pro- of Connecticut to reelect Johnny. He’s done moted the peace. And this will be a time in a heck of a job as your Governor. And you history when our Nation’s compassion comes get a good Lieutenant Governor with him forth, where the collective face of America as well. I appreciate Lieutenant Governor

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Jodi Rell* for being here. Thank you very is to accomplish things on behalf of every- much. It’s great to see you again. Lieutenant body, is to rise above the traditional noise Governor Rell and I spent some quality time that tends to dominate the political scene and campaigning together, and I found her to be perform. And that’s what Johnny has done. a very bright, very accomplished soul. It’s He said he would cut taxes, and he did. He great to see you again, Jodi.* said he would reduce those taxes which in- And I’m also here because I want Denny hibited growth in the State of Connecticut, Hastert to be the Speaker of the House. It and he did. And as a result, the economy is important that we elect Republicans from here has been vibrant and exciting, thanks Connecticut to support Denny Hastert. to Johnny’s leadership. I remember one time, right after—in the Listen, he understands what I understand: fall, people said, ‘‘Well, do you plan on cam- Governments don’t create wealth—we know paigning?’’ I said, ‘‘Yes, I plan on cam- that—but governments need to create an en- paigning.’’ It is in my interest to campaign vironment in which people are willing to risk for good candidates, because I think it’s in capital, in which the entrepreneur can flour- the Nation’s interest that we have people like ish. That’s what’s happening in Connecticut, Chris Shays and Nancy Johnson and Rob thanks to Johnny Rowland’s leadership. Simmons represent the good people of Con- I gave a speech the other day on the im- necticut in Washington, DC. portance of making sure that children learn I appreciate Shays. [Laughter] Sometimes, how to read early in life, so that when they he appreciates me. [Laughter] But I enjoy start kindergarten, there’s not this huge working with him because he’s a man of deep learning gap that takes place in America. compassion. He cares deeply about the Johnny figured that out way before my human condition, and so does his wife, Betsi. speech. He figured out preschool education And it’s been an honor to call them friends, was important before a lot of other people and I appreciate you all very much. knew it was important. And I appreciate I want to thank Charlie Glazer, the event Johnny’s efforts on focusing the State of Con- chairman, longtime friend. I appreciate your necticut and his budget on preschool pro- tireless work. And I want to thank those who grams as well as spending billions of dollars represent the grassroots of the Connecticut to make sure class sizes are smaller in the party. Oftentimes, those of us in public office State of Connecticut. only focus on one aspect of politics. But I Listen, we passed historic education re- like to remind people that it takes the good form in Washington, DC. And thanks to the folks dialing the phones and mailing the mail, Members on the stage and both Republicans holding those signs up—at least the ones that and Democrats working together, finally, in say nice things on them. [Laughter] They’re Washington, we were able to pass a meaning- the ones who really oftentimes don’t get the ful piece of legislation, part of which is to credit. And so for those of you who have not only hold people to high standards and toiled in the vineyards on behalf of can- to expect the best out of every child, but part didates such as me and those on the stage, of it is we’re going to trust the Governors thanks from the bottom of our heart. And and local people to figure out the path to thank you all for helping the party, which excellence. And it gives me great confidence helps Johnny, and helping the two candidates in supporting such a bill, knowing that John- who have got serious challenges. ny Rowland is the Governor of the State of First, on Johnny. The way we like to put Connecticut. it in Texas is, he’s the kind of fellow that Serious crime has dropped by 15.7 percent does in office what he said he would do. I in the State of Connecticut since Johnny’s can’t tell you how important it is to have peo- been the Governor. His record speaks for ple who hold office who deliver. And one itself, and I’m confident the State will be wise of the jobs of a Governor is to help restore enough to send Johnny back to the state- faith in the political process of a particular house for another term. I certainly hope so, State. And the best way to defeat cynicism because he’s a good man. And Nancy Johnson’s got a race. And sure- * White House correction. ly the people of her congressional district are

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going to be wise enough to send this good to a son or a daughter, and can’t do so be- soul back to Washington, DC, because she cause of the death tax. is a good soul. She’s the dean of the delega- Listen, getting rid of the death tax was tion. She’s a leader in the Republican Party. great for farmers and ranchers. It’s good to— She has got enormous respect on both sides it’s a good policy if you’re worried about of the aisle, and that’s important. If you’re urban sprawl, so they can keep the farmland a person who goes to Washington to get in their families for generations. And we something done, you’ve got to have the re- need to make it permanent. We need to spect on both sides of the aisle, and Nancy make sure that the good work we did doesn’t Johnson does. She is—she has been in the change because of a quirk in how Wash- Oval Office more than one time with steady ington works. So the three Members up here counsel and good advice, and she’s not afraid are going to be important to make sure that to give it. [Laughter] the repeal of the death tax is forever, and She is a leading authority on health care that will be good for the country. and retirement security. If I’ve heard her say And I appreciate Rob Simmons. He and one time, I’ve heard her say 50 times, ‘‘Let’s I showed up about the same time in Wash- work together to get a plan to make sure our ington. [Laughter] And he is doing a fine, seniors have got prescription drug coverage.’’ fine job. He’s respected. When he speaks, I agree with Nancy. We need to work to- people listen to what he has to say. As you gether to achieve some important national know, he has had a lifetime of service to the objectives. country. He worked for the CIA after he Nancy is a builder. She’s a good, steady served in the Army. He worked on the Sen- soul. She is working on pension reform, and ate staff. He’s in the State legislature. He’s she proudly stood with me when it came time worked hard, very hard, at every position he’s to cut the taxes. And I want you to know held. And he’s been a very fine Member of we cut the taxes right at the right time. She the United States Congress. He cares deeply understands that when you give people their about our veterans. He’s a member of the money back or let them keep their own Committee of Veteran Affairs. He knows our money in the first place, it increases demand. country owes a lot to the people who have And when you increase demand, somebody worn the uniform. He’s also on the Armed is going to supply something for you. And Services Committee. The Armed Services when they supply that good or service, it Committee is important for the State of Con- means jobs. Cutting taxes, which I under- necticut. It’s important to have his voice stand was unpopular on some of the opinion heard on behalf of not only Connecticut, of pages around America, was the exact right course, but the entire Nation. But I’m con- thing to do, and I want to thank Nancy and fident he’d tell you things about Connecticut Rob and Chris for their support. first. [Laughter] And the people of his district And we sent the death tax on its way. will be doing the State of Connecticut a very We’re getting rid of that death tax. But unfor- important service to send him back to Wash- tunately, there is a quirk in the law that ington, DC, as well. means that the repeal of the death tax is not I have mentioned a couple of the issues permanent. It’s hard for me to explain why that we’ve worked on, education and tax re- you eliminate the death tax, and all of a sud- lief. But there’s a lot to do in Washington. den it’s able to come back to life. [Laughter] We need an energy policy, an energy policy That’s Washington. [Laughter] on the one hand that enhances conservation, We need to make the tax cuts permanent, that unleashes the technology of the country and the three Members from the United to enable our cars to run cleaner, our plants States Congress understand that the repeal to burn cleaner. But we need to explore of the death tax is an important part of letting more, too. We need to be less dependent people realize the American Dream. And on foreign sources of crude oil. This was we’ve got small-business owners all over the made pretty clear the other day when Sad- country who’ve worked all their life, who dam Hussein stands up and announces he’s want to leave their business to their heirs, going to try to organize an oil boycott. You

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know my opinion about Saddam. [Laughter] desk, John Kennedy, Ronald Reagan. And I The world’s not going to follow him. But it think my dad had a different desk. just goes to show how important it is to diver- And so I sit there and open up a threat sify our supply away from places like Iraq. assessment that our people put together We need to have trade promotion author- about noise we hear of one kind or another ity passed for the good of American workers. about the enemy still is interested in hitting I need to be able to negotiate trade agree- us. And so I’m reminded every day that my ments with countries all around the world. job is to protect America, which I’m going That bill passed the House, just like the en- to do. Any time we get a hint, any time we ergy bill. It stalled in the Senate. get any evidence that somebody might be Nothing seems to be moving out of the thinking about doing something, you need to Senate these days. A faith-based initiative know we’re moving, and we’re moving in a passed the House. It is now sponsored by way that would make you proud. Joe Lieberman of Connecticut. It’s stalled in But the best way to secure the homeland the Senate. is to find the enemy wherever they try to We’ve got a lot of work to do in Wash- hide and bring them to justice. The best way—make no mistake about it—you should ington, DC, and I appreciate these House not be confused about the nature of the peo- Members’ support. But there’s no greater ple we’re dealing with. They hate us because work to be done than to protect the Amer- we’re free. They hate the thought that Amer- ican people. I have submitted a budget that icans welcome all religions; they can’t stand prioritizes homeland defense and our na- that thought. They hate the thought that we tional security. I submitted a budget that rec- educate everybody. They hate our freedoms. ognizes that we’ve got to prepare America They hate the fact that we hold each indi- for whatever emergency may come, a budget vidual—we dignify each individual. We be- that puts ample amount of money in place lieve in the dignity of every person. They to enable our first-responders, our brave po- can’t stand that. lice and firefighters and EMS crews all And the only way they know to express around the country, to have the equipment themselves is through killing, coldblooded and training necessary to respond should the killing. And so we need to treat them the enemy hit us again. way they are, as international criminals. And I know the Coast Guard Academy is based that’s why my defense budget is the largest here. In my budget, I beefed up the Coast increase in 20 years. You know, the price of Guard in order to make sure that our borders freedom is high, but for me it’s never too are more secure. high because we fight for freedom. We’ve got to change the INS, the Immi- I’ve tried to speak as clearly as I possibly gration and Naturalization Service, so we un- can. You’re either with us, or you’re not with derstand who’s coming into our country and us. You’re either with us, or you’re against what is their purpose for coming into our us. And the good news is, there’s a lot of country. We’ve got to make sure we have a people with us. A lot of people love freedom mechanism in place to deal with any bioter- like we do, and we’ve got a vast coalition rorist attack that may occur. And so we’ve we’ve put together that we work on. I had got—and I’ve got a good man, a friend of the honor of welcoming Tony Blair down to Johnny’s and mine who is a fellow Governor the ranch. We’ve got no finer friend, no of ours from Pennsylvania named Tom stronger partner in our quest for freedom Ridge, running this operation. than Tony Blair. You also need to know that every morning I also said that if you hide a terrorist or that I’m in Washington, I go into the Oval feed one, you’re just as guilty as a terrorist. Office—which is a fabulous office, by the And the Taliban found out exactly what we way. [Laughter] It’s a great shrine to our meant. We went into Afghanistan not as con- country. I sit at the desk where the Roo- querors but as liberators. sevelts—I guess since I’m a President, I can It is so hard for people to understand, the call them the Roosevelt boys—sat at the fact that this was a government—it’s hard for

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people in America to understand that this is going to be defending freedom and making a government that would not let young girls sure that, when they look back at history, go to school. I mean, these were barbaric, they will have said the United States did what backward people. And we got them out of was necessary to keep the world free from office. And not only did we get them out terror and barbaric behavior. of office, we kept a nation from starving. And I want to thank these Members for We’re helping with their health care system. their strong support of the defense budget I am so proud of the contributions that our that I submitted. And my call, of course, to military and Americans have made. It is a the Congress is that instead of passing the signal to the world that we’re not only defense budget last, like they always try to tough—if somebody wants to take us on, they do, let’s pass it first; let’s get it done. Let’s will have made a bad mistake. But we’re also make sure our troops understand they’re compassionate, and we care deeply about the going to have the best equipment, the best plight of our fellow human beings, no matter training, and the best pay possible early in what part of the world they live in. the budget cycle, not late. The enemy must be chagrined. You know, I believe strongly in the inherent good of first of all, I can’t imagine what went through our country. I’m an optimistic fellow because their mind when they attacked. I like to re- I know what a great land we are—have— mind people, they must have felt we were and what a great people we are. I believe so materialistic and so self-absorbed and so out of this evil that has been done to our weak and feeble that all we would do would Nation will come incredible good. There’s no be to file a lawsuit. [Laughter] doubt in my mind; there’s no doubt in my They thought we would grow weary. They mind, if we’re firm and deliberate and tough, thought we would tire. Man, are they wrong. we’ll achieve peace in places where we never This Nation is united and strong. And it’s dreamt there would be peace. If we’re steady important that we be patient and united and strong, because there are still a lot of them and rout out terror wherever it exists, we can out there. There just are; that’s the reality. achieve peace. And I know this country can I deal with reality every day. But there’s no respond to the evil acts by responding with cave deep enough for these people to hide acts of kindness and decency. in. You just need to know that. People say, ‘‘What can I do to help?’’ The The other day we hauled in a guy named answer is, love a neighbor like you’d like to Abu Zubaydah. He’s one of the top be loved yourself. If you want to help Amer- operatives plotting and planning death and ica fight evil, do some good in your neighbor- destruction on the United States. He’s not hood. Put your arm around a child who may plotting and planning anymore. He’s where wonder whether or not the American experi- he belongs. ence is meant for them and say, ‘‘I love you.’’ History has called us into action, and this And more than that, teach them how to read, Nation is responding. You’ve got to under- so they can understand what America is all stand my mindset and what I think. We’ve about. If you really want to help, support got to act on behalf of the little ones. We’ve your schools. Help people understand that got to secure the world and this civilization loneliness and despair do not have to be a as we know it from these evil people. We way of life. Walk across the street to a shut- just have to do this. in who may live in your neighborhood and And that includes making sure that some say, ‘‘I care for you. What can I do to help of the world’s worst leaders who desire to you today?’’ possess the world’s worst weapons don’t team It’s small acts of kindness and decency that up with faceless, Al Qaida-type killer organi- define the true face of America for the world. zations. We owe it to the future of this coun- If you want to fight evil, do some good. And try to lead a coalition against nations that are it’s that gathering momentum of millions of so evil and, at the same time, desire incred- acts of kindness which will have the Amer- ibly evil weapons. And you just need to know, ican people stand squarely in the face of the so long as I’m the President, my focus is evildoers.

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And that’s happening in America. It is. Our NOTE: The President spoke at 12:55 p.m. in the culture is beginning to change from one of— Regency Ballroom at the Hyatt Regency Green- that basically said, ‘‘If it feels good, just go wich. In his remarks, he referred to President Sad- ahead and do it,’’ and, ‘‘If you’ve got a prob- dam Hussein of Iraq; Prime Minister Tony Blair lem, blame somebody else,’’ to one in which of the United Kingdom; and Abu Zubaydah, a leader of the Al Qaida terrorist organization, who we’re all responsible for the decisions we was captured on March 28. make in life, that we’re responsible for loving our children. The most important job you’ll ever have as a mother or father is to love Remarks Following Discussions With your children with all your heart and all your Secretary General Lord Robertson soul. of the North Atlantic Treaty A responsible period of time says that you Organization will be involved in your community, that you shouldn’t just take from the great American April 9, 2002 experience but you’ve got to give and you’ve got to help people in need. It means we’ve President Bush It’s an honor to welcome got corporate responsibility in America. Lord Robertson back here to the White CEOs of corporate America must not only House. NATO is an anchor of security for be responsible for full disclosure of assets both Europe and for the United States. And and liabilities, but they must also stay focused Lord Robertson is a very strong leader who on the health and welfare of their workers. is helping NATO meet the challenges of the There is a responsibility era emerging in new century. America to the better—to the better—and Since September the 11th, NATO has as a result, we’ll be able to overcome evil been a bulwark in the fight against terror. with good. On September the 12th, for the first time And perhaps that change of attitude and in history, NATO invoked Article V, declar- change of culture is best reflected by what ing an attack on one of its members is an took place on Flight 93. For me, it was one attack on all. of the most meaningful stories of September NATO did so to show its strong support 11th and on. It’s the story of average Ameri- for the United States. And NATO nations are cans flying an airplane—on an airplane, trav- backing up those words with action. More eling our country just like everybody else has than a dozen of our NATO Allies are contrib- done—most everybody has done—just got uting forces to the war against terror in Af- on an airplane and said, ‘‘I’m going to go ghanistan. NATO aircraft have been de- somewhere,’’ for business or pleasure, what- ployed to patrol our skies in support of Amer- ever it was. And they were told on their tele- ica’s security. And the airspace of NATO phones that America was under attack. And members has been critical to coalition air op- they told their loved ones they loved them, erations. The United States is deeply, deeply and they said a prayer, and they drove the grateful for this support. plane in the ground to save others’ lives. This past weekend in Texas, I thanked It is the ultimate—it’s the ultimate state- Prime Minister Tony Blair for the many valu- ment of personal responsibility to serve able contributions of Great Britain. Today, something greater than yourself. And that’s on behalf of the American people, I thank what’s happening in America. Americans all Lord Robertson for his leadership and for around our country are serving something the help of our NATO friends. greater than their own self-promotion. And The United States will consult closely with that’s good. And that’s the American spirit. our allies as we move forward in the war And that’s why I am so incredibly optimistic against terror. This is an important moment about the future of this country, because for NATO, and as we prepare for the NATO we’re a land full of decent and caring and summit in Prague later this year, we must compassionate Americans. address some critical challenges. NATO must Thank you all for coming today, and may develop new, flexible capabilities to meet the God bless you all. threats of the 21st century.

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We must take on new members, securing ons of mass destruction. And NATO allies freedom from the Baltic to the Black Sea. will work together to overcome these threats. And NATO must forge a new relationship And I say this to you, that we will succeed with Russia that is even more constructive, because the record shows that NATO is an so that we can finally and forever abolish the alliance that has served its members well in divisions that are relics of a previous era. the past, is serving us well in the present, These are difficult challenges, requiring and as we continue to transform, will serve determination and leadership. And I’m so us well into the future. happy that NATO has a strong visionary lead- Mr. President, this is indeed the fourth er in my friend Lord Robertson. It is our time that we’ve met. This is NATO’s 53d fourth meeting since I’ve taken office, and birthday. It’s strong, strong as it ever was. I look forward to many more. And it remains strong because the ties that Lord Robertson, I appreciate you coming. bind us together are enduring, and they lie Secretary General Robertson. Mr. in the common values of freedom and de- President, thank you very much for these mocracy and of liberty. Thank you very much for your kind—— kind words. And I’m delighted to be here President Bush. On that note, why don’t at the White House today, because it was I go buy you a meal? on this very day in this city, 53 years ago, that a group of nations came together to cre- NOTE: The President spoke at 6:15 p.m. in the ate a common defense against a common Roosevelt Room at the White House. In his re- threat, by saying an attack on one country marks, he referred to Prime Minister Tony Blair would be deemed to be an attack on all. of the United Kingdom. It was, however, a very different world when NATO redeemed that pledge last Sep- Remarks on Human Cloning tember. But although the world has changed, the ties that bind the 19 NATO nations to- Legislation gether have not, because this is an alliance April 10, 2002 built on shared principles and not on conven- Well, thank you all so very much for com- ience, built on permanent values, not on ex- ing to the White House. It’s my honor to pediency. welcome you to the people’s house. So as the President has said, it should be I particularly want to honor three folks no surprise that so many NATO nations— who I had the honor of meeting earlier, Joni all the NATO nations—are at the forefront Tada, Jim Kelly, and Steve McDonald. I want of this war on terror. NATO is the kind of to thank you for your courage; I want to alliance that you need, because when facing thank you for your wisdom; I want to thank a long-term strategic challenge, there’s no you for your extraordinary perseverance and substitute for long-term strategic partners, faith. They have triumphed in the face of partners that you can trust and who trust you. physical disability and share a deep commit- It’s also the kind of alliance that works be- ment to medicine that is practiced ethically cause when the going gets tough, the sheer and humanely. training, standards, and structures are what All of us here today believe in the promise welds different nations into an effective of modern medicine. We’re hopeful about whole. It’s also the kind of alliance that lasts where science may take us. And we’re also because it adapts and modernizes, as it will here because we believe in the principles of indeed do at our summit meeting in Prague ethical medicine. As we seek to improve in November of this year—taking in new human life, we must always preserve human members, rising to new challenges, creating dignity. And therefore, we must prevent new capabilities to defeat new enemies and human cloning by stopping it before it starts. new threats. I want to welcome Tommy Thompson, So today the President and I discussed the who is the Secretary of Health and Human common threats that we face, both in Europe Services, a man who is doing a fine job for and in North America, including from weap- America. I want to thank Members from the

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United States Congress, Members from both from a donor into a woman’s egg, which has political parties who are here. I particularly had its nucleus removed. As a result, the new want to thank Senator Brownback and Sen- or cloned embryo is an identical copy of only ator Landrieu for sponsoring a bill about the donor. Human cloning has moved from which I’m going to speak. science fiction into science. As well, we’ve got Senator Frist and Sen- One biotech company has already began ator Bond and Senator Hutchinson and Sen- producing embryonic human clones for re- ator Santorum and Congressman Weldon, search purposes. Chinese scientists have de- Stupak, and eventually Smith and Kerns. rived stem cells from cloned embryos created They just don’t realize—thank you all for by combining human DNA and rabbit eggs. coming—they seem to have forgotten we Others have announced plans to produce start things on time here in the White House. cloned children, despite the fact that labora- [Laughter] tory cloning of animals has lead to sponta- We live in a time of tremendous medical neous abortions and terrible, terrible abnor- progress. A little more than a year ago, sci- malities. entists first cracked the human genetic code, Human cloning is deeply troubling to me one of the most important advances in sci- and to most Americans. Life is a creation, entific history. Already, scientists are devel- not a commodity. Our children are gifts to oping new diagnostic tools so that each of be loved and protected, not products to be us can know our risk of disease and act to designed and manufactured. Allowing prevent them. cloning would be taking a significant step to- One day soon, precise therapies will be ward a society in which human beings are custom made for our own genetic makeup. grown for spare body parts and children are We’re on the threshold of historic break- engineered to custom specifications, and throughs against AIDS and Alzheimer’s dis- that’s not acceptable. ease and cancer and diabetes and heart dis- In the current debate over human cloning, ease and Parkinson’s disease. And that’s in- two terms are being used, reproductive credibly positive. cloning and research cloning. Reproductive Our age may be known to history as the cloning involves creating a cloned embryo age of genetic medicine, a time when many and implanting it into a woman with the goal of the most feared illnesses were overcome. of creating a child. Fortunately, nearly every Our age must also be defined by the care American agrees that this practice should be and restraint and responsibility with which banned. Research cloning, on the other hand, we take up these new scientific powers. involves the creation of cloned human em- Advances in biomedical technology must bryos which are then destroyed to derive never come at the expense of human con- stem cells. science. As we seek what is possible, we must I believe all human cloning is wrong, and always ask what is right, and we must not both forms of cloning ought to be banned forget that even the most noble ends do not for the following reasons. First, anything justify any means. other than a total ban on human cloning Science has set before us decisions of im- would be unethical. Research cloning would mense consequence. We can pursue medical contradict the most fundamental principle of research with a clear sense of moral purpose, medical ethics, that no human life should be or we can travel without an ethical compass exploited or extinguished for the benefit of into a world we could live to regret. Science another. Yet, a law permitting research now presses forward the issue of human cloning, while forbidding the birth of a cloning. How we answer the question of cloned child, would require the destruction human cloning will place us on one path or of nascent human life. the other. Secondly, anything other than a total ban Human cloning is the laboratory produc- on human cloning would be virtually impos- tion of individuals who are genetically iden- sible to enforce. Cloned human embryos cre- tical to another human being. Cloning is ated for research would be widely available achieved by putting the genetic material in laboratories and embryo farms. Once

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cloned embryos were available, implantation has wide support across the political spec- would take place. Even the tightest regula- trum. Liberals and conservatives support it. tions and strict policing would not prevent Religious people and nonreligious people or detect the birth of cloned babies. support it. Those who are pro-choice and Third, the benefits of research cloning are those who are pro-life support the bill. This highly speculative. Advocates of research is a diverse coalition, united by a commit- cloning argue that stem cells obtained from ment to prevent the cloning and exploitation cloned embryos would be injected into a ge- of human beings. It would be a mistake for netically identical individual without risk of the United States Senate to allow any kind tissue rejection. But there is evidence, based of human cloning to come out of that Cham- on animal studies, that cells derived from ber. cloned embryos may indeed be rejected. I’m an incurable optimist about the future Yet, even if research cloning were medi- of our country. I know we can achieve great cally effective, every person who wanted to things. We can make the world more peace- benefit would need an embryonic clone of ful. We can become a more compassionate his or her own to provide the designer tis- nation. We can push the limits of medical sues. This would create a massive national science. I truly believe that we’re going to market for eggs and egg donors and exploi- bring hope and healing to countless lives tation of women’s bodies that we cannot and across the country. And as we do, I will insist must not allow. that we always maintain the highest of ethical I stand firm in my opposition to human standards. cloning. And at the same time, we will pursue Thank you all for coming. other promising and ethical ways to relieve suffering, through biotechnology. This year for the first time, Federal dollars will go to- NOTE: The President spoke at 1:18 p.m. in the wards supporting human embryonic stem East Room at the White House. In his remarks, cell research consistent with the ethical he referred to H.R. 2505, the proposed ‘‘Human Cloning Prohibition Act of 2001.’’ guidelines I announced last August. The National Institutes of Health is also funding a broad range of animal and human Proclamation 7539—National adult stem cell research. Adult stem cells, D.A.R.E. Day, 2002 which do not require the destruction of human embryos and which yield tissues that April 10, 2002 can be transplanted without rejection, are more versatile than originally thought. We’re By the President of the United States making progress. We’re learning more about of America them. And therapies developed from adult stem cells are already helping suffering peo- A Proclamation ple. I support increasing the research budget Illegal drugs are the enemy of ambition of the NIH, and I ask Congress to join me and hope, destroying individual lives and un- in that support. And at the same time, I dermining the health of our communities. In strongly support a comprehensive law against addition to the tragic consequences of drug all human cloning. And I endorse the bill— use for Americans and their families, the wholeheartedly endorse the bill—sponsored drug trade supports terrorist networks that by Senator Brownback and Senator Mary threaten our country and our allies around Landrieu. the world. When we fight the war on drugs, This carefully drafted bill would ban all we also fight the war on terror. human cloning in the United States, includ- The Drug Abuse Resistance Education ing the cloning of embryos for research. It (D.A.R.E) curriculum plays an important is nearly identical to the bipartisan legislation role in helping our young people understand that last year passed the House of Represent- the many reasons to avoid drugs. D.A.R.E. atives by more than a 100-vote margin. It is a series of lessons, taught by specially-

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trained police officers, that encourages stu- Independence of the United States of Amer- dents to live healthy, drug-free lives. Accord- ica the two hundred and twenty-sixth. ing to the University of Akron Institute for George W. Bush Health and Social Policy, the program oper- ates in 80 percent of our school districts, [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, reaching 26 million young people in America 10:47 a.m., April 11, 2002] each year. In addition to promoting the right NOTE: This proclamation was published in the decisions about drugs, D.A.R.E. helps build Federal Register on April 12. relationships among parents, teachers, law enforcement officers, and others interested in preventing drug use in their communities. Remarks on the Proposed ‘‘Charity My Administration is committed to keep- Aid, Recovery, and Empowerment ing the fight against drugs among our Na- Act of 2002’’ tion’s top priorities. I have proposed new April 11, 2002 goals for our country, including a 10 percent Elaine, thank you very much. I appreciate reduction in teenage and adult drug use over the job you’re doing. And thanks for that kind the next 2 years, and a 25 percent reduction introduction. I want to welcome you all here over 5 years. My National Drug Control to the White House, the people’s house. Strategy is a community-based approach, in- It’s an honor to welcome those who have corporating three core principles: (1) stop- heeded a great call, to love your neighbor ping drug use before it starts; (2) healing just like you’d like to be loved yourself. It’s America’s drug users; and (3) disrupting the a universal call, and it’s a call that has been market for drugs in our country. In addition, applicable throughout history. It’s really my 2003 budget proposes $19.2 billion for needed right now. And so I want to thank drug control. This includes $3.8 billion for you for coming to help discuss a very impor- drug treatment and research, an increase of tant issue, an important piece of legislation, more than 6 percent over 2002. a part of making sure the future of our coun- Drugs attack everything that is best about try is hopeful for everybody who lives here. our country, robbing Americans, young and Part of the reason you’re here is so we old, and their families of dignity and char- can unleash your talents and energy on the acter. Today, we recognize D.A.R.E. as a Hill. [Laughter] And I appreciate your will- critical part in our effort to teach young peo- ingness to be practical in Washington, be- ple how to avoid drug use and the devastating cause there is a piece of legislation that I effects that drugs can inflict upon their hope you work on. It’s an urgent time for health and on their future. you to act, and I think it’s going to help Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, America. This really isn’t about any political President of the United States of America, party, I want to assure you. It’s a way to make by virtue of the authority vested in me by sure America is as hopeful as we possibly can be. the Constitution and laws of the United I want to thank all those who are here on States, do hereby proclaim April 11, 2002, stage with me, besides the Secretary of as National D.A.R.E. Day. I call upon youth, Labor. Thank you for coming. I appreciate parents, educators, and all Americans to ob- you being soldiers in the armies of compas- serve this day by joining the fight against sion. drugs in your communities. I also encourage I want to thank Senator Santorum, who our citizens to express appreciation for the is the author of the legislation I’m going to law enforcement officers, volunteers, and talk about, and Senator Brownback from the others who work to help young people avoid State of Kansas for coming. As the author the dangers of drug use. of the bill, I thought you might have gotten In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set a better seat. [Laughter] Sam got your seat my hand this tenth day of April, in the year because he was on time. [Laughter] I’m still of our Lord two thousand two, and of the for your bill. [Laughter]

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Both Senators are fine people and good It’s going to be—there are going to be Members. And I want to thank you all for some tough moments achieving that peace. coming. But you need to know that we’re going to I appreciate Cardinal McCarrick for being be plenty tough when we need to be tough. here as well, my longtime friend. And I want And we’re going to stay focused on keeping to thank you all. our homeland safe, hunting down barbaric I don’t know if you’ve met my confidant, killers one by one. That’s our call. History Jim Towey, who is here. He works in our has called us into action, and we must and Faith-Based Office. There he is. Hi, Jim. we will respond. How are you? Jim is a remarkable soul who But we need to do more than just make I was able to convince to leave the private the world more secure. We need to make sector to come and work. And if you’ve got the world and our country a better place. In any complaints about how charitable choice order to really battle evil, we must be more is working or suggestions about how to make than just a military might. We must be a— it work better, he’s available. His job is to we must show our might through our com- work with the faith community to make passion for our fellow citizens. America a better place. He was Mother Tere- I gave a speech in Monterrey, Mexico, the sa’s lawyer, worked for Democrats and Re- other day, talking about how this Nation will publicans. This is not a political guy, you’ll help in the development of nations who are be pleased to hear. And he’ll do his job in poor and who suffer. I was proud to give that a way that will make you proud. speech. The events of September the 11th were At home, though, we also have got to rec- an incredibly dark moment. But the thing I’m ognize even though we’re a rich and powerful most proud about is, through the darkness, nation, there are pockets of despair and our character shined. This is really an unbe- hopelessness. There are too many people in lievable country we live in. It was heroes who America who wonder whether or not Amer- risked their lives, and Americans responded ica is meant for them. And so part of our with incredible generosity. I mean, our heart fight to make our country more secure must was united with those who lost their—those be one also to make the country a better whose families grieved. It was a remarkable place for all of us. And the place to start is moment, it really was. It was a test of our understanding that the country can be character. People prayed. All faiths were changed one heart, one soul, one conscience praying for our country. People grieved to- at a time. gether. All the racial issues went away be- One person can’t do everything, but a per- cause we all realized we were Americans, son can do something to help somebody. And with everything at stake—everything at stake. your jobs as social entrepreneurs and people The organizations directly related to the deeply committed to our future is to gather relief efforts received $2 billion during that that love and compassion which exists. And quick period of time. The goodness of the you’re doing a great job of doing that, and country is overcoming the evil done to us. I want to thank you. We’re overcoming the evil done to us, as My job is to continue to address the spirit well, through military action. And we will of the country, is to call upon the best, and take action. I want to assure you, we don’t I will do so. I will remind people, if they seek revenge; we seek justice. And I believe want to fight evil, they must do some good. that if we’re patient and resolved and united, And it’s also to recognize problems when that out of this evil will come lasting peace, they exist and work to solve those problems, peace in regions of the world that might ap- to eliminate the hurdles and barriers that pear now that cannot be peaceful. I believe prevent the neighborhood healers and help- we can achieve peace by being strong and ers from doing their jobs. to lead the world toward peace. Peace is the The past 7 months have shown how much cornerstone of this Nation’s foreign policy; our country depends on charities. Yet today, it’s what we aim for. America’s charities face very difficult times.

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It’s ironic to me that in the immediate after- duct from their income taxes all charitable math of September the 11th, we responded, gifts. and yet, there are too many charities hurting. The issue is for those who do not itemize. Part of it is because of a recession; I recog- They don’t get to deduct their gifts, and we nize that. Part of it is that a lot of money ought to allow that. We ought to encourage has gone into those charities directly involved giving by allowing the non-itemizers—listen, with the relief efforts. And that’s good, but charitable giving is important for all of the it’s not good enough for the future of our people in our country, not just the wealthy. country that many charities suffer today, and Everybody ought to be encouraged to give. we’re going to do something about it. What’s called the ‘‘CARE Act,’’ the ‘‘Char- If there is any doubt, let me just quote ity Aid, Recovery, and Empowerment Act,’’ a few statistics to you to make my point. sponsored by Rick Santorum and Joe America’s Second Harvest, the country’s Lieberman, have this as a part—as a core largest hunger relief charity, reports that part of the bill. It is an important part of more than 80 percent of its affiliates face in- the legislation, and I urge you all to take your creased demands for food, while 40 percent message to the Finance Committee in the have seen a significant drop in food donations United States Senate that has something to and funding. That’s a problem. do with this type of legislation. [Laughter] In Northern California, the United Way I’m sure they’ll respond. is facing an unprecedented fundraising short- You probably know that the House is pass- fall for 2001. Giving was 14 percent below ing a good piece of legislation already. J.C. the year before. That’s a problem. The Watts and Tony Hall were the sponsors. It group’s leader said this: ‘‘I don’t think we’ve passed. And now, so the focus—that’s why ever had a dropoff of this magnitude. It af- the focus is on the United States Senate. fects our ability to serve our community.’’ The ‘‘CARE Act’’ as well recognizes—oh, And I agree. by the way, just so the people understand The United Way in Orlando was forced the extent of what we’re talking about, 84 to lay off 17 percent of its staff in February million Americans don’t itemize and there- because it fell significantly short of its fund- fore don’t have the opportunity to deduct. raising goal. Many people in this room, many And we really believe—and I know you agree people whose sole purpose is to help an with me—that changing the tax laws to pro- American in need, are confronting greater vide an incentive for the 84 million could and needs with fewer resources. And our Govern- probably will substantially raise the amount ment must recognize the problem and deal of giving in America, which will be really with it in a constructive way. helpful and hopeful and positive. First, as I mentioned, my job is to call The other thing the Federal Government upon Americans to love a neighbor like must not do is worry about the role of faith- they’d like to be loved themselves, to under- based programs in providing help to people stand that being a citizen is more than just in need. Let me put it a little more bluntly: a spectator; it’s a participant in your commu- The Federal Government should not not dis- nity. And I will continue to—I will continue criminate against faith. There must be a level to call upon Americans to serve. And I will playing field available. When we have Fed- continue to talk about the pockets of despair eral monies, people should be allowed to ac- and hopelessness, so that it is clear to those cess that money without having to lose their who may be comfortable that they have a— mission or change their mission. there are some who aren’t and we need their We need to know that in our society, faith help. can move people in ways that Government And I’m going to make sure that our Gov- can’t. I mean, Government can write checks, ernment passes legislation that does a couple but it can’t put hope in people’s hearts or of things: one, that encourages more private a sense of purpose in people’s lives. That is sector giving, that makes giving to the armies done by people who have heard a call and of compassion a more profitable venture for who act on faith and are willing to share that the individual by allowing the people to de- faith. And I’m not talking about a particular

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religion. I’m talking about all religions under where nobody else has dared walk,’’ and have the Almighty God. changed people’s lives. And we should not fear those kind of pro- And it is amazing what happens, amazing grams: programs where someone’s addiction what happens when you start off—Brother may be more likely cured because of faith; Lusk here started off with—I don’t even programs that are willing to go into the prison think—well, it might have been a building; systems—you know, programs that say, it looked like a building. [Laughter] But now ‘‘Well, stamping license plates is okay, but he’s got this magnificent place in inner-city it may not change somebody’s life for the Philadelphia, because he had a vision and a better’’; programs in which they surround a dream to make something happen. child with love because of faith and provide But it is the effect—and why I feel so a blueprint based upon—a future based upon strongly about this mission that we’re all on love for a child. That’s what we ought to rec- is because when that one soul who decides ognize happens. to do something changes a heart, it is likely Listen, some of the greatest welfare pro- that heart that’s been changed is willing to grams in America are on the street corners change another heart. And it’s that effect that of inner-city America in a house of worship. will have an incredibly profound effect on Some of the best places where lost souls find all of us. hope are in our synagogues. Mosques pro- In order to fight evil, we must do good. vide great hope for people who wonder It is the gathering momentum of millions of whether America is meant for them. And our acts of kindness and compassion which de- Government must recognize the power of fine the true face of America, that shows these programs. These programs don’t have what this country is truly made out of. On giant bureaucracies and endless rules in the one hand, we are strong and tough mili- which they become entangled. They keep tarily, but on the other hand, that is—we are their focus on their mission. They don’t keep a nation that is compassionate and decent hours. [Laughter] They’re open when need- and caring. And no evil, no terrorist can ex- ed. tinguish that light. There’s been some anticrime programs God bless. based upon faith, like Brother Rivers, out of Boston, Massachusetts, who has done a fan- tastic job. NOTE: The President spoke at 2:33 p.m. in the And so this act recognizes that part of the East Room at the White House. In his remarks, mosaic of aid and comfort in America comes he referred to Secretary of Labor Elaine Chao, from the faith community and that we who introduced the President; Theodore Cardinal shouldn’t fear faith, we ought to welcome it McCarrick, Archbishop of Washington; Rev. Eu- gene Rivers, pastor, Azusa Christian Community, in our society. I urge that the ‘‘CARE Act’’ and cofounder, Boston Ten Point Coalition; and get passed out of the Senate by Memorial Rev. Herbert Lusk II, pastor, Greater Exodus Day. Baptist Church, and founder/president, People for I want to thank the neighborhood healers People, Inc. The President also referred to S. who are here. One of the things I brag about 1924, the proposed ‘‘Charity Aid, Recovery, and is the entrepreneurial spirit in America. But Empowerment Act of 2002’’ and H.R. 7, the pro- people have got to understand, the entrepre- posed ‘‘Community Solutions Act of 2001.’’ neurial spirit just doesn’t pertain to starting a business. Our entrepreneurial spirit also pertains to helping people. And one of the Statement on Senate Action on great joys of being a candidate and eventually Election Reform Legislation President is the opportunity to see these little April 11, 2002 programs that start up because somebody has heard a call. I mean, it’s an unbelievable part I commend the Senate for passing an elec- of the fabric of our Nation. Somebody has tion reform bill and bringing us a step closer heard the—said, ‘‘I think I’m going to take to enacting legislation this year. I look for- my energy and my talent into a neighborhood ward to working with conferees to make sure

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the reforms reflect the principles outlined by April 7 the bipartisan Ford/Carter Commission that In the afternoon, the President returned respect the primacy of State and local gov- to Washington, DC. ernments and envision a limited but respon- sible role for the Federal Government. April 8 In the morning, the President had intel- ligence briefings. Later, he traveled to Knox- Statement on House of ville, TN. Representatives Action on Pension In the afternoon, he returned to Wash- Reform Legislation ington, DC. April 11, 2002 The White House announced that the President will welcome President Rudolf Employees need more information about Schuster of the Slovak Republic to the White their pension plans and more control over House on June 7. them. I commend Chairman Thomas, Chair- April 9 man Boehner, and Congressman Portman, and the bipartisan majority in the House for In the morning, the President traveled to passing pension reform legislation that ac- Bridgeport, CT, and later to Greenwich, CT. complishes these objectives. The reforms will In the afternoon, he returned to Washington, give employees better access to investment DC. advice, additional notice of blackouts, and in- The White House announced that the creased ability to diversify. Importantly, the President will meet with King Mohamed VI reforms adhere to the principle that what is of Morocco at the White House on April 23 right for executives is also right for workers. to discuss developments in the Middle East I look forward to Senate action on this critical and other key bilateral issues. issue. The President announced his intention to nominate Stuart D. Rick to be a member of the Merit Systems Protection Board. The President announced his intention to appoint the following individuals as members Digest of Other of the Board of Directors of the Vietnam White House Announcements Education Foundation: Herbert Monroe Al- lison, Jr., Robert Leamon Bryant, Chung Wook Kim, Tuan Joseph Pham, Frank Jao, and Marilyn Castor Mashon Pattillo. The following list includes the President’s public The President announced his intention to schedule and other items of general interest an- appoint the following individuals as members nounced by the Office of the Press Secretary and of the Advisory Committee to the Pension not included elsewhere in this issue. Benefit Guaranty Corporation: George M. Kraw and Judith F. Mazo (Employee Rep- resentatives), and Mary Ann Melody Larson April 6 McDonald (Public Representative). In the afternoon, from the Bush Ranch in The President announced his intention to Crawford, TX, the President had a telephone appoint the following individuals as members conversation with Prime Minister Ariel Shar- of the Advisory Committee on the Arts, John on of Israel concerning the situation in the F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts: Middle East. Judson C. Ball, Bray Bruce Barnes, William In the evening, the President and Mrs. Dewayne Dunlap, Ann Hundley Hoover, Bush hosted a dinner at the Bush Ranch for Linda Nordstrom, Wilbur O. Powers, Noel Prime Minister Tony Blair of the United Quinones, Juan F. Woodroffe, and T. Caro- Kingdom, his wife, Cherie, their daughter, line D. Wyly. Kathryn, and Mrs. Blair’s mother, Gale The President announced his intention to Booth. designate Terry Bathen as Acting Inspector

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General for the Corporation for National and coach, Robin Wagner. He also met with U.S. Community Service. Trade Representative Robert B. Zoellick. In the afternoon, the President traveled to April 10 Camp David, MD. In the morning, the President had CIA and The President announced his intention to FBI briefings and met with the National Se- appoint Michael F. Duffy as a member of curity Council. Later, he met with Repub- the Federal Mine Safety and Health Review lican House and Senate leaders to discuss the Commission. upcoming congressional agenda. The President announced his intention to In the afternoon, the President met with appoint David Horton Wilkins as a member Republican House Members to discuss wel- of the Board of Visitors to the U.S. Military fare reform. Later, in the Oval Office, he met Academy. with California Republican gubernatorial The President announced his intention to candidate Bill Simon. appoint the following individuals as members The White House announced that the of the President’s Commission on White President will welcome President Andres House Fellowships: Victoria Arias, Myrna Pastrana of Colombia to the White House Blyth, Corrine Claiborne Boggs, Julie Nixon on April 18 to discuss cooperation against ter- Eisenhower, Ronald Robert Fogleman, Lisa rorism and drug interdiction efforts. Guillermin Gable, Kay Coles James, Jay L. Johnson, Edith Hollan Jones, Jeffrey C. April 11 Pope, William L. Roper, James Smith, and In the morning, the President had a break- Barbara F. Vucanovich. fast meeting with Speaker of the House of The President announced his intention to Representatives Dennis J. Hastert, Senate appoint James David Gwartney, Patricia Majority Leader Tom Daschle, Senate Mi- Louise Herbold, and Demaris H. Miller as nority Leader Trent Lott, and House Minor- members of the President’s Council on the ity Leader Richard A. Gephardt. Later, he 21st Century Workforce. had CIA and FBI briefings. He also had a telephone conversation with King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain concerning the situ- ation in the Middle East. In the afternoon, the President had lunch Nominations with Vice President Dick Cheney. Submitted to the Senate The White House announced that the President will meet with Prime Minister Rafiq Hariri of Lebanon at the White House The following list does not include promotions of on April 17. members of the Uniformed Services, nominations to the Service Academies, or nominations of For- April 12 eign Service officers. In the morning, from the Oval Office, the President had separate telephone conversa- Submitted April 9 tions with President Vladimir Putin of Russia and Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi of Italy concerning a possible NATO-Russia summit Lillian R. BeVier, to be held in Italy in May. He then had CIA of Virginia, to be a member of the Board and FBI briefings and met with the National of Directors of the Legal Services Corpora- Security Council. tion for a term expiring July 13, 2004, vice Also in the morning, the President met Hulett Hall Askew, term expired. with Edmund Stoiber, opposition candidate for Chancellor of Germany. Also, in the Oval Walter Robert Bradley, Office, he met with Sarah Hughes, 2002 of Kansas, to be U.S. Marshal for the District Olympic gold medalist for women’s figure of Kansas for the term of 4 years, vice Rich- skating, and her mother, Amy Hughes, and ard Rand Rock II, term expired.

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Sharon Brown-Hruska, years expiring March 1, 2007, vice Barbara of Virginia, to be a Commissioner of the J. Sapin. Commodity Futures Trading Commission for the remainder of the term expiring April 13, Ned L. Siegel, 2004, vice William J. Rainer, resigned. of Florida, to be a member of the Board of Directors of the Overseas Private Investment Ray Elmer Carnahan, Corporation for a term expiring December of Arkansas, to be U.S. Marshal for the East- 17, 2003, vice Miguel D. Lausell. ern District of Arkansas for the term of 4 years, vice Conrad S. Pattillo, term expired. Steven J. Simmons, of Connecticut, to be a member of the Jack C. Chow, Broadcasting Board of Governors for the re- of Pennsylvania, for the rank of Ambassador mainder of the term expiring August 13, during his tenure of service as Special Rep- 2003, vice Alberto J. Mora. resentative of the Secretary of State for HIV/ AIDS. Frank B. Strickland, of Georgia, to be a member of the Board Robert J. Dieter, of Directors of the Legal Services Corpora- of Colorado, to be a member of the Board tion for a term expiring July 13, 2004, vice of Directors of the Legal Services Corpora- John N. Erlenborn, term expired. tion for a term expiring July 13, 2002, vice F. William McCalpin, term expired. John Peter Suarez, of New Jersey, to be an Assistant Adminis- Robert J. Dieter, trator of the Environmental Protection Agen- of Colorado, to be a member of the Board cy, vice Steven Alan Herman, resigned. of Directors of the Legal Services Corpora- Submitted April 12 tion for a term expiring July 13, 2005 (re- appointment). Jeremy H. G. Ibrahim, of Pennsylvania, to be a member of the For- Thomas A. Fuentes, eign Claims Settlement Commission of the of California, to be a member of the Board United States for the term expiring Sep- of Directors of the Legal Services Corpora- tember 30, 2002, vice Richard Thomas tion for a term expiring July 13, 2002, vice White, term expired. Thomas F. Smegal, Jr., term expired. Jeremy H. G. Ibrahim, Thomas A. Fuentes, of Pennsylvania, to be a member of the For- of California, to be a member of the Board eign Claims Settlement Commission of the of Directors of the Legal Services Corpora- United States for the term expiring Sep- tion for a term expiring July 13, 2005 (re- tember 30, 2005 (reappointment). appointment). David B. Rivkin, Jr., Michael McKay, of Virginia, to be a member of the Foreign of Washington, to be a member of the Board Claims Settlement Commission of the of Directors of the Legal Services Corpora- United States for the term expiring Sep- tion for a term expiring July 13, 2004, vice tember 30, 2004, vice Laramie Faith McNa- Nancy Hardin Rogers, term expired. mara. Theresa A. Merrow, of Kentucky, to be U.S. Marshal for the Mid- dle District of Georgia for the term of 4 years, vice Lawson Cary Bittick, term ex- Checklist pired. of White House Press Releases Stuart D. Rick, of Maryland, to be a member of the Merit The following list contains releases of the Office Systems Protection Board for the term of 7 of the Press Secretary that are neither printed as

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items nor covered by entries in the Digest of Released April 10 Other White House Announcements. Transcript of a press briefing by Press Sec- retary Ari Fleischer Released April 8 Statement by the Press Secretary: President Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Sec- Pastrana of Colombia To Visit Washington retary Ari Fleischer Statement by the Press Secretary: President Released April 11 Rudolf Schuster of the Slovak Republic To Transcript of a press briefing by Press Sec- Visit Washington retary Ari Fleischer Statement by the Press Secretary on the Statement by the Press Secretary: Visit of IRA’s completion of another act of decom- Prime Minister Rafiq Hariri of Lebanon missioning Statement by the Press Secretary: Visit by Statement by the Press Secretary on Israeli Vice President Hu Jintao of China (meeting Withdrawal From Two West Bank Towns with the Vice President) Advance text of remarks by National Security Advance text of remarks by Homeland Secu- Adviser Condoleezza Rice at the William rity Director Tom Ridge to the American So- Waldo Cameron Forum on Public Affairs ciety of Newspaper Editors Transcript of remarks by Homeland Security Fact sheet: President Calls for Action by Me- Director Tom Ridge to the American Hos- morial Day To Help America’s Charities pital Association Fact sheet: Strengthening Homeland Secu- Fact sheet: Protecting American Jobs & Our rity Since 9/11 Economy Against Terrorist Attacks Fact sheet: Citizen Corps Grows Strong in Released April 12 America’s Communities Transcript of a press briefing by Press Sec- Released April 9 retary Ari Fleischer Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Sec- Announcement: President and Mrs. Bush retary Ari Fleischer Release 2001 Tax Return Statement by the Press Secretary: King Announcement of nomination for U.S. Attor- Mohamed VI of Morocco To Visit White ney for the Southern District of Florida House Fact sheet: Strengthening Opportunities To Serve In America’s Communities Acts Approved Announcement of nominations of U.S. Mar- by the President shals for the District of Kansas, the Eastern District of Arkansas, and the Middle District of Georgia, and nominations of U.S. Attor- NOTE: No acts approved by the President were neys for the Eastern District of Wisconsin received by the Office of the Federal Register and the Central District of Illinois during the period covered by this issue.

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