Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States

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PUBLIC PAPERS OF THE PRESIDENTS OF THE UNITED STATES

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PUBLIC PAPERS OF THE PRESIDENTS OF THE UNITED STATES

George W. Bush

2003 (IN TWO BOOKS)

BOOK I—JANUARY 1 TO JUNE 30, 2003

UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE WASHINGTON : 2006 Published by the Office of the Federal Register National Archives and Records Administration

For sale by the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office • Internet: bookstore.gpo.gov • Phone: (202) 512–1800 • Fax: (202) 512–2250 • Mail: Stop SSOP, Washington, DC 20401 Foreword

This volume collects my speeches, major statements, and papers from the first 6 months of 2003. The year began with Saddam Hussein still defying the world. For more than a decade, the United States and other nations had sought through patient diplomacy to disarm the Iraqi regime of its weapons programs and to have international inspectors verify this disarmament. These efforts had not been successful. In November 2002, the United Nations Security Council unanimously passed Resolution 1441, which declared Hussein’s regime in material breach of its longstanding obligations— and vowed serious consequences if Iraq continued its violations of U.N. resolutions. Saddam Hussein offered no proof that he had abandoned his weapons programs, and he continued to deceive weapons inspectors. We knew that Saddam Hussein had a long history of aggression, that he had developed and used weapons of mass destruction in the past, and that he had cultivated ties to terrorist groups and had harbored known terrorists. And we knew that in a post-September 11th world, America must confront gathering threats before it is too late. We gave Saddam Hussein another chance, a final chance, to meet his responsibilities to the civilized world—and again, he refused. By mid-March, we had exhausted all diplomatic options. Faced with continued defiance from Baghdad, America and its allies were obligated to enforce the just demands of the world. On my orders, on March 19 our Armed Forces began striking selected military targets to undermine Saddam Hussein’s ability to wage war. In one of the swiftest advances of heavy arms in history, our Marines and soldiers charged to Baghdad across 350 miles of hostile ground, alongside troops from other coalition countries. By April, the world was watching Iraqis pull down a statue of their former dictator. As the Iraqi people celebrated the end of Saddam Hussein’s dictatorship, we mourned the loss of the brave men and women in the coalition forces who gave their lives in battle. We also recognized that many difficult challenges remained to secure peace and freedom in Iraq and that the transition would take time. Many of the old regime’s leaders were still at large, parts of Iraq remained dangerous, and basic services needed to be reestablished. The highest priority was to replace Sad- dam Hussein’s tyranny with a government of, by, and for the Iraqi people. The liberation of Iraq was part of a broader American effort to combat terrorism, promote peace, and bring hope to the suffering. In my January 2003 State of the Union address, I proposed a historic $15 billion initiative to address the worldwide HIV/AIDS pandemic. I also announced Project Bioshield, a new initiative to develop vaccines and other countermeasures against biological weapons and other dangerous agents, as well as the creation of a new office to merge and analyze all threat infor-

Aug 31 2005 08:34 Nov 18, 2005 Jkt 198804 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 1234 Sfmt 1234 E:\HR\OC\198804PL.034 198804 mation in a single location. To enhance protection of the homeland, the new Depart- ment of Homeland Security began operations in March. That same month, our actions to disrupt the al-Qaida terrorist network continued to progress when American and Pakistani authorities captured Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, a mastermind of the September 11th attacks on our country. At home, my Administration worked with Congress to address a number of priorities, including a broad reform of Medicare that would add a prescription drug benefit and give seniors more choices and control over their health care. In April, I signed into law the PROTECT Act, which gave law enforcement additional tools to prevent, investigate, and prosecute violent crimes against children. And to speed our economic recovery and help create jobs, in May I signed into law the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act, which delivered substantial tax relief to tens of millions of Americans. It reduced taxes for everyone who pays income taxes, increased the child tax credit, cut taxes on dividends and capital gains, and gave small business owners incentives to invest for the future. As we pursued our goals at home and abroad, our Nation was saddened by the tragic loss of the Space Shuttle Columbia in February. From the bravery of our astronauts, to the valor of our soldiers charging through sandstorms to liberate millions, the daring and decent character of our country was evident during the first 6 months of 2003. W

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This book contains the papers and speeches of the 43d President of the United States that were issued by the Office of the Press Secretary during the period Janu- ary 1–June 30, 2003. The material has been compiled and published by the Office of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration. The material is presented in chronological order, and the dates shown in the head- ings are the dates of the documents or events. In instances when the release date differs from the date of the document itself, that fact is shown in the textnote. Every effort has been made to ensure accuracy: Remarks are checked against a tape recording, and signed documents are checked against the original. Textnotes and cross references have been provided by the editors for purposes of identification or clarity. Speeches were delivered in Washington, DC, unless indicated. The times noted are local times. All materials that are printed full-text in the book have been indexed in the subject and name indexes, and listed in the document categories list. The Public Papers of the Presidents series was begun in 1957 in response to a recommendation of the National Historical Publications Commission. An extensive compilation of messages and papers of the Presidents covering the period 1789 to 1897 was assembled by James D. Richardson and published under congressional authority between 1896 and 1899. Since then, various private compilations have been issued, but there was no uniform publication comparable to the Congressional Record or the United States Supreme Court Reports. Many Presidential papers could be found only in the form of mimeographed White House releases or as reported in the press. The Commission therefore recommended the establishment of an official series in which Presidential writings, addresses, and remarks of a public nature could be made available. The Commission’s recommendation was incorporated in regulations of the Admin- istrative Committee of the Federal Register, issued under section 6 of the Federal Register Act (44 U.S.C. 1506), which may be found in title 1, part 10, of the Code of Federal Regulations. A companion publication to the Public Papers series, the Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents, was begun in 1965 to provide a broader range of Presi- dential materials on a more timely basis to meet the needs of the contemporary reader. Beginning with the administration of Jimmy Carter, the Public Papers series expanded its coverage to include additional material as printed in the Weekly Com- pilation. That coverage provides a listing of the President’s daily schedule and meetings, when announced, and other items of general interest issued by the Office of

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Aug 31 2005 08:34 Nov 18, 2005 Jkt 198804 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 1234 Sfmt 1234 E:\HR\OC\198804PL.034 198804 the Press Secretary. Also included are lists of the President’s nominations submitted to the Senate, materials released by the Office of the Press Secretary that are not printed full-text in the book, and proclamations, Executive orders, and other Presi- dential documents released by the Office of the Press Secretary and published in the Federal Register. This information appears in the appendixes at the end of the book. Volumes covering the administrations of Presidents Herbert Hoover, Harry S. Truman, Dwight D. Eisenhower, John F. Kennedy, Lyndon B. Johnson, Richard Nixon, Gerald R. Ford, Jimmy Carter, Ronald Reagan, George Bush, and William J. Clinton are also included in the Public Papers series. The Public Papers of the Presidents publication program is under the direction of Frances D. McDonald, Managing Editor, Office of the Federal Register. The series is produced by the Presidential and Legislative Publications Unit, Gwendolyn J. Henderson, Chief. The Chief Editor of this book was Stacey A. Mulligan, assisted by Karen Howard Ashlin, William K. Banks, Loretta F. Cochran, Kathleen M. Fargey, Stephen J. Frattini, Alison M. Gavin, Christopher Gushman, Alfred Jones, and Michael J. Sullivan. The frontispiece and photographs used in the portfolio were supplied by the White House Photo Office. The typography and design of the book were developed by the Government Printing Office under the direction of Bruce R. James, Public Printer.

Raymond A. Mosley Director of the Federal Register

Allen Weinstein Archivist of the United States

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Aug 31 2005 08:34 Nov 18, 2005 Jkt 198804 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 1234 Sfmt 1234 E:\HR\OC\198804PL.034 198804 Contents

Foreword...v

Preface...vii

Cabinet...xi

Public Papers of George W. Bush, January 1–June 30, 2003...1

Appendix A Digest of Other White House Announcements...727

Appendix B Nominations Submitted to the Senate...765

Appendix C Checklist of White House Press Releases...787

Appendix D Presidential Documents Published in the Federal Register...799

Subject Index...A–1

Name Index...B–1

Document Categories List...C–1

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Cabinet

Secretary of State ...... Colin L. Powell

Secretary of the Treasury ...... John Snow

Secretary of Defense ...... Donald H. Rumsfeld

Attorney General ...... John Ashcroft

Secretary of the Interior ...... Gale A. Norton

Secretary of Agriculture ...... Ann M. Veneman

Secretary of Commerce ...... Donald L. Evans

Secretary of Labor ...... Elaine L. Chao

Secretary of Health and Human Services ...... Tommy G. Thompson

Secretary of Housing and Urban Development ...... Mel R. Martinez

Secretary of Transportation ...... Norman Y. Mineta

Secretary of Energy ...... Spencer Abraham

Secretary of Education ...... Roderick R. Paige

Secretary of Veterans Affairs ...... Anthony J. Principi

Secretary of Homeland Security ...... Tom Ridge

Chief of Staff ...... Andrew H. Card, Jr.

Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency ...... Christine Todd Whitman

United States Trade Representative ...... Robert B. Zoellick

2005 08:34 Nov 18, 2005 Jkt 198804 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 9280 Sfmt 9280 E:\HR\OC\198804PL.034 198804 Director of the Office of Management and Budget ...... Mitchell E. Daniels, Jr.

Director of National Drug Control Policy ...... John P. Walters

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Aug 31 2005 08:34 Nov 18, 2005 Jkt 198804 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 9280 Sfmt 9280 E:\HR\OC\198804PL.034 198804 Administration of George W. Bush

2003 Remarks During a Walking Tour of the Bush Ranch and an Exchange With Reporters in Crawford, Texas January 2, 2003

The President. Good morning, everybody. Q. That was part of the original—— Q. Good morning, sir. The President. Yes. The President. Let’s go. I’ll tell you what Q. Look at Barney trying to make it we’ll do. We’ll walk about 3 or 4 miles, through the woods there. and then we’ll end up having coffee. Mrs. The President. Come on, boy. Bush wants to say hello to everybody. Q. Lot of legs. Q. All right. Q. He’s trying to get to you. [Laughter] The President. Come on. Come on, Bar- The President. This is pretty good—[in- ney. We’ll walk out—it’s a little muddy. audible]—in there. I need somebody walking up here with me. Q. Is this manmade, sir? I can’t be—Reed, get out of the pictures. The President. Manmade. [Laughter] Come on, Stretch [David Greg- Q. How many acres? ory, NBC News], get in here. The President. Q. How are you? Happy New Year. About 11 acres lake, 17 The President. Same to you all. We’re foot deep, the deepest spot. I put 600 black bass in there a few years ago, and about trimming a lot of underbrush, still. Come 1 on, Barn. Are you going to make it, Heidi 30,000 bait fish. And they’re about 2 ⁄2 to [Holly Rosenkrantz, Bloomberg News]? 3 pounds now. A bad time to fish, because Q. I’ll be fine. the fish are lethargic during the cold. The President. We’ve got a truck for you We’ve got bluegill and shad and perch. back there. Q. [Inaudible] Q. Don’t worry about me. The President. Oh, it’s fantastic. We got Q. Who’s going to carry Barney? up yesterday—Laura and I have got a tradi- The President. He’s coming. tion of—we go for a sunrise walk on the Q. He can walk 4 miles? first day of the year. So yesterday we The President. Oh, yes, he’ll walk 4. popped about of bed about 7:20 a.m., and Where is he? Come on over, Barney. we started moving, walked 4 miles. Q. I don’t remember—you’ve had the Q. Great. guesthouse all along, right? Q. Wasn’t as chilly yesterday. The President. That’s the Secret Service. The President. No, it wasn’t. Q. That I know, but I mean, last time Q. You’ll get up and run in this cold, I actually saw this was 2000—— won’t you? The President. Oh, really? The President. Oh, absolutely. Start over Q. ——when it was still a shell. Remem- there at the house. We’ve got different run- ber, you walked us through that in July? ning—come on, Barn. The President. Turn right here, guys. Q. [Inaudible] That’s a little—right over there is another The President. Yes, maybe. This is an little house we refurbished, got a gym in old dirt road, so we put—[inaudible]—on there, and one bedroom. And then that’s it, to withstand the—we’re going to walk— a little guesthouse over there, a garage. [inaudible]—then we’re going to go down

1 Jan. 2 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

into the canyons, so it won’t be quite as all inside the barbed wire fence here will cold. eventually be made—— Q. Will we see the waterfall? Q. Has this all changed a lot since you The President. Absolutely. came? Q. [Inaudible] The President. Oh, yes. This is all dif- The President. I went in there yesterday ferent. And so in the spring, particularly to make sure there was water in—[inaudi- in a year like this year, there will be fan- ble]. tastic wildflowers. Q. So have you had friends out? Q. How nice. The President. Oh yes, every night. Q. How many miles of trails have you We’ve got—tonight we’ve got my long-time all put in? ally and friend Elton Bomer, who was the The President. A lot. insurance commissioner and the secretary Q. Just all over? of state when I was the Governor, and a The President. Yes. You can run probably former state senator for this district, David 6 miles without doubling. Sibley, and his wife are coming. Condi’s Q. Without doubling over. coming. The President. The other thing that’s So, for example, this is one of the trails, really interesting—I hope we see them— this is a mile-and-a-half spot for one of is there are a lot of cardinals here this the trails. You’ll see those markers. time of year. Q. From the house? The President. From the house. The dif- Q. What’s your favorite time to come? ferent colors on there. Is Barney back Q. We might scare them away with this there? Is he back there? He’s getting in group. the truck. [Laughter] Barney got nervous The President. No, I don’t think so. Any with the crowd here. time. Q. If he gets too far behind, we can Q. Really? You don’t have a favorite sea- helo him in. son? The President. Now, these are all live The President. No. I like it warm. oaks in here, and when live oaks like this [Laughter] they’re called ‘‘motts.’’ Q. Really hot, huh? Q. Motts? M-o-t? The President. We’re going to have a The President. M-o-t-t. A mott is where muddy spot up here, so bear with us. We’re a group of trees grow quite tight together. going to go right and head west out for Q. They never lose their leaves? about a mile. And then we’re going to go The President. The live oaks do not lose down, and there will be a rest spot in there. their leaves. And these are—this is great You’re doing great. deer country in there. Here are some of Q. Oh, thanks. Don’t worry about me. the beautiful live oaks. The President. The medical unit will be Q. Now, has the range changed a lot here—[laughter]. We’ll warm up going this more—you made the lake a little bigger way. and—— One of the things about this place you’ll The President. Yes, the lake is a little see is, for example, that little clump of fuller, but only because of the wild grasses. trees is the head of a long canyon that And what Laura is doing is, around the goes down—I’ll show you the canyon. house, is trying to restore the country to There’s seven different canyons on here the native prairie grasses. And these are that create really unique—— all different native grasses from Texas. So Q. They’re not connected to one an- you’ll see—when we get back to the house, other?

2 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 2

The President. No, they’re separate and leaves. It’s got kind of a skirt to it, at the unique. rear base of the—they tend to have a skirt Q. So when you tell us you’re clearing to it. brush, does that mean you’re setting these Q. What are these trees here, these ones trails up? with the bare—— The President. No, no. What it means The President. It’s some kind of a oak. is—you see that little brush over there? The live oak doesn’t lose its leaves. That The pile of brush? one right there is a hackberry. They’re a Q. Yes. terrible tree. They’re trash trees. They’re The President. Underneath these—see not native. those cedars right there, growing under- That’s a cedar elm there. Those are neath the live oaks? cedar elms, Stretch. Q. Yes. Q. How many cows? The President. We’re cutting those down. The President. I’ve got 200 mother cows Q. Why? and 6 bulls. That’s a cow camp operation, The President. Because the cedars take kind of like a little nursery, is the best water. way to put it. Q. Oh, okay. Q. Now, these aren’t yours. These The President. They talk water from the are—— big trees, and they’re kind of like a nui- The President. No. sance. Q. Leases, or whatever? Q. Do you know how they got here? The President. Yes. Kenneth The President. As a matter of fact, they Engelbrecht. I bought the place from his got here when pioneers planted them for— dad, and he and his wife live on here. go left here; this is the worst mud—pio- Isn’t this a beautiful day? neers planted them for fenceposts. Q. Q. And then they started to—— It really is. It’s gorgeous. The President. You see the dark? I mean, Q. Have you had your run? we’ve got enough cedars for—— The President. I’m not going to run Q. You’ll be clearing up—— today. I went over—I had my CIA briefing The President. We won’t clear this. and had a visit with the Vice President Q. It grows back real quick, right? this morning. The President. It does grow back. Q. Via telecom? Q. Do you burn it? The President. Yes. Real-time, se- The President. We burn it, yes. We were cure—— burning yesterday, but the grass wasn’t Q. [Inaudible] dry—[inaudible]—have to call in fire—[in- The President. Absolutely. [Inaudible]— audible]. technology. Q. In Australia we call it ‘‘bigelow.’’ Q. When did they really—when did they The President. Oops, be careful. That’s really bring that online? the worst. The President. Last year. Pretty soon Q. The wetlands, right? they’re going to have it on Air Force One. The President. Preserves. Claire, get in— Q. What? oh, you made it? Oh, good. Whose shoes The President. Real-time, secure are you wearing, Claire? videoconferencing. It really changes—will Deputy Press Secretary Claire Buchan. change the nature of how people live in Harriet’s. [Laughter] many ways. The President. The big tree up there on Q. [Inaudible] the left is called a cedar elm. Loses its Q. [Inaudible]

3 Jan. 2 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

The President. But imagine, you know, [At this point, the President whistled.] your business—or your business, for exam- Q. He came—— ple. You’ll be able to have—— The President. Yes. Hey, Spotty. Hi, Q. Oh, we’re all ready—yes. Laura. The President. You’ve got real-time—[in- The First Lady. Hey. audible]—sitting around with your editors The President. How is it? Take Barney and—— with you, okay? He’s in the truck. We’ll Q. Oh, yes. There is so much that we’re see you back at the house. starting to do now on computers, where Q. you can edit stuff on laptops and—[inaudi- I mean, you do this often; I wasn’t ble]. here, but when we were here in 2000, we went the other way, right? I seem to re- The President. Maybe they can enhance member taking a drive the other way past your face. [Laughter] the house. Am I wrong? Q. That’s what I’m working on. The President. No, you’re right. The President. Super enhancement. Q. [Laughter] It’s hard to believe it was going on 3 years ago. [Laughter] Q. Oh, look at this, my wife just got me this little Palm Pilot here, and my orga- The President. It’s unbelievable, isn’t it? nizer. It’s got a camera in there. Heck of an ordeal, wasn’t it? For all of us involved. The President. Oh, fantastic. I notice telephones have got that now, where Q. Yeah. [Laughter] you—— The President. It’s amazing what the de- Q. Yes, oh, I know. I think that’s a little mocracy puts the—[inaudible]—what kind too much business going on in—[inaudi- of people are involved in the campaign, ble]. [Laughter] because we were—it’s a grueling experi- The President. So what you’ll see is three ence. I remember meeting your dad, sitting different parts of Texas. You’ll see this, kind behind the—— of the central plains, flat. This is more roll- Q. Yes. [Laughter] ing, where it’s the—rock is closer to the The President. How is he? surface. Oh, here comes Laura. Q. He’s doing great. Yes, he’s doing Q. Yes, I noticed she was out with great. friends, huh? The President. Big old guy. The President. Yes—[inaudible]. Q. Yeah, he is. We’re real excited be- Q. And Spot? cause I got—I was around Christmas and The President. Spot, the dog. stuff—— Q. Barney was out—one day out on The President. With the kid? where we do our live shot. Q. I got the picture of you holding Max, The President. Right. [Laughter] and they loved that. [Laughter] Q. I said, I don’t think—[inaudible]— The President. Well, I’m sure their life out here fraternizing. is changed with Max. The President. That’s not true. He knows Q. Yes. They’re having a great time. that’s not true. [Laughter] They’re going up that way—I can’t remem- Q. We saw some fox, and looked like ber—in a week. turkeys or—— The President. That’s fantastic. The President. Turkey buzzards, yes. A Q. He’s probably traveled more than I lot of hawks here. Red tail, we saw a red have. [Laughter] tail hawk yesterday. There’s those puppy The President. That’s hard to do, David. dogs—loyal dog, great athlete. Q. Yes. [Laughter]

4 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 2

The President. It’s warming up, Patsy Q. [Inaudible] But it is a lot more boxed- [Patricia Wilson, Reuters]. in than this, you know? You can’t come Q. [Inaudible]—about 30 degrees warm- some place and just—— er. The President. Hang out. There’s—[in- The President. Yesterday was fantastic. audible]—he’s looking at his cows. Q. Yes, it was gorgeous. Q. They seem like they do a good job Q. Do you believe how fast it does go, of not shutting the place down at all. though? I mean, it’s—— The President. Kennebunkport? The President. A few months. Some of Q. Yes. them are already talking about ’04. The President. Yes, I guess. How do I Q. Did you see Edwards—[inaudible]— know? this morning? Q. It’s a lot flatter here. The President. No. The President. Yes. It’s not going to be Q. He announced on the ‘‘Today’’ show flat here in a minute. that he’s going to be—[inaudible]. Q. [Inaudible]—didn’t go anywhere yet. The President. Oh, really? The President. Well, that’s a different— Q. I haven’t caught my breath from—— that’s your pink route. We’ve got a lot of The President. Well, if you think about turkey live on this ranch. It’s really fun it—if you think about it, remember the ’98 to see them. campaign, that was the—the beginning of the ’98 campaign there was a lot of specula- Q. They’re pretty. tion about whether or not I was going to The President. Oh, they’re fantastic. run. And got through the session and ’99, There’s a tank right there. Right on the it was right after that we all got on the other side there’s—[inaudible]. plane. Q. When you bought it, did you have Q. I remember—— a pretty good idea what you were getting? The President. [Inaudible] Or have you discovered—— Q. Yes, I remember—[inaudible]. I re- The President. No, I discovered a lot. member Jamie Gangel [NBC News] did I really did. It was a—I knew we were that piece about you, and you—were you getting some dramatic country that was out fishing somewhere? very rare for Texas, but I wasn’t sure about The President. That was in Austin. But all the little nooks and crannies. that was before—I mean, that was in—[in- Q. Right. A lot of them still covered up? audible]—Texas. That was when we had The President. Yes, there are some. You’ll the place in east Texas. see. You’ll see some of the—— Q. But that was early on, right? I mean, Q. There seems to be a fair amount of you weren’t—— water on the property. The President. No, I wasn’t—[inaudible]. The President. A lot of water right there. That was a nice piece. But you’ll see some of the places that we This is it for mud. [Laughter] Down have cleaned out, and you’ll see some of here—[inaudible]. We go out to the tree these cliffs that have got unique little struc- line, way out there. tures to them. I discovered an interesting Q. You know, this summer was the first rock formation the other day when we were time I’ve been to Kennebunkport. That was up here scouting around on this cliff. just fabulous. There’s a cottonwood tree. See that iso- The President. It’s nice, isn’t it? It’s not lated tree right there? The cottonwood is as nice as Crawford, but it’s nice. [Laugh- a fantastic tree. It grows along the riverbed, ter] Yes, Kennebunkport is a beautiful and somehow this thing ended up here place to—[inaudible]. alone. It must have a source of water.

5 Jan. 2 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

We’ve got two cottonwood trees on the into. They’re pretty sparse country where whole ranch, and that’s one of them. you’ve got your rocks—[inaudible]. Patsy, are you hitting the tennis ball at Q. So this is one of the canyons we’re all? going into? Q. No, not—it’s too cold. My hands get The President. This is the river bottom. too cold to hold the racket. I’m not ready We have 31⁄2 miles of river, stream. And to challenge John Bridgeland yet. [Laugh- the canyons feed into the bottoms here. ter] But the waterfall—see the point right The President. Bridgeland is a good play- there? That’s the headwaters of the water- er. fall, and we’re going to go down—[inaudi- Q. I know. He played for Harvard, didn’t ble]. he? Q. Is this the same river that feeds— The President. I think he did. I’ll tell [inaudible]? you who’s a good racket man, is Al The President. Yes. No, let’s see. You Gonzales. know, I don’t know. The middle fork of Q. Really? the Bosque—I think—I don’t think so. I’m The President. Racketball. not sure. You know, it might. It might. Q. Oh, racketball. You may be right. [Inaudible]—falls must The President. Stretch claims he’s a good be running pretty good right now. tennis player. Q. Yes. Q. Well—— The President. Does it look pretty? Q. Patsy and I—[inaudible]—on today. Q. Yes, it’s beautiful. [Inaudible] The President. We’re going to a different The President. You’re a serve-and-volley part of the world now. guy. I can see it a mile away. Q. I’m just grateful you didn’t make us Q. I’m working on my walk. [Inaudible] clear any brush. [Laughter] He’s probably going to wear out pretty The President. Well, you’d like it. It’s quick. good exercise. I’ll show you something in- The President. You’ve got the big serve teresting here. See how that water is com- and volley. ing out of those rocks? See it? Q. I can cover a lot—[inaudible]. Q. Yes. The President. I bet you can. Like my brother, Marvin, he’s a big serve-and-volley The President. All the aquifers are man. charged now because of the rain. Q. [Inaudible] Q. [Inaudible]—Hill? The President. Yes. He’s a good player. The President. No, no. [Inaudible]—Hill Q. He is. He was able to get great part- is back over there. We’re not going to be ners, like Chris Evert’s brother and people able to get to it because the water across like that. the crossing. Q. You know, there’s a lot of pros who Q. Oh, really? have moved into McLean, like Jana The President. Yes. [Inaudible]—you’d Novotna—[inaudible]. just get soaked. The President. Really? Q. Can you get just as good a workout The territory is beginning to change. See walking like this, as running? how these rocks were right up here on The President. I think you can. the surface? But what ends up happening Q. I think you can, too. [Laughter] is that over time, millions of years, rocky Q. You’re working out with two. [Laugh- roads created these canyons we’re going ter]

6 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 2

The President. But you’ve got to move. The President. Limestone. Real soft lime- I kind of use it as a warmer-upper. It’s stone. good for you. Q. ——did you know right away when We’re going to go right up here. Wait you bought the ranch, or did you discover until you see this place I’m going to take it on—— you. It’s cool. The President. No. We had to clear this Q. [Inaudible] [Laughter] out. I mean, you could not come up here. The President. That was Barney. It’s a Q. But you brought people down here, different world down here. right? Like a—— Q. It’s beautiful. The President. [Inaudible]—in here. I The President. We’re headed right up in didn’t see this part of the ranch when—— there. These are called chinaberries. See Q. So it was a surprise? the little berry at the end there? We’ve The President. Yes, it was a surprise. got up here in this canyon you’ll have ash, Q. It’s a nice surprise. walnut, different kind of oaks. I’ve become The President. This is where Putin came. a guy who really likes trees. [Laughter] Jiang Zemin did not come down here, but Q. Crash course, right? Vladimir Putin did. The President. Well, you can really get Q. That’s cool. to appreciate them. Now this in here you The President. See the cedar? That grows couldn’t—before we got in here you right on the ledge. couldn’t see the contours of this little can- Q. It’s on the rocks. yon. And it was really hard to walk in here. Q. Has some of it already started to grow We got in here and cleaned out a lot of back—— the undergrowth, a lot of the dead trees The President. We didn’t put it up there. that—see all those trees in there? They Q. [Inaudible] were all like that in here, way up in here. The President. We don’t clear up top. What I want to do is open this up so you We clear down here when they go against can see the contours of this little canyon these big—we clear the young. in here. Q. Right. Q. Do you have people working here Q. So how wide a—[inaudible]—that you when you’re not here, too? cleared right—— The President. No, we do it ourselves, The President. Yes, this is all—you could and we built all this that we’re heading not walk in here, literally. It was over- into. grown. There were seven of them like this, Q. [Inaudible] with different cuts to them. The President. Yes. Q. All of them different. Q. There’s just not that much brush to Q. Did you do it yourself, or did—— clear at the White House. [Laughter] The President. Oh, I do it myself. The President. Well, they got people Q. Really? clearing it there. You could not move in The President. Yes. It’s part of the fun here. I mean, we couldn’t—a few years ago, to be outside working. I really enjoy it. you had to crawl through all these rocks There’s the great outdoors, and you’re sup- to get up in here. posed to be in it. [Laughter] [The tour continued.] Q. Right. The President. All right. Retreat. The President. [Inaudible]—enough rain, Q. Watch those rocks, they’re slick. it may have created to charge those aquifers enough to withstand the heat. [The tour continued.] Q. What kind of stone is this? The President. I’ve seen fox in here.

7 Jan. 2 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Q. [Inaudible]—Barney? Secret Service—right here, take a right— The President. No, he had some prob- the Secret Service frogman puts it on for lems. I was afraid Barney would come out you. You see the snorkel. with—[inaudible]. Q. If you can’t see him, then it’s to- Q. Red fox or gray fox? tally—— The President. Gray fox. Red fox are The President. Right. [Laughter] what? The last time we had the crew here, Q. We have red fox around Washington. it was up to the top of that canyon, remem- The President. Yes. ber? We were clearing. There’s another Q. You just can’t imagine that these kind canyon that goes up in there. And here’s of little nooks exist out here. the—here’s where they end. The President. No, isn’t it amazing? We Q. This is the one we walked up. had—we brought some friends out here. The President. Right. And one of the guys driving said, ‘‘I can’t Q. With all the brambles and thorns. imagine why President Bush bought this The President. Right. That’s right. place. This is some of the worst country Q. Do you fish from the shore or do in Texas.’’ But what he didn’t realize is you—— that the fingers of the Hill Country, which The President. I’ve got a little boat in is where you all have been, south of Austin, there. extend up here. If you look on a map, Q. Bait fish or with lures? you’ll see the topography on the map shows The President. No, fish with lures. The this is some unique country. jig is particularly good during the winter. Q. How much did you check out the These fish are very lethargic, real slow. land before you bought it? This is about a two-thirds mile pasture The President. I went all over it. But here. We’re paralleling now the middle fork I didn’t, you know—— of the Bosque River. You’ll see it when Q. You didn’t find everything. we get up here. The President. Yes. I didn’t crawl up in Q. What are these trees? there. And we saw enough to know that The President. Those are cedar elms. there was some pretty unique relief. They’re really pretty in the spring. Q. Do you really spend the largest per- Q. Do they flower? centage of your time, outside of working, The President. No, they—they’re in out here? leaves. But they’re beautiful skirts. The President. Absolutely. I’m either— Q. Do you ever sleep in? my typical day is I will work from about The President. No. 7 a.m. until 10 a.m., and then will come Q. Never? [Inaudible] out and we’ll cut cedar or fool around, you The President. [Inaudible] know, repair something. Q. [Inaudible] Q. Right. The President. No. I was probably asleep The President. And then we’ll eat lunch at 10 p.m. [Laughter] about 12:30 p.m. And generally make Q. Couldn’t even see the ball drop on phone calls then or answer mail or do the East Coast. whatever, and then get back out about 4 The President. In Bermuda. p.m. and fish. I love to fish. Q. [Inaudible] [Laughter] Q. Now, when you’re stocking your own The President. I was looking for that ball pond, do you still get credit for catching? dropping in London. [Laughter] [Laughter] Q. [Inaudible]—good enough for you. The President. Oh, yes, absolutely. The The President. That’s right. only time you don’t get credit is when the Put him in a Gator. The pickup is better.

8 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 2

Let me show you something that’s really The President. No, we’re really not. We pretty here. When the sun sets—west is had—our friends from Lubbock came the that way; east is this way—and when the day after we got here. And our friends from sun sets, the cliffs over here, which you’ll Austin came last night. It’s a good chance see in a minute, just completely glow. for us to catch up with our buddies, and A big cedar elm here. we really like our friends. Yes, it’s wonder- Q. There’s something running up here. ful. Is this a white-tail or—— See, up in there? For example, I haven’t The President. Yes. Did you see it? explored up in there yet. See the makings Q. Yes, I saw it. of an interesting rock formation? I may The President. Yes, a white-tail deer. clear that out some so you can see it better. Q. I grew up in Atlanta. I don’t know Haven’t made up my mind. In the spring, my—[laughter]. this is just emerald green. The President. This is very interesting. Q. Greener than usual this August. There is a relatively tame white-tail that The President. Pardon me? has been hanging around here. I saw it Q. It was greener than usual this August. the last time I walked in here. And it just The President. Yes, because of the rain. kind of paralleled—see the cliffs over there. Q. Mr. President, would you mind ter- That’s not on our property. It’s right on ribly if we would just let the truck pass the other side of the river. so they can get some walking shots? The President. Not at all. At the end of this pasture, there’s a tur- Heidi, what are you doing? key roost up in this area. Q. I want to catch up to you. [Laughter] Q. Do you envision a time where you’d Q. Quite a little motorcade back there. live here all the time, or will it always be Q. Do you ever—[inaudible]? a kind of retreat? Q. A lovely walk in the woods—[inaudi- The President. I think this will be ble]—with motorized vehicles. more—that’s an interesting conversation Q. [Inaudible] Laura and I have had. In my view, this The President. Yes, you do. Exactly. [In- will be the primary residence, and we’d audible] have a townhouse somewhere else. I think Q. If I stub my toe, what will I do? her view might be slightly different— [Laughter] [Inaudible] [laughter]—in which case, her view will The President. It’s easy to get a sense prevail. of the kind of the relief. It’s about 90 foot Q. Right. [Inaudible]—as much pressure in here, from the highest to the lowest as you do. point. Pretty good relief. The President. But we do love it out Q. This part I remember, because you here. One of the reasons we picked it— drove us down to here. that cedar is a red cedar. Isn’t that beau- The President. But you wouldn’t ever en- tiful? It’s unique, different from these other vision this, driving into the ranch. trees. Q. Right. But this is halfway between Dallas and The President. That’s what I like about Austin. Most of our friends are in Dallas it. and Austin, so it’s very convenient for our Q. Were these roads here, or did you buddies to come and visit and—— build these? Q. Well, you guys aren’t often here by The President. I built this one. The defi- yourselves? nition—I’ll show you the definition of a The President. What? road. The definition of a road is tire ruts Q. You’re not often here alone, are you? on a ranch. And one of the things I assured

9 Jan. 2 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Ron [Ron Fournier, Associated Press] is Q. Is everybody happy? that we would build a road so it would The President. See the—that’s real grav- become easily accessible. This is—I did not elly and shallow. build this road. This is a road that the Q. Do you periodically have rocks Engelbrechts built. But you have to main- spread—— tain these things, obviously. The water will The President. Yes, caliche, right. I did. erode them out. We’ll hike up out of here by a caliche The deer lay down in here. They feel pit. It’s kind of a salty limestone that’s used protected. And then the turkey were right for road—[inaudible]. up here. Q. You’ve got it right here on the ranch? [The tour continued.] The President. Yes. See out here, this is where most of the—[inaudible]. And the The President. Make news, will you. creek that we’re fixing to come up here, This is the river right here, the middle it’s really hard to cross. So I built a low- fork of the Bosque. And right across the water crossing. So you’ll see a low-water way is our neighbor. These are bur oaks. crossing. See these huge trees there? Aren’t they Q. [Inaudible] spectacular? Q. These guys must create some nice The President. Well, ‘‘low-water’’ means fall foliage. it’s not a dam. In other words—— The President. You get pretty good color Q. Like a ford? here. The President. Yes. The water runs con- See the tree with the leaves still on it? tinuously. Q. Yes. Q. [Inaudible]—are never done, right? The President. That’s called a bois d’arc, The President. These hardwoods are tak- and it’s a real hard wood that they claim ing away a source of water. On a nice, the Indians used for their—[inaudible]. relatively calm day, we’ll come down and They produce a big, green apple. That’s burn. a big—[inaudible]. Q. These cliffs are all—— Q. So this is the line right here? The President. Yes, they do. We’re paral- The President. No, this is just—[inaudi- leling them. We’ll see some more dra- ble]. matic—it’s about 31⁄2 miles all throughout It’s the middle fork of the Bosque. We here in the bottoms. Engelbrecht said he have a mile and a half—you’ll see a creek has seen water coming out of the creek down here. and the river all across here, which is why Q. Do you fish the river? you would never build down here. The President. No, no. This river is real Those cedars, small cedars, were crowd- gravelly. And most of the time, you won’t ed up against the hardwoods and com- see water running on the surface. It runs peting with the hardwoods for the water. underneath the gravel. You know, I hike Some of these are pecans out here, great up and down this river a lot, and you might big pecan trees. The pecan is a fruit-bear- run into—in August, you might run into ing tree. We didn’t have a very good pecan a pool of water, but that’s about it. crop this year. Q. So we’re 2.5 miles from what, the See the white tree over there, the white house? bark? That’s a sycamore, and they grow The President. Yes. We have walked in the river. about 2 miles. Q. You’re quite the tree man. Q. A little exercise in the morning. The President. I am a tree man. The President. Absolutely. Q. The Audubon Society——

10 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 2

The President. Good for you. Opens up The President. You have been on the your—when I say every day is Earth Day eastern half of the ranch. You’ve seen— if you own your land, you’re beginning to yes, left. I don’t think we want to try to understand what I mean. cross here, but we can stop here for a Q. [Inaudible] minute. I want you to see this. Q. Skinny bits and saplings? [The tour continued.] The President. Those are little oaks and ashes. The sturdy will emerge. Here’s The President. And this will run about where we worked yesterday. See how we a mile and a half this way and then go opened up—that’s our country over there a mile and a half—— on the right, on the other side of the creek. Q. This is not a fork where you fish? You couldn’t see that. We opened it up, The President. Actually, I put some fish and now you have a sense of—that it’s a in here farther up, where there’s a big, part of our property. deep pool. And it’s fun to come down here Q. When you find all these little—— and fly fish. There’s not a lot of fish— [inaudible]. The President. You all right? You okay? All right, we’ll hike it up this hill here. Q. Yes. Load up. Load up. Man, you better load The President. Medical Gator. [Laughter] up. We’re going up the hill. The numbers are the designated points. Q. Oh, I’m good, sir. So, for example, so-and-so is at 50, they The President. You can handle it? Holly, look on the map and find out where 50 get in here. Now, can you handle it? is. Q. I can, apparently. I’ve got to figure Q. It’s not for recreation? out how. Something to keep me occupied. The President. No, the recreation part [Laughter] is the mileage. The President. Exactly. You can read the Q. What are the white patches over instruction manual for a week. [Laughter] there? Q. That’s what I did. That was one night. The President. That’s where we burned. [Inaudible] Q. Burned. Q. [Inaudible] The President. We will have seen about The President. I finally recovered. These half the ranch. You can’t cross—you’ll see are all lacy oaks in here that you couldn’t down here—I want you to see this river see. The cedars were crowding them out. that it’s just too wet to go across. These are going to be a beautiful stand Q. Is this, with the marker, is this where of lacy oaks. you run? Q. We’ll have to give you a nickname— The President. This is one of the trails. [inaudible]. Some of these—we’ve got—this is not a The President. Yes, exactly. See the cliffs trail marker; this is not a running-trail over there? marker here. It’s an intersection. Q. Yes. This is now the Rainy Creek. Where the The President. Pretty dramatic stuff. Rainy Creek hits the middle fork of the Q. Looks like good hiking in there. Bosque is on our property, right up about The President. That’s great hiking. a quarter mile that way. And now the Rainy There’s a little hidden valley that you can Creek defines our northern border. And go over there and—[inaudible]. Super you’ll see it up here. And there’s five cross- Stretch, caliche. ing points, and here is one of them. Q. You bulldoze it right out of there? Q. Have we been on the eastern half The President. Yes. This is a good one of the ranch? to run, in August.

11 Jan. 2 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Q. Ninety-eight degrees. Can you envision me sitting here, on the The President. Hundred-degree for the rock, writing some poetry? run. Q. Yes. Q. Reminds me too much of home. I Q. That’s what I see pretty much—writ- couldn’t do that. ing the State of the Union—[laughter]— The President. That’s right. But 90 de- longhand. grees. The President. That’s the state of my Q. Wow, look at the hawk. union. The President. Those are big buzzards. Q. Speaking of—— Q. Turkey buzzards? The President. Yes, we’re working on it. The President. Yes, turkey buzzards. Q. Anything you want to sneak preview? They’re hoping one of us drops. [Laughter] The President. I think all you’ve got to Q. [Inaudible]—reporters. do is call the White House staffers. They’ll The President. It’s good for you. tell you, evidently. [Laughter] You know Q. We’re not cold anymore. what I mean. The President. You will be, in a minute. Q. My fellow Americans. Q. Oh, because of the wind? Q. That’s what makes America great. The President. Well, we’re getting up top [The tour continued.] here. Q. Does the little hill have a name? Q. Is that your property, or is that the The President. No, this one doesn’t. But other—— the next one over is Balkan Hill, for Condi The President. That’s us. Go straight Rice, who gave us the history of the Bal- where those agents are down there. Those kans in the middle of a 4-mile walk. I was are agents down there—that you’re not impressed that she didn’t break sentence supposed to see. during the—full up the hill. Q. Yes. [Laughter] Q. [Inaudible]—Bosnia and Herzegovina The President. This is a great place to going up the hill here. sit down and think. [Inaudible] [The tour continued.] [The tour continued.] The President. See the area, right in The President. Be careful up here, seri- there? ously. Q. Yes. On a nice evening, you’ve got a little The President. That’s a little hidden—— bit of a western view and—[inaudible]. Q. Have you been working back there? We’ve got deer—[inaudible]. The President. We did, last year. You Q. Look out, those first steps are moving. can walk up. Q. Is it called—[inaudible]—Rainy Q. So with all this working, do you ever Creek? sit down and—— The President. Yes. The President. Relax? Q. Pretty wide for a creek. Q. Enjoy it and relax? The President. Yes, it is, but there’s a The President. Yes, sometimes. lot of water right now. But it won’t be Q. This is limestone, sir? wide in a while. The President. Yes. See how porous it Q. How high up are we? is. There was a big dead tree right here, The President. You know, I don’t know which we cut off, opened this up. We’ll how much higher—I’d say 90 feet. see—we’re heading parallel to this little All right, I just wanted you to see this. river, and I’ll show you the headwaters of Holly? the river. It’s spectacular. Q. Yes?

12 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 2

The President. Quit calling me Jeb. [The tour continued.] [Laughter] The President. A lot of water coming out [The tour continued.] that creek. The President. Nice story. The—[inaudi- Q. Good springs anywhere, sir? ble]—and I went for a run in the campaign, The President. Well, there’s—yes, they summer of 2000. And we go in the pond, do. And a lot of the—— the river pool down there, the creek. And Q. Come out of the aquifers? the next day we killed a water moccasin— The President. Just coming out of the cottonmouth. That’s the last time we rock, like that one I showed you when we jumped in there. [Laughter] first went down into the bottoms there. See the cardinals? That’s what a spring is like. Q. Yes. This is the back side of the dam. These are all big cedar elms here—cedar elm [The tour continued.] grove. The President. [Inaudible]—waterfall Q. Do you guys like to cook at all? down there. I don’t know what they are. The President. Yes. Q. Isn’t it pretty down here? Q. Do you? Q. [Inaudible] The President. Mine? The President. I don’t know what they Q. Yes. are, strawberries? The President. Eating. You said, ‘‘Do you Q. Something like that. I don’t know. guys, right?’’ Oh, you said, ‘‘You guys like The President. [Inaudible]—wild clover. to cook.’’ [Laughter] I’m pretty good with Anyway, this thing kind of meanders down. burgers, egg salad. And there’s a—well, you can see where Q. Are you a fancy coffee guy or a reg- it drops off. There’s a waterfall down there. ular—— You’ve seen two of the seven canyons. And The President. Fancy. I don’t even know this is the one that goes up—remember what we drink. I just say this, the stronger that crossing where we just—this goes all the better. the way down there and drains into the Here’s the back side of the house. creek right at the crossing. Pretty special. Q. Is there water—[inaudible]—down Q. In all this planning, how did you pick there? where you wanted the house? The President. I don’t know what that The President. We had a—the architect, is. I had never seen it. David Heymann, from the University of Q. [Inaudible] Texas came out here. And Laura—the decision—[inaudible]. And then David came [The tour continued.] out here—[inaudible]. The President. Really? You’ve become Q. [Inaudible] kind of a matinee idol? The President. Winds, the sun, and the Q. That goes without saying. big live oak. The President. Yes, we took a vote. We’ll Q. [Inaudible] keep him. They say he’s big; he’s big out The President. No, no. And one of the there in the hinterland. Holly, do you want things you’ll see if they have a Texas phe- in? nomenon, it’s called—[inaudible]—capture Q. I think I’m okay, thank you. the—[inaudible]—breezes. And in the sum- The President. We’ve got about a half mer, you want to be able to get as much mile to go. of the breeze as you can. So the house Q. A half mile? Maybe I’ll walk. is up high. We’ve got the house divided

13 Jan. 2 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

by screened porches the wind blows Q. No, no, you know when you came through. out with Powell was—he was still—it was Q. I didn’t know you had a treehouse. right after election night when we were [Laughter] into the recount. That’s the first time you The President. Yes, look at it. Built that brought—and the Cheneys were here. for the grandkids that don’t exist. Some The President. Was he there? of the fellows go up there with some high- Q. He was. powered binocs and high-powered weap- Q. He was sitting at the table. onry. The President. Oh, that’s right. We talked Q. Yes, right. about the cows the day we announced him The President. Here’s another way down. as Secretary of State. It was very funny. There’s, let’s see, five entries with the Q. This is the back of the house here? Rainy Creek area. You know, I’d say we’ve The President. Back of the house. This been through a third of this, about half. is the northern view. Q. So how big is the guesthouse? Is it Q. It’s beautiful. just for one, two people? The President. Thanks. This is native The President. No, no, two beds, two rock. The house is contoured so that when baths, and a little sitting room. Then we’ve it rains, it drains into a 40,000-gallon cis- got the—you remember the Governor’s tern. We can recycle, watering all the house? grasses and trees around here. Q. Yes. Q. Now, are these Mrs. Bush’s The President. That’s three bedrooms, grasses—— two baths. That’s where Condi will stay to- The President. Not yet. night. So we’ve got—then Barbara and Q. So that’s where you go to write the Jenna’s room are at the end of the house. State of the Union. [Inaudible] A lot of time they’re not here. We’ve got The President. Yes. one, two, three, four—eight guestrooms, if Q. Oh, I see, and that’s the—— Barbara and Jenna aren’t here. The President. That’s the famous swim- Q. So it’s plenty big. ming pool—— The President. Yes. The Governor’s Q. Oh, that’s right. house, is what we call that, is where the The President. Which I dubbed the guy from whom we bought the property ‘‘whining pool,’’ but—[inaudible]. [Laugh- lived. Then we fixed it up. ter] Q. Yes, I remember. We had a little Q. Come on. lunch, remember that, in 2000? The President. No, I’m glad we got it. The President. That’s right. There was a lot of cajoling going on. Q. That’s where you were with Tommy Q. [Inaudible] Franks when you talked to us last year. The President. That’s exactly right. The President. That’s exactly right. That’s one of those things that lasts about Q. I remember Colin Powell was—[in- three sets. Oh, well, we’re tired of tennis. audible]. Q. It’s too hot. The President. That’s exactly right. The President. Too hot. Q. [Inaudible] The President. No, that was for the an- [The tour continued.] nouncement, in the high school. The President. See how that little cedar Q. What was that? is growing up from underneath there? The President. That was for the an- Q. Yes. nouncement of him being Secretary of The President. That will be gone by— State. [inaudible]. When we got out here to haul

14 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 2 these trees—[inaudible]. They say in Texas up here and take deer off and maintain that if you were to—if you were to clear the proper buck-to-doe ratio. You over- land of cedars, you’d increase the water populate, you get—[inaudible]. I don’t let supply by 30 percent. They’re real water them shoot the turkeys. hogs. Q. You love the turkeys. Q. [Inaudible] The President. But I do let them shoot The President. There is a—they say a the dove. I’ve shot dove here. The dove species called the—[inaudible]—uses the season starts Labor Day, and generally old cedar to build nests. So we maintain we’re not here. the old cedar. Q. Sir, will you let us do a little bit Q. Have you ever seen one? of this before we go in the house? The President. Well, this county doesn’t The President. Yes. [Inaudible]—don’t have them, but I’m leaving them anyway. watch TV. There’s my man, Barney, stand- See the big oaks in here? This country is ing guard. [Laughter] Do you want to do a good part of the ranch. it right here? Here’s a little tank that we—[inaudi- Q. We’ll get the camera wherever you ble]—stock with bass. want. Q. So you’ve got the roads numbered here, right? NOTE: The President spoke at 8:51 a.m. at The President. Well, these are intersec- the Bush Ranch. In his remarks, he referred tions. to Assistant Press Secretary Reed Dickens; Q. I thought there was. [Laughter] ranch foreman Kenneth Engelbrecht; Coun- The President. No, no. sel to the President Alberto R. Gonzales; Q. Go down to 63 and 34 and get me President Vladimir Putin of Russia; President a—— Jiang Zemin of China; and Gov. Jeb Bush The President. Exactly. [Laughter] of Florida. Deputy Press Secretary Claire Q. I’m warm now. Buchan referred to White House Staff Sec- The President. Good. retary Harriet Miers. Reporters referred to That’s a really interesting stand of hard- Maxwell Gregory, son of David Gregory, woods up in there, about 80 acres of them. NBC News; Senator John Edwards of North Great country through here. At the very Carolina; John Bridgeland, Executive Direc- end of it is the type of canyons we’ve tor, USA Freedom Corps; John Evert, execu- cleared out. I’d take you back there, but tive director and director of player develop- it’s really too wet. ment, Evert Tennis Academy; and profes- Q. Do you hunt here? sional tennis players Chris Evert and Jana The President. I don’t, but some of them Novotna. A tape was not available for do. They come up here—I let them come verification of the content of these remarks.

Exchange With Reporters in Crawford January 2, 2003

2004 Election/President’s Agenda not keeping America safe enough? You’ve Q. Sir, there’s another Democrat has heard some of that from some of the thrown his hat into the ring today, John speeches. Edwards. What do you think of the Demo- The President. Oh, you know, I under- crat strategy to essentially say that you’re stand politics, and I’m not paying attention

15 Jan. 2 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 to politics. I’m going to continue doing the National Economy job the American people expect, which is Q. Mr. President, when you look forward to safeguard America and Americans. and think about economic stimulus—we’re We’ve got a war on our hands. There beginning a new year—and the stock mar- is a terrorist network that still is interested ket people nursing some losses, what are in harming Americans, and we will hunt your views about that? And secondly, are them down. There are countries which are you sensitive to the idea that a stimulus developing weapons of mass destruction, is too weighted toward helping the wealthi- and we will deal with them appropriately. est Americans, and are you making choices One country is Iraq. Obviously, we ex- based on that, to help the middle in- pect them to live up to the U.N. Security come—— resolutions and disarm. And if they won’t, The President. Well, what I’m worried we’ll lead a coalition to disarm them. about is job creation. And I’m worried Another country is North Korea. And we about those who are unemployed. I am are working with friends and allies in the concerned about those who are looking for region to explain clearly to North Korea work but can’t find work. And so next week it’s not in their nation’s interest to develop when I talk about an economic stimulus and proliferate weapons of mass destruc- package, I will talk about how to create tion. It was right here at this spot where jobs, how best to create jobs, as well as Jiang Zemin, the leader of China, and my- how to take care of those who don’t have self got together, and we put out a joint a job. declaration that we expect for the Korean I’m concerned about all the people. And Peninsula to be nuclear-weapons-free. That I don’t view the politics of—you know, I was a serious statement. I believe the situa- understand the politics of economic stim- tion with North Korea will be resolved ulus—that some would like to turn this into peacefully. As I said, it’s a diplomatic issue, class warfare. That’s not how I think. I not a military issue, and we’re working all think about the overall economy and how fronts. best to help those folks who are looking for work. Q. Do you—will you propose new tax cuts? Do you think they’re necessary now North Korea for the economy? Q. Can I follow that up? You said it The President. I’m looking at all options. could be resolved diplomatically. You were And of course, if I knew the answer, I quoted not long ago saying that you loathe probably wouldn’t tell you now, because I’d Kim Chong-il. How can you—— like for you to come and pay attention to The President. Well, what I worry about the speech. with a leader like Kim Chong-il is some- Q. I’ll do that. body who starves his people. The United The President. I know you’ll do that. States of America is the largest—one of the largest, if not the largest donor of food to the North Korean people. And one of the reasons why the people are starving North Korea is because the leader of North Korea hasn’t Q. Can I go back to Korea? seen to it that their economy is strong or The President. Sure. that they be fed. We’ve got a great heart, Q. You’re talking about a diplomatic solu- but I have no heart for somebody who tion, and you believe that there is one. starves his folks. How do you think you can bring some of

16 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 2 the other countries in the region that are The President. With which country? reluctant right now—— Q. With Iraq. And if—and with our The President. Well, I don’t think the economy stagnating, what makes you con- countries are reluctant to—— fident that we can afford—— Q. ——reluctant to put pressure on. The President. First of all, you know, I’m The President. They may be putting pres- hopeful we won’t have to go war, and let’s sure on, and you just don’t know about leave it at that. it. But I know that they’re not reluctant Q. But if we do, though, what—— when it comes to the idea of nuclear weap- The President. Until Saddam Hussein ons on the Korean Peninsula. And we are makes up his mind to disarm—see, it’s his in constant contact with the Japanese and choice to make. See, you need to ask him the South Koreans and the Chinese and that question, not me. the Russians. As I said—and the decision Q. But the White House is drawing up to cut off fuel oil was a joint decision. It plans to pay for the war, if we come to was not a U.S. decision; it was jointly made that. So why—— with the South Koreans and the Japanese The President. Well, let’s leave it at ‘‘if,’’ and the European Union, for that matter. for a while then, until it happens. It’s important for the American people Q. So you don’t want to talk about to remember the history of Kim Chong- whether our economy could sustain it, if il. He created some international tension, that’s a possibility? and the United States of America went and The President. I thought that was the signed an agreement with him. And the question I answered yesterday, so we’ll go agreement was that we’d provide—along back to that question, Heidi. I mean, Holly. with others, we’d provide fuel oil and help, Q. Thank you, sir. and in return, he would not enrich ura- 2004 Election nium. But it turns out he was enriching uranium. And we blew the whistle on the Q. How do you size up the Democrats fact that he was in violation of the ’94 who are in line to oppose you? What do agreement. And the parties to that agree- you think of Senator—— ment came together and said, ‘‘Well, in re- The President. Not paying attention to turn for him making that decision, in terms it yet, not paying attention to the race yet. of him abrogating the agreement, there will I’ve got a lot on my agenda and a lot on be a consequence.’’ And that’s where we my platter. And I understand politics. I stand right now. know there’s going to be a lot of verbiage So the parties have come together. There and a lot of noise and a lot of posturing has been a joint declaration of intent. And and a lot of elbowing. To me, that’s just we will continue working to resolve the sit- going to be background noise. My job is uation. to protect the American people and work Yes, Holly [Holly Rosenkrantz, to create confidence in our economy so Bloomberg News]. that people can find work. Q. On some level, were you getting ready Iraq/National Economy for a rematch and hoping for a rematch Q. Thank you, sir. with Al Gore? The President. I’m tired of these people The President. Really wasn’t paying much calling you Heidi. attention to it, Stretch [David Gregory, Q. I appreciate you—— NBC News]. I seriously was—I’ve got my The President. And I will correct them— mind on the peace and security of the [laughter]—particularly on camera. American people. And politics will sort Q. If we do have to go to war and—— itself out. And one of these days, somebody

17 Jan. 2 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 will emerge, and we’ll tee it up and see We want people coming to our country who the American people want to lead. that wants to take—that wants to either And until that happens, I’m going to be visit this great country or study in this great doing my job. country or see relatives in this great country and do so in a peaceful and lawful way. National Economy And people have a feeling like they’ve got Q. One more thing, any thoughts for the to travel here with false passports sends American investor going into this new year? a pretty alarming signal to those of us who The President. Well, hopefully the Amer- are involved with the security of the coun- ican investor realizes that the—this econ- try. omy is pretty darn strong, given the fact Q. Do you have the suspicion that there that we have been through a recession and is a smuggling ring that may not have spe- a terrorist attack, a breach of corporate cific terrorist ties, but that there’s a ring confidence because of some malfeasance. of—— And yet the economy still grows. That’s The President. I’m not sure what the— very positive. you know, how to detail. All I can tell you Now, I recognize that there are some is that we were concerned and alerted to uncertainties. But one thing is certain, that the fact that somebody might be coming the economy of the United States is strong into the country. There are—having said and resilient. And we must put policies in that, there are a lot of smuggling rings that place to enhance that resiliency and en- we’re dealing with. The INS needs to deal hance that strength. with that. And the new Homeland Security Border and Homeland Security Department will be dealing with smuggling rings, like the ‘‘coyotes’’ right south of here Q. Sir, you asked or you talked the other that are smuggling people across and treat- day about authorizing an APB for those ing those poor people—stuffing them into five people that were wanted by the FBI these trailers and abusing them. They need for coming into this country. Today one to be dealt with as well. Most of the smug- guy from Pakistan says that he is one of gling rings are not terrorist related, but if those people on those pictures, and he has we get a hint, a whiff that some of them never been to the United States. are, we’ll deal with them. The President. Well, we need to follow All right, let’s go get some coffee. up on forged passports and people trying to come into our country illegally. The Situation in Iraq American people need to know that any- Q. One more. Are you satisfied that the time we get a hint that somebody might inspectors are getting to Saddam’s weapon be coming into our country to cause harm, scientists? we’ll follow up on it. And you know, if The President. He is a man who likes we think there’s a smuggling ring that’s to play games and charades. The question willing to smuggle people in that might is, will Saddam Hussein disarm? The world harm America, we’ll deal with it. has asked him to disarm from weapons of And there’s—you know, and if this fellow mass destruction. The first indication isn’t is one of them—and I think they’re trying very positive that he will voluntarily disarm. to check that out right now. And as I recall, After all, he put out a declaration that the the story—I haven’t fully read it all—but world realized was false. And the inspectors as I recall, it said he had a false passport. are there to verify whether or not he is I’m kind of curious to know why he needs disarming. You hear these reports about a false passport. We like things aboveboard Iraqi scientists being interviewed, but here in America. there’s a ‘‘minder’’ in the room.

18 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 3

You know, Saddam Hussein—hopefully NOTE: The exchange began at 12:14 p.m. he realizes we’re serious, and hopefully he during a walking tour of the Bush Ranch. disarms peacefully. He’s a danger to the In the exchange, the President referred to American people. He’s a danger to our President Jiang Zemin of China; Chairman friends and allies. For 11 long years, the Kim Chong-il of North Korea; and President world has dealt with him. And now he’s Saddam Hussein of Iraq. A tape was not got to understand, his day of reckoning is available for verification of the content of this coming. And therefore, he must disarm vol- exchange. untarily. I hope he does. All right, let’s go get a coffee.

Letter to Congressional Leaders on Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to Libya January 2, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. President:) bombing suspects, Libya has not yet com- Section 202(d) of the National Emer- plied with its obligations under U.N. Secu- gencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)) provides rity Council Resolutions 731 (1992), 748 for the automatic termination of a national (1992), and 883 (1993), which include emergency unless, prior to the anniversary Libya’s obligation to accept responsibility date of its declaration, the President pub- for the actions of its officials and pay com- lishes in the Federal Register and transmits pensation. to the Congress a notice stating that the For these reasons, I have determined emergency is to continue in effect beyond that it is necessary to continue the national the anniversary date. In accordance with emergency declared with respect to Libya this provision, I have sent the enclosed no- and maintain in force the comprehensive tice, stating that the Libya emergency is sanctions against Libya to respond to this to continue in effect beyond January 7, threat. 2003, to the Federal Register for publica- Sincerely, tion. The most recent notice continuing this GEORGE W. BUSH emergency was published in the Federal Register on January 4, 2002 (67 FR 637). NOTE: Identical letters were sent to J. Den- The crisis between the United States and nis Hastert, Speaker of the House of Rep- Libya that led to the declaration on January resentatives, and Richard B. Cheney, Presi- 7, 1986, of a national emergency has not dent of the Senate. This letter was released been resolved. Despite the United Nations by the Office of the Press Secretary on Janu- Security Council’s suspension of U.N. sanc- ary 3. The notice of January 2 is listed in tions against Libya upon the Libyan govern- Appendix D at the end of this volume. ment’s hand-over of the Pan Am 103

19 Jan. 3 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Letter to Congressional Leaders Transmitting a Report on the National Emergency With Respect to Libya January 2, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. President:) Libya that was declared in Executive Order As required by section 401(c) of the Na- 12543 of January 7, 1986. tional Emergencies Act, 50 U.S.C. 1641(c), Sincerely, section 204(c) of the International Emer- GEORGE W. BUSH gency Economic Powers Act, 50 U.S.C. 1703(c), and section 505(c) of the Inter- NOTE: Identical letters were sent to J. Den- national Security and Development Co- nis Hastert, Speaker of the House of Rep- operation Act of 1985, 22 U.S.C. 2349aa- resentatives, and Richard B. Cheney, Presi- 9(c), I am transmitting a 6-month periodic dent of the Senate. This letter was released report prepared by my Administration on by the Office of the Press Secretary on Janu- the national emergency with respect to ary 3.

Remarks to the Troops at Fort Hood, Texas January 3, 2003

The President. Thank you very much. The President. On Christmas Eve I had Thank you all. Thank you all very much. the honor of calling some of our troops General, thanks a lot for that kind introduc- who are around the world, service mem- tion. I always like a short introduction. bers, men and women from many bases, [Laughter] Thank you for your warm wel- including Fort Hood. I thanked them for come, and thank you for this jacket. serving America so far from home and far Audience members. Hooah! away from their families. The President. I’m proud to wear it. Today it’s my honor to come here to Audience members. Hooah! Fort Hood to thank each and every one The President. And I’m proud to wear of you for the work you do to make sure it in my home State of Texas. Laura and that our United States Army is second to I are honored to kick off the new year none. with the soldiers and families of Fort Hood. Audience members. Hooah! The President. We’ve got more than Audience members. Hooah! 1,300 troops from Fort Hood that are serv- The President. All Texans are proud that ing abroad and defending our country and our State is the home to so many fine mili- keeping the peace, from Cuba to Kuwait tary units, including the great 1st Cavalry to Korea. Another 1,600 are preparing to Division—— deploy abroad. In the months ahead, more Audience members. Hooah! soldiers from Fort Hood may be giving— The President. ——and the mighty 4th given other essential missions. But wher- Infantry Division—— ever you serve or wherever you may be Audience members. Hooah! sent, you can know that America is grateful The President. ——the key ingredients and your Commander in Chief is confident to the home of America’s hammer. in your abilities and proud of your service. Audience members. Hooah! Audience members. Hooah!

20 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 3

The President. I want to thank General owe the husbands and wives of those who Wilson and his wife, Lynn, for receiving wear the uniform. Each one of you knows Laura and me. I want to thank Larry Ellis that Army life can be rewarding, and you and Jean—General Ellis. I appreciate so know it can be dangerous and difficult. much General Joe Peterson. I want to Every day, our military families are putting thank Sergeant Major Gravens and his wife, America’s interests first, and America Deborah, for joining us here today. I ap- thanks you as well as those who wear the preciate my friend, the Governor of the uniform. great State of Texas, Rick Perry, for joining Fort Hood and the units that call it us today. I want to thank members of the home have a special place in our country’s congressional delegation who are here, Joe military history. For decades, soldiers from Barton, Congressman Chet Edwards. I appreciate you all coming. the First Team and the Iron Horse Division I want to thank some of the State and and from other units have fought America’s local officials. I know my friend Dianne battles with distinction and courage. White Delisi is here. I want to thank Now you’re called again into action, to Suzanna Hupp and Sid Miller as well. I defend America and the cause of freedom want to thank the mayor of Killeen; haven’t in the first war of the 21st century. For seen the mayor in a while. It’s good to this country and for our friends around the be in your presence, Mayor. Appreciate all world who love freedom like we do, the the local officials, my fellow Texans, mili- stakes are great. The terrorists have shown tary families, veterans, and all the commu- what they intend for us, and we’re not nity leaders who have come out today. going to forget. Thanks for being here. We’re not going to forget the fact that I know we’ve got some of the many vet- they kill without regard for the rules of erans who live in this area with us today. war. They don’t value innocent life like we The men and women of Fort Hood follow do. In America, we say everybody is pre- in the great traditions that you passed on cious. Everybody counts. Everybody is to them. You each wear a proud title, vet- equal in the eyes of the Almighty. eran of the United States military, and I That’s not the way the enemy thinks. want to thank you for the example you They don’t value innocent life. They’re have set and the service you gave to our nothing but a bunch of cold-blooded killers, country. and that’s the way we’re going to treat Audience members. Hooah! The President. And I appreciate and them. America appreciates the sacrifices of our Audience members. Hooah! military families. I signed the largest in- The President. They reach across oceans crease in defense spending in a generation. to target the innocent. They seek weapons Audience members. Hooah! of mass murder on a massive scale. The The President. I wanted to make sure terrorists will not be stopped by mercy or that our soldiers had the best possible by conscience, but they will be stopped. pay—— Audience members. Hooah! Audience members. Hooah! The President. And they will be stopped The President. ——the best possible by the will and the might of the United training—— States of America. Audience members. Hooah! Audience members. Hooah! The President. ——and to make sure the The President. Our country is in a great housing was the best possible for our fami- contest of will and purpose. We’re being lies, military families. That’s the least we

21 Jan. 3 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

tested. In times of crisis, we will act deci- The President. We do not yet have all sively. And in times of calm, we’ll be fo- the terrorists, but they’re all on the run. cused and patient and relentless in our pur- And if they listen carefully, they will hear suit of the enemy. That’s what we owe the behind them the mighty footsteps of the American people. United States of America. We’re not waiting for another attack. We Audience members. Hooah! can’t wait for another attack to employ the The President. And we’re not quitting. full power of America in this cause. We’re We’ll fight this war on many fronts, with acting now to protect the American people many tools. Our intelligence operations are and to shape a future of peace. This war, tracking the terrorists. We’re sharing intel- like others, is not going to be won on the ligence with other countries that share our defensive. So we’re going to take this fight desire for peace. Our allies are keeping the to the enemy. peace and helping us keep the peace in Audience members. Hooah! Afghanistan. We’re hunting the terrorists on The President. And we’re making good every continent. See, they’re in over 60 dif- progress. We’re making good progress. ferent countries. Working with our friends and allies, we We’ve got a vast coalition of people have freed the people of Afghanistan from bound by this principle: Either you’re with one of the most brutal regimes in the his- us, or you’re with the enemy; either you’re tory of mankind. We enforced a clear doc- with those who love freedom, or you’re trine that said, ‘‘If you harbor a terrorist, with those who hate innocent life. Our coa- if you feed a terrorist, if you hide a ter- lition is strong, and we’re keeping it strong. rorist, you’re just as guilty as the terrorists,’’ And we’re on the hunt. We’re chasing them down one by one. and the Taliban knows what we meant. And as well, we’re confronting the threat Audience members. Hooah! of outlaw regimes who seek weapons of The President. We’ve destroyed camps mass destruction. Different circumstances where terrorists train. There used to be require different strategies, from the pres- camps. The United States military showed sure of diplomacy to the prospect of force. up. There are not any camps in Afghani- Yet in every case, the resolve of our Nation stan. is the same: We must and we will protect Audience members. Hooah! the American people and our friends and The President. We’ve emptied caves allies from catastrophic violence, wherever where they hid. See, they used to think the source, whatever the threat. they could hide. But you can’t hide from In the case of North Korea, the world the United States of America. You may must continue to speak with one voice, to hide for a brief period of time, but pretty turn that regime away from its nuclear am- soon we’re going to put the spotlight on bitions. you, and we’ll bring you to justice. In the case of Iraq, the world has already We’ve cut off millions of dollars that the spoken with one voice. The Iraqi regime enemy was using to fund operations. We’re has a duty under Security Council resolu- working with friends and allies around the tions to declare and destroy all of its weap- world, and we’re hauling them in, one by ons of mass destruction. That’s what the one. Some have met their fate by sudden world has said. That’s what the United justice. Some are now answering questions States expects from Saddam Hussein. at Guantanamo Bay. In either case, they’re The Iraqi regime is a grave threat to no longer a problem to the United States the United States. The Iraqi regime is a of America and our friends. threat to any American and to threats who Audience members. Hooah! are friends of America. Why do I say that?

22 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 3

Well, first of all, the leader in Iraq has sively, and America will prevail because publicly proclaimed his hatred for our we’ve got the finest military in the world. country and what we stand for. Audience members. Hooah! The Iraqi regime has a record—a record The President. We are ready. We’re pre- of torturing their own people, a brutal pared. And should the United States be record, and a record of reckless aggression compelled to act, our troops will be acting against those in their neighborhood. in the finest traditions of America—should The Iraqi regime has used weapons of we be forced to act. Should Saddam mass destruction. They not only had weap- Hussein seals his fate by refusing to disarm, ons of mass destruction; they used weapons by ignoring the opinion of the world, you of mass destruction. They used weapons of will be fighting not to conquer anybody mass destruction on people in other coun- but to liberate people. tries; they have used weapons of mass de- See, we believe in freedom. No matter struction on their own people. That’s why what their oppressors may say, the people I say Iraq is a threat, a real threat. of Iraq have no love for tyranny. Like all Four years ago, U.N. inspectors con- human beings, they desire and they deserve cluded that Iraq had failed to amount— to live in liberty and to live in dignity. account for large stockpiles of chemical and America seeks more than the defeat of ter- biological weapons, weapons capable of kill- ror. We seek the advance of human freeing millions. In last month’s declaration, dom in a world at peace. That is the charge Iraq again failed to account for those weap- history has given us, and that is the charge ons. we will keep. The Iraqi dictator did not even attempt In crucial hours, the success of our cause to submit a credible declaration. We can will depend upon you. As members of our now be certain that he holds the United military, you serve this Nation’s ideals, and Nations and the U.N. Security Council and you demonstrate those ideals in your code its resolutions in contempt. He really and in your character. As Commander in doesn’t care about the opinion of mankind. Chief, I have come to know the men and Saddam Hussein was given a path to peace. women who wear America’s uniform. I Thus far, he has chosen the path of defi- have seen your love of country and your ance. devotion to a cause larger than yourself. The fate of the Iraqi regime is being I have seen your discipline, your idealism, determined by its own decisions. Saddam and your sense of honor. I know that every Hussein knows precisely what he can and order I give can bring a cost. I also know must do to avoid conflict. We have made without a doubt that every order I give that clear. The world has spoken with one will be carried out with skill and unselfish voice. courage. And even now, he could end his defiance Some crucial hours may lie ahead. We and dramatically change directions. He has know the challenges and the dangers we that choice to make. We certainly prefer face. If this generation of Americans is voluntary compliance by Iraq. You see, the ready, we accept the burden of leadership. use of military force is this Nation’s last We act in the cause of peace and freedom, option, its last choice. and in that cause, we will prevail. Yet, if force becomes necessary to disarm Thank you for your service. May God Iraq of weapons of mass destruction and bless you. May God bless your families, enforce the will of the United Nations, if and may God bless America. force becomes necessary to secure our country and to keep the peace, America NOTE: The President spoke at 10:55 a.m. at will act deliberately, America will act deci- the Abrams Physical Fitness Center. In his

23 Jan. 3 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 remarks, he referred to Gen. Robert Wilson, major, III Corps and Fort Hood, and his USA, acting commanding general, III Corps wife, Deborah; Texas State Representatives and Fort Hood, and his wife, Lynn; Gen. Dianne White Delisi, Suzanna Hupp, and Larry Ellis, USA, commanding general, Sid Miller; Mayor Maureen J. Jouett of Army Forces Command, and his wife, Jean; Killeen, TX; and President Saddam Hussein Gen. Joe Peterson, USA, commanding gen- of Iraq. The Office of the Press Secretary eral, 1st Cavalry Division; Command Sgt. also released a Spanish language transcript Maj. Michael Gravens, USA, corps sergeant of these remarks.

The President’s Radio Address January 4, 2003

Good morning. One year ago this month, dents are learning and which students need our country set a bold new course in public extra help so we can give them help before education. With the No Child Left Behind they fall further behind. Act, America began a promising era in our For parents with children in persistently public schools, an era of local control, high failing schools, the law provides hopeful op- standards, and accountability that will tions. Those parents can choose to send produce better results for America’s stu- their children to better public schools or dents. receive funding to pay for after-school tu- Under the new law, key choices about toring or other academic help. No parent education spending will be made at the will have to settle year after year for local level by parents and teachers and schools that do not teach and will not principals who know the children best. change. Instead of getting excuses, parents Government cannot and must not try to will now get choices. run the Nation’s schools from Washington, Across America, States and school dis- DC. tricts are working hard to implement these Yet, the Federal Government has an im- reforms. They are developing accountability portant role. We are providing far more plans and beginning innovative tutoring money than ever before to help States and programs. The path to real reform and bet- local school districts, more than $22 billion ter results is not easy, but it is essential. in this school year alone. Over the last 2 The priorities of last year’s reforms will years, we have increased Federal spending also be reflected in the budget I will sub- by 40 percent, and in return, we are insist- mit to Congress this year. Too many stu- ing that schools use that money wisely. dents in lower income families fall behind States must set new and higher goals for early, resulting in a terrible gap in test every student, to ensure that students are scores between these students and their learning the basics of reading and math. more fortunate peers. To help close this The law also requires that schools regularly achievement gap, I will ask Congress to test students, share the results with parents, approve an additional $1 billion, a total of and show how the results in each school 12.3 billion, for the Title I program in the compare with others. 2004 budget. This would be the highest My budget provides more than enough funding level ever for Title I, which serves money for States to test every student, our neediest students. every year, in grades three-through-eight. Our reforms will not be complete until Testing is the only way to know which stu- every child in America has an equal chance

24 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 6 to succeed in school and rise in the world. and we are determined to continue that For every child, education begins with effort until every school in America is a strong reading skills. With the Reading place of learning and achievement. First program, we have set a national goal Thank you for listening. to make sure that every child in America is reading by the third grade. To move NOTE: The address was recorded at 8:43 a.m. toward that goal, I will request more than on January 3 at the Bush Ranch in Crawford, $1.1 billion for Federal reading programs TX, for broadcast at 10:06 a.m. on January in next year’s budget, an increase of $75 4. The transcript was made available by the million over last year’s budget request. This Office of the Press Secretary on January 3 investment will go only to support programs but was embargoed for release until the with proven results in teaching children to broadcast. In his remarks, the President re- read. ferred to Title I of the Improving America’s The No Child Left Behind Act was a Schools Act of 1994 (Public Law No. 103– victory of bipartisan cooperation. By this 382), which amended Title I of the Elemen- law, we affirmed our basic faith in the wis- tary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 dom of parents and communities and our (Public Law No. 89–10). The Office of the fundamental belief in the promise of every Press Secretary also released a Spanish lan- child. The work of reform is well begun, guage transcript of this address.

Statement on the Terrorist Attack in Israel January 5, 2003

Today terrorists struck again in Israel, The United States remains determined to murdering and injuring scores of civilians continue our efforts toward peace in the in Tel Aviv. I condemn this attack in the Middle East, a goal that the terrorists seek strongest possible terms. It is a despicable to destroy. All who genuinely seek peace act of murder, and I express my condo- in the region must join in the effort to lences to the Government and people of stop terror. The United States is deter- Israel and especially to the families of the mined to continue the global fight against victims. Secretary Powell has already spo- terrorism and against the terrorist organiza- ken to Prime Minister Sharon to convey tions that conduct operations such as the the condolences of the American people. murders in Israel today.

Remarks Following a Cabinet Meeting and an Exchange With Reporters January 6, 2003

The President. I have an opening state- each of you working so hard on behalf of ment here, and I’ll answer a couple of the American people. questions. Today we talked about the issues facing I want to thank my Cabinet for coming. our country. The war on terror continues. This is the 15th Cabinet meeting we’ve had We will hunt down the terrorists wherever since we were sworn in, and I appreciate

25 Jan. 6 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 they hide. We’ll do everything we can to your last day, I understand, and therefore, secure the homeland. you get to ask the only question—I mean, We heard a briefing today from Tom you get to ask—[laughter]. Ridge about how the reorganization of the Homeland Security Department is going. President’s Economic Plan It’s very important for Congress and the Q. The first question to the last? You Senate to confirm Tom as quickly as pos- said that your economic plan will speak di- sible and to confirm his team, so they can rectly to the American citizen. The Demo- get doing the work of the American people. crats say that it speaks most directly to Here at home, I hope the Congress will the richest American taxpayers. How do extend the unemployment benefits for—for you answer that criticism and the charge the American workers who don’t have a that you’re just going to lead to deeper job—soon, as quickly as possible. As well, deficits? it’s important for Congress to pass the ’03 The President. Well, the critics hadn’t appropriations bills. We’re living under con- seen the plan. This is a plan that provides tinuing resolutions. The agency heads here tax relief to the working citizens. It’s a plan are—want to have their budgets finalized that is a very fair plan. It’s a plan that so that they can have certainty in the ap- recognizes, when somebody has more of propriations with which they have to work. their own money, they’re likely to spend Congress has got work to do. it, which creates more jobs. Tomorrow I’m going to talk about how Our administration is concerned about to continue the economic growth that we deficits, and the way they deal with deficits have, to ensure our economy is as robust is you, one, control spending. And I hope as possible. I look forward to the speech Congress lives up to their words. When in Chicago, because it is a plan that speaks they talk about deficits, they can join us directly to the American citizen that we’ll in making sure we don’t overspend. They do everything we can to revitalize the can join us and make sure that the appro- small-business sector, to make sure it re- priations process is focused on those issues mains strong so people can find work. that—those items that are absolutely nec- We’ve put together a fine economic essary for the American people. team. I hope the Congress—the Senate acts I’m pleased that Members of the Con- quickly to confirm John Snow and Bill gress are talking about deficits. It means Donaldson. They need to move quickly. they understand their obligations not to I look forward to working with the lead- overspend the people’s money. And the ership in the House and the Senate. second way to deal with deficits is to en- Doesn’t matter who’s in charge, we’ll work courage revenue growth. And the way to with them. Obviously, we’re pleased that encourage revenue growth is to encourage Senator Frist will be leading the Senate. the private sector to grow. And tomorrow We’ll work with him. We’ll continue to I’ll be talking about ways to encourage the work with Senator Daschle, and we’ll work growth of the private sector. with Speaker Hastert, Leader DeLay, and Steve [Steve Holland, Reuters]. Congressman Pelosi as well. We have got a job to do for the Amer- Iraq ican people, and we’ll do that job, to make Q. Sir, with 3 weeks to go until the U.N. sure the country is secure, to win the war inspectors report back, are you seeing any on terror, and make sure people can find signs of compliance by Iraq? Saddam says work. it’s carrying out intelligence work. Let me answer some questions. Sandra The President. Well, I thought that was [Sandra Sobieraj, Associated Press], this is an interesting statement on his part. When

26 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 6 you combine that with the fact that his The President. Oh, if I did. [Laughter] declaration was clearly deficient, it is dis- Q. Not many of us have dividends these couraging news for those of us who want days, but—— to resolve this issue peacefully. The President. Well, it’s interesting you He has the obligation to disarm. For the asked that question. A lot of people get sake of peace, he must disarm. The United dividends, see. And that’s one of the rea- Nations has clearly said that. It is in our sons why we’re analyzing this issue of taxing Nation’s interest that he disarm. He is a things twice, particularly dividends. Most threat to the American people. He’s a seniors—over 50 percent of the seniors re- threat to our friends and neighbors in the ceive dividends. Middle East. He is a person who has used First of all, it’s unfair to tax money twice. weapons of mass destruction. And so, There’s a principle involved. The Govern- therefore, the world has said to Saddam, ment ought to be content with taxing rev- ‘‘You won’t have any weapons of mass de- enue streams or profits one time, not twice. struction. Get rid of them.’’ And thus far, And in dividends, we tax the corporate it looks like he hasn’t complied. profit, and then we tax the money being But he’s got time, and we continue to sent to the shareholder. And that doesn’t call upon Saddam Hussein to listen to what make any sense. That’s unfair. That’s bad the world is saying. Not just the United public policy. Many of the shareholders States but the entire world expects Saddam that pay the taxes are senior citizens. These Hussein to disarm. are senior citizens who have retired and Dick—Stretch [Richard Keil, Bloomberg senior citizens who can use that money. News]. Thirdly, the reduction in taxes on dividends will encourage capital flows into the President’s Economic Plan marketplace. It will encourage investment, Q. Mr. President, changing the taxation and that’s what we want. We want to en- on stock dividends—a lot of analysts say courage investment activity. Investment that, in and of itself, would not have a means jobs. particularly stimulative effect for the econ- And so I’m not going to specifically tell omy. Do you disagree with that? And if you what’s in the speech tomorrow, though in the end you get a benefit yourself, is it looks like some others might have already it money that you would then direct to done that. I do encourage you to listen be reinvested, or is it money that you might to it. But I encourage you to look at the spend? entire package. It’s a package that’s shaped The President. If it—I didn’t hear the for economic vitality and growth. second part of your question. If it—the hy- Listen, we’re doing fine. Tomorrow you’ll pothetical part of the question, which I’m hear me say this economy is one of the probably not going to answer. [Laughter] strongest in the world. But what we believe Q. If Congress does your bidding and is that we can be stronger. And we also you get benefits from dividends that aren’t know that when somebody is looking for being taxed, would you use that money to work who wants to work means we’ve got reinvest or would you spend it on consumer to continue to try to stimulate job growth. goods or consumer items? Now, we don’t believe it’s the role of The President. Me, personally? Government to manage the economy. Q. You, personally. We’ve got great faith in the private sector. The President. My money is in a blind And so we’re going to create the environ- trust, Stretch, so I don’t know if I’ve got ment for the private sector to be stronger. any dividends. That’s the policy of this administration. Q. If you did. Sandra, good luck to you. Thanks.

27 Jan. 6 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Q. Thank you, sir. The President. ——the Foreign Minister, excuse me. And talking is one thing, but North Korea we expect people to honor obligations. And Q. Mr. President, on North Korea, sir? for Kim Chong-il to be a credible member The President. I’ll answer one on North of the world community, he’s got to under- Korea, yes, real quick. stand that he’s got to do what he says he’s Q. Yes, sir. What would it take for the going to do. U.S. or any other nation to have direct I believe this will be resolved peacefully, talks with North Korea? And they claim and I believe it can be resolved diplomati- to believe that the U.S. is a threat to them. cally. The President. Yes. Thank you. Q. What can you say? Q. Thank you, sir. The President. Well, first of all, I went Q. What were you laughing at before to Korea and clearly said that the United we came in, sir? [Laughter] States has no intention of invading North The President. I’m not telling. [Laughter] Korea. I said that right there in South I won’t tell, but somebody will leak it. Korea. And in Kim Chong-il’s neighbor- [Laughter] hood, I spoke as clearly, as I said—and said, ‘‘We won’t invade you.’’ And I’ll re- NOTE: The President spoke at 4:11 p.m. in peat that: We have no intention of invading the Cabinet Room at the White House. In North Korea. his remarks, he referred to Treasury Sec- We expect North Korea to adhere to her retary-designate John Snow; William Don- obligations. She’s in an agreement with the aldson, Chairman-designate, Securities and United States and said that she would not Exchange Commission; President Saddam develop nuclear weapons, and we expect Hussein of Iraq; and Chairman Kim Chong- people to keep their word. We will have il and Foreign Minister Paek Nam-sun of dialog; we’ve had dialog with North Korea. North Korea. The Office of the Press Sec- The Secretary of State visited with the retary also released a Spanish language tran- Deputy Foreign Minister—— script of these remarks. A portion of these Secretary of State Colin L. Powell. The remarks could not be verified because the Foreign Minister. tape was incomplete.

Remarks to the Economic Club of Chicago in Chicago, Illinois January 7, 2003

Thank you all very much. It’s a windy city. You understand the concerns facing day out there, which is—[laughter]—a good American workers and employers, and you day for a windy speaker. [Laughter] I’m believe, as I do, that we must address those honored to be your guest here at the Eco- concerns honestly and aggressively. nomic Club of Chicago. I want to thank Today in Washington, a new Congress Michael for the invitation. I like a short convenes, and I will ask members of both introduction. He didn’t let me down. parties to work with me to secure our eco- [Laughter] nomic future. We cannot be satisfied until For 75 years, the business leaders and every part of our economy is healthy and the entrepreneurs in the club have helped vigorous. We will not rest until every busi- make Chicago a prosperous and energetic ness has a chance to grow and every person

28 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 7 who wants to find work can find a job. ingness to serve America. Thank you for So today I’m announcing a growth-and-jobs coming, Steve. plan to strengthen America’s economy, spe- I’ve also named two other good people cific proposals to increase the momentum to join this team. John Snow is my nominee of our economic recovery. to serve as the Secretary of Treasury. Bill And this is a good city to give it in. Donaldson is my nominee to be the Chair- This is one of America’s great cities. And man of the Securities and Exchange Com- one of the reasons why is because you have mission. They will fill essential positions in a great mayor in Richard Daley. We’re my administration, and I urge the Congress from different political parties, but we have to confirm them quickly. some things in common: We both married As the new Congress meets today, our above ourselves. [Laughter] It is good to duties to this Nation are clear. We have see the first lady of Chicago here. Thank a responsibility to meet great dangers to you for coming. We both have famous and our country, wherever they gather. We will influential brothers. [Laughter] Our dads continue to hunt down the terrorists all spent a little time in politics. [Laughter] across the world. Cell by cell, we are dis- And we love our country more than we rupting their plans. One by one, we’re love our political parties. The thing I like showing these merciless killers the meaning most about the mayor is he gets the job of justice. done for the people of Chicago. And Mr. Mayor, I’m proud to call you friend. We’re also confronting the outlaw regime And I want to thank another proud son in Iraq that lives by violence and deception of Chicago, Rod Blagojevich, for being with and is arming to threaten the civilized us today as well. He’s soon to have the world. The world’s demands are clear: For second-best job in America, being a Gov- the sake of peace, Saddam Hussein must ernor. I congratulate him on his election. disarm himself of all weapons of mass de- I look forward to working with him for struction and prove that he has done so. the good of Illinois and for the good of Should he choose the other course, in the our country. Thank you for coming, Gov- name of peace, the United States will lead ernor-elect. I appreciate you being here. a coalition of the willing to disarm the Iraqi I flew in today with the Senator from regime of weapons of mass destruction and Illinois, Peter Fitzgerald. I appreciate his free the Iraqi people. leadership. I appreciate his friendship. And And we’re dealing with North Korea as as we speak, the Senate is debating the well. It’s a regime that has expelled inter- Fitzgerald bill which will extend unemploy- national inspectors and is attempting to ment benefits to those who are looking for defy the world through its nuclear weapons work in America. And Peter, I want to program. The United States and other na- thank you for your leadership on this im- tions will confront this threat as well. In portant issue. this case, I believe that by working with And on that very same airplane was trav- countries in the region, diplomacy will eling with me Steve Friedman, who is the work. We have no aggressive intent, no ar- new Director of the National Economic gument with the North Korean people. Council. I’m honored that such a respected We’re interested in peace on the Korean economic leader has agreed to join my ad- Peninsula. ministration. I appreciate the fact that he’s As we deal with the dangers of our time, willing to take time away from a com- different circumstances require different fortable private life to serve our country. strategies. Yet our resolve in each case will He is a strong addition to a great economic be clear: We will not permit any regime team, and I want to thank him for his will- to threaten the freedom and security of

29 Jan. 7 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 the American people or our allies and ment; and we passed terrorism insurance friends around the world. so building and real estate projects could Even as we confront these dangers, you go forward. need to know I know we have needs here And then our economy was tested a third at home, especially the need for a vigorous time, when Americans discovered serious and growing economy. Too many Ameri- abuses of trust by some corporate leaders. cans today are wondering about our econ- So we passed historic reforms to assure cor- omy. They’re asking, ‘‘How is the economy porate integrity, to punish wrongdoers, and really doing?’’ Well, the American economy defend the interests of workers and inves- is the strongest and most resilient economy tors. Corporate greed and malfeasance in the world. In spite of the terrible shocks cause innocent people to lose their jobs, that our Nation has received, our economy their savings, and often their confidence in is growing, and the entrepreneurial spirit the American system. For the sake of jus- in America is strong. tice, and for the sake of every honest busi- We’ve made great progress these past 2 ness in America, I have made this commit- years. Remember, in the summer of 2000, ment: Corporate misdeeds will be inves- during the Presidential campaign, the mar- tigated; they will be prosecuted; and they ket had started on a steady decline. Job will be punished. growth started to dwindle. The economy We have met the tests before us because had begun to slow. When I took office, the American people have worked hard the signs of recession were real. through difficult times. And now our coun- So I worked with the United States Con- try has entered its second year of economic gress to reduce income taxes for everyone growth. Our trade with other nations is ex- who pays them. More than 100 million in- panding, bringing lower prices that come dividuals, families, and sole proprietorships from imports and better jobs that come received tax relief. This tax relief was the from exports. More Americans are buying largest in a generation, and it gave the and building houses, a central part of the economy a boost just at the right time, American Dream. The homeownership rate ensuring that the recession was one of the is now 68 percent, close to the highest shortest and shallowest in modern Amer- ever. Low interest rates have allowed ican history. Americans to tap the rising value of their Americans should be able to count on homes. In 2002, refinancings added more those tax cuts as they plan their financial than $100 billion to American pocketbooks, futures. So I will continue to press the money that helped renovate homes or pay Congress to make these tax cuts, including off debt or cover tuition or purchase other the end of the death tax, permanent. We goods. know that the tax cuts worked, and Ameri- The most important indicator of our eco- cans deserve to know their tax cuts will nomic strength is the growing skill and effi- not be taken away. ciency of the American worker. The pro- We faced a second test with the attacks ductivity of American workers went up by of September the 11th, 2001. These attacks 5.6 percent over the last four quarters for caused terrible suffering and a massive dis- which we have data, the best increase since ruption of the economy. Flights were can- 1973. As productivity rises, so do wages celed. Many hotels and stores were empty. and our standard of living. Nationwide, in- Stock trading was halted for nearly a week. comes are rising faster than inflation. So we acted: We reopened the markets; We have the most productive, creative, we helped the people of New York City and promising economic system the world recover; we assisted the airlines; we pro- has ever seen. America sets the standard vided tax incentives for business invest- for scientific research, engineering skill, and

30 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 7 medical innovation. Our companies and Our first challenge is to allow Americans universities attract talent from every single to keep more of their money so they can continent. Investors from around the world spend and save and invest—the millions of know America is the safest place to put individual decisions that support the mar- their money. People around the world who ket, that support business, and help create search for a better life still dream of work- jobs. ing and living in the United States of Consumer spending accounts for about America. 70 percent of our economy. It has been All these conditions create a platform for the driving force of our recovery. Yet there long-term growth and prosperity. Yet, in are warning signs I won’t ignore, and I spite of successes, we have more work to hope the Congress doesn’t ignore either. do, because too many of our citizens who Many Americans live in constant and in- want to work cannot find a job and many creasing personal debt, with credit card employers lack the confidence to invest and bills so heavy they often cannot pay much create new jobs. more than the monthly minimum. Millions We can help assure greater success to- of citizens spend their entire adult lives morrow with the policies we choose today. living paycheck to paycheck, never getting Now, these policies must recognize that our a chance to save for their children’s education or their own retirement. Americans $10 trillion economy is sustained by the today are paying about a third of their in- labor and enterprise of the American peo- come in taxes. All of this puts pressure ple. Government spends a lot of money, on family budget and therefore clouds our but it doesn’t build factories. It doesn’t in- economic future. vest in companies or do the work that Americans facing these struggles are due makes the economy go. The role of Gov- to receive additional tax relief in 2004 and ernment is not to manage or control the again in 2006. Republicans and Democrats economy from Washington, DC, but to rein Congress already approved these tax rate move obstacles standing in the way for fast- reductions. And the time to deliver the tax er economic growth. That’s our role. rate reductions is now, when they can do And those obstacles are clear. Many jobs the most good for the American businesses. are lost in America because Government For the sake of economic vitality, I’m imposes unreasonable regulations, and asking Congress to make all the tax rate many jobs are lost because the lawsuit cul- reductions effective this year. The tax cuts ture of this country imposes unreasonable should be retroactive to January 1st. Upon costs. I will continue to press for legal and passage, I’ll order the Treasury Department regulatory reform. to immediately adjust the amount of money But today—today I want to talk about withheld for income taxes, so that Ameri- these concerns: Americans carry a heavy cans will keep more of their paychecks burden of taxes and debt that could slow right away. By speeding up the income- consumer spending. I’m troubled by that. tax cuts, we will speed economic recovery I’m also troubled by the fact that our tax and the pace of job creation. If tax relief system unfairly penalizes some productive is good enough for Americans 3 years from investments. And I worry about people who now, it is good enough for Americans are out of work. They need our help, both today. in short-term benefits and long-term oppor- An additional beneficiary of this tax cut tunity. By directly confronting each of these will be small businesses. About 30 million challenges, we can preserve the hard-won Americans include small-business income gains our economy has made and advance when they file their individual tax returns toward greater prosperity. with the IRS. Faster tax relief will help

31 Jan. 7 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 these businesses to expand sooner, to hire than ever, that American investors are new people faster, and to build a stronger treated fairly. foundation for the recovery. We can begin by treating investors fairly We also know that middle-income fami- and equally in our tax laws. As it is now, lies need additional relief. So today I’m ask- many investments are taxed not once but ing Congress to speed up three other tax twice. First, the IRS taxes a company on reductions promised in 2001, tax reductions its profit. Then it taxes the investors who that will help our middle-income families. receive the profits as dividends. The result Instead of slowly reducing the marriage of this double taxation is that for all the penalty until 2009, we should do it now, profit a company earns, shareholders who to help 35 million married couples. Instead receive dividends keep as little as 40 cents of waiting until 2008 to move more tax- on the dollar. payers from the 15-percent bracket to the Double taxation is bad for our economy. lowest bracket of 10 percent, we should Double taxation is wrong. Double taxation make that change now and help 2 million falls especially hard on retired people. working Americans. And instead of gradu- About half of all dividend income goes to ally raising the child tax credit from $600 America’s seniors, and they often rely on to $1,000 per child by the year of 2010, those checks for a steady source of income for the benefit of 26 million families, we in their retirement. should raise it now. It’s fair to tax a company’s profits. It’s not fair to double-tax by taxing the share- These tax reductions will bring real and holder on the same profits. So today, for immediate benefits to middle-income the good of our senior citizens and to sup- Americans. Ninety-two million Americans port capital formation across the land, I’m will keep an average of $1,083 more of asking the United States Congress to abol- their own money. A family of four with ish the double taxation of dividends. two earners and $39,000 in income will re- The benefits of this tax relief will be ceive more than $1,100 in tax relief, real felt throughout the economy. Abolishing money to help pay the bills and push the double taxation of dividends will leave near- economy forward. And the sooner Congress ly 35 million Americans with more of their acts, the sooner the help will come. own money to spend and invest, which will Taken together, these income-tax cuts promote savings and return as much as $20 will put an additional $70 billion to work billion this year to the private economy. in the private economy over the next 18 By ending this investment penalty, we months. And there’s no better way to help will strengthen investor confidence. See, by our economy grow than to leave more ending double taxation of dividends, we will money in the hands of the men and women increase the return on investing, which will who earned it. draw more money into the markets to pro- Our second challenge is to encourage vide capital to build factories, to buy equip- greater investment by individuals and small ment, hire more people. businesses, the kind of investing that builds We must also encourage the investments personal wealth and helps company expand that help turn small businesses into larger and creates new jobs. ones. Small businesses create the majority We are increasingly a nation of owners, of new jobs in America, and they account who invest for retirement and the other for half the output of the economy. Cur- financial challenges of life. One-half of rently, tax law permits small firms to write American households own stock, either di- off as expenses up to $25,000 worth of rectly or through pension funds. And we equipment, like computers or machinery have an obligation to make sure, now more that they need. I’m asking the Congress

32 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 7 to raise that limit to $75,000 and index employed workers should be a first order that number for inflation. This change, to- of business in the new Congress, and it gether with the faster rate reductions, will looks like it’s going to be. benefit more than 23 million small-business We must be more creative when we help owners. My view is this economy can thrive those who have the hardest time finding only if our small businesses thrive. And we work. To encourage innovation and more will provide them every incentive to grow choices and to help those who are out of and create more jobs. work find the dignity of a new job, today A third challenge facing our country is I’m unveiling a new approach to helping the need to help unemployed workers and unemployed Americans through Personal prepare them for the new jobs of a growing Reemployment Accounts. Under this new economy. The unemployment rate today is program, Americans who face the greatest 6 percent. That’s low for an economy com- difficulties in finding work will receive up ing out of recession. It’s higher than it to $3,000 to use in their job search. They should be, and the unemployment rate is will have great flexibility in how they use projected to rise even further in the short that money. A person with a Reemploy- run. ment Account will be able to decide wheth- This hardship is concentrated in certain er to use the funds for job training or child regions and in certain industries. Manufac- care or transportation or even to cover the turing jobs have declined for 28 months costs of relocating to another city for a in a row. You know what I’m talking about new job. If the job is obtained quickly— here in the Midwest. You’re showing signs within 13 weeks—the worker will be able of recovery here; yet many people here and to keep the cash balance as a ‘‘reemploy- across this country are still looking for ment bonus.’’ work. A woman in Arkansas tells a typical story. As we see new economic growth, we will She talked about the fact that her husband need well-trained workers to fill new jobs. was laid off from his job at a local steel So I’m going to ask the Congress to provide mill. And both she and the husband have $3.6 billion to the States to pay for the been looking for a job for quite a while. Reemployment Accounts, enough money to Here’s what she said: ‘‘There’s just nothing help more than a million unemployed men for me to find. We’re trying to save up and women across America. In order to what little money we have and move to strengthen this economy in the future, we another community and look for jobs must help these Americans today. there.’’ Got to be worried about those kind The jobs-and-growth proposals I’ve out- of stories here in America. As we encour- lined today are a focused plan to encourage age long-term growth, we will not forget consumer spending, to promote small-busi- the men and women who are struggling ness growth, to boost confidence in our today. markets, and to give critical help to unem- Close to 70,000 workers each week ex- ployed citizens. Overall, this growth pack- haust their unemployment benefits, and we age will reduce the tax burden of Ameri- have an obligation to help our fellow citi- cans by $98 billion this year and $670 bil- zens. So I’m asking this new Congress to lion over the next decade. I proposed a extend unemployment benefits that expired bold plan because the need for this plan on December the 28th. And the benefits is urgent, and I urge the Congress to act Congress approves should be retroactive, swiftly and pass this bill. like the Fitzgerald bill, so that people who Our Nation has seen 2 years of serious lost their benefits last month can receive and steady challenges. The recession and their benefits in full. Helping America’s un- the decline in the stock market slowed

33 Jan. 7 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 earnings and cut into tax revenues and cre- we’re taking a battle to our enemies. And ated a budget deficit. And in this time of we’re not going to leave our work half- war, I can assure you this Government is finished. In the months ahead, we’ll con- spending what is necessary to win the war. front every threat to the safety and security But the Congress must also understand of the American people. We’ll press on to this: The American people deserve and ex- turn our recovery into lasting growth and pect spending discipline in Washington, opportunity that reaches every corner of DC. With spending discipline and with America. By the courage and by the enter- progrowth policies, we will expand the prise of the American people, this great economy and help bring down this deficit. Nation will prosper, and there’s no doubt This growth-and-jobs package is essential in my mind this great Nation will prevail. in the short run; it’s an immediate boost May God bless you all, and may God to the economy. And these proposals will bless America. help stimulate investment and put more people back to work, is what we want to have happen. They are essential for the NOTE: The President spoke at 12:07 p.m. in long run as well, to lay the groundwork the Sheraton Chicago Ballroom at the Sher- for future growth and future prosperity. aton Chicago. In his remarks, he referred to That growth will bring the added benefit Michael H. Moskow, president and chief ex- of higher revenues for the Government, ecutive officer, Federal Reserve Bank of Chi- revenues that will keep tax rates low while cago; Mayor Richard M. Daley of Chicago, fulfilling key obligations and protecting pro- and his wife, Maggie; Governor-elect Rod R. grams such as Medicare and Social Secu- Blagojevich of Illinois; and President Saddam rity. Hussein of Iraq. The Office of the Press Sec- We’re meeting the challenges to Amer- retary also released a Spanish language tran- ica. We’re strengthening our economy, and script of these remarks.

Letter to the Speaker of the House of Representatives Transmitting Fiscal Year 2003 Budget Amendments January 7, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker: The details of these requests are set forth I ask the Congress to consider the en- in the enclosed letter from the Director closed requests for Fiscal Year 2003 budget of the Office of Management and Budget. amendments for the Departments of Agri- I concur with his comments and observa- culture, Health and Human Services, the tions. Interior, Labor, and the Treasury; the Sincerely, Corps of Engineers; as well as the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and GEORGE W. BUSH the Federal Trade Commission.

34 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 8

Letter to Congressional Leaders Transmitting a Report on Cyprus January 7, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. Chairman:) including Secretary of State Powell, Na- In accordance with section 620C(c) of tional Security Advisor Rice, Special Cyprus the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, as Coordinator Thomas G. Weston, and Am- amended, I am providing a report prepared bassador to Cyprus Michael Klosson. The by my Administration on progress toward United States remains committed to the a negotiated solution of the Cyprus ques- U.N. effort to find a just and lasting settle- tion covering the period October 1, 2002, ment to the Cyprus problem. through November 30, 2002. The previous Sincerely, submission covered events from August 1, 2002, through September 30, 2002. Particu- GEORGE W. BUSH larly significant during this period was U.N. Secretary-General Annan’s submission on November 11 to Greek Cypriot leader NOTE: Letters were sent to J. Dennis Glafcos Clerides and Turkish Cypriot lead- Hastert, Speaker of the House of Represent- er Rauf Denktash of a proposed basis for atives, and Richard G. Lugar, chairman, Sen- a Cyprus agreement. ate Committee on Foreign Relations. An As in past reporting periods, U.S. officials original was not available for verification of provided diplomatic support to the process, the content of this letter.

Remarks on the Anniversary of the No Child Left Behind Act January 8, 2003

The President. Thank you all. Thanks for today. They’ve got other business. One Re- coming. Thank you. It’s one of the few publican is here, and that’s Senator Judd jobs in America where you get introduced Gregg from New Hampshire, who is the by your wife on a regular basis—[laugh- author—the Senate author on the Repub- ter]—in your home. [Laughter] And we’re lican side. glad you’re here. This is a—you’re one of This was a art of what is possible in our first guests we’ve had since the new Washington. It was a legislative victory on year. And this is an appropriate gathering behalf of the children of America. And it because Laura and I share a deep passion showed the American people that when to make sure every child gets educated in people set aside this needless partisan bick- America. ering, we can get some positive things We want to thank you for coming. And done. this is an interesting day. It marks the anni- So, a year ago we signed the piece of versary of an incredibly important legisla- legislation that I’m absolutely confident is tive accomplishment. It was a year ago that going to change our schools for the better, I signed the No Child Left Behind edu- change the whole structure of education cation act. It was the most meaningful edu- for the good. But it also was a signal to cation reform probably ever. those who love to divide in Washington, I wish all the Democrats and Repub- DC, that when we put our minds to it, licans who helped us on that bill were here

35 Jan. 8 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 when we focus on the greater good, we a good principal. Obviously, it requires can get a lot done. good teachers. But if you’ve got a good So I want to congratulate the members principal, an innovative, smart, capable per- of both political parties on this anniversary son who is motivated and dedicated and for working so hard to accomplish a signifi- who believes every child can learn, you’ll cant and meaningful piece of legislation. find excellence in that particular school. And now we’ve got to get to work. Now And we’ve got eight such principals with we’ve got to do the job that’s expected. us today, and it is my honor to herald We can say that the work of reform is them. well begun. And that’s—that’s a true state- Bernice Whelchel, who is the principal ment. The work will be complete, however, of City Springs Elementary School right when every school—every public school in here in Baltimore, Maryland, or right close America is a place of high expectations and here in Baltimore, Maryland. I want to a place of achievement. That is our national thank you. goal. Mary Ann Hawthorne is the principal of And there are a lot of good people work- the Samuel Gompers Vocational and Tech- ing on that goal. We’ve got good people nical High School in Bronx, New York. Ap- here at the Federal level working on it— preciate you, Mary Ann. Thank you. no better advocate than—excellence in Keith Owens, who is from Beulah public schools than Laura. She was a Heights Elementary School in Pueblo, Col- schoolteacher. She’s a schoolteacher. She’s orado. Keith. Yes, thank you. a reading expert. She is a public school Keith Posley is from Clarke Street Ele- librarian. She’s very knowledgeable, and she mentary in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. is passionate. And so this year she’s going J.R. Guinn, Del Valle High School, El to spend a lot of time working with the Paso, Texas. local folks to achieve excellence for every Lorraine Fong, who is the principal from single child. Kew Elementary in Inglewood, California. And so is our—so is Rod Paige, who I appreciate you, Lorraine. Good to see is running the Department of Education. you again. I like to tease Rod a little bit. When I Patrick Galatowitsch, who is the principal was looking for somebody to run the De- of Rolling Hills Elementary School, Or- partment of Education, I wasn’t interested lando, Florida. in anybody who was good on the theory. Beth Hager, principal of the Whitney M. I wanted somebody who was good on actu- Young Middle School in Cleveland, Ohio. ally doing the job of being a superintendent I appreciate you all. I’m glad you’re here. of schools. And he ran the toughest school I want to thank you for standing up here district in our State of Texas, which was with Laura and me and Rod. It is a chance the Houston Independent School District. for us to remind our fellow citizens that And he did a great job, because he believed when you find a good principal, thank him in high standards, accountability, and local or her from the bottom of your heart for control for the schools in the district. And doing one of the toughest jobs in the coun- Rod is the right man to be the Secretary try. But I hope it’s one of the most reward- of Education at this time in our Nation’s ing jobs for you. Because, after all, you’re history, and he has not let us down. achieving what a lot of people say can’t Secretary Paige. Thank you. happen, and that is you’ve taken some The President. Appreciate you. tough schools and converted them to little If you follow schools and if you follow centers of excellence. And you can truly public education, you know that you can say that because of your efforts and your find excellence in schools where you’ve got love and your energy, no child in your

36 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 8

school is going to be left behind. Thank Over the years, parents across America you all. have heard a lot of excuses—that’s a re- Today I had the honor of meeting mem- ality—and oftentimes have seen little bers of the President’s Commission on Spe- change. One year ago today, the time for cial Education. I want to thank you all for excuse-making has come to an end. With your hard work. We will be reauthorizing the No Child Left Behind Act, we have IDEA * this year with Members of Con- committed the Nation to higher standards gress. I know Senator Gregg holds this for every single public school. And we’ve issue close to his heart. I think you’ll find committed the resources to help the stu- that the reforms suggested in the Commis- dents achieve those standards. We affirm sion’s findings is going to be a great place the right of parents to have better informa- for you to start, and hopefully finish, Mr. tion about the schools and to make crucial Senator. [Laughter] decisions about their children’s future. Ac- I also want to thank the education offi- countability of results is no longer just a cials from five States, which I will be nam- hope of parents. Accountability for results ing a little later, officials who are on the is now the law of the land. leading edge of education reform. I’m not In return for receiving Federal money, going to tip my hand as to why you’re States must design accountability systems to measure whether students are learning here yet, but thank you all for coming. to read and write and add and subtract. [Laughter] I know that many in this room In return for a lot of money, the Federal have devoted your entire lives to bringing Government, for the first time, is asking, a spirit of high achievement to education ‘‘Are we getting the kind of return the in America, and I want to thank you for American people want for every child?’’ that. You understand success. You’ve seen The only way to be sure of whether or success firsthand—and unfortunately, too not every child is learning is to test regu- many instances you are aware of the per- larly and to show everybody, especially the sistent problems in our schools. parents, the results of the tests. The law Perhaps the biggest problem is that we further requires that test scores be pre- have passed children from grade to grade, sented in a clear and meaningful way so year after year, and those—child hadn’t that we can find the learning problems learned the basics of reading and math. within each group of students. I’ll show That says to me that somebody somewhere off a little bit—it’s called disaggregation of along the way believes certain children results. [Laughter] can’t learn, so therefore, let’s just shuffle Annual report cards are required to them through. grade the schools, themselves, so parents Many schools in our country are places can judge how the schools compare to oth- of hope and opportunity. Eight such ers. Excellence will be recognized. It’s so schools are here; many schools in the five important for us to measure, so that we States represented are places where people can praise the principals and teachers who can feel hopeful for the future. Unfortu- are accomplishing the objectives we all nately, too many schools in America have hope for. And at the same time, poor per- failed in that mission. The harm has been formance cannot be disguised or hidden. greatest in the poor and minority commu- Schools that perform poorly will be no- nities. Those kids have been hurt the worst ticeable and given time and given incen- because people have failed to challenge the tives and given resources to improve. soft bigotry of low expectations. Schools that don’t improve will begin to face consequences, such as that parents can * White House correction. move their child to another public school

37 Jan. 8 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

or hire a tutor or any other academic help. that high standards are not a burden to We will not accept a school that does not carry. They show us that this is a oppor- teach and will not change. tunity to seize. The leaders also show a Schools have a responsibility to improve, faith and confidence in their students, a and they also have the freedom to improve belief that every child can learn. in this law, and that’s important. I can as- Children respond to an atmosphere of sure you, I haven’t changed my attitude high standards. As teachers and parents can about Federal control of schools. When I tell you, children love to learn. They just was the Governor of Texas, I didn’t like love it. And they sense when we have faith the idea of Federal control of schools. I in them, and they love to justify that faith. felt we were pretty competent in the State And that’s what you all have shown, faith of Texas to run our own schools. I still in every child. feel that way, now that I’ve been up here The main reservations we’ve heard in the for 2 years. I believe in local control of year since we passed the reform have come schools, and this principle is inherent in from some adults, not the children, who this bill. say the testing requirement is an unfunded The key choices about curriculum and mandate on the States. Well, that’s not teaching methods will be made at the State true. We put up $387 million to provide and local level. Input will be given by par- for testing, to pay for the testing in this ents and teachers and principals who know year’s budget. I intend to ask for the same the local culture best. Parents and edu- amount next year. We demanded excel- cators will not be bystanders in education lence. We’re going to pay for the account- reform. As a matter of fact, in our view, they are the agents of education reform. ability systems to make sure that we do And this law upholds that principle as well. get excellence. Across America, States and school dis- Some have claimed that testing somehow tricts are working hard to implement these distracts from learning. I’ve heard this ex- reforms. Today Secretary Paige is approving cuse since I was the Governor of Texas, the first five accountability plans, hence the ‘‘Oh, you’re teaching the test.’’ Well, if a five folks I’ve invited here. [Laughter] The child can pass the reading test, the child first five accountability plans have been ap- has learned to read, as far as I’m con- proved, and they are from the States of cerned. Ohio and Massachusetts, New York, Colo- Other critics worry that high standards rado, and Indiana. and measurement invite poor results. In Their plans are rigorous, and their plans other words, ‘‘Don’t measure. You might are innovative. They are also varied, reflect- see poor results,’’ I guess is what they’re ing the different strengths and challenges saying—that they fear that by imposing within each State. One size doesn’t fit all clear standards, we’ll set some schools up when it comes to public education. What for failure and that we’ll identify too many counts are results. What counts are the fact failing schools. Well, the reasoning is back- that the schools will be teaching the basics wards, as far as I’m concerned, and a lot and children learn how to read and com- of other good people are concerned as well. pute. These States recognize that. You don’t cause a problem by revealing I want to thank you very much for show- the problem. Accountability doesn’t cause ing what is possible, for being on the lead- failure; it identifies failure. And only by ing edge. The plans show the kind of en- acknowledging poor performance can we ergy and commitment and good faith that ever help schools to achieve. You can’t education reform demands. These leaders solve a problem unless you first diagnose who have prepared these plans show us the problem.

38 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 8

And so the accountability schools under- ondary education by 49 percent. That’s a stand—the accountability rules understand large increase. that schools can achieve. And that’s why It is not enough to spend more on these eight are up here with us. And I schools, however. This issue is not just want to cite two examples. One, Beulah about money. We must spend money more Heights Elementary in Pueblo, Colorado— wisely. We must spend money on what the proportion of fourth graders reading works. And we must make sure we con- at or above proficiency has gone from 50 tinue to insist upon results for the money percent, which is clearly unacceptable, to we spend. 86 percent in 3 years. The priorities of the No Child Left Be- How do we know? We measured. He hind Act will be reflected in the budgets wouldn’t be standing here if we didn’t I submit, as long as I’m working here. This measure. We’d be guessing as to whether year, for example, I’m requesting more or not—and we’d find out, unfortunately, than $1 billion for the Federal reading pro- after the 50 percent that couldn’t read grams in next year’s budget. graduated from high school and still Now, I want you to know something couldn’t read. Accountability helps address about reading. Laura and I share a passion problems early, before it’s too late. Ac- for reading. We want to make sure every countability gives us a chance to praise a child learns to read by the third grade. principal and thank your teachers too. However, we will not fund reading pro- At Del Valle High School in El Paso, grams which do not work. My friend Reid less than half the children in that high Lyon is here from the National Institute school could pass an Algebra I exam 2 years of Health. Reid is a reading expert. He ago. See, we measured in Texas. We want- understands the science of reading. He ex- ed to know. This year, the number has plained to me a long time ago, some cur- risen to 74 percent. ricula work and some don’t. He under- I want to tell you what J.R. Guinn has stands what works. Again, I repeat, we’re said. He said, ‘‘You have to make the ex- willing to spend more money. We’re not pectation of success part of your belief sys- going to spend money on curriculum that tem.’’ We’re raising the bar, and we expect will not teach our children how to read. success. And J.R., you’re getting success. But we are willing to spend it, because Thank you for your leadership. Good job. we understand that if you can’t read, the All these school leaders understand it’s science programs don’t matter, it’s hard to not easy to turn a school around. They excel in math. Reading is the gateway to know that. It’s hard to go from frustration knowledge. Reading is the true civil right and despair to achievement and pride. Yet of the 21st century, as far as I’m con- these principals and the teachers have cerned. made the effort, and they’re seeing the re- And we’re proposing more money for sults. And it must make you feel great. Title I students as well. We’re going to This administration is committed to your ask for the ’04 budget a billion-dollar in- effort. And with the support of Congress, crease, up to $12.3 billion for Title I stu- we will continue to work to provide the dents, because one of the goals in this Na- resources school need to fund the era of tion has got to be to close the achievement reform. This school year, we’re providing gap. more money than ever before to help That starts with having high expectations. States and school districts. The Federal You see, I want to repeat what I said ear- Government is going to spend $22 billion lier: I believe that too many of the adults this year. Over the last 2 years, we’ve in- figure certain children cannot learn. And creased funding for elementary and sec- they just say, ‘‘Heck, let’s just move them

39 Jan. 8 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 through.’’ So we not only need to make hearts but their talents to make sure no sure the money is there, but we’ve got to child gets left behind. We look forward to make sure the attitude changes. And the a culture in America that understands every accountability systems within the No Child child can learn. And we look forward to Left Behind Act insist that we have an atti- the day that no child in this country is tude change in America. That’s what this ever left behind. says. Thank you all. One year ago, we met the first challenge of education reform. We passed the law. NOTE: The President spoke at 1:46 p.m. in And now we’ve got another challenge, and the East Room at the White House. In his that’s the implementation of this law. Today remarks, he referred to Keith Owen, prin- we honor five States; there are 45 more cipal, Beulah Heights Elementary School in to go. Some of the education leaders of Pueblo, CO; and G. Reid Lyon, chief, Child those States are here. We look forward to Development and Behavior Branch, National seeing your plans. We look forward to see- Institute of Child Health and Human Devel- ing the spirit of the No Child Left Behind opment, National Institutes of Health. He law in your plans. We look forward to also referred to the Individuals with Disabil- strong accountability systems. We look for- ities Education Act (IDEA) (Public Law No. ward to seeing the implementation of cur- 91–230); and Title I of the Improving Amer- ricula that works. We look forward to the ica’s Schools Act of 1994 (Public Law No. hiring of principals who know how to lead 103–382), which amended Title I of the Ele- a school. We look forward to rewarding mentary and Secondary Education Act of teachers who are not only lending their 1965 (Public Law No. 89–10).

Remarks on Signing Temporary Extended Unemployment Compensation Legislation Prior to a Meeting With Congressional Leaders January 8, 2003

The President. Thank you all for coming And right now it is my honor to sign today. I’m going to have a statement, and this piece of legislation, which should bring then we’ll ask you to leave so we can get some comfort to those of our fellow citizens down to our business. who need extra help during the time in I want to welcome Members of the Sen- which they try to find a job. So congratula- ate and the House, both Republicans and tions for a good job, and it’s my honor Democrats, for this, the first of many meet- to sign the bill. ings we’ll have this year to figure out how we can work together and get some things done on behalf of the American people. [At this point, the President signed the bill.] Yesterday and today the Senate and the The President. I signed this, and I intend House acted on behalf of the unemployed to sign a lot of other bills this year. And workers of America. I have the extension I know the only reason I’ll be able to do of unemployment benefits in front of me. so is because we’re going to work together. I want to congratulate Senators Frist and We owe that to the American people. It’s Daschle and Speaker Hastert and Leader the spirit that now prevails in this room. Pelosi for the good work on behalf of the And I look forward to working with Mem- American workers. bers of both parties to get a lot done to

40 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 9 make America a safer place, a stronger Unemployment Compensation Act of 2002 place, and a better place. and for a transition period for individuals re- Thank you. ceiving compensation when the program under such Act ends, was assigned Public NOTE: The President spoke at 4:08 p.m. in Law No. 108–1. The Office of the Press Sec- the Cabinet Room at the White House. S. retary also released a Spanish language tran- 23, approved January 8, to provide for a 5- script of these remarks. month extension of the Temporary Extended

Remarks at the National Capital Flag Company in Alexandria, Virginia January 9, 2003

Thanks for having me, Al. First, we just I’m proud that our Senator from the had a really good discussion about how to State of Virginia is with us, George Allen. make sure America is as promising as pos- I’m honored George is here. He’s a good sible, how do we grow our economy, what’s fellow. If you’ve got any complaints about the role of Government, who do we trust things, just take them to George. [Laugh- when it comes to the people’s money. And ter] But I’m proud to call him friend. I want to thank Al for assembling the group I want to thank the vice mayor of and providing this opportunity for me to Alexandria who’s here. Where are you? come and speak to you all and to the coun- Thank you, sir. Mr. Mayor, thanks for com- try about America. ing. I’m honored you’re here. My little First, the great thing about America, it’s brother is a resident of Alexandria, so go represented by guys like Al. He owns his light on his property taxes. [Laughter] I’m own business. It’s his. He’s realizing his going to try to go light on his income taxes. dream. The true strength of America is the [Laughter] entrepreneurial spirit of America, is the fact I appreciate so very much the folks that that Al, who had gone from firefighter to joined us to talk about their own individual CEO—it can happen—and not only CEO circumstances and the policies that I’ve ar- but CEO of a thriving business. And I ticulated. I am oftentimes asked, ‘‘How is know Al’s wife and daughter are really the economy doing?’’ And it’s doing pretty proud of him for taking a risk. darn well, given the fact that we’ve been But by taking risk, he is not only real- through a recession, which is three quarters izing a dream, he’s also helping other peo- of negative growth. We’ve been through an ple find work. The backbone of the U.S. attack on America, which many folks in this economy is the small business. And to be neighborhood, obviously, witnessed the able to talk about economic vitality and consequences of firsthand. That caused our growth in a small business is a joy for me. economy to slow down. It caused people So thanks for having me. Thanks for not to get on airplanes and go to hotels. what you do. Thanks for making all those It was a shock to our economy. And then flags that fly on the limousines. [Laughter] we had some of our citizens not tell the I’m proud to be traveling behind your flag. truth, that they thought that they could [Laughter] fudge the numbers to get ahead. And that I want to thank Hector Barreto, who is created a lack of confidence. And we’ve the Administrator of the Small Business dealt with all three of these things, and Administration, for being with us. our economy is growing.

41 Jan. 9 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

In spite of the fact that we had three into the economy. You’ll notice the effects major effects, the economy is showing posi- of the tax relief quickly. tive growth. Matter of fact, we’re the All people who pay taxes should get tax strongest, most resilient economy in the en- relief. The tax relief is already in place. tire world, which should say something. So If tax relief is good enough 3 years from we’re pretty darn good, but we’re not good now for the American people, given the enough. And that’s what I’m concerned circumstances today, it’s good enough about. today. And Congress needs to hear that. I say we’re not good enough because The plan is fair. there are some in the corporate world that And the other thing we’re going to do don’t have the confidence to expand like is accelerate aspects. Not only the tax rate they should be expanding, and too many reductions but the marriage penalty ought of our citizens are looking for work. Too to be accelerated. The benefits of the mar- many people who want to work can’t find riage—of reducing the marriage penalty a job, and that concerns me. And so one ought to be accelerated. It’s a little odd of my jobs is to deal with problems. If that we have a marriage penalty to begin you see a problem, instead of hoping it with. [Laughter] It seems like we ought goes away, just be forthright and lay out to not penalize marriage; we ought to en- a plan to deal with it. And that’s what I’m courage marriage. We ought to speed up the increase in doing. That’s what I did in Chicago, and the child credit. If you’re a mom or a dad, that’s what I’m going to do again today, you ought to get an increase in your child to talk about why I’ve—why I said what credit. And we ought to accelerate the re- I think is important. duction of the lowest tax rate from 15 per- First, in order to deal with the recession, cent to 10 percent. And these are all items in June of 2001 I signed a law that allowed that allow me to tell you that 92 million people to keep more of their own money. Americans benefit from this. In other words, it was tax relief for all You hear a lot of talk in Washington, citizens. We’ve reduced the tax rates for of course, about this benefits so-and-so, or everybody who pays taxes. And it was this benefits this, the kind of the class war- phased in over a period of years for the fare of politics. Let me just give you the sake of economic vitality. I mean, it was facts that, under this plan, a family of four good enough in January of ’01, the theory with an income of $40,000 will receive a that if you let people have more of their 96-percent reduction in Federal income own money, it would help the economy. taxes. That same theory still holds. Now, that may not mean a lot of money See, if Congress thought it was good to some of the big shots. It means a lot enough in ’01 to let people keep more of money for the family of four making money, they ought to think about it’s good $40,000. The income taxes would drop enough in ’03 to let people keep more of from $1,178 a year to $45 a year. That’s their own money. And the phase-in is in real significant money for this family. It’s ’04 and ’06. And all we’re asking Congress money that family would have to save, in- to do is take the law they’ve already passed vest, to help with the credit-card squeeze. and accelerate the tax relief to today. As It’s money that the family would have to a matter of fact, when they pass that, I’ll make decisions on their behalf. then get the Treasury to make it retro- Somebody asked me earlier, ‘‘Why can’t active. And if we make it retroactive, the Congress see the wisdom of this?’’ And one Treasury will then account for that retro- of the answers is, is that some in Congress activity so that you get immediate money would rather spend the money themselves

42 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 9 as opposed to trusting you to spend your like the National Flag Company. See, it own money, at least that’s how I view the is a capital-intensive business. It requires debate. sophisticated machinery to run this busi- This tax relief is real, and it’s significant. ness, as the folks who work here know. I was with Wayne and Candi—I was with It’s pretty darn sophisticated, isn’t it? Wayne. They’re going to save $2,500 a year. [Laughter] The folks at the so-called roundtable—it If this plan were to go through, the com- happened to be square, by the way. pany, Al tells me, since he is the company, [Laughter] Wayne was with us. We were or part of the company, or the decision- talking about his family. Joe and Kristen, maker in the company, says that he would two hard-working Americans that have got buy two more machines, which would cre- two children, they’ll have a yearly savings ate more job opportunities for people. In of $900, an 18-percent reduction in what other words, this is a plan that says that they pay to the Federal Government. if you are willing to take risk and invest This is a fair plan. It is an important more, that there’s a benefit for doing so. plan. And it’s a plan that will help people It’s an incentive for small business to in- find work, because it will help keep this crease. economy growing. It’s aimed at small business; it makes Secondly, one of the things in the plan sense for small business. And if Al makes is how do we affect the small-business the decision to buy more equipment and owner. If 70 percent of the new jobs in to hire more people, imagine all the dif- America are created by small business, then ferent Als around the country that are mak- we ought to be figuring out how to create ing the same decision. It’s the cumulative incentives for small business to grow. That effect of his decision as well as millions makes sense. of others that will enable me to predict The first thing is that most small busi- that more jobs will be created, more oppor- nesses pay—file their small-business in- tunities for growth. The people making the come on their personal income-tax returns. machines will have more opportunity. And Most are small businesses or limited part- it will have a positive effect throughout our nerships—most small businesses are limited entire economy. partnerships or sole proprietorships. Al is The third aspect of this plan is on divi- not. He’s a C corp, so he pays at the cor- dends. A dividend is money that a company porate level, but many small businesses are. gives back to investors out of their profits. So when you reduce the rates on every- Right now this country taxes dividends body who pays taxes, you’re reducing the twice—or income twice, in the sense. In taxes on small-business owners, which gives other words, you tax the profit at the cor- that small-business owner more money to porate level, and that’s good. Profits should invest in the growth of the business, which be taxed. And when the profit is distributed means it’s more likely he or she will be to an investor, it gets taxed. I don’t think able to hire somebody additionally. When it’s fair to tax that dollar twice. And I think you reduce the income-tax rates on Ameri- the Congress ought to abolish the double cans, you’re affecting small business, and taxation on dividends. That’s a fair prin- that’s important for people to know. It’s ciple. a fact, and it’s a real fact. And it will have other effects as well. As well, I’ve asked the Congress to raise Fifty percent or half of all the dividend the deduction from $25,000 to $75,000— income—50 percent of all the dividend in- in other words, the amount that a business come in America goes to our seniors. can deduct from the investment of equip- There’s a way that seniors have been— ment. And this makes sense for a company many seniors have invested and use the

43 Jan. 9 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 dividend income as part of their retirement. a big business, in which people are com- If you get rid of the double taxation of fortable about investing, in which people dividends, you help seniors in their retire- have the ultimate confidence in our system. ment, and that makes sense. That’s good We got a lot of big problems ahead of public policy, it seems like to me. us here in America. We’re fighting a war, The average tax savings for taxpayers 65 and the war goes on. I knew that the far- and older who receive dividends will be ther we got away from September the 11th, $936 per year, per tax return. That’s—that the more likely it would be that I would will help. That will help people. Abolishing continue to have to convince people that the double taxation will increase the return we live in a dangerous world, and we do. on responsible investing, which will draw And this year, the year ’03, we’re going more money into the markets, which will to do like we did last year; we’re just going make it easier for people to have capital to keep hunting them down, one at a time. to build plant and equipment, which means It doesn’t matter where they try to hide. more people will find work. We’ll find them and bring them to justice. I mean, this is a plan to encourage We’ll be dealing with weapons of mass de- growth, focusing on jobs. And the Council struction in order to make the world more of Economic Advisers has predicted that peaceful. these proposals will create 2.1 million new And here at home, we’ve got some obsta- jobs over the next 3 years. That’s good for cles to overcome as well. And one of those the American people. It’s good for our obstacles is to make sure people can find economy. work, make sure this economy is strong See, I want people who need to put and vibrant and hopeful, that the future bread—food on the table to be able to is optimistic for every single citizen. do so, more people working. They’re look- But there’s no doubt in my mind we’ll ing for work and can’t find work. That’s— overcome these obstacles. There’s no doubt that’s sad. in my mind that the world is going to be I signed a bill yesterday, by the way, a more peaceful place because of the to extend unemployment benefits. I want United States of America. There’s no doubt to thank both Republicans and Democrats, in my mind that we’ll prevail in the war Senator Allen and others, for getting that on terror, no matter how long it takes. And done. See, they showed yesterday that there’s no doubt in my mind, when Con- when they get their mind to something and gress does the right thing, that more of forget politics and focus on the good of our Americans will have a more hopeful the American people, we can get some future, because they’ll be able to find work. things done. And I signed the bill yester- Thank you, Al, for giving me a chance day. They hadn’t been in town but 2 days to come by. May God bless you and your and got the bill to my desk, and that’s families, and may God continue to bless good. the greatest nation on the face of the They need to be thinking the same way Earth, the United States of America. about this jobs package. They need to understand that the proposal I made will put NOTE: The President spoke at 10:05 a.m. in $59 billion out the door in 2003 alone, the company’s sewing room. In his remarks, which is short-term stimulus. They need he referred to Albert Ulmer, Jr., president, to understand that we’ve got to be thinking National Capital Flag Company, his wife, Jo- long-term for the United States of America, anne, and their daughter, Caitlin; Vice Mayor that the role of Government is not to create William Cleveland of Alexandria; and Wayne wealth but to create an environment in and Candi Page, and Joseph and Kristen which the small business can grow to be Pappano, who participated in a roundtable

44 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 10 discussion with the President prior to his re- released a Spanish language transcript of marks. The Office of the Press Secretary also these remarks.

Message to the Senate Transmitting an Agreement Amending the Canada- United States Treaty on Pacific Coast Albacore Tuna Vessels and Port Privileges January 9, 2003

To the Senate of the United States: fishing necessitated by changing cir- With a view to receiving the advice and cumstances. consent of the Senate to ratification, I The U.S. fishing and processing indus- transmit herewith the Agreement Amend- tries strongly support the amendment to ing the Treaty Between the Government the Treaty. The amendment not only allows of the United States of America and the the Parties to redress the imbalance of ben- Government of Canada on Pacific Coast Al- efits received by U.S. fishers that has devel- bacore Tuna Vessels and Port Privileges oped in the operation of the Treaty, but done at Washington May 26, 1981 (the also preserves U.S. interests under the ‘‘Treaty’’), effected by an exchange of diplo- Treaty, including the interest of U.S. fishers matic notes at Washington on July 17, to fish in Canadian waters at times when 2002, and August 13, 2002 (the ‘‘Agree- the albacore stock moves northward, the interest of U.S. processors to continue to ment’’). I am also enclosing, for the infor- receive Canadian catches for processing, mation of the Senate, the report of the and the U.S. interest in being able to con- Secretary of State on the Agreement and serve and manage the stock. a related agreement, effected by an ex- The recommended legislation necessary change of notes at Washington on August to implement the Agreement will be sub- 21, 2002, and September 10, 2002, amend- mitted separately to the Congress. ing the Annexes to the Treaty; this related I recommend that the Senate give favor- agreement was concluded pursuant to Arti- able consideration to this Agreement and cle VII of the Treaty. give its advice and consent to ratification The Treaty currently permits unlimited at an early date. fishing for albacore tuna by vessels of each Party in waters under the jurisdiction of GEORGE W. BUSH the other Party. The Agreement amends The White House, the Treaty to allow for a limitation on such January 9, 2003.

Statement on the Death of Steve Young January 10, 2003

Laura and I are saddened by the news country as a police officer, president of the of the passing of Steve Young, national Fraternal Order of Police, and as a member president of the Fraternal Order of Police. of the Homeland Security Advisory Coun- Steve made important contributions to our cil. Steve was a true hero for his dedication

45 Jan. 10 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 to ensuring the safety of our communities. Our thoughts and prayers are with his He was a great friend and an honorable family during this difficult time. and loyal man.

The President’s Radio Address January 11, 2003

Good morning. As a new Congress con- hard on seniors, many of whom rely on venes, we must take steps to speed up the dividends for a steady source of income economic recovery and to strengthen public in their retirement. Abolishing double tax- confidence in the integrity of American cor- ation of dividends will leave nearly 35 mil- porations. This week in Chicago, I an- lion Americans with more of their own nounced my growth-and-jobs plan, specific money to spend and invest, which will pro- proposals to help workers, employers, and mote savings and return as much as $20 investors across America. billion this year to the private economy. For unemployed Americans whose bene- Overall, my tax cut proposals will add fits expired on December 28th, I asked nearly $59 billion to the economy in 2003 Congress to act to extend those benefits. alone. Congress did so quickly, and I signed the Our Government is also acting to restore extension of unemployment benefits into investor confidence in the integrity and law this week. honesty of corporate America. In response For Americans who face the greatest dif- to the abuses of some corporations, we ficulty finding work, I propose special re- passed serious reforms, and we will vigor- employment accounts. These accounts will ously enforce them. Our Corporate Fraud provide up to $3,000 to help pay for train- Task Force has obtained convictions or ing, moving expenses, or other costs of guilty pleas in over 50 cases. More than finding a job. 160 defendants have been charged with For all income-tax payers, I propose criminal or civil wrongdoing. And 130 new speeding up the tax cuts already approved corporate fraud investigations have been by Congress, because Americans need that launched. relief today. Instead of gradually reducing In my budget for the coming year, I the marriage penalty between now and will also propose major increases in funding 2009, we should do it now. Instead of wait- for the prosecutors of corporate crime. My ing until 2008 to move more taxpayers from 2004 budget funding for the Securities and the 15-percent bracket to the 10-percent Exchange Commission will be 73 percent bracket, we should make that change now. higher than 2002 levels. This will allow the Instead of slowly raising the child credit agency to hire hundreds of new account- to $1,000 by 2010, we should raise it now. ants, lawyers, and examiners. When these changes are made, 92 million I’m also requesting an extra $25 million Americans will keep an average of $1,083 for the Department of Justice to expand more of their own money. the corporate fraud investigations. This will And for America’s 84 million investors allow the Department to create 118 new and those who will become investors, I pro- positions in the FBI, including 56 agents. pose eliminating the double taxation on In addition, 94 new people will be hired stock dividends. Double taxation is unfair to serve in the U.S. attorneys’ offices and and bad for our economy. It falls especially legal divisions across the Nation.

46 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 14

The SEC and Justice Department are part of our economy is strong, and every the referees of corporate conduct. Under person who wants to work can find a job. my budget, they will have every resource Thank you for listening. they need to enforce the laws that punish fraud and protect investors. NOTE: The address was recorded at 10:45 I ask the Congress to support these en- a.m. on January 10 in the Cabinet Room at forcement measures and to pass my the White House for broadcast at 10:06 a.m. growth-and-jobs plan as soon as possible. on January 11. The transcript was made avail- Our country has made great progress in able by the Office of the Press Secretary on restoring investor confidence and putting January 10 but was embargoed for release the recession behind us. We cannot be sat- until the broadcast. The Office of the Press isfied, however, until every corporate Secretary also released a Spanish language wrongdoer is held to account, and every transcript of this address.

Letter to Congressional Leaders on Modifying Duty-Free Treatment Under the Generalized System of Preferences To Include Afghanistan January 10, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. President:) This notice is submitted in accordance I am writing to inform you of my intent with section 502(f) of the Trade Act of to add Afghanistan to the list of beneficiary 1974. developing countries and to the list of least- Sincerely, developed beneficiary developing countries GEORGE W. BUSH under the Generalized System of Pref- erences (GSP). I have carefully considered NOTE: Letters were sent to J. Dennis the criteria identified in sections 501 and Hastert, Speaker of the House of Represent- 502 of the Trade Act of 1974, as amended. atives, and Richard B. Cheney, President of In light of these criteria, I have determined the Senate. This letter was released by the that it is appropriate to extend GSP bene- Office of the Press Secretary on January 13. ficiary developing country and least-devel- An original was not available for verification oped beneficiary developing country bene- of the content of this letter. The related proc- fits to Afghanistan. lamation of January 10 is listed in Appendix D at the end of this volume.

Letter to Congressional Leaders Transmitting a Report on United States Individuals Involved in the Antinarcotics Campaign in Colombia January 13, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. President:) 2001, Public Law 106–246, I am providing Pursuant to section 3204(f), title III, a report prepared by my Administration chapter 2 of the Emergency Supplemental that provides ‘‘the aggregate number, loca- Act, 2000 (the ‘‘Act’’), as enacted in the tions, activities, and lengths of assignment Military Construction Appropriations Act,

47 Jan. 14 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 for all temporary and permanent U.S. mili- ians retained as individual contractors in tary personnel and U.S. individual civilians Colombia involved in supporting Plan Co- retained as contractors involved in the lombia. This report further indicates that antinarcotics campaign in Colombia.’’ during September, October, and November In so doing, I note and appreciate the 2002, these figures never exceeded the ceil- continued strong bipartisan support given ings established in section 3204(b) of the to U.S. programs assisting Colombia in the Act, as amended. Act and elsewhere. Sincerely, This report is classified because of force protection considerations and the high level GEORGE W. BUSH of terrorist threat in Colombia. However, the aggregate numbers given below are un- NOTE: Identical letters were sent to J. Den- classified. nis Hastert, Speaker of the House of Rep- The report indicates that as of November resentatives, and Richard B. Cheney, Presi- 13, 2002, the end of this reporting period, dent of the Senate. This letter was released there were 267 temporary and permanent by the Office of the Press Secretary on Janu- U.S. military personnel and 270 U.S. civil- ary 14.

Remarks Prior to Discussions With President Aleksander Kwasniewski of Poland and an Exchange With Reporters January 14, 2003

President Bush. What we’re going to do man has made a commitment to work to- here is have a couple of opening state- gether, as equal partners, in the war on ments, two questions from the American terror, on the desire to lift the—find free- press, two questions from the Polish press. dom for people who live in misery. Let me first start by saying how much And so Mr. President, we’re so glad I’m honored that my friend the President you’re back, and welcome back to the Oval of Poland is back in Washington. We’re Office. thrilled you’re here. My only regret is that President Kwasniewski. Thank you. you didn’t bring your beautiful wife with President Bush. I appreciate you. you, the First Lady of Poland. President Kwasniewski. Mr. President, But we’re here to have a substantive talk dear friends, so after very short time—be- on a lot of issues, issues ranging from the cause I paid official visit to the United war on terror to the recent decision by States July last year—I am again in Oval the Polish Government on the purchase of Office, in White House in Washington, and U.S.-made aircraft, how best to implement I think this is a good sign that our coopera- that decision, to let the Polish people ben- tion, our relations are very active and very efit so the decision is not only good for friendly. the defense ministry of Poland, but it’s Now we’ll have consultations. We will good for the people of Poland. discuss all the problems concerning war And the President cares deeply about the against terror, at the national situation. And people of Poland, and we’ll have a good I think today is the best time to discuss, discussion along those lines. I’ve got no because before action, before last decisions, better friend in Europe today than Poland. it’s necessary to exchange opinions, of expe- One of the reasons why is because this riences, of some ideas. And that is very

48 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 14

substantial element of my trip to Wash- have expelled—are in the process of kicking ington now. out IAEA* people. Second, what President Bush mentioned, I view this as an opportunity to bind Poland decided to have your fighter F–16. together nations in the neighborhood and It was very transparent, very open, and very around the world to make it clear to the well prepared tender, and I think we have North Koreans that we expect this issue a chance not only to have good place for to be resolved peacefully, and we expect Polish army, not only to have a good con- them to disarm. We expect them not to tribution to our NATO membership, but develop nuclear weapons. And if they so we have a chance to open new chapter choose to do so—their choice—then I will in the economic relations between Poland reconsider whether or not we will start the and United States, and this is the next rea- bold initiative that I talked to Secretary son of my visit and of our discussion. Powell about. America has unique chance to accelerate People say, ‘‘Well, are you willing to talk economic activities, investment activities in to North Korea?’’ Of course we are. But Poland. We are open, we are prepared, we what this Nation won’t do is be have good practice, we have specialists. And blackmailed. And what this Nation will do what is my satisfaction, America wants to is use this as an opportunity to bring the do it. That’s what is good news, good mes- Chinese and the Russians and South Kore- sage for all of us here in the United States ans and the Japanese to the table to solve and Poland as well. this problem peacefully. President Bush. Fournier [Ron Fournier, President Kwasniewski. I agree. I think Associated Press]. in the Korean case absolutely not to com- North Korea pare with Iraq’s case. And we have a chance to discuss about North Korea with Q. Thank you, sir. Jack Kelly has very very serious partners which are thinking the publicly promised North Korea energy aid same way; I mean Japan, Russia, China, in exchange for Pyongyang giving up its South Korea. We have a chance to propose nuclear program. Isn’t that rewarding North something very positive to North Korea, Korea for bad behavior, something you maybe not for regime—because when I promised never to do? read some information about this regime, President Bush. First of all, there’s a big it’s not so easy to propose something— concern here in our country about North something special. But absolutely, I am Korea, and I’m absolutely convinced this sure that we have enough possibilities to issue will be solved in a peaceful way. I propose positive solution for this case, but want to remind the American people that with all international partners. prior to North Korea making the decision President Bush. Would you care to call it made, that I had instructed our Secretary on somebody from Poland, Polish press? of State to approach North Korea about a bold initiative, an initiative which would War on Terror talk about energy and food, because we Q. Can the war of terror be decisively care deeply about the suffering of the won? This is a question for both Presidents. North Korean people. And what would be Poland’s role in the And then the North Koreans made a de- war of terror—on terror? cision. And the decision they made was to President Bush. Let me start. You bet ignore international norm, ignore treaties the war on terror can be won. And not that they had—agreements that they had only can it be won; we’re going to win reached and start building potential nuclear weapons, enriching uranium. And now they * White House correction.

49 Jan. 14 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 it. And the way you win it is you work and gifts from Poland to this country is together. You share intelligence. You com- the Polish heritage. plement each other’s efforts. If we find Scott. somebody thinking about doing something Q. Sir, Mr. President, the U.N. weapons to our friends in Poland, we’ll share the inspectors say they need until—— information with this Government and vice President Bush. I mean Steve [Steve Hol- versa. We will work together to cut off land, Reuters]. Is your name Steve or money. And we will hunt the killers down, Scott? one at a time. And that’s exactly what we U.N. Weapons Inspectors are doing and exactly what we are going to do. Q. The weapons inspectors say they need We’re going to find them. They think until March, maybe 6 months, maybe a they can hide in a cave in the outer reaches year. Is this what you had in mind when of Afghanistan. We will go in the cave and you went to the U.N. back in September? find them. And one by one, we are disman- President Bush. What I have in mind tling this terrorist network. It requires a for Saddam Hussein is to disarm. The lot of communication. It requires a lot of United Nations spoke with one voice. We cooperation. And it requires a lot of pa- said, ‘‘We expect Saddam Hussein, for the tience. And this Government has got all sake of peace, to disarm.’’ That’s the ques- three. tion: Is Saddam Hussein disarming? He’s been given 11 years to disarm. And so the world came together, and we have given Polish American Community him one last chance to disarm. So far, I Q. Mr. President, there are 10 million haven’t seen any evidence that he is dis- of the Polish Americans in the United arming. States. What is your perception about the Time is running out on Saddam Hussein. Polish Americans? He must disarm. I’m sick and tired of President Bush. I think that one of the games and deception. And that’s my view greatest contributions to Poland—to our of timetables. country is Polish Americans, people who Thank you all very much. are enterprising, hard-working, God-fearing, family-loving people. One of the great NOTE: The President spoke at 11:28 a.m. in strengths of our country is our diversity, the Oval Office at the White House. In his and part of our diversity is the fact that remarks, he referred to Jolanta Kwasniewska, a lot of our citizens were born in Poland wife of President Kwasniewski; and President and/or their fathers and mothers were born Saddam Hussein of Iraq. A reporter referred in Poland or their grandparents were born to Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian in Poland. Truly, one of the great blessings and Pacific Affairs James A. Kelly.

Remarks to Welfare-to-Work Graduates January 14, 2003

The President. Thank you all for coming. low citizens who have lifted themselves out Please be seated. Thanks for coming, and of poverty. I welcome you all here. You’re welcome to the White House. I’m espe- fantastic examples of what is possible in cially pleased to welcome the—our fine fel-

50 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 14

America, what we hope happens in Amer- companies in America to—helping people ica. find the dignity of work. And we sat there I particularly want to thank Lorey Wilson on the stage and heard the stories of those and Pamela Hedrick. Each of them have who have gone from welfare to work. It incredible success stories, and Pam has must have made you feel good, Rodney, agreed to share her story with us. I want because you had a lot to do with helping to thank her family for being here as well. these individuals. So thanks for coming. Both women show us the dignity that John Gregory is the president of comes with work and the great hopes that TEACH, The Enrichment Association of have been realized through the welfare re- Community Healing. I appreciate John form. being here and all the rest of you for com- The welfare law of 1996 has enabled mil- ing. Welcome. Glad you’re here. lions of Americans to build better lives— The reforms of the 1990s recognized that better lives for themselves and better lives people on welfare are not charges of the for their families and, hence, better lives state; they’re citizens of this country, with for our country. The time has come to abilities and aspirations. Both parties in strengthen that law, and that’s what I want Congress realize that welfare system as we to talk about today. knew it sapped the soul and drained the Leading the charge will be Department spirit from our citizens. They came to- of Health and Human Services leader gether, the people of both parties, to put Tommy Thompson. And I appreciate an end to the culture of dependency that Tommy. Tommy, when he was the Gov- welfare had created. ernor of Wisconsin, was on the leading edge of welfare change. He was an innova- The obligation of Government did not tive Governor. He’s an innovative Cabinet end with just mailing of a check, and that’s officer as well. important for our citizens to realize. Men And I appreciate Elaine Chao for being and women deserved a chance to learn new here as well. She’s Secretary of the Depart- skills. That was an obligation of Govern- ment of Labor. When we’re interested in ment, to help people learn, to use their jobs, we think about the Department of talent so that they could realize dreams, Labor. So, thank you for coming, Elaine. to gain the fulfillment of sense of purpose [Laughter] I appreciate your work. that comes with striving and working and I appreciate Bob Woodson for being providing for their own families. here—Woody. Thanks for coming. He’s the In the 7 years since welfare was re- director of the National Center for Neigh- formed, millions of Americans have shared borhood Enterprise. He’s one of these in- in this experience. Their lives and our novative thinkers about how to best help country are better off. Today, more than people help themselves in America, make 2 million fewer families are on welfare— sure that hope extends to all neighbor- 2 million fewer than in 1996. It’s a reduc- hoods, not just some neighborhoods but tion of 54 percent. That’s a number, but every neighborhood in our country. behind each number is a life. And that’s I appreciate Rodney Carroll, who is the important to recognize. In Washington, we president and CEO of the Welfare-To- spend a lot of time talking about numbers. Work Partnership. His job has been to And that’s okay. It’s kind of a measuring gather up people who are willing to help tool. But we’ve also got to remember, with people go from welfare to work. And he’s each number is somebody’s aspiration and done a magnificent job. I remember well hope. our meeting in Chicago with the ‘‘Big During the period from 1996 to 2001, Brown,’’ UPS, which is one of the leading the percentage of welfare recipients who

51 Jan. 14 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 are working tripled. That’s incredibly posi- bar. We believe in the best. We don’t active news. According to the most recent cept mediocrity. Some say it’s asking too census data, the poverty rate amongst His- much. But a lot of those voices were the panic children has reached the lowest level same ones that said the 1996 law was in over 20 years. The poverty rate among flawed. In other words, they have low— African American children is the lowest low expectations for what is possible in this ever recorded. There’s a correlation, it society. seems like to me. Skepticism is refuted every single day, Behind these statistics are great personal however, when we meet the hard-won suc- achievements. Adversity has been over- cesses from former welfare recipients. come, and lives have changed forever. I That’s the best case that we can make, met people all around our country who can those of us who believe in expecting the share their stories of hard work and fighting best and working hard to achieve the best. odds that have been stacked against them. We’ve got new data this month refuting Moms and dads who are—battled addiction skepticism as well. A study from the Uni- and have overcome addiction. Folks who versity of Michigan shows that in the States have had trouble holding a job and found with the strongest work incentives, single out that they could and realized their parents have seen larger increases in in- dreams. come than in States with weaker work re- The welfare law is a success because it quirements. puts Government on the side of personal Work is the key to success in helping responsibility, and it has helped people families lift themselves out of poverty. It’s change their life for the better, helped peo- the key to success for improving the lives ple realize their dreams, helped people of our children. And the strong incentives help themselves. That’s the key aspect of in the House bill will encourage work. Un- the—one of the key principles of the law fortunately, the Senate never was able to that makes a lot of sense, that has helped act on the House bill, so it died. make this law effective. Today I want to remind the new Con- Last year, the House of Representatives gress we have an obligation to reauthorize passed legislation to build on the successes the welfare bill, welfare reform, to make of the 1996 welfare reform law. They did it work. And so I’m calling upon both so because they want more Americans to Houses to get after it. Let’s get a new know the pride and success that come from bill up, a bill that—in which the House hard work. The law passed the House— and Senate have got to work closely to that passed the House required 40 hours achieve the objectives that we have just of work each week. There was a serious set out, the idea of getting people to work, requirement for work. Of the 40 hours, 16 make them less dependent upon Govern- of those could be used for job training or ment, to help people in need, so they can education and, when needed, treatment for realize their dreams. addiction. In other words, the 40 hours of I also want Congress to provide $17 bil- work was—part of that 40 hours was help- lion a year to help the States run their ing people help themselves. And that’s an welfare programs and 4.8 billion a year to important aspect of any law that encourages help pay for childcare. Of course, there’s people to go from welfare to work. a funding obligation that goes with the idea The House bill set an ambitious goal for of setting high goal—high standards and States to have 70 percent of the welfare strong goals. And since the caseloads have recipients working within a 5-year period fallen by half, the States will now have of time. We encourage them to think that twice the resources to spend on welfare way because we believe in setting a high and job training and childcare.

52 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 14

See, back in 1996, they were spending fidence in the numbers now being put $7,000 per family to help people get to forth. work. Under this budget request, the ex- We’re slowly but surely coming out of penditure will be $16,000 per family. If the three hits to our economy, and we need 7,000 was good enough in 1996, it seems to do more. And that’s why I’ve argued like 16,000 is good enough into ’03 to help the more people have in their pocket, the people get ahead. more they’re likely to spend. And when It’s important for Congress to authorize they spend money, it’s more likely to pro- funding not just for next year but for the vide jobs for people. It’s the strength of next 5 years, so that people who are work- our economy. And it’s important for Con- ing to help people understand there’s a gress to work with me to encourage con- steady stream of funds that will help with sumers to have more money, investors to the planning. have more money, to take care of the aged It’s also important for Congress to work in their retirement. And the plans I laid with us to get a Faith-Based Initiative out recognize that the money we spend going. I did a lot through an Executive here isn’t the Government’s money; it’s the order the other day that said faith programs people’s money. And the more money the people have in their pocket, the more likely will not be discriminated against at the this economy is going to grow. And as the Federal level. But the Faith-Based Initia- economy grows, it’s more likely we’re going tive is a part of welfare reform. It’s one to have success in helping people. thing to help a person get the job skills And the other thing we can do is to necessary, but a lot of times we need to do a better job for unemployed Americans help people with their hearts and their through what I call Reemployment Ac- souls. And the only place to find that help counts. These accounts will provide up to is in the faith-based community. And so, $3,000 per person to help pay for training, therefore, I’m still going to stay strong on childcare, moving expenses, or other costs the Faith-Based Initiative, because I know of finding a job. It is a—provides incentive of the hope and promise found in our for people who are looking for work. If churches and synagogues and mosques— you find a job before the 3,000 runs out, hope and promise that can’t be duplicated then you get to keep the remainder, the at the Federal level. balance. In other words, it’s additional And as we encourage work and welfare, money to help people find work. It’s money we’ve also got to encourage growth in our on top of the current system. economy. I’m aware of that. And that’s why It’s money that—that will recognize that I introduced a plan to build on the eco- power is best when it’s disbursed to the nomic momentum we have going for us. people we’re trying to help. It will help We’ve come out of recession. The enemy States on the frontlines of where there’s hit us, and that hurt our economy. We had unemployment or chronic unemployment. a few of our corporate citizens thought they It’s a good idea. I hope Congress acts as could fudge the numbers, not tell the truth, quickly as possible. I mean, the idea is that so there’s a—kind of startled our investor we want to help people. That’s what we class, and the American people were ought to do in America. We want to help shocked by the fact that too many citizens people who, in this land of plenty, have weren’t telling the truth. So I signed a law overcome some incredibly tough times be- that’s going to hold people to account, and cause of the lack of things, sometimes the we’re after them. For those who have lack of love, sometimes the lack of help, cooked the books, there’s going to be a sometimes the lack of education. In a land consequence. We’re regaining the con- where we’ve got an awful lot, there are

53 Jan. 14 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 still a lot of people who hurt, too many [At this point, Pamela Hedrick made brief who hurt. And the role of Government is remarks.] to help those good folks realize their poten- The President. Thank you all for coming. tial. Everybody has got potential. Every- Thanks for coming. I appreciate you all body has got worth. Everybody has got coming. For those of you who have got value. And the role of this Government is some influence up on Capitol Hill, remind to help those people realize their value and them, it works. God bless. worth. Today we’ve got Pamela Hedrick with NOTE: The President spoke at 1:44 p.m. in us today. She can talk about this better the East Room at the White House. In his than I can talk about it, because she’s what remarks, he referred to Robert L. Woodson, we call a success story—somebody who is Sr., founder and president, National Center willing to share her story with the good for Neighborhood Enterprise; and John folks here in the White House. Henry Gregory, founder and chief executive So, Pamela, thank you for coming. I look officer, The Enrichment Association of Com- forward to hearing what you have to say. munity Healing (TEACH).

Videotaped Remarks to the African Growth and Opportunity Act Forum January 15, 2003

Thank you very much. And thank you, Yet fulfilling this vision is the work of Ambassador Zoellick, for leading the many years. It will require hard effort and United States delegation to this historic true leadership and a rejection of some old gathering. And thanks to the other U.S. ways. And in this great work, you will al- Government officials, including Sam ways have a partner in the United States. Bodman, Andrew Natsios, and others, for Every nation that seeks peace faces a attending this forum. common enemy today in global terror. The I also thank you all for the honor of recent attacks in Mombasa remind us that addressing this important meeting. I’m dis- Africa is on the frontlines of the war against appointed I’m not able to join you in per- terror. All our citizens know the awful price son. I still look forward to visiting Africa of terror, and we will not rest until we later this year. I’m grateful to Prime Min- have defeated terrorism in all its forms. In this struggle, my country is grateful ister Jugnauth for hosting this forum. And for the crucial support and friendship we to all the ministers and delegates and have received from the nations of Africa. guests from our fellow AGOA nations, I You’ve stood with us against a deadly extend the good wishes of the American threat. And we will stand with you to help people. bring an end to the terrible regional con- All of us share a common vision for the flicts that bring so much suffering to inno- future of Africa. We look to the day when cent Africans, from Congo to Sudan to the prosperity for Africa is built through trade Ivory Coast. and markets. We see a continent at peace, Safety from violence is the most basic where the people of Africa obtain education condition of better lives for the people of and medical care and live in freedom. And Africa. And now and in years to come, we we’re making great progress, as shown by will continue working to expand trade be- last month’s free elections in Kenya. tween America and the African Continent.

54 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 15

AGOA shows the power of trade to lift ing other nations to join us in meeting this people out of poverty. Exports from AGOA urgent need. nations to the United States are rising dra- The United States will also continue to matically, and the benefits are felt through- lead the world in providing the resources out the region. From Mauritius to Mali, to defeat HIV/AIDS. In addition, we have AGOA is helping to reform old economies, pledged to help poor countries get access creating new incentives for good govern- to the emergency life-saving drugs they ance and offering new hope for millions need to fight HIV/AIDS and other infec- of Africans. tious epidemics. The AIDS pandemic has America is committed to building on the caused extraordinary loss and suffering great success of AGOA. One important way across your continent and the world, and we can do this is to give business the con- all governments have a moral obligation to fidence to invest in Africa, knowing the confront it. law’s benefits will continue long into the To help promote economic progress in future. Therefore, I’m pleased to announce Africa and elsewhere, the next budget I that I will ask the United States Congress submit to Congress will include a 50-per- to extend AGOA beyond 2008. cent increase in our development assistance My administration strongly supported the over the next 3 years. Money from our AGOA II improvements, which are now new Millennium Challenge Account will be helping African companies to sharply in- directed to nations that encourage eco- crease exports to the United States. As nomic freedom, root out corruption, and promised at the last AGOA meeting in respect the rights of their people. Through Washington, the United States has opened the New Partnership for African Develop- offices in Botswana and Kenya and Ghana ment, many leaders across the continent to ensure that African businesses can take have pledged their governments to these advantage of new opportunities to sell fundamental principles. goods abroad. Entrepreneurs in Africa America has also created a special Afri- often face difficulty complying with trade can Millennium Fund, administered by the regulations and standards, and these offices Overseas Private Investment Corporation. are there to provide help. To assist African Through this fund, we will support the con- farmers in selling abroad, soon we will as- struction of roads and bridges, canals, and sign U.S. agricultural officials to each of other basic infrastructure that help make these regional offices. economic growth possible. America is also working toward a free Africa’s future depends as well on good trade agreement with the Southern African teachers and schools and a chance for every Customs Union. Reaching that agreement child to study and learn, so America is de- involves complex and costly negotiations. voting an additional $200 million over 5 To speed up those negotiations, my country years to improve basic education and teach- will provide technical assistance to mem- er training in Africa. Thanks to the leader- bers of the Southern African Customs ship of Andrew Natsios, Administrator of Union. our Agency of International Development, Wider trade is essential to economic we have also created the Books for a Better growth, but our work does not end there. Tomorrow program. This public/private ef- Many countries also need assistance to help fort will, in the weeks to come, deliver $30 spare their peoples from the extremes of million worth of books and other school poverty and disease. We are sending 1 mil- supplies to Africa. lion metric tons of food to help feed the For many years, America and the world 30 million people in southern Africa and looked to the continent of Africa and saw the Horn facing starvation, and we are urg- only its problems. That era has passed. In

55 Jan. 15 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 this new century, the world is beginning NOTE: The President’s remarks were to see the great potential of Africa and videotaped at approximately 4 p.m. on Janu- the goodness of its people. ary 13 in the Library at the White House Many of you gathered this week in Mau- for later transmission to the forum meeting ritius have helped to bring about this in Port Louis, Mauritius. The transcript was change. I share your confidence in Africa’s released by the Office of the Press Secretary future and in Africa’s new generation of on January 15. In his remarks, the President leaders. I pledge to you the friendship and referred to Prime Minister Anerood support of the United States of America. Jugnauth of Mauritius. Thank you very much, and may God bless you all.

Remarks on the Michigan Affirmative Action Case January 15, 2003

The Supreme Court will soon hear argu- America is a diverse country, racially, ments in a case about admissions policies economically, and ethnically. And our insti- and student diversity in public universities. tutions of higher education should reflect I strongly support diversity of all kinds, in- our diversity. A college education should cluding racial diversity in higher education. teach respect and understanding and good But the method used by the University of will. And these values are strengthened Michigan to achieve this important goal is when students live and learn with people fundamentally flawed. from many backgrounds. Yet quota systems At their core, the Michigan policies that use race to include or exclude people amount to a quota system that unfairly re- from higher education and the opportuni- wards or penalizes prospective students, ties it offers are divisive, unfair, and impos- based solely on their race. So tomorrow sible to square with the Constitution. my administration will file a brief with the In the programs under review by the Su- Court arguing that the University of Michi- preme Court, the University of Michigan gan’s admissions policies, which award stu- has established an admissions process based dents a significant number of extra points on race. At the undergraduate level, African based solely on their race and establishes American students and some Hispanic stu- numerical targets for incoming minority dents and Native American students receive students, are unconstitutional. 20 points out of a maximum of 150, not Our Constitution makes it clear that peo- because of any academic achievement or ple of all races must be treated equally life experience but solely because they are under the law. Yet we know that our soci- African American, Hispanic, or Native ety has not fully achieved that ideal. Racial American. prejudice is a reality in America. It hurts many of our citizens. As a nation, as a To put this in perspective, a perfect SAT government, and as individuals, we must score is worth only 12 points in the Michi- be vigilant in responding to prejudice wher- gan system. Students who accumulate 100 ever we find it. Yet, as we work to address points are generally admitted, so those 20 the wrong of racial prejudice, we must not points awarded solely based on race are use means that create another wrong and often the decisive factor. thus perpetuate our divisions.

56 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 16

At the law school, some minority stu- quotas. Schools should seek diversity by dents are admitted to meet percentage tar- considering a broad range of factors in ad- gets, while other applicants with higher missions, including a student’s potential and grades and better scores are passed over. life experiences. This means that students are being selected Our Government must work to make col- or rejected based primarily on the color lege more affordable for students who of their skin. The motivation for such an come from economically disadvantaged admissions policy may be very good, but homes. And because we’re committed to its result is discrimination, and that dis- racial justice, we must make sure that crimination is wrong. America’s public schools offer a quality Some States are using innovative ways education to every child from every back- to diversify their student bodies. Recent ground, which is the central purpose of the history has proven that diversity can be education reforms I signed last year. achieved without using quotas. Systems in America’s long experience with the seg- California and Florida and Texas have prov- regation we have put behind us and the en that by guaranteeing admissions to the racial discrimination we still struggle to top students from high schools throughout overcome requires a special effort to make the State, including low-income neighbor- real the promise of equal opportunity for hoods, colleges can attain broad racial di- all. My administration will continue to ac- versity. In these States, race-neutral admis- tively promote diversity and opportunity in sions policies have resulted in levels of mi- every way that the law permits. nority attendance for incoming students Thank you very much. that are close to and in some instances slightly surpass those under the old race- based approach. NOTE: The President spoke at 4:30 p.m. in We should not be satisfied with the cur- the Roosevelt Room at the White House. In rent numbers of minorities on Americans’ his remarks, he referred to two related cases college campuses. Much progress has been before the Supreme Court, Barbara Grutter, made. Much more is needed. University Petitioner v. Lee Bollinger, et al and Jennifer officials have the responsibility and the ob- Gratz and Patrick Hamacker, Petitioners v. ligation to make a serious, effective effort Lee Bollinger, et al. The Office of the Press to reach out to students from all walks of Secretary also released a Spanish language life without falling back on unconstitutional transcript of these remarks.

Remarks at the University of Scranton in Scranton, Pennsylvania January 16, 2003

Thank you all. Please be seated. Thanks wonderful facility for me, and a lot of for coming, and thanks for the warm wel- members of the congressional delegation come—inside. [Laughter] It’s great to be have come and the great Secretary of back in Scranton, Pennsylvania, home of Health and Human Services, Tommy a lot of really fine people and a great uni- Thompson. versity. I appreciate you all putting up with us And I want to thank the University of and giving me a chance to talk about a Scranton for the hospitality. I want to thank significant problem which faces America. Father Joe McShane for opening up this

57 Jan. 16 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

And that problem is the fact that our med- I want to thank you guys for being here ical liability system is broken, and there- today. fore, a lot of Americans don’t have access I’m honored that the mayor of Scranton, to affordable health care. And I’m here to Chris Doherty, is here with us. Mr. Mayor, declare in Pennsylvania, I intend to work thank you. He was standing out there in with Congress to do something about it the cold, waiting for Air Force One. That’s and fix the problem. beyond the call of duty, I want you to And we’re going to need your help. De- know. [Laughter] But thank you, sir. mocracy can respond. People in Wash- I appreciate so very much the attorney ington tend to respond when the people general of the State of Pennsylvania, my speak. [Laughter] So I’m going to spend friend Mike Fisher. I’m glad you’re here, a little time today encouraging you and Mike. John Perzel is here, from—rep- those who may be watching on TV to start resenting the House of Delegates, along speaking on your behalf, to make sure that with the senators and members of the you can afford health care in America. House from this part of Pennsylvania. I’m I’m traveling today with some mighty honored you guys are here. Thank you for fine folks. One person decided to go back coming. Thank you for your interest in this issue. to Washington to represent Pennsylvania’s Today when I arrived, I met Ed Gilmar- interest on the Senate floor. He flew up tin. He’s what we call a USA Freedom with me. I talked to him about this issue, Corps greeter. He is a volunteer with the and that’s Senator Arlen Specter. I want Goodwill Industries of Northeastern Penn- to thank him for his friendship. It looks sylvania. I want to thank Ed for coming. like they’re finally getting organized in the I want to thank him for working with United States Senate. And they might start Goodwill. He is a reminder that while one voting on the appropriations bill for ’03, of us can’t do everything to help heal the which would be helpful. [Laughter] hurt of America, each of us can do some- I also was traveling with Jim Greenwood. thing to help make somebody’s life in your I’m honored that Jim was on the plane. community a better place, and that, as we Jim was a sponsor in the House of Rep- continue our struggle against people who resentatives of the legislation which I’m are evil who would want to hurt America, going to talk to you about today and which that we can do so not only through the I hope I’m able to sign into law this year, use of our great military, but we can do to help the doctors and patients in the so by doing some good in our communities State of Pennsylvania. I appreciate you. in order to fight evil. Each of us can do Paul Kanjorski is here as well, the Mem- some good by loving a neighbor just like ber of the United States House of Rep- you’d like to be loved yourself. resentatives. Paul, I’m honored you are See, we’ve got some big problems in this here. The issue we’re talking today about country. I’m here to talk about one prob- is not a Republican issue. It’s not a Demo- lem, but we’ve got some others. One is, crat issue. It’s an issue which affects people how best to secure the peace. And one from all walks of life, and it’s an issue way to secure the peace is never to forget which must be solved. what happened to us on September the A man who used to represent Scranton 11th and hunt the killers down, one by is Don Sherwood—I appreciate Don and one, and bring them to justice, which is his friendship—thank you for coming. With what America is going to do. us as well is two other fine members of We will continue to confront problems the congressional delegation from Pennsyl- before they become acute. We understand vania, Todd Platts and Pat Toomey, and that the world was changed on September

58 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 16 the 11th. Oceans no longer protect us from America, incredibly skilled, well-trained, threats that may mass overseas. And that’s compassionate people who care deeply for why I’ve been clear about my desire to their patients. We’ve got great nurses in keep the peace by confronting Mr. Saddam America, people who love their patients. Hussein. It’s his choice to make. It’s up We’ve got fine hospitals, fine researchers. to Mr. Saddam Hussein to do what the We’re on the leading edge of technological entire world has asked him to do. The change in this country. We make new dis- world overwhelmingly, through the U.N. coveries all the time. We develop new Security Council, said, ‘‘Mr. Saddam Hus- cures, and therefore, we develop new hopes sein, disarm for the name of peace.’’ It’s for people who are sick. We’re good at his choice to make. So far, the evidence what we do, and I’m proud of the health hasn’t been very good that he is disarming, care system of America. and time is running out. At some point But we’ve got some problems. And one in time, the United States’ patience will of my jobs is to talk plainly about the prob- run out. In the name of peace, if he does lems and encourage people to find solutions not disarm, I will lead a coalition of the to the problems and then get them to act. willing to disarm Saddam Hussein. We will We’ve got a problem because too many deal with those problems overseas, and we of our citizens go without health care. will deal with the problems we have at That’s why I proposed refundable tax cred- home as well. its to empower people to be able to have We’ve got an economy that is not as the capacity to get into the marketplace strong as it should be, and therefore, I’ve to purchase health care. proposed to Congress ways to strengthen We’ve got a lot of people who go to the economy, starting with this principle: emergency rooms for primary care, which It is best to let Americans have more of strains our emergency rooms. It makes it their own money if you’re worried about hard on the community hospitals. That’s economic vitality. why I’m for community health centers, re- If you want people to find work, if you’re alistic, smart ways to make sure people can worried about somebody looking for a job, get primary health care who don’t have it. like I am, the best way to encourage eco- Our seniors need to have a reformed nomic growth is to let people have more Medicare plan which includes prescription of their own money. And one of the lessons drugs. We’ve got a system that’s stuck in that I keep trying to explain to Wash- the past. Medicare is stuck. Medicine has ington—and, of course, these Members become modern, and Medicare hadn’t. And don’t need to hear it—is that the money it seems like to me a good place for Con- we spend in Washington is not the Govern- gress to start is to take a look at their ment’s money; it’s the people’s money. own health care system. They’ve got choice I look forward to working with Congress. in the system. Congressmen and Senators I look forward to working with Congress and their staffs can pick and choose the to create an environment in which the plan that meets them best. It seems to small businesses grow to be big businesses, me a good principle for our seniors, to in which the entrepreneurial spirit is strong trust our seniors to make the right decisions and, most importantly, in which people who for them. are looking for a job can find work. And medical care is expensive. Out of But the problem I want to talk today $100 spent in this country, $11 goes to is the problem with our health care system. pay for health care. Costs are rising at the I hope you’re as proud of our health care fastest rate in nearly a decade. I mean, system as I am. I mean, we’re great at that’s a problem. Most costs in our econ- what we do. We’ve got great doctors in omy are pretty well under control. Inflation

59 Jan. 16 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 is low, but that’s not the case in health body is going without health care. It strains care. And we need to do something about the system. it, before people get hurt. So what happens is, doctors say, ‘‘Well, Health care costs rise for a lot of reasons. gosh, I can’t afford it here in Pennsylvania. Research is costly. Technologies cost I’m moving. I’ll just take my heart and my money, and they’re expensive. And some skills to another community where I can of the costs are necessary, but there are afford it.’’ But when that happens, some- some costs that are unnecessary as far as body hurts. Somebody doesn’t have the I’m concerned. And the problem of those care. Some mom fixing to have a baby won- unnecessary costs don’t start in the waiting ders out loud—when she wonders out loud room or the operating room; they’re in the whether or not the doc is going to be there courtroom. We’re a litigious society; every- to deliver the baby, it’s a—we heard a body is suing, it seems like. There are too story, by the way, about that. It’s a sad many lawsuits in America, and there are situation. There’s a lot of uncertainty in too many lawsuits filed against doctors and our society. Lawsuits run up the costs for hospitals without merit. you, the patient. But they also create a And one thing the American people must sense of uncertainty in America for people who need the stability of good care. understand is, even though the lawsuits are I had a chance to, when I talked to the junk lawsuits and they have no basis, docs, to talk about people who literally had they’re still expensive. They’re expensive to tears in their eyes when they described fight. It costs money to fight off a junk their situation. Debra DeAngelo and her lawsuit. And oftentimes, in order to avoid husband are leaving Scranton to go to Her- litigation and oftentimes to cut their costs, shey. They wanted to stay here in Scranton. docs and therefore the companies that in- They were raised in Scranton. I met one sure them just settle. See, so even though of Debra’s patients who really needs her there’s no merit, in order just to get rid to be in Scranton. They chose so because of the thing, they just say, ‘‘Okay, let’s just they can get their insurance there, and they pay you. We’ll get you out of the way. can’t here. Instead of maybe suffering the con- This insurance issue is creating a prob- sequences of a lousy jury and a lousy ver- lem in our communities all across America. dict, just pay them off.’’ That is expensive People are having to move. People who to the system when it happens time and don’t want to move have to move in order time and time again, like it’s happening to stay in business to be able to do their in America today. job. And what’s happening is these rates for Jack Brooks is a respected pathologist at insurance are going out of sight. And doc- the University of Pennsylvania Hospital. He tors need insurance to practice. Today I was there today. He went to Buffalo. He met with a lot of great health-givers and moved back to his State, but he was turned healers, decent people, compassionate down by three insurers when he came back Americans who love their patients. These to Pennsylvania. The fourth insurer’s quote are docs—I met with some patients as was just too high. He couldn’t afford it. well—talking about the effects of this liti- Jack Brooks has never had a claim filed gious society we have. And I heard stories against him. He’s one of your leading docs about people not being able to pay their here in the State of Pennsylvania. He’s one premiums. See, that means that health care of your best assets. He’s never been to is no longer accessible to too many of our the courthouse. And yet, because the sys- citizens. When a doc can’t pay the pre- tem is broken, he couldn’t afford to be miums and therefore can’t practice, some- in Pennsylvania. Fortunately, he got some

60 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 16 insurance through a hospital. He couldn’t Something’s wrong with the system. And do it on his own. You’ve got a problem a broken system like that, first and fore- here in this State. most, hurts the patients and the people of Greg Przybylski was here. He’s a brain America. Twenty percent of hospitals na- doctor. He has been moving from Pennsyl- tionwide have had to cut down on certain vania to Illinois to New Jersey because the services, on delivering babies or neuro- costs were too high. He can’t stay in busi- surgery or cardiovascular surgery or ortho- ness. He can’t do what he was trained to pedic surgery. That’s a fact. So the problem do and loves to do, which is to treat pais not only for Pennsylvania; it’s a problem tients. He talked about—when he was liv- for our country. ing in Chicago, he talked about a patient And there’s another cost driver. And if of his who had incredible complications. you’re worried about getting sued all the The guy couldn’t find help in Pennsylvania, time, then there is the natural tendency so the man drove all the way out to Chi- to practice what they call defensive medi- cago to be treated by Greg. That says a cine. In other words, you order tests that lot about Greg. It says a lot about his pa- someone may not need, to protect yourself tients. And unfortunately it says something in a court of law. And that’s costly, and bad about the health care system, when that’s one of the main reasons why costs liability costs are such that you can’t get are going up. These lawsuits have got a the kind of care that you need in Pennsyl- lot of effects on our country, and we’ve vania. just got to understand that. You’re not alone, though. It’s not just This is an incredibly important issue for your State that’s got a problem. We heard States. I obviously hope the State of Penn- from an OB/GYN in the State of Florida sylvania is able to address it. That can hap- about how she couldn’t get insured. In Ne- pen in the statehouse. When I got to Wash- vada, pregnant women sometimes have to ington, I said, ‘‘That’s an important issue leave the State to find a doctor. One for the States.’’ And then it didn’t take me woman called more than 50 local doctors long to realize, this is an important issue and couldn’t find one to serve her. So she’s for the Federal Government too, and I’ll going to go to Utah to have her baby. tell you why. The direct cost of malpractice I was down in Mississippi recently to talk insurance and the indirect cost from defen- about this issue. There’s a doc and his wife, sive medicine raise the Federal Govern- who’s also a doctor, who came from up ment’s health care cost by at least $28 bil- north down to Mississippi in the Delta re- lion a year. Malpractice, defensive practice gion of that State. And the Delta region of medicine affects Medicare, Medicaid, has got a lot of people who hurt, a lot veterans’ health, Government employee of people who are needy, a lot of people costs. It affects the Federal Government. who need health care. And they went, not Therefore, it is a Federal issue. to build a giant portfolio of wealth; they It is a national problem that needs a went because they got great hearts. They national solution. And here it is. First, let heard a calling. They heard—he would me just say this as clearly as I can: We have attributed it to the Almighty. Having want our judicial system to work. People watched him, I would have attributed it who have got a claim, a legitimate claim, to the Almighty, too. He has got a fantastic must have a hearing in our courts. Some- heart to him. I could see that he was in- body who has suffered at the hand of a spired. He told me he’s leaving the Delta lousy doc must be protected. And they de- because the trial lawyers ran him out. He serve a court that is uncluttered by frivo- couldn’t practice medicine without getting lous and junk lawsuits. If they prove dam- sued. ages, they should be able to recover the

61 Jan. 16 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 cost of their care and recovery and lost a system where docs can’t share informa- wages and economic losses for the rest of tion amongst each other, much less talk their life. That’s fair. That is reasonable. to your patient, for fear that what they say And that is necessary for us to have con- will be used them in court one day. fidence in the medical system and in the The system is not balanced, if that’s the judicial system. case. The system is not fair. The system Yet, for the sake of affordable and acces- doesn’t need to have a relationship with sible health care in America, we must have the doc and the patient for fear of what a limit on what they call non-economic is said will be used by a lawyer to sue damages. And I propose a cap of $250,000. them. That’s why we need these reforms, Otherwise, if not, excessive jury awards, like for the good of the country. those in Pennsylvania, and those I was We got the bill passed out of the House, just—one was just described to me—today thanks to Jim and the members of the dele- a guy held up a full-page ad in your news- gation here. And I want to thank you for paper paid for by the excessive jury award. your leadership and your vote. And the [Laughter] Excessive jury awards will con- Senate didn’t act on it, so we’ve got to tinue to drive up insurance costs, will put start over. And I’m ready to start over. good doctors out of business or run them And the time is getting worse. That’s out of your community, and will hurt com- what people have got to understand up munities like Scranton, Pennsylvania. That’s there in Washington—or over there in a fact. And that’s why we need a cap on Washington—down there in Washington— non-economic damages, and that’s why we whatever. [Laughter] Thought I was in need a cap on punitive damages as well. Crawford for a minute. [Laughter] As I mentioned to you—and it’s impor- And this is—I repeat, this is a national tant for our citizens to understand—it is problem, and we just cannot allow a bunch the fear of unlimited non-economic dam- of needless partisanship to prevent a good, ages and punitive damages that cause docs solid solution from going forward. And let and the insurance carriers to unnecessarily me say one other thing. This problem won’t settle these cases. See, you can pretty well be solved by just throwing money at the blackmail a doctor into settlement if you problem. This problem will be solved by continue to throw lawsuit after lawsuit, and getting at the source of the problem, which the system looks like a giant lottery. [Ap- are the frivolous lawsuits. plause] Thank you. If you’re looking for solutions in Pennsyl- There needs to be other reforms as well. vania, look at States which have done a A lot of times, these lawyers will sue every- good job of helping the patient out. Cali- body in sight in order to try to get some- fornia is one example. More than 25 years thing. In cases where more than one person ago, they passed a law that caps damages is responsible for a patient’s injuries, we from malpractice suits. And the law has need to assign blame fairly. We need joint worked. and several liability reform in our medical Let me tell you a startling statistic. Re- liability system. ports from Philadelphia say that juries there We need to make sure that doctors can have awarded more in malpractice damages take care of their patients without fear that than the entire State of California did over their advice will be used against them some the last 3 years. That says two things: Cali- day. It’s hard to believe a system—you hear fornia’s law is what people in your state- a lot about the doctor-patient relationship. house ought to look at, and you’ve got a It’s an incredibly important relationship, in problem in Pennsylvania. order to make sure we have a health care There was a good news story in Mis- system that functions well. And yet imagine sissippi. I went down there and—it wasn’t

62 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 16 because of me, it was because the doctors from you. Every State—people who are and the citizens understand the cost of a concerned in every State about whether or trial system gone awry, and they got them- not they’re going to have affordable health selves a law. And they got a medical liabil- care or health care at all need to contact ity law. They put caps, real caps. Guess the people that represent them. See, de- what happened? In some counties, the mal- mocracy can work. Democracy makes a dif- practice claims rose dramatically before the ference. When the people speak, the folks law came into effect. [Laughter] Now, what in Washington, DC, listen. And I’m here does that tell you about the system? It tells to ask you to join in this important cause, you the system is less about justice and for the sake of people you care about, your more about something that looks like the loved ones and your neighbors and the peo- lottery, is what it looks like to me. And ple in your communities. with the plaintiffs bar getting as much as No, we’ve got a lot of problems facing 40 percent of any verdict, sometimes America. We’ve got the responsibility to there’s only one winner in the lottery. make the world more peaceful. We have We need reform. You need reform in the responsibility to make sure our home- Pennsylvania, and we need reform all land is secure. We’ve got the responsibility across America, and we need a law coming to make sure every child is educated. We out of the United States Congress. It’s a have a responsibility to make sure our law that recognizes the centerpiece of good health care systems work. We’ve got a lot health care is to worry about your patient, of problems. But I’m going to tell you the American people. It’s a law that will something about this country. In my mind, recognize that an affordable and accessible there is no doubt that we won’t solve these health care system can best be had if we problems, because this is the greatest na- limit the caps—put caps on non-economic tion, full of the finest people, on the face and punitive damages. That’s what it under- of the Earth. stands. Thank you for coming. May God bless. Congress needs to act on this law. Con- Thank you all. gress needs to listen to the people and not make excuses as to why they can’t get something done. I believe we’ll get some- NOTE: The President spoke at 12 noon in thing out of the House. I believe we’ll get the William J. Byron Recreation Center. In us a good law out of the House, and then his remarks, he referred to Joseph M. the Senate must not fail its responsibilities McShane, S.J., president, University of to the American people again. Scranton; Pennsylvania State Representative And you can help. Every State’s got them John Perzel; and President Saddam Hussein a couple of Senators—[laughter]—and they of Iraq. The Office of the Press Secretary need to hear from you. I consider your also released a Spanish language transcript two Senators allies, but they need to hear of these remarks.

63 Jan. 16 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Letter to Congressional Leaders on Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to Sierra Leone and Liberia January 16, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. President:) Government of Sierra Leone. They use il- Section 202(d) of the National Emer- licit trade in diamonds to sustain them- gencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)) provides selves in Liberia and for weapons pur- for the automatic termination of a national chases. The Government of Liberia con- emergency unless, prior to the anniversary tinues to support these RUF elements and date of its declaration, the President pub- give them sanctuary. lishes in the Federal Register and transmits These actions and policies are hostile to to the Congress a notice stating that the U.S. interests and pose a continuing un- emergency is to continue in effect beyond usual and extraordinary threat to the for- the anniversary date. In accordance with eign policy of the United States. For these this provision, I have sent the enclosed no- reasons, I have determined that it is nec- tice, stating that the Sierra Leone and Li- essary to continue the national emergency beria emergency is to continue in effect declared with respect to Sierra Leone and beyond January 18, 2003, to the Federal Liberia and to maintain in force the sanc- Register for publication. The most recent tions imposed in response to the threat notice continuing this emergency was pub- posed by the actions and policies of the lished in the Federal Register on January RUF. 17, 2002 (67 FR 2547). Sincerely, The national emergency declared with GEORGE W. BUSH respect to Sierra Leone on January 18, 2001, as expanded on May 22, 2001, with NOTE: Identical letters were sent to J. Den- respect to Liberia, has not been resolved. nis Hastert, Speaker of the House of Rep- Some 1,500 Revolutionary United Front resentatives, and Richard B. Cheney, Presi- (RUF) soldiers have crossed into Liberia dent of the Senate. The notice of January in the past year, where they remain under 16 is listed in Appendix D at the end of this arms and continue to pose a threat to the volume.

Letter to Congressional Leaders Transmitting a Report on the National Emergency With Respect to Sierra Leone and Liberia January 16, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. President:) that was declared in Executive Order 13194 As required by section 401(c) of the Na- of January 18, 2001, and expanded in scope tional Emergencies Act, 50 U.S.C. 1641(c), in Executive Order 13213 of May 22, 2001. and section 204(c) of the International Sincerely, Emergency Economic Powers Act, 50 U.S.C. 1703(c), I am providing herewith a 6-month periodic report prepared by my Administration on the national emergency with respect to Sierra Leone and Liberia GEORGE W. BUSH

64 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 17

NOTE: Identical letters were sent to J. Den- resentatives, and Richard B. Cheney, Presi- nis Hastert, Speaker of the House of Rep- dent of the Senate.

Letter to Congressional Leaders on Review of Title III of the Cuban Liberty and Democratic Solidarity (LIBERTAD) Act of 1996 January 16, 2003

Dear lllll : NOTE: Identical letters were sent to Richard Pursuant to section 306(c)(2) of the G. Lugar, chairman, and Joseph R. Biden, Cuban Liberty and Democratic Solidarity Jr., ranking member, Senate Committee on (LIBERTAD) Act of 1996 (Public Law Foreign Relations; Ted Stevens, chairman, 104–114), (the ‘‘Act’’), I hereby determine and Robert C. Byrd, ranking member, Senate and report to the Congress that suspension Committee on Appropriations; Henry J. for 6 months beyond February 1, 2003, of Hyde, chairman, and Tom Lantos, ranking the right to bring an action under title III member, House Committee on International of the Act is necessary to the national inter- Relations; and C.W. Bill Young, chairman, ests of the United States and will expedite and David R. Obey, ranking member, House a transition to democracy in Cuba. Committee on Appropriations. Sincerely, GEORGE W. BUSH

Remarks After Visiting Wounded Soldiers at Walter Reed Army Medical Center January 17, 2003

I want to thank the General for—for his noble and strong and good. And I appre- hospitality at this remarkable facility, which ciate that very much. is full of healers and compassionate people, Having been here and seeing the care people who are trained with the very best that these troops get is comforting for me of skills to take care of people who have and Laura. We are—should and must pro- been injured badly. vide the best care for anybody who is will- Laura and I have just met with five in- ing to put their life in harm’s way. And credibly brave soldiers, five of America’s I can report to the American people that finest citizens, who have been severely in- these five soldiers, badly injured in the line jured in the line of duty. We had a chance of service, are getting the best possible to tell them how much we appreciated care. And our Government is providing it their service to America, how much we ap- to them. preciated their loved ones. And we had a I want to thank you all. Have a great chance to see—some wives and a couple weekend, and we’ll see you next week. of moms who are anxious about—about the fate of the—of their child. And I had a NOTE: The President spoke at 2:15 p.m. in chance to tell both soldier and loved one the second floor lobby. In his remarks, he alike that their service to their country was referred to Maj. Gen. Kevin Kiley, USA,

65 Jan. 17 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 commanding general, North Atlantic Re- leased a Spanish language transcript of these gional Medical Command and Walter Reed. remarks. The Office of the Press Secretary also re-

The President’s Radio Address January 18, 2003

Good morning. In the coming weeks, the Small businesses stand to gain a great House and Senate will consider my pro- deal from this measure. After all, more than posals to speed up economic growth and two-thirds of taxpayers who pay the highest generate new jobs for American workers. marginal tax rates are small-business owners Part of that plan is designed to help Amer- who include their profits when they file ica’s small businesses, in particular, which their individual tax returns with the IRS. create millions of jobs each year and ac- All together, the tax relief I propose will count for about half the Nation’s economic give 23 million small-business owners an output. average tax cut of $2,042 this year. And Small-business owners represent the en- I’m asking Congress to make those reduc- terprise of the whole Nation and the di- tions permanent, so that America’s entre- verse talents of our people. Nearly 40 per- preneurs can plan for the future, add more employees, and invest in our economy. cent of small firms are owned by women. Close to 15 percent of America’s small- I will also ask Congress to raise the amount of money small businesses can de- business owners come from minority duct from their taxes for investment in new groups, and the trend of minority owner- equipment, such as machinery and com- ship is accelerating. These minority-owned puters. Right now, the maximum deduction firms, more than 3 million strong, provide is $25,000. We should triple that amount opportunities and give life to local econo- to $75,000 and adjust it for inflation. This mies across America. reform would give small businesses a fur- To help small business, Government ther incentive to make the investments on should not try to manage the economy from which our economy depends. Washington. Government’s role is to create Our commitment to small businesses will an environment in which employers suc- take other forms as well. We will streamline ceed and hire new people. business regulations and make sure that the My jobs-and-growth plan will help in sev- concerns of small businesses are heard in eral specific ways. I am proposing tax relief Washington. for everyone who pays Federal income I’m also urging Congress to enact legal taxes. Two years ago, Congress approved reform to curtail the frivolous lawsuits that income-tax reductions that will not go into impose unfair costs on businesses and their full effect until 2006. My plan would make customers. And I will continue to seek a these reductions effective immediately, to permanent end to the death tax, so that boost the economy in the short term and America’s small-business owners can pass help insure long-term growth. If tax relief along their life’s work to the next genera- is good enough for Americans 3 years from tion. now, it is even more necessary today, when America’s economy can thrive only when our recovery is not as strong as it should our small businesses thrive. My growth- be. and-jobs proposal will encourage America’s

66 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 20 entrepreneurs and help to reward their ef- NOTE: The address was recorded at 10:15 forts. By reducing taxes, encouraging invest- a.m. on January 17 in the Cabinet Room at ment, and removing obstacles to growth, the White House for broadcast at 10:06 a.m. we will create a platform for future pros- on January 18. The transcript was made avail- perity, so that small business can flourish able by the Office of the Press Secretary on and every American who seeks work can January 17 but was embargoed for release find a job. until the broadcast. The Office of the Press Thank you for listening. Secretary also released a Spanish language transcript of this address.

Remarks at a Church Service Honoring Martin Luther King, Jr., in Landover, Maryland January 20, 2003

Thank you all. Thank you. Now I under- our society who hurt. There is still preju- stand why a Hechinger warehouse—[laugh- dice holding people back. There is still a ter]—can become a center of love and school system that doesn’t elevate every compassion and fire. I am honored—Laura child so they can learn. There is still a and I are honored that you would invite need for us to hear the words of Martin us and our friends, the Governor and the Luther King, to make sure the hope of First Lady and the Lieutenant Governor America extends its reach into every neigh- and his lovely wife, to come and celebrate borhood across this land. a great American. So it’s fitting we’re here in a church that We’re honored to be in the midst of has got ministries aimed at healing those a social entrepreneur whose guidebook for who hurt, at fighting addiction, at pro- entrepreneurship to help others is the moting love and families. It is fitting we Bible. I want to thank the members of the meet here in a church because in this soci- church, the leaders of the church, and ety, we must understand: Government can those who are in charge of the ministries help; Government can write checks; but it of the church for sharing with us the good works of this church. cannot put hope in people’s hearts or a It is fitting that we honor Martin Luther sense of purpose in people’s lives. King in a church because, Gregory, I be- And so as we remember the dream of lieve, like you, that the power of his words, Martin Luther King and remember his the clarity of his vision, the courage of his clear vision for a society that’s equal and leadership occurred because he put his a society full of justice, this society must faith in the Almighty. remember the power of faith. This Govern- It is fitting that we honor the life of ment of yours must welcome faith, not dis- a great American in a church who derived criminate faith, as we deal with the future his inspiration from the church. It is fitting of this great country. that we honor this great American in a And so, ladies and gentlemen, thank you church because out of the church comes for having Laura and me. Thank you for the notion of equality and justice. And even allowing us to worship with you. Thank you though progress has been made, Pastor— for opening up our hearts to the glorious even though progress has been made, there word. May God bless you all. May God is more to do. There are still people in bless the legacy of Martin Luther King.

67 Jan. 20 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

And may God bless all Americans on this Lt. Gov. Michael Steele of Maryland, and his special day. Thank you, Pastor. wife, Andrea; and Deacon Gregory Foster and Pastor John K. Jenkins, Sr., First Baptist NOTE: The President spoke at 10:35 a.m. at Church of Glenarden. The Martin Luther the First Baptist Church of Glenarden. In King, Jr., Federal Holiday proclamation of his remarks, he referred to Gov. Robert L. January 17 is listed in Appendix D at the end Ehrlich of Maryland, and his wife, Kendel; of this volume.

Letter to Congressional Leaders on Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to Terrorists Who Threaten To Disrupt the Middle East Peace Process January 20, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. President:) effect of threatening the Middle East peace Section 202(d) of the National Emer- process and that are hostile to United gencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)) provides States interests in the region. Such actions for the automatic termination of a national constitute an unusual and extraordinary emergency unless, prior to the anniversary threat to the national security, foreign pol- date of its declaration, the President pub- icy, and economy of the United States. On lishes in the Federal Register and transmits August 20, 1998, the President identified to the Congress a notice stating that the four additional persons, including Usama emergency is to continue in effect beyond bin Ladin, who threaten to disrupt the the anniversary date. In accordance with Middle East peace process. For these rea- this provision, I have sent the enclosed no- sons, I have determined that it is necessary tice, stating that the emergency declared to continue the national emergency de- with respect to foreign terrorists who clared with respect to foreign terrorists who threaten to disrupt the Middle East peace threaten to disrupt the Middle East peace process is to continue in effect beyond Jan- process and to maintain in force the eco- uary 23, 2003, to the Federal Register for nomic sanctions against them to respond publication. The most recent notice con- to this threat. tinuing this emergency was published in the Sincerely, Federal Register on January 22, 2002 (67 FR 3033). GEORGE W. BUSH The crisis with respect to the grave acts of violence committed by foreign terrorists NOTE: Identical letters were sent to J. Den- that disrupt the Middle East peace process nis Hastert, Speaker of the House of Rep- that led to the declaration of a national resentatives, and Richard B. Cheney, Presi- emergency on January 23, 1995, as ex- dent of the Senate. This letter was released panded on August 20, 1998, has not been by the Office of the Press Secretary on Janu- resolved. Terrorist groups continue to en- ary 21. The notice of January 20 is listed in gage in activities that have the purpose or Appendix D at the end of this volume.

68 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 21

Letter to Congressional Leaders Transmitting a Report on the National Emergency With Respect to Terrorists Who Threaten To Disrupt the Middle East Peace Process January 20, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. President:) was declared in Executive Order 12947 of As required by section 401(c) of the Na- January 23, 1995. tional Emergencies Act, 50 U.S.C. 1641(c), Sincerely, and section 204(c) of the International GEORGE W. BUSH Emergency Economic Powers Act, 50 U.S.C. 1703(c), I transmit herewith a 6- NOTE: Identical letters were sent to J. Den- month periodic report prepared by my Ad- nis Hastert, Speaker of the House of Rep- ministration on the national emergency resentatives, and Richard B. Cheney, Presi- with respect to terrorists who threaten to dent of the Senate. This letter was released disrupt the Middle East peace process that by the Office of the Press Secretary on Janu- ary 21.

Letter to Congressional Leaders Transmitting a Report on Iraq’s Compliance With the United Nations Security Council Resolutions January 20, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. President:) for Use of Military Force Against Iraq Res- Pursuant to the Authorization for Use of olution (Public Law 102–1) is and will be Military Force Against Iraq Resolution of included in this and subsequent reports. 2002 (Public Law 107–243) and as part of Sincerely, my effort to keep the Congress fully in- GEORGE W. BUSH formed, I am providing a report prepared by my Administration on matters relevant NOTE: Identical letters were sent to J. Den- to that Resolution including on the status nis Hastert, Speaker of the House of Rep- of efforts to obtain Iraq’s compliance with resentatives, and Richard B. Cheney, Presi- the resolutions adopted by the United Na- dent of the Senate. This letter was released tions Security Council. Information re- by the Office of the Press Secretary on Janu- quired by section 3 of the Authorization ary 21.

Remarks Following a Meeting With Economists and an Exchange With Reporters January 21, 2003

The President. Let me make a couple You can lead it off, Fournier [Ron comments about the meeting we just had Fournier, Associated Press], in a minute. and be glad to answer a couple questions.

69 Jan. 21 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

I want to thank some of our Nation’s The President. No, I answered it. The leading economists for coming today to courts will make the definition of the outer share their thoughts with me about our limits of the—and as Condi Rice said, she economy and the strength of our Nation, felt very comfortable in saying on national how best to make sure people can find TV the decision I made was the right deci- work. sion. We had a great discussion about the plan Adam. that I laid out for the Congress to consider and to enact, a plan which focuses on job Iraq creation, a plan which recognizes that money in the consumers’ pocket will help Q. Thank you. Thank you, Mr. President. grow this economy, a plan that recognizes The French are saying they would block there are some long-term things we can a U.N. resolution authorizing force on Iraq. do to make sure the investor feels com- Are you frustrated by these comments? Can fortable taking risks in America. It is a plan you still reach a consensus? that recognizes that economic growth is not The President. Well, Adam, first of all, as strong as it should be. It’s a plan that’s it’s important for the American citizens and good for all Americans. It is a plan that the citizens around the world to understand addresses our needs, and it’s a plan that that Saddam Hussein possesses some of the Congress needs to pass. world’s deadliest weapons. He poses a seri- These economists can speak for them- ous threat to America and our friends and selves after they leave, but they have given allies. The world came together, including good advice and sound judgment, and for the French, to say he must disarm. He’s that, I’m grateful. not disarming. As a matter of fact, it ap- I’ll take a couple of questions. Ron. pears to be a rerun of a bad movie. He is delaying. He is deceiving. He is asking for time. He’s playing hide-and-seek with Diversity in Higher Education inspectors. Q. Sir, last week in this room, you came One thing is for certain, he’s not dis- out against quotas, which have been uncon- arming. So the United States of America, stitutional for 25 years. You didn’t answer in the name of peace, will continue to insist the central question, and that is whether he does disarm, and we will keep the pres- race can be used as a factor in admissions. sure on Saddam Hussein. Dr. Rice says it could be. Colin Powell Angle [Jim Angle, FOX News]. says it should be. What is your position? Q. Mr. President, when do you intend Can it be used as—— to make a decision about whether or not The President. Well, my position is, is the inspection process is—actually has any that as the—as the brief says, that there hope of really disarming Saddam? are clearly unconstitutional means to The President. It’s clear to me now that achieve diversity, there are race-neutral he is not disarming. And surely, our friends ways to achieve diversity—which I have put have learned lessons from the past. Surely in place as the Governor of Texas—and we have learned how this man deceives that we’ll leave the Court to define the and delays. He’s giving people the run- outer limits of the Constitution. around. And as many of my advisers said Adam [Adam Entous, Reuters]. on TV this week, time is running out. I Q. Yes, Mr. President—— believe in the name of peace, he must dis- Q. You won’t answer that question then? arm. And we will lead a coalition of willing The President. I just answered it. nations to disarm him. Make no mistake Q. Whether or not you believe—— about that, he will be disarmed.

70 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 22

Q. When—how do you decide when that He wants to focus the attention of the moment comes that you need to make a world on inspectors. This is not about in- judgment? spectors; this is about a disarmed Iraq. He The President. I will let you know when has weapons of mass destruction, the the moment has come. [Laughter] world’s deadliest weapons, which pose a di- Q. Mr. President, who is in that coalition rect threat to the United States, our citi- of the willing now? Are France, Germany zens, and our friends and allies. He has out? been told to disarm for 11 long years. He’s The President. You will find out who is not disarming. in the coalition of the willing. It is very This business about, you know, more much like what happened prior to our get- time—you know, how much time do we ting a resolution out of the United Nations. need to see clearly that he’s not disarming? Many of the punditry—of course, not As I said, this looks like a rerun of a bad you—[laughter]—but other punditry were movie, and I’m not interested in watching quick to say, ‘‘No one is going to follow it. the United States of America.’’ And we got All right, thank you all. a unanimous resolution out of the United Nations. The United States has made it clear our intention, and our intention is to work with NOTE: The President spoke at 10:35 a.m. in the world for Saddam to disarm. He’s been the Roosevelt Room at the White House. In given ample time to disarm. We have had his remarks, he referred to President Saddam ample time now to see that the tricks of Hussein of Iraq. The Office of the Press Sec- the past—he’s employing the tricks of the retary also released a Spanish language tran- past today. He’s giving people the run- script of these remarks. A portion of these around. He wants to play hide-and-seek. remarks could not be verified because the He’s got a vast country. tape was incomplete.

Letter to Congressional Leaders Reporting on Continued Operations of United States Forces in Bosnia and Herzegovina January 21, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. President:) Resolution (Public Law 93–148), to help In my report to the Congress of July ensure that the Congress is kept fully in- 22, 2002, I provided information on the formed on continued U.S. contributions in deployment of combat-equipped U.S. support of peacekeeping efforts in the Armed Forces to Bosnia and Herzegovina former Yugoslavia. and other states in the region in order to The U.N. Security Council authorized participate in and support the North Atlan- Member States to continue SFOR for a tic Treaty Organization (NATO)-led Sta- period of 12 months in U.N. Security bilization Force (SFOR). The SFOR began Council Resolution 1423 of July 12, 2002. its mission and assumed authority from the The mission of SFOR is to provide a fo- NATO-led Implementation Force on De- cused military presence in order to deter cember 20, 1996. I am providing this sup- hostilities, stabilize and consolidate the plemental report, prepared by my Adminis- tration and consistent with the War Powers

71 Jan. 22 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

peace in Bosnia and Herzegovina, con- counter-terrorism operations. In the last 6 tribute to a secure environment, and pro- months, U.S. forces have not sustained any vide, within its means and capabilities, se- combat-related fatalities. lective support to key areas and key civil I have directed the participation of U.S. implementation organizations. Armed Forces in these operations pursuant The U.S. force contribution to SFOR in to my constitutional authority to conduct Bosnia and Herzegovina is approximately U.S. foreign relations and as Commander 1,800 personnel. United States personnel in Chief and Chief Executive. comprise approximately 15 percent of the I am providing this report as part of my total SFOR force of approximately 12,000 efforts to keep the Congress fully informed personnel. During the second half of 2002, about developments in Bosnia and 18 NATO nations and 17 others, including Herzegovina and other states in the region. Russia, provided military personnel or other I will continue to consult closely with the support to SFOR. Most U.S. forces in Bos- Congress regarding our efforts to foster nia and Herzegovina are assigned to Multi- peace and stability in the former Yugo- national Brigade, North, headquartered in slavia. the city of Tuzla. Additionally, U.S. military Sincerely, personnel are deployed to other countries GEORGE W. BUSH in the region in support of SFOR. These deployments include approximately 80 U.S. NOTE: Identical letters were sent to J. Den- military personnel deployed to Hungary nis Hastert, Speaker of the House of Rep- and Croatia to provide logistical and other resentatives, and Ted Stevens, President pro support. The U.S. forces continue to sup- tempore of the Senate. This letter was report SFOR efforts to apprehend persons leased by the Office of the Press Secretary indicted for war crimes and to conduct on January 22.

Telephone Remarks to the March for Life January 22, 2003

The President. Well, thank you very tion of Independence. And the March for much, Nellie. I want to thank you very Life upholds the self-evident truth of that much for including me in the celebration Declaration, that all are created equal, of life. I want to thank the good folks there given the unalienable rights of life and lib- on the Mall today. I’m calling you from erty and the pursuit of happiness. And that St. Louis, Missouri. I know there are some principle of America needs defenders in from Missouri there, and like many others, every place and every generation. you’ve made great sacrifices to come to In our time, respect for the right to life Washington today. A lot of you have ridden calls us to defend the sick and the dying, buses all night long, and I know you’re persons with disabilities and birth defects, braving the cold. And I admire your perse- and all who are weak and vulnerable. And verance, and I admire your devotion to the this self-evident truth calls us to value and cause of life. to protect the lives of innocent children You all are gathered today on the Na- waiting to be born. tional Mall, which is not far from the You and I share a commitment to build- monument to Thomas Jefferson who, as ing a culture of life in America, and we’re you all know, is the author of our Declara- making progress. As the President, I have

72 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 22 signed the Born-Alive Infants Protection beings are not research material to be used Act, opposed the destruction of embryos in a cruel and reckless experiment. for stem cell research, and refused to spend For 30 years, the March for Life has taxpayer money on international programs been sustained by constant prayer and abid- that promote abortion overseas. ing hope that one day, every child will be Ms. Gray. Thank you. born into a family that loves that child and The President. My administration is chal- a nation that protects that child. And when lenging the Oregon law that permits physi- that day arrives, you will have the gratitude cian-assisted suicide. of millions, especially those who know the Ms. Gray. Thank you. gift of life because you cared and you kept The President. We support abstinence faith. May God bless you all, and may God education and crisis pregnancy programs continue to bless America. and parental notification laws. We offer compassionate alternatives to abortion by promoting adoption and extending State NOTE: The President spoke at 11:05 a.m. health care coverage for unborn children. from the JS Logistics company in St. Louis, My hope is that the United States Con- MO, to march participants on the National gress will pass a bill this year banning par- Mall in Washington, DC. In his remarks, he tial-birth abortion, which I will sign. Partial- referred to Nellie J. Gray, president, March birth abortion is an abhorrent procedure for Life Education and Defense Fund. The that offends human dignity. I also urge the Office of the Press Secretary also released Congress to ban all human cloning. We a Spanish language transcript of these re- must not create life to destroy life. Human marks.

Remarks on the National Economy in St. Louis, Missouri January 22, 2003

Thanks for the warm welcome—[laugh- business, to remind people about the im- ter]—more inside than outside, I might portance of small business. add. [Laughter] But thank you all very I brought Hector Barreto, who is the much for giving me a chance to come and Administrator of the Small Business Admin- share some thoughts about this great land istration. Thank you for coming, Hector. and some of the challenges that face us. I know there’s a lot of other small-business I’m particularly thrilled to be in a place owners here from around the State of Mis- where the entrepreneurial spirit is strong, souri. I’m honored you came. Thank you and that is JS Logistics. It is strong because for lending your support to what I am of the spirit of the guys who run the com- going to describe today as a way to make pany, John and Greg, and the people that sure people can find work in America. work with them to provide good service I want to thank the employees of this and product. good company for putting up with the small It’s important for our fellow Americans entourage I travel with. [Laughter] I want to understand that the strength of our to thank the folks that came to the round- country, the strength of our economy really table today. Not only were some employees depends upon the strength of the small- of JS, but there’s some folks who are run- business community all across America. ning their own businesses and companies. And that’s why I’m here today in this small We heard from single moms, newly married

73 Jan. 22 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 couples, people that are working hard to either go to college or how to find a job. make sure the three-person company stays I’m told, recently one of your mentorees afloat. It was a good discussion, and I’m graduated from college. It must have made going to share some of the stories from you feel incredibly proud to know that you that discussion with you in a minute. had a hand in encouraging that person to I want you to know that this country reach for the best in America, you had has got some big challenges ahead of us. a hand in encouraging that person to real- There’s no question in my mind that we’re ize that his or her God-given talents should going to meet every challenge. One of the be used to the fullest on the short time challenges we have is to make sure that we have on Earth. every American, from every walk of life, I want to congratulate you for being a has a chance to succeed in this country. mentor. I call upon any American who is That’s an important challenge, where I concerned about the future of our society spend a lot of time talking about education, to find somebody who needs a hand and to make sure every child is educated, to surround that person with your love and make sure we insist upon high standards your talents. Thank you for being here, for our schools, to make sure that we meas- Dezzie. ure to understand whether those standards A big challenge we face is how to make are being met, and to make sure we solve sure that this world is a peaceful world problems early, before it’s too late. No and make sure our country is a secure child in America should be left behind in country. I still remember September the this country. Today I had the honor of meeting 11th, 2001. It was a time in which history Dezzie Houston, who came out to Air changed for America. When I was coming Force One to say hello. She is a volunteer up in Texas, it used to be that oceans could with the Missouri Mentoring Partnership. protect us. We wouldn’t have to worry Where are you, Dezzie? Oh, there you are. about gathering threats abroad. We could Thanks for coming. The reason I bring this pick and choose problems as they arose up is, part of making sure people aren’t because we felt we were safe and secure. left behind in our society, we’ve got to rec- We felt that our history was such that the ognize in our plenty there are people who future would be secure and safe. But that’s hurt, and there are some who wonder not what happened. September the 11th whether or not the so-called American changed the stakes for America. It changed Dream is meant for them. And so long the attitude we must have if we’re going as any of us hurt, we all hurt. And one to make sure our children can grow up way to help heal hurt and encourage hope in a safe and secure world. is to mentor somebody in need. You see, Even though September the 11th is— I like to remind people, Government can appears to be distant in our rearview mir- hand out money, but it can’t put love into ror, our country is still under threat. We’re people’s hearts or a sense of purpose in under threat because of terrorists who don’t people’s lives. That happens when some value life like we value life in America. caring individual finds somebody in need See, in this country, we say, ‘‘Everybody and says, ‘‘Can I help you? What can I is precious. Everybody counts. Everybody do to help you make a better life?’’ has got values.’’ The enemy we face doesn’t And this society of ours is filled with feel that way. They don’t care about inno- all kinds of heroes, American citizens doing cent life. They don’t believe every life has their duty. And Dezzie is one such person. value. They only believe the lives that have She told me that she has mentored three values are those who bow to their sick people, three teens, encouraging them to ideologies.

74 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 22

And so we’re still on guard here in gime accounts for weapons of mass destruc- America. And we’re running these terrorists tion. Saddam Hussein is not disarming, like down, one by one. It’s a different kind of the world has told him he must do. He’s war that we fight. It’s a war in which the a dangerous man with dangerous weapons. enemy hides in the recesses of the world. He’s a danger to America and our friends It’s a war in which they try to get inside and allies. And that’s why the world has caves in remote regions of the world. But said, ‘‘Disarm.’’ you need to know that America is on the But Saddam Hussein has learned lessons hunt. There is a cave—there’s no cave deep from the past. See, the first time he was enough or corner of the world dark enough told to disarm was 11 years ago. He is for them to hide from the long arm of adept at deception and delays and denying. justice of the United States of America. He asked for more time so he can give We’re making progress. Sometimes you’ll the so-called inspectors more runaround. see about it; sometimes you won’t. And He’s interested in playing hide-and-seek in progress comes in different kinds of ways. a huge country. He’s not interested in dis- Our friends in Great Britain have recently arming. uncovered and have arrested a group of I hope the world has learned the lessons Al Qaida that they think were intending from the past, just like Saddam Hussein to poison the British people. Slowly but has learned the lessons from the past but surely, we’re rounding them up. That coali- in a different way. It’s time for us to hold tion of freedom-loving people still stands: the world to account and for Saddam to Either you’re with us and those of us who be held to account. We must not be fooled love freedom, or you’re with the enemy. by the ways of the past. After all, we just We’ve got an obligation to our children discovered undeclared chemical warheads to hunt these people down. We’ve also got in Iraq. It’s incredibly troubling and dis- an obligation to our children to address turbing for a man—that is evidence of a problems before they come back to Amer- man not disarming. ica, and in my judgment, in my considered He wants to play a game. For the sake judgment, there is a real risk to America of peace, we must not let him play a game. and our friends and allies in Iraq. And so the resolutions of the Security The dictator of Iraq has got weapons of Council will be enforced. mass destruction. He has used weapons of My hope is that Saddam Hussein will mass destruction. He can’t stand America disarm voluntarily. That’s my hope. I take and what we stand for. He can’t stand our seriously the commitment of any troop into friends and allies. He’s a dangerous, dan- combat. I desire peace. But in the name gerous man with dangerous, dangerous of peace, in the name of securing our fu- weapons. And that’s why the world came ture, if Saddam Hussein will not disarm, together at the United Nations Security the United States of America and friends Council and said Mr. Saddam Hussein of freedom will disarm Saddam Hussein. must disarm. The message was as clear as And should that path be forced upon can possibly be delivered: Mr. Saddam us, there will be serious consequences. Hussein must disarm. There will be serious consequences for the And the first step of that disarmament dictator in Iraq, and there will be serious was for him to make a declaration of his consequences for any Iraqi general or sol- weapons. Twelve thousand pages of deceit dier who were to use weapons of mass de- and deception were placed at the U.N. Se- struction on our troops or on innocent lives curity Council. We know what it means within Iraq. Should any Iraqi officer or sol- to disarm. We know what a disarmed re- dier receive an order from Saddam Hussein gime does. We know how a disarmed re- or his sons or any of the killers who occupy

75 Jan. 22 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 the high levels of their Government, my And then the confidence of our country advice is, don’t follow that order. Because was affected when it turned out some of if you choose to do so, when Iraq is liber- our corporate leaders didn’t tell the truth, ated, you will be treated, tried, and per- that they fudged the books, that they secuted as a war criminal. thought in this—they thought it was okay And there will be serious con- to deceive their employees and share- sequences—should we be forced into ac- holders. And they found out that it’s not tion, there will be serious consequences for okay. We’re going to find them and pros- the Iraqi people, and that’s freedom, free- ecute those who don’t tell the truth. dom from oppression—freedom from op- We’ve taken action, but there is more pression, freedom from torture, freedom to do, because there’s still people looking from murder, freedom to realize your God- for work. There’s still uncertainty about the given talents. economic future of this country. Anytime And so we’ve got a lot of challenges somebody is looking for work and can’t find when it comes to keeping the peace. But a job says to me, we’ve got a problem. this great, mighty Nation, this kind, gen- And so today I want to talk to you about erous, compassionate Nation will lead the how I think it’s best to address the prob- world to peace, so that not only our chil- lem, what Congress can do to make sure that the environment for job growth is dren but children in the far reaches of our strong in America. And it starts with accel- globe can grow up in a peaceful society. erating the tax relief plan we’ve already And here at home, we’ve got economic passed. challenges. Think about what this economy The tax plan that passed doesn’t take ef- of ours has been through. In a short time, fect until—finally take effect until years we’ve had a recession. I—first three quar- from now. The rates in 2006—dropping the ters of my Presidency were negative lower rate from 15 percent to 10 percent growth. That’s the definition of a recession. in out-years, getting rid of parts of the mar- And then before we could get our head riage penalty, raising the child credit from above water, the enemy hit us and hurt 600 to $1,000, all these plans have been us. It took thousands of innocent lives and, approved by the Congress. And yet our at the same time, hurt our economy. economy is still bumping along. For the And we acted. We acted on the recession sake of economic vitality and growth, the by letting you have more of your own Congress needs to accelerate the tax plans. money. We enacted the largest tax cut in If the tax relief is good enough 3 years a generation, and it helped. It helped bot- from now, surely it’s good enough today. tom out that recession. You see, when peo- And when they act—because I’m con- ple have more of their own money, they fident they’ll hear the voices of the peo- tend to spend it. And when they spend ple—and when they act, we will then make it, it means somebody is going to produce sure that the tax relief takes effect of Janu- the product or the service in which they’re ary of this year, to immediately get money spending their money, which means, then, in your pockets and into the economy. somebody is likely to find work. You hear a lot of talk about fairness, We acted after the enemy hit us. We and there ought to be fairness in our soci- made sure our airlines got moving, and we ety. That’s one of the great things about passed a terrorism insurance bill to encour- America: We try to be fair. A family of age large construction projects to move for- four with an income of $40,000 will receive ward, so our hardhats could find work here a 96-percent tax cut. That’s fair, and it’s in America. We got the stock markets up good for the economy. It’s the right thing and running. We acted. to do. Ninety-two million Americans will

76 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 22 keep an average of $1,083 more of their And to make sure that job growth at own money when this tax plan goes the small-business level is even more sig- through, and that’s good for the economy. nificant, we ought to allow small firms to But there is a difference of opinion about write off as expenses up to $75,000 a year, who best to spend your money in Wash- instead of the limit of $25,000 a year. ington, DC. Sometimes they forget whose So I met a guy today named Joe. He money you’re spending. Listen to the rhet- runs Software To Go. He’s got three em- oric, you know. ‘‘The Government’s ployees. He said, ‘‘I looked at your plan.’’ money,’’ they say. The money in Wash- Where are you, Joe? There you are. He ington is not the Government’s money. It’s said, ‘‘I looked at your plan.’’ He said, ‘‘By your money, and you can spend it just as allowing businesses to expense up to good or better than the Government can. $75,000, it means somebody is more likely In order to make sure people can find to buy a copying machine,’’ or in this case, work, we’ve got to strengthen our small- an architectural fancy machine. [Laughter] business environment. And one of the But the point is, is that he then has more things that gets lost in this debate about business opportunity, even though this tax tax relief is the effect of tax rate reductions relief doesn’t affect him directly. It affects on our small businesses. Oh, sure, you hear his customers. It makes his customers more likely to buy a product. And when Joe’s the typical class warfare rhetoric, trying to customers are more likely to buy a product, pit one group of people against another. he’s more likely to be able to employ peo- But lost in all the rhetoric is the fact that ple. a significant number of small businesses It is important for Congress to under- pay taxes at the individual income-tax rate, stand that the revitalization of the small- starting right here with JS Logistics. They business sector is incredibly important to are organized such that they pay taxes on the job growth of the United States of the company profits at the individual tax America. rate. So therefore, when you reduce all One aspect of the tax relief plan that rates on the income-tax code, you’re affect- I haven’t mentioned yet, which is important ing small business, like JS. to small-business owners, is the elimination The best way to encourage job growth of the death tax. A lot of people work all is to let companies like JS keep more of their lives to build up their business or their own money so they can invest in their their farm or their ranch. And after they’re business and make it easier for somebody gone, their heirs are unable to keep their to find work. assets because of the death tax. It’s unfair. Twenty-three million small-business own- It taxes a person’s assets twice. It means ers will receive an average tax cut of $2,042 that family farms leave the family sooner under this plan. Now, some will say, you than the owners of the farms would have know, in Washington, of course, ‘‘That’s not liked. It means small-business owners like much money.’’ It’s a lot of money to some- Joe may have problems passing their busi- body who has got two employees. It’s a ness off to a child or somebody they choose lot of money to somebody making a deci- to pass their business off of. sion whether or not to expand a business. We put it on its way to extinction. Unfor- It’s a lot of money. And when you multiply tunately, the law—the rules of the Senate the effects of that money throughout our are such that after 10 years from the time society, with all the individual decisions that of the passage of the bill, they could con- are being made to strengthen these small ceivably come back. For the sake of cer- businesses, it is going to have an incredibly tainty, for the sake of fairness, the Congress positive effect on job growth in America. needs to make all the tax reliefs not only

77 Jan. 22 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 happen now but to make sure the tax relief Part of making sure our economy is is permanent. strong is more money in your pockets. Part I also believe we ought to end the dou- of making sure the deficits don’t balloon ble taxation on dividends in America as is for Congress to hold the line on spend- well. Dividends are important for our sen- ing, and I expect them to be wise with iors. Many seniors rely upon dividends to your money. help them in their later years. Ending the I mentioned early on that I recognize double taxation on dividends will encourage there are hurdles, and we’re going to capital to flow into our markets. Capital achieve those hurdles. There’s no doubt in equals jobs. Ending the double taxation on my mind we will, because of the nature dividends makes the Tax Code more fair. of this country. The entrepreneurial spirit Let me talk to you about one aspect of in America is strong. Look right around what I mean when I talk about helping you, right here in JS. It’s one of the things seniors. More than 40 percent of the peo- that makes us a great nation. There are ple who receive dividends make under thousands of Americans from all walks of $50,000 a year. Many of them are seniors. life who are realizing their dream of owning Three-fourths of the people in America their own business, and that’s incredibly who receive dividends make less than positive. And the Government can help create an environment where that makes—is $100,000 a year. Dividends help our fellow more possible. citizens deal with their retirement years. There are thousands of our fellow citi- Dividends are a part of the savings of zens who are loving their neighbor just like America. Double taxation of dividends de- they’d like to be loved themselves. That prives people of needed money. It has bad doesn’t require a Government program. It effects. The average savings for somebody requires answering a higher calling. The 65 years and older, if we get rid of the compassion of this country runs deep in double taxation on dividends, will be $936 our soul, and there are thousands of Ameri- per year per tax return in America. Getting cans who are willing to serve overseas in rid of the double taxation of dividends the name of peace and liberty. If you’ve helps Americans from all walks of life. got a relative in the United States military, When this tax plan is passed—and I ex- the Commander in Chief is proud of their pect Congress to hear from the American skills, proud of their service, and proud of people and pass it—we will be putting $70 their commitment to peace and freedom. billion in the economy over the next 16 May God bless you all, and may God months. That’s how to make sure this econ- bless America. omy is growing jobs so people can work. That’s important. It’s called stimulative ef- NOTE: The President spoke at 11:13 a.m. in fect. the warehouse at JS Logistics. In his remarks, The Council on Economic Advisers said he referred to John Cochran, Jr., president these proposals over the next 3 years will and co-owner, and Greg Hantak, vice presi- create 2.1 million jobs, and that’s impor- dent and co-owner, JS Logistics; Joe tant. This is a commonsense plan that trusts Balsarotti, owner and president, Software To the people with their own money, that rec- Go; and President Saddam Hussein of Iraq. ognizes that—that there are ways and The Office of the Press Secretary also re- things we’ve got to do to make sure this leased a Spanish language transcript of these economy is growing. remarks.

78 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 24

Statement on Senate Confirmation of Tom Ridge as Secretary of Homeland Security January 22, 2003

I applaud the Senate for acting quickly Ridge is an outstanding and dedicated pub- and in a strong, bipartisan manner to con- lic servant who understands my administra- firm the first Secretary of the Department tion’s top priority always will be the protec- of Homeland Security. With today’s historic tion of the American people, and I look vote, the Senate has demonstrated our forward to continuing to work closely with shared commitment to doing everything we him to fulfill this important responsibility. can to secure our homeland. Secretary

Remarks at the Swearing-In Ceremony for Tom Ridge as Secretary of Homeland Security January 24, 2003

The President. Good afternoon. Thank nate the response of our Nation to future you all for coming. Welcome to the White emergencies. House, and welcome to this historic mo- Under the leadership of Tom Ridge, ment. As of today, the law creating the more than 170,000 dedicated Americans, United States Department of Homeland dedicated professionals, will have the over- Security comes into effect. And now this riding mission of protecting their fellow Department has its first Secretary, Thomas Americans. Joseph Ridge. In October of 2001, when I established Homeland Security becomes the 15th ex- the office—the White House Office of ecutive department of my Cabinet. It be- Homeland Security, I knew immediately gins a vital mission in the defense of our that Tom was the right man for the assign- country. We’ve learned that vast oceans no ment. He’s a decisive, clear-thinking execu- longer protect us from the dangers of a tive who knows how to solve problems. new era. This Government has a responsi- He’s a person of integrity and a person bility to confront the threat of terror wher- of good judgment. At the White House, ever it is found. he has done an outstanding job, and he’s And that is why we’re taking the battle earned the gratitude of the American peo- to America’s enemies, disrupting their networks; we’re destroying their camps. We’ve ple. got them on the run, and we’re going to This week he earned an unanimous vote keep them on the run. of confirmation. And I want to thank the And at home, we are taking every meas- United States Senate for its swift action. ure to protect the American people against This new Department will face many chal- a serious and ongoing threat. The Depart- lenges in the year to come. The American ment of Homeland Security will lead a people can be certain that the mission of comprehensive and unified effort to defend homeland security will be carried out with this Nation. The Department will analyze focus and resolve, with the resources the threats, guard our borders and airports, task requires. And the American people can safeguard critical infrastructure, and coordi- know as well that the Department is under

79 Jan. 24 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

the command of a superb leader who has NOTE: The President spoke at 1:20 p.m. in my confidence. the Cross Hall at the White House. The re- Congratulations, Tom, and thank you for lated Executive order of January 23 on ac- serving our country. tions in connection with the establishment Secretary Ridge. Thank you, Mr. Presi- of the Department of Homeland Security is dent. listed in Appendix D at the end of this vol- The President. Thank you all. ume.

The President’s Radio Address January 25, 2003

Good morning. This coming Tuesday, I jobs a growing economy will bring. I will will deliver the State of the Union Address ask Congress to eliminate the unfair double to Congress and the American people. Our taxation of dividends and raise the deduc- Nation faces many great challenges all at tion limit for small businesses that invest once. We will meet all of them with cour- in new machinery and equipment. And to age and steady purpose. help unemployed workers find a job as In 2003, we must work to strengthen soon as possible, I propose new reemploy- our economy, improve access to affordable, ment accounts. These accounts will assist high-quality health care for all our seniors, with the cost of finding work, including encourage compassion at home and abroad, training and child care and moving ex- and defend our Nation against the threats penses, and provide a cash bonus to work- of a new era. The war on terror is an ers who find a job quickly. ongoing priority for our Nation. We will Strengthening and improving Medicare is take every measure that is necessary to pro- also a priority for my administration in the tect the American people from terrorist coming year. I will urge Congress to join groups and outlaw regimes. The world de- me in keeping our commitment to Amer- pends on America’s strength and purpose, ica’s seniors by working to modernize and we will meet our responsibilities for Medicare and include a prescription drug peace. benefit to help seniors who are squeezed Today I want to speak to you about a by rising drug prices. few key domestic priorities. When I address As a prosperous nation, we have an obli- Congress, I will urge them to pass my plan gation to help Americans who are strug- to strengthen our economy and help more gling to build better lives for themselves. Americans find jobs. The tax relief already So I will propose new initiatives to bring planned for later in this decade should be the work of faith-based and community made effective this year, including income- groups to the needs of our fellow citizens. tax reduction, marriage penalty relief, and All of these priorities will be reflected in an increase in the child tax credit. When the budget I submit to Congress in early Congress acts, I will direct the Treasury February. to return this money to taxpayers right As we fund important priorities, however, away, which will provide immediate help we must also practice spending discipline to our economy. in Washington. Spending restraint is impor- We can also lay the foundation for future tant to economic growth and job creation. prosperity by encouraging investment and And it is critical to reducing the deficit helping Americans to prepare for the new caused by war and national emergency and

80 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 28 recession. Under my budget, discretionary America and the world. Thank you for lis- Federal spending will rise by 4 percent, tening. about the same as the increase in family incomes. Government should not grow faster than workers’ paychecks. Government NOTE: The address was recorded at 12:03 should follow the example of American p.m. on January 24 in the Cabinet Room at families by setting priorities and staying the White House for broadcast at 10:06 a.m. with them. on January 25. The transcript was made avail- In this session of Congress, we must able by the Office of the Press Secretary on work to make our Nation safer, more pros- January 24 but was embargoed for release perous, and more compassionate. I look until the broadcast. The Office of the Press forward to working with the Republicans Secretary also released a Spanish language and Democrats in this important year for transcript of this address.

Remarks Following a Cabinet Meeting January 28, 2003

The President. Thank you for coming. prosperity throughout America. I’ll talk I’m going to make a quick statement, and about the need to have a health care sys- then I will ask you all to leave without tem that is modern and sensitive to the any questions. needs of our seniors. Q. With questions? I’ll talk about a lot of issues, but as I The President. No, without any questions. do so, I’m going to remind the American I appreciate your understanding. people that solutions to some of the seem- First, I want to welcome Tom Ridge, ingly intractable problems lay in the hearts newly confirmed member of my Cabinet. and souls of our fellow citizens; that not I appreciate the Senate moving quickly. I only are we a strong nation, I will say, asked the Senate to move quickly on the but that we’re a compassionate nation, and nomination of John Snow as well. He’s hav- when we find hurt and people who need ing his hearing today. They’ll find that John healing, that our fellow citizens can provide is a very capable, smart person who will the love necessary to help a citizen realize do a fine job as the Secretary of Treasury. the full potential of this country. I look forward to having him join us here I look forward to giving this speech. It at this table. is a moment where I will rally the Amer- Tonight I’m going in front of our Nation ican people to some great causes and re- to talk about the great challenges that face mind them that we’ll accomplish those our country, but no doubt that we’ll be causes together. able to handle those challenges because we Thank you all. are a great country. I’ll talk about our deep desire for peace, peace not only here at NOTE: The President spoke at 10:54 a.m. in home but peace in troubled regions of the the Cabinet Room at the White House. world. I’ll talk about our plan to spread

81 Jan. 28 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Address Before a Joint Session of the Congress on the State of the Union January 28, 2003

Mr. Speaker, Vice President Cheney, Some might call this a good record. I Members of Congress, distinguished citi- call it a good start. Tonight I ask the House zens and fellow citizens: Every year, by law and the Senate to join me in the next bold and by custom, we meet here to consider steps to serve our fellow citizens. the state of the Union. This year, we gather Our first goal is clear: We must have in this Chamber deeply aware of decisive an economy that grows fast enough to em- days that lie ahead. ploy every man and woman who seeks a You and I serve our country in a time job. After recession, terrorist attacks, cor- of great consequence. During this session porate scandals, and stock market declines, of Congress, we have the duty to reform our economy is recovering. Yet, it’s not domestic programs vital to our country. We growing fast enough or strongly enough. have the opportunity to save millions of With unemployment rising, our Nation lives abroad from a terrible disease. We needs more small businesses to open, more will work for a prosperity that is broadly companies to invest and expand, more em- shared, and we will answer every danger ployers to put up the sign that says ‘‘Help and every enemy that threatens the Amer- Wanted.’’ ican people. Jobs are created when the economy In all these days of promise and days grows. The economy grows when Ameri- of reckoning, we can be confident. In a cans have more money to spend and invest, whirlwind of change and hope and peril, and the best and fairest way to make sure our faith is sure; our resolve is firm; and Americans have that money is not to tax our Union is strong. it away in the first place. This country has many challenges. We I am proposing that all the income-tax will not deny, we will not ignore, we will reductions set for 2004 and 2006 be made not pass along our problems to other Con- permanent and effective this year. And gresses, to other Presidents, and other gen- under my plan, as soon as I’ve signed the erations. We will confront them with focus bill, this extra money will start showing up and clarity and courage. in workers’ paychecks. Instead of gradually During the last 2 years, we have seen reducing the marriage penalty, we should what can be accomplished when we work do it now. Instead of slowly raising the together. To lift the standards of our public child credit to $1,000, we should send the schools, we achieved historic education re- checks to American families now. form, which must now be carried out in The tax relief is for everyone who pays every school and in every classroom so that income taxes, and it will help our economy every child in America can read and learn immediately. Ninety-two million Americans and succeed in life. To protect our country, will keep, this year, an average of almost we reorganized our Government and cre- $1,100 more of their own money. A family ated the Department of Homeland Secu- of four with an income of $40,000 would rity, which is mobilizing against the threats see their Federal income taxes fall from of a new era. To bring our economy out $1,178 to $45 per year. Our plan will im- of recession, we delivered the largest tax prove the bottom line for more than 23 relief in a generation. To insist on integrity million small businesses. in American business, we passed tough re- You, the Congress, have already passed forms, and we are holding corporate crimi- all these reductions and promised them for nals to account. future years. If this tax relief is good for

82 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 28

Americans 3 or 5 or 7 years from now, seniors and low-income Americans receive it is even better for Americans today. the help they need. Instead of bureaucrats We should also strengthen the economy and trial lawyers and HMOs, we must put by treating investors equally in our tax laws. doctors and nurses and patients back in It’s fair to tax a company’s profits. It is charge of American medicine. not fair to again tax the shareholder on Health care reform must begin with the same profits. To boost investor con- Medicare. Medicare is the binding commit- fidence and to help the nearly 10 million ment of a caring society. We must renew seniors who receive dividend income, I ask that commitment by giving seniors access you to end the unfair double taxation of to preventive medicine and new drugs that dividends. are transforming health care in America. Lower taxes and greater investment will Seniors happy with the current Medicare help this economy expand. More jobs mean system should be able to keep their cov- more taxpayers and higher revenues to our erage just the way it is. And just like you, Government. The best way to address the the Members of Congress, and your staffs deficit and move toward a balanced budget and other Federal employees, all seniors is to encourage economic growth and to should have the choice of a health care show some spending discipline in Wash- plan that provides prescription drugs. ington, DC. We must work together to fund only our My budget will commit an additional most important priorities. I will send you $400 billion over the next decade to reform a budget that increases discretionary spend- and strengthen Medicare. Leaders of both ing by 4 percent next year, about as much political parties have talked for years about as the average family’s income is expected strengthening Medicare. I urge the Mem- to grow. And that is a good benchmark bers of this new Congress to act this year. for us. Federal spending should not rise To improve our health care system, we any faster than the paychecks of American must address one of the prime causes of families. higher cost, the constant threat that physi- A growing economy and a focus on es- cians and hospitals will be unfairly sued. sential priorities will be crucial to the fu- Because of excessive litigation, everybody ture of Social Security. As we continue to pays more for health care, and many parts work together to keep Social Security sound of America are losing fine doctors. No one and reliable, we must offer younger work- has ever been healed by a frivolous lawsuit. ers a chance to invest in retirement ac- I urge the Congress to pass medical liability counts that they will control and they will reform. own. Our third goal is to promote energy inde- Our second goal is high quality, afford- pendence for our country while dramati- able health for all Americans. The Amer- cally improving the environment. I have ican system of medicine is a model of skill sent you a comprehensive energy plan to and innovation, with a pace of discovery promote energy efficiency and conservation, that is adding good years to our lives. Yet to develop cleaner technology, and to for many people, medical care costs too produce more energy at home. I have sent much, and many have no health coverage you Clear Skies legislation that mandates at all. These problems will not be solved a 70-percent cut in air pollution from pow- with a nationalized health care system that erplants over the next 15 years. I have sent dictates coverage and rations care. you a Healthy Forests Initiative, to help Instead, we must work toward a system prevent the catastrophic fires that devastate in which all Americans have a good insur- communities, kill wildlife, and burn away ance policy, choose their own doctors, and millions of acres of treasured forests.

83 Jan. 28 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

I urge you to pass these measures, for Last year, I called on my fellow citizens the good of both our environment and our to participate in the USA Freedom Corps, economy. Even more, I ask you to take which is enlisting tens of thousands of new a crucial step and protect our environment volunteers across America. Tonight I ask in ways that generations before us could Congress and the American people to focus not have imagined. the spirit of service and the resources of In this century, the greatest environ- Government on the needs of some of our mental progress will come about not most vulnerable citizens, boys and girls try- through endless lawsuits or command-and- ing to grow up without guidance and atten- control regulations but through technology tion and children who have to go through and innovation. Tonight I’m proposing $1.2 a prison gate to be hugged by their mom billion in research funding so that America or dad. I propose a $450 million initiative can lead the world in developing clean, hy- to bring mentors to more than a million drogen-powered automobiles. disadvantaged junior high students and chil- A simple chemical reaction between hy- dren of prisoners. Government will support drogen and oxygen generates energy which the training and recruiting of mentors. Yet can be used to power a car, producing only it is the men and women of America who water, not exhaust fumes. With a new na- will fill the need. One mentor, one person, can change a life forever, and I urge you tional commitment, our scientists and engi- to be that one person. neers will overcome obstacles to taking Another cause of hopelessness is addic- these cars from laboratory to showroom, tion to drugs. Addiction crowds out friend- so that the first car driven by a child born ship, ambition, moral conviction and re- today could be powered by hydrogen and duces all the richness of life to a single pollution-free. Join me in this important in- destructive desire. As a government, we are novation to make our air significantly clean- fighting illegal drugs by cutting off supplies er and our country much less dependent and reducing demand through antidrug on foreign sources of energy. education programs. Yet for those already Our fourth goal is to apply the compas- addicted, the fight against drugs is a fight sion of America to the deepest problems for their own lives. Too many Americans of America. For so many in our country, in search of treatment cannot get it. So the homeless and the fatherless, the ad- tonight I propose a new $600 million pro- dicted, the need is great. Yet there’s power, gram to help an additional 300,000 Ameri- wonder-working power, in the goodness cans receive treatment over the next 3 and idealism and faith of the American years. people. Our Nation is blessed with recovery pro- Americans are doing the work of compas- grams that do amazing work. One of them sion every day, visiting prisoners, providing is found at the Healing Place Church in shelter for battered women, bringing com- Baton Rouge, Louisiana. A man in the pro- panionship to lonely seniors. These good gram said, ‘‘God does miracles in people’s works deserve our praise. They deserve our lives, and you never think it could be you.’’ personal support, and when appropriate, Tonight let us bring to all Americans who they deserve the assistance of the Federal struggle with drug addiction this message Government. of hope: The miracle of recovery is pos- I urge you to pass both my Faith-Based sible, and it could be you. Initiative and the ‘‘Citizen Service Act,’’ to By caring for children who need mentors encourage acts of compassion that can and for addicted men and women who transform America, one heart and one soul need treatment, we are building a more at a time. welcoming society, a culture that values

84 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 28 every life. And in this work, we must not says, ‘‘We have no medicines. Many hos- overlook the weakest among us. I ask you pitals tell people, ‘You’ve got AIDS. We to protect infants at the very hour of their can’t help you. Go home and die.’ ’’ In an birth and end the practice of partial-birth age of miraculous medicines, no person abortion. And because no human life should have to hear those words. should be started or ended as the object AIDS can be prevented. Antiretroviral of an experiment, I ask you to set a high drugs can extend life for many years. And standard for humanity and pass a law the cost of those drugs has dropped from against all human cloning. $12,000 a year to under $300 a year, which The qualities of courage and compassion places a tremendous possibility within our that we strive for in America also deter- grasp. Ladies and gentlemen, seldom has mine our conduct abroad. The American history offered a greater opportunity to do flag stands for more than our power and so much for so many. our interests. Our Founders dedicated this We have confronted and will continue country to the cause of human dignity, the to confront HIV/AIDS in our own country. rights of every person, and the possibilities And to meet a severe and urgent crisis of every life. This conviction leads us into abroad, tonight I propose the Emergency the world to help the afflicted and defend Plan for AIDS Relief, a work of mercy the peace and confound the designs of evil beyond all current international efforts to men. help the people of Africa. This comprehen- In Afghanistan, we helped to liberate an sive plan will prevent 7 million new AIDS oppressed people. And we will continue infections, treat at least 2 million people helping them secure their country, rebuild with life-extending drugs, and provide hu- their society, and educate all their children, mane care for millions of people suffering boys and girls. In the Middle East, we will from AIDS and for children orphaned by continue to seek peace between a secure AIDS. I ask the Congress to commit $15 Israel and a democratic Palestine. Across billion over the next 5 years, including the Earth, America is feeding the hungry. nearly $10 billion in new money, to turn More than 60 percent of international food the tide against AIDS in the most afflicted aid comes as a gift from the people of nations of Africa and the Caribbean. the United States. As our Nation moves This Nation can lead the world in sparing troops and builds alliances to make our innocent people from a plague of nature. world safer, we must also remember our And this Nation is leading the world in calling as a blessed country is to make the confronting and defeating the manmade world better. evil of international terrorism. Today, on the continent of Africa, nearly There are days when our fellow citizens 30 million people have the AIDS virus, indo not hear news about the war on terror. cluding 3 million children under the age There’s never a day when I do not learn 15. There are whole countries in Africa of another threat or receive reports of oper- where more than one-third of the adult ations in progress or give an order in this population carries the infection. More than global war against a scattered network of 4 million require immediate drug treat- killers. The war goes on, and we are win- ment. Yet across that continent, only 50,000 ning. AIDS victims—only 50,000—are receiving To date, we’ve arrested or otherwise the medicine they need. Because the AIDS dealt with many key commanders of Al diagnosis is considered a death sentence, Qaida. They include a man who directed many do not seek treatment. Almost all logistics and funding for the September the who do are turned away. A doctor in rural 11th attacks, the chief of Al Qaida oper- South Africa describes his frustration. He ations in the Persian Gulf who planned the

85 Jan. 28 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 bombings of our embassies in east Africa and plague. We must assume that our en- and the U.S.S. Cole, an Al Qaida operations emies would use these diseases as weapons, chief from Southeast Asia, a former director and we must act before the dangers are of Al Qaida’s training camps in Afghanistan, upon us. a key Al Qaida operative in Europe, a Since September the 11th, our intel- major Al Qaida leader in Yemen. All told, ligence and law enforcement agencies have more than 3,000 suspected terrorists have worked more closely than ever to track and been arrested in many countries. Many oth- disrupt the terrorists. The FBI is improving ers have met a different fate. Let’s put its ability to analyze intelligence and is it this way: They are no longer a problem transforming itself to meet new threats. To- to the United States and our friends and night I am instructing the leaders of the allies. FBI, the CIA, the Homeland Security, and We are working closely with other na- the Department of Defense to develop a tions to prevent further attacks. America Terrorist Threat Integration Center, to and coalition countries have uncovered and merge and analyze all threat information stopped terrorist conspiracies targeting the in a single location. Our Government must Embassy in Yemen, the American Embassy have the very best information possible, and in Singapore, a Saudi military base, ships we will use it to make sure the right people in the Straits of Hormuz and the Straits are in the right places to protect all our of Gibraltar. We’ve broken Al Qaida cells citizens. in Hamburg, Milan, Madrid, London, Paris, Our war against terror is a contest of as well as Buffalo, New York. will in which perseverance is power. In the We have the terrorists on the run. We’re keeping them on the run. One by one, ruins of two towers, at the western wall the terrorists are learning the meaning of of the Pentagon, on a field in Pennsylvania, American justice. this Nation made a pledge, and we renew As we fight this war, we will remember that pledge tonight: Whatever the duration where it began: Here, in our own country. of this struggle and whatever the difficul- This Government is taking unprecedented ties, we will not permit the triumph of vio- measures to protect our people and defend lence in the affairs of men; free people our homeland. We’ve intensified security at will set the course of history. the borders and ports of entry, posted more Today, the gravest danger in the war on than 50,000 newly trained Federal screen- terror, the gravest danger facing America ers in airports, begun inoculating troops and the world, is outlaw regimes that seek and first-responders against smallpox, and and possess nuclear, chemical, and biologi- are deploying the Nation’s first early warn- cal weapons. These regimes could use such ing network of sensors to detect biological weapons for blackmail, terror, and mass attack. And this year, for the first time, murder. They could also give or sell those we are beginning to field a defense to pro- weapons to terrorist allies, who would use tect this Nation against ballistic missiles. them without the least hesitation. I thank the Congress for supporting This threat is new. America’s duty is fa- these measures. I ask you tonight to add miliar. Throughout the 20th century, small to our future security with a major research groups of men seized control of great na- and production effort to guard our people tions, built armies and arsenals, and set out against bioterrorism, called Project Bio- to dominate the weak and intimidate the Shield. The budget I send you will propose world. In each case, their ambitions of cru- almost $6 billion to quickly make available elty and murder had no limit. In each case, effective vaccines and treatments against the ambitions of Hitlerism, militarism, and agents like anthrax, botulinum toxin, Ebola, communism were defeated by the will of

86 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 28 free peoples, by the strength of great alli- States supports their aspirations to live in ances, and by the might of the United freedom. States of America. On the Korean Peninsula, an oppressive Now, in this century, the ideology of regime rules a people living in fear and power and domination has appeared again starvation. Throughout the 1990s, the and seeks to gain the ultimate weapons of United States relied on a negotiated frame- terror. Once again, this Nation and all our work to keep North Korea from gaining friends are all that stand between a world nuclear weapons. We now know that that at peace and a world of chaos and constant regime was deceiving the world and devel- alarm. Once again, we are called to defend oping those weapons all along. And today, the safety of our people and the hopes the North Korean regime is using its nu- of all mankind. And we accept this respon- clear program to incite fear and seek con- sibility. cessions. America and the world will not America is making a broad and deter- be blackmailed. mined effort to confront these dangers. We America is working with the countries have called on the United Nations to fulfill of the region, South Korea, Japan, China, its charter and stand by its demand that and Russia, to find a peaceful solution and Iraq disarm. We’re strongly supporting the to show the North Korean Government International Atomic Energy Agency in its that nuclear weapons will bring only isola- mission to track and control nuclear mate- tion, economic stagnation, and continued rials around the world. We’re working with hardship. The North Korean regime will other governments to secure nuclear mate- find respect in the world and revival for rials in the former Soviet Union and to its people only when it turns away from strengthen global treaties banning the pro- its nuclear ambitions. duction and shipment of missile tech- Our Nation and the world must learn nologies and weapons of mass destruction. the lessons of the Korean Peninsula and In all these efforts, however, America’s not allow an even greater threat to rise purpose is more than to follow a process; up in Iraq. A brutal dictator, with a history it is to achieve a result, the end of terrible of reckless aggression, with ties to ter- threats to the civilized world. All free na- rorism, with great potential wealth, will not tions have a stake in preventing sudden be permitted to dominate a vital region and and catastrophic attacks. And we’re asking threaten the United States. them to join us, and many are doing so. Twelve years ago, Saddam Hussein faced Yet the course of this Nation does not de- the prospect of being the last casualty in pend on the decisions of others. Whatever a war he had started and lost. To spare action is required, whenever action is nec- himself, he agreed to disarm of all weapons essary, I will defend the freedom and secu- of mass destruction. For the next 12 years, rity of the American people. he systematically violated that agreement. Different threats require different strate- He pursued chemical, biological, and nu- gies. In Iran, we continue to see a Govern- clear weapons, even while inspectors were ment that represses its people, pursues in his country. Nothing to date has re- weapons of mass destruction, and supports strained him from his pursuit of these terror. We also see Iranian citizens risking weapons, not economic sanctions, not isola- intimidation and death as they speak out tion from the civilized world, not even for liberty and human rights and democ- cruise missile strikes on his military facili- racy. Iranians, like all people, have a right ties. to choose their own Government and deter- Almost 3 months ago, the United Nations mine their own destiny, and the United Security Council gave Saddam Hussein his

87 Jan. 28 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 final chance to disarm. He has shown in- be moved from place to a place to evade stead utter contempt for the United Na- inspectors. Saddam Hussein has not dis- tions and for the opinion of the world. The closed these facilities. He’s given no evi- 108 U.N. inspectors were sent to conduct— dence that he has destroyed them. were not sent to conduct a scavenger hunt The International Atomic Energy Agency for hidden materials across a country the confirmed in the 1990s that Saddam size of California. The job of the inspectors Hussein had an advanced nuclear weapons is to verify that Iraq’s regime is disarming. development program, had a design for a It is up to Iraq to show exactly where it nuclear weapon, and was working on five is hiding its banned weapons, lay those different methods of enriching uranium for weapons out for the world to see, and de- a bomb. The British Government has stroy them as directed. Nothing like this learned that Saddam Hussein recently has happened. sought significant quantities of uranium The United Nations concluded in 1999 from Africa. Our intelligence sources tell that Saddam Hussein had biological weap- us that he has attempted to purchase high- ons sufficient to produce over 25,000 liters strength aluminum tubes suitable for nu- of anthrax, enough doses to kill several mil- clear weapons production. Saddam Hussein lion people. He hasn’t accounted for that has not credibly explained these activities. material. He’s given no evidence that he He clearly has much to hide. has destroyed it. The dictator of Iraq is not disarming. The United Nations concluded that Sad- To the contrary, he is deceiving. From in- dam Hussein had materials sufficient to telligence sources we know, for instance, produce more than 38,000 liters of botu- that thousands of Iraqi security personnel linum toxin, enough to subject millions of are at work hiding documents and materials people to death by respiratory failure. He from the U.N. inspectors, sanitizing inspec- hasn’t accounted for that material. He’s tion sites, and monitoring the inspectors given no evidence that he has destroyed themselves. Iraqi officials accompany the it. inspectors in order to intimidate witnesses. Our intelligence officials estimate that Iraq is blocking U–2 surveillance flights re- Saddam Hussein had the materials to quested by the United Nations. Iraqi intel- produce as much as 500 tons of sarin, mus- ligence officers are posing as the scientists tard, and VX nerve agent. In such quan- inspectors are supposed to interview. Real tities, these chemical agents could also kill scientists have been coached by Iraqi offi- untold thousands. He’s not accounted for cials on what to say. Intelligence sources these materials. He has given no evidence indicate that Saddam Hussein has ordered that he has destroyed them. that scientists who cooperate with U.N. in- U.S. intelligence indicates that Saddam spectors in disarming Iraq will be killed, Hussein had upwards of 30,000 munitions along with their families. capable of delivering chemical agents. In- Year after year, Saddam Hussein has spectors recently turned up 16 of them, gone to elaborate lengths, spent enormous despite Iraq’s recent declaration denying sums, taken great risks to build and keep their existence. Saddam Hussein has not weapons of mass destruction. But why? The accounted for the remaining 29,984 of only possible explanation, the only possible these prohibited munitions. He’s given no use he could have for those weapons, is evidence that he has destroyed them. to dominate, intimidate, or attack. From three Iraqi defectors we know that With nuclear arms or a full arsenal of Iraq, in the late 1990s, had several mobile chemical and biological weapons, Saddam biological weapons labs. These are designed Hussein could resume his ambitions of con- to produce germ warfare agents and can quest in the Middle East and create deadly

88 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 28 havoc in that region. And this Congress your enemy is ruling your country. And and the American people must recognize the day he and his regime are removed another threat. Evidence from intelligence from power will be the day of your libera- sources, secret communications, and state- tion. ments by people now in custody reveal that The world has waited 12 years for Iraq Saddam Hussein aids and protects terror- to disarm. America will not accept a serious ists, including members of Al Qaida. Se- and mounting threat to our country and cretly and without fingerprints, he could our friends and our allies. The United provide one of his hidden weapons to ter- States will ask the U.N. Security Council rorists or help them develop their own. to convene on February the 5th to consider Before September the 11th, many in the the facts of Iraq’s ongoing defiance of the world believed that Saddam Hussein could world. Secretary of State Powell will be contained. But chemical agents, lethal present information and intelligence about viruses, and shadowy terrorist networks are Iraqi’s legal—Iraq’s illegal weapons pro- not easily contained. Imagine those 19 hi- grams, its attempt to hide those weapons jackers with other weapons and other plans, from inspectors, and its links to terrorist this time armed by Saddam Hussein. It groups. would take one vial, one canister, one crate We will consult. But let there be no mis- slipped into this country to bring a day understanding: If Saddam Hussein does not of horror like none we have ever known. fully disarm, for the safety of our people We will do everything in our power to and for the peace of the world, we will make sure that that day never comes. lead a coalition to disarm him. Some have said we must not act until Tonight I have a message for the men the threat is imminent. Since when have and women who will keep the peace, mem- terrorists and tyrants announced their in- bers of the American Armed Forces: Many tentions, politely putting us on notice be- of you are assembling in or near the Mid- fore they strike? If this threat is permitted dle East, and some crucial hours may lay to fully and suddenly emerge, all actions, ahead. In those hours, the success of our all words, and all recriminations would cause will depend on you. Your training come too late. Trusting in the sanity and has prepared you. Your honor will guide restraint of Saddam Hussein is not a strat- you. You believe in America, and America egy, and it is not an option. believes in you. The dictator who is assembling the Sending Americans into battle is the world’s most dangerous weapons has almost profound decision a President can ready used them on whole villages, leaving make. The technologies of war have thousands of his own citizens dead, blind, changed; the risks and suffering of war or disfigured. Iraqi refugees tell us how have not. For the brave Americans who forced confessions are obtained, by tor- bear the risk, no victory is free from sor- turing children while their parents are row. This Nation fights reluctantly, because made to watch. International human rights we know the cost and we dread the days groups have cataloged other methods used of mourning that always come. in the torture chambers of Iraq: electric We seek peace. We strive for peace. And shock, burning with hot irons, dripping acid sometimes peace must be defended. A fu- on the skin, mutilation with electric drills, ture lived at the mercy of terrible threats cutting out tongues, and rape. If this is is no peace at all. If war is forced upon not evil, then evil has no meaning. us, we will fight in a just cause and by And tonight I have a message for the just means, sparing, in every way we can, brave and oppressed people of Iraq: Your the innocent. And if war is forced upon enemy is not surrounding your country; us, we will fight with the full force and

89 Jan. 28 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 might of the United States military, and Americans are a free people who know we will prevail. that freedom is the right of every person And as we and our coalition partners are and the future of every nation. The liberty doing in Afghanistan, we will bring to the we prize is not America’s gift to the world; Iraqi people food and medicines and sup- it is God’s gift to humanity. plies and freedom. We Americans have faith in ourselves, Many challenges, abroad and at home, but not in ourselves alone. We do not have arrived in a single season. In 2 years, know—we do not claim to know all the America has gone from a sense of invulner- ways of providence, yet we can trust in ability to an awareness of peril, from bitter them, placing our confidence in the loving division in small matters to calm unity in God behind all of life and all of history. great causes. And we go forward with con- May He guide us now. And may God fidence, because this call of history has continue to bless the United States of come to the right country. America. Americans are a resolute people who have risen to every test of our time. Adver- sity has revealed the character of our coun- NOTE: The President spoke at 9:01 p.m. in try, to the world and to ourselves. America the House Chamber of the Capitol. In his is a strong nation and honorable in the remarks, he referred to President Saddam use of our strength. We exercise power Hussein of Iraq. The Office of the Press Sec- without conquest, and we sacrifice for the retary also released a Spanish language tran- liberty of strangers. script of this address.

Message on the Observance of the Lunar New Year January 22, 2003

I send greetings to those celebrating the going dedication to affirming the vitality of Lunar New Year, the Year of the Goat. our traditions, strengthening our relation- The Lunar New Year has traditionally ships with our neighbors, and building a celebrated the rejuvenation of the earth peaceful, more prosperous future for all. and the start of the new farm season. Laura joins me in sending our best wish- Today, for many Asian Americans it rep- es for peace, health, and happiness in the resents a period of new beginnings and re- New Year. newed hope. During this time, individuals GEORGE W. BUSH around the world reaffirm the value of friendship, celebrate family, and look for- NOTE: This message was released by the Of- ward to a hopeful future. fice of the Press Secretary on January 29. As our Nation continues to welcome new An original was not available for verification opportunities and face new challenges, the of the content of this message. Lunar New Year reflects our country’s on-

90 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 29

Remarks in Grand Rapids, Michigan January 29, 2003

Thank you all. I’m anxious to get started. honored to speak in their Chamber last [Laughter] So I woke up this morning, and night. I talked about things that matter to Laura said, ‘‘Where are you going?’’ I said, the future of this country. ‘‘Grand Rapids, thankfully.’’ And she said, Today, before I came here, I had the ‘‘Home of a great American, Gerald honor of going to Spectrum Hospital, Ford’’—and home to many great Ameri- where I visited with docs and hospital ad- cans. I want to thank you for your hospi- ministrators and Medicare—folks on Medi- tality. She said, ‘‘I’ve got a suggestion for care, people who hurt, and heard their sto- you: Shorten your speech.’’ [Laughter] ries. I will share some of that with you, I want to share some of my thoughts because I believe part of making sure that about that speech I gave last night. It’s we’ve got a great country is we’ve got a important for me to come to parts of our great health care system that addresses the country and explain why I said what I said, needs of all our citizens. so that you and others around our country Our biggest need at home, seems like clearly understand some things about the to me, is to make sure that anybody who country and the problems we face. First wants a job and can’t find one—and if they thing I want you to know is that there’s can’t find a job, we’ve got a problem. no doubt in my mind that we can accom- We’ve got to make sure this economy is plish our objectives, because we’re the fin- as strong as it possibly can be. est nation, full of the greatest people on My philosophy is, the role of Govern- the face of this Earth. ment is not to create wealth but an envi- Thanks for coming. I also want to thank ronment in which the small-business owner my friend Tommy Thompson, who is the can grow to be a big-business owner, in Secretary of Health and Human Services, which the entrepreneur feels confident for leaving a comfortable life and serving about the future, in which people are will- our Nation. You may remember, he was ing to take risk and invest, which will equal the Governor of Wisconsin. Don’t hold it jobs. And that’s why I feel so strongly about against him, here in Michigan. [Laughter] making sure that people get to keep more He’s a great Governor, and he’s a great of their own money. Secretary of Health and Human Services. We’ve come out of a recession. We’ve And I’m honored Tommy is serving with withstood terrorist attacks. We had some me. of our fellow citizens think they could And I want to thank your Governor and fudge the books, and we’re routing them attorney general and secretary of state for out and bringing them to justice, because joining us today. I’m honored you all are we believe in honesty in America. And our here. Thanks for taking time out of your economy is still kind of nudging along, in schedules to come and greet the President spite of those setbacks. But there’s more and hear what I have to say. we need to do. I travel today from Washington with When a fellow American has more members of the mighty Michigan congres- money in his or her pocket, they’re more sional delegation: Your Congressman, Vern likely to demand a good or a service. And Ehlers; neighboring Congressman Peter in the marketplace which we have in Amer- Hoekstra; Dave Camp and Nick Smith, also ica, when somebody demands a good or of the congressional delegation. I appreciate a service, somebody is more likely willing these Members traveling with me. I was to produce that good or a service. And

91 Jan. 29 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 when somebody produces the good or a the tax relief is good 5 years from now, service, it means somebody is more likely it makes a lot of sense to put the tax relief to find work. That’s why tax relief is such in today. For the sake of our economic an important component about creating the vitality, Congress must act. environment for economic growth. It is im- Ten million seniors receive dividends. It’s portant for the people of Michigan and part of their retirement package. It’s a part America to know that when I talk about of making sure the quality of life is high. tax relief, it equals jobs. A dividend is a part of a dollar that has You hear a lot of rhetoric in Washington, gone through our system that has been DC, about tax relief. You hear a lot of taxed twice. A company first pays taxes on rhetoric about tax relief in Washington, profits, and that’s right. And then they dis- DC, the old rhetoric of class warfare. My tribute the money out to a shareholder, attitude is, if you pay taxes, you ought to somebody who has invested in that com- get relief; the Government ought not to pany, and then the shareholder gets to pay try to pick and choose. it again. The double taxation of dividends Seventy percent of new jobs in America is not fair; it hurts our seniors. Congress are created by small-business owners. It needs to end the double taxation of divi- makes sense to try to create an environ- dends, for the sake of capital formation and ment in which the small-business owner for the sake of the quality of life for the feels confident about the future, is willing seniors in America. to take risk and expand jobs. It just so These measures will help our economy happens that most small businesses in grow, and that’s important for the Federal America pay taxes at the income-tax level because they’re sole proprietorships or lim- budget. It’s important for State budgets. ited partnerships or Subchapter S’s. If you’re worried about budgets, which we So when you hear me talk about tax re- should be worried about budgets, the first lief, I want you to know that that will help question you ask is, how do you create stimulate small-business growth in America. growth in the economy? The more growth More money in the pockets of our small- there is, the more likely it is you’ll have business owners means it’s more likely tax revenues. Policies that stimulate growth somebody in western Michigan is able to ought to be the centerplace of public pol- find work. icy, not policies which discourage growth. We’re trying to get rid of the effects And the growth packages I talk about will of the marriage penalty. It doesn’t make encourage economic vitality, means more any sense to me that we tax marriage. tax revenues at the Federal level. [Laughter] It seems like we ought to en- But there’s two equations when it comes courage marriage in America. We ought to to deficits and balanced budgets. There’s accelerate the increase of the child credit the revenue side, and then there’s the from $600 to $1,000 as quickly as possible. spending side. I call upon the United States We ought to drop that lowest rate from Congress to set clear and important prior- 15 percent to 10 percent. All these meas- ities and not overspend the people’s money. ures have been passed. You see, what I’m And we have some important priorities talking about today is what I argued for that’s reflected in my budget, not only the to Congress 2 years ago. They’re all law. budget this year but the budget the last Congress decided these were good meas- couple of years. A significant, important, ures. It’s just that they phased them in vital priority is education. Our Federal over 3 or 5 or 7 years. We need some Government has substantially increased the life in this economy. We’ve got people amount of Federal money we have spent looking for jobs who can’t find them. If on education, particularly over the last 2

92 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 29 years. We’ve increased it by another 6 per- here to help you make those right deci- cent in the budget I’ve submitted to Con- sions.’’ gress. Yesterday I talked about the need to rally Spending money is important for edu- the great compassion of America to focus cation, but so is making sure that every on those who hurt. Think about what it child gets educated. It’s important to spend must be to be a child whose mother or money on priorities. It is essential that we dad is in prison. Imagine what kind of life set high standards for our children, that that would be, growing up in this society. we challenge the soft bigotry of low expec- I have hope for those citizens because I tations, that we insist that States measure know there is somebody there in our soci- so we can determine whether programs are ety who can provide the love and direction working, so we know whether or not chil- and guidance to make sure that child has dren are learning to read and write and a chance to succeed. add and subtract. And equally important, Today I came out—when I landed here it is essential that, when we find children at Ford Airport, I had the honor of meeting trapped in schools which will not teach and Jerry Nienhuis. He works for Kids Hope will not change, we give parents different USA. I want my fellow—hi, Jerry. This pro- opportunities for their children. gram, as Vern Ehlers was telling me, is Yesterday I talked about an immeas- an inspiration to many here in Grand Rap- urable part of America’s strength, and that ids, Michigan. I think Vern said it started is our hearts. Compassion in this country right here. It shows the great social entre- runs deep. It’s one of the really great bless- preneurial spirit of our country. It’s a faith- ings to be the President of a country where people love their neighbor like they’d like based program. It’s a program—a call went to be loved themselves, and it doesn’t even out to churches in the area. They said, ‘‘If require a Government program. [Laughter] you truly love the Almighty, help somebody I do think there’s a role of Government, who hurts. Mentor a child. Mentor a child.’’ though, when it comes to helping people I said last night that we can save our in need. The Government ought to help society one heart, one soul, one conscience people who cannot help themselves. And at a time. Each of us can be somebody we need to recognize in Washington that helping. I urge you to mentor, just like there are pockets of despair and hopeless- Jerry has done. I urge those who are ad- ness all around our country, that in this dicted to find a program that will help heal land of plenty there are those who hurt, your heart. People care about you in our there are neighborhoods where the concept society. A better America is a compas- of the American Dream just doesn’t exist, sionate America, where we save our coun- there are people who need love and affec- try, one person at a time, and I’m confident tion and direction, there are people who it will happen. are hopelessly addicted to drugs. A better America is one in which our Government can spend money and health care systems work. One of the com- should. But Government cannot put hope mitments we have made to our seniors is in people’s hearts or a sense of purpose that they get good health care. This system in people’s lives. That happens when a fel- is called Medicare. Medicare has been used low neighbor puts their arm around some- as a political football, however. It’s old. It’s body who hurts and says, ‘‘I love you. Can important, but it hadn’t changed. I like to I help you? What can I do to help you? remind people, medicine has changed, and Young lady or young man, understand that Medicare hadn’t. It’s stuck in the past. It this country belongs to you and its future requires all kinds of bureaucracies to allow if you make the right decisions, and I’m new medicines to come forth so our seniors

93 Jan. 29 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 can take advantage of the technologies and cause people to practice preventative medi- changes in medicine. cine, procedure after procedure, just in I urged the Congress last night to put case they get sued. Too many people being aside all the politics and to make sure the forced to settle out of court just to get Medicare system fulfills its promise to our rid of the lawsuits, which drives up your seniors. I believe that seniors, if they’re cost and drives doctors and nurses out of happy with the current Medicare system, the practice of medicine. should stay on the current Medicare sys- And it’s a problem. I visited States where tem. That makes sense. If you like the way it’s a real problem, where I’ve had docs things are, you shouldn’t change. However, come and see me and say, ‘‘I can’t practice Medicare must be more flexible. Medicare medicine anymore.’’ I remember a baby must include prescription drugs. Medicare doc that came to see me when I was in must be available to seniors in a variety Pennsylvania. She had tears in her eyes. of forms. She said, ‘‘I love to deliver babies. I can’t The Congress has got a good health care do it anymore. I’m being sued so much, system for themselves and their employees my premiums are out of sight.’’ and other Federal employees, which is fine. It is essential—it is essential that Con- It’s based upon trusting each Member of gress understand what excessive litigation Congress to make decisions for his or her is doing to patients. It’s driving up the cost. family. There’s a variety of plans from It makes it hard for people to get access which to choose. I believe it’s very impor- to care, because there’s fewer providers. tant for seniors to be given the same oppor- I’ve come to the conclusion that this is tunities that Members of the Congress, a Federal issue, because excessive lawsuits Members of the Senate have. They ought are driving up the cost of health care at to be able to choose their own health care the Federal level. Medicare costs more; plan, including fee-for-service plans. If it’s Medicaid costs more; veterans benefits cost good enough for the Congress, it’s good more. We need a national, Federal medical enough for the senior citizens of America. liability policy. Any good plan provides options, and any We can get one, but I need your help. good plan makes sure seniors who cannot The trial lawyers are powerful. They don’t afford help receive help from the Federal see the problem the way we see it. You Government. I proposed a budget where need to write your Senators and make it discretionary spending grew at 4 percent. clear to them that you, like me, expect Within that budget I proposed last night people who have had injury to be able to is a substantial increase in Medicare fund- have their day in court. And that’s what ing of $400 billion on top of what we al- we want. We want a judicial system that ready spend, over the next 10 years. This works. If somebody is hurt, they ought to is a commitment that America must make have their day in court, but we need rea- to our seniors. A reformed and strength- sonable caps. We need to make sure that ened Medicare system, plus a healthy dos- this lottery, this lawsuit lottery doesn’t ruin age of Medicare spending in the budget, the health care for citizens all across our will make us say firmly, ‘‘We fulfilled our country. It’s an important piece of legisla- promise to the seniors of America.’’ tion, to help get control of costs that are We want health care to be affordable running out of sight here in the medical and accessible for our all our citizens, of industry today. course. One of the problems we have in Domestic policy is incredibly important, our society is we’ve got too many junk law- and I’ll spend a lot of time on it. But suits, too many lawsuits against docs and there’s nothing more important than pro- hospitals, too many frivolous lawsuits which tecting the American people from harm.

94 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 29

I knew one of my challenges was going are brought to justice. And they will be— to be to make sure people understood that they will be. distance between September the 11th, Our coalition is still strong. The doctrine 2001, did not necessarily mean war had that says that either you’re with us, or ended and your Government can relax. War you’re with the enemy—that still exists. has not ended. The war that people And there are a lot of good people working brought to our soil still goes on. hard all across the world to bring these We’re doing everything we can in Wash- people to justice. The Brits hauled in a ington to protect our soil. We’ve got a new bunch the other day. You’ll see the Span- Department of Homeland Security that will iards. We’re sharing intelligence, and we’re be up and running here pretty quickly. It’s watching them. And when they pop their a better way to coordinate all the assets heads up, we’re getting them, one by one. at our disposal, to protect our borders and And it doesn’t matter how long it’s going protect our airports, protect our infrastruc- to take. It just doesn’t matter. Slowly but ture—if need be, respond in an efficient surely, we will bring them to justice. Be- way on your behalf. cause this country understands and this Our intelligence services, FBI, are work- generation understands, we have an obliga- ing a lot better than ever before. The FBI’s tion to protect our land. That’s our most whole culture has changed from one that, important thing we do. ‘‘We will haul you in,’’ to one that says, And by the way, in Afghanistan, we’re ‘‘We’ll prevent a danger from happening not leaving for another reason. We didn’t in the first place as best we can.’’ In other go into Afghanistan as conquerors; we went words, we’re on alert. in as liberators. We liberated people from We know that there is still an enemy the clutches of one of the most barbaric which lurks, and there is—there is. And regimes imaginable, and we’re helping to they’re nothing but a bunch of coldblooded build schools and health care centers. killers, by the way. You know, they just Tommy was telling me they’re fixing to don’t value life like we do. The great thing open one up in a couple of months in about America is we say, ‘‘Every life is pre- Afghanistan. And we’re building highways. cious. Everybody counts. Everybody has We’re helping these good people get back worth.’’ And they just don’t view it that on their feet. way. They kill in the name of a false ide- That’s the great compassion about our ology based upon hatred. country: We’re strong in our might; we’re And as I told the Congress last night, compassionate in our vision. Everybody and the country, we’re winning this war. matters. Everybody has worth in the eyes We’re chasing them down, one by one, and of the American people. It doesn’t matter bringing them to justice. Make no mistake where you’re from, the nature of your reli- about it, we are slowly but surely disman- gion. tling their organization. Everybody counts, including the millions Yesterday some of them bunched up in who suffer from AIDS in Africa. This is parts of Afghanistan. They, unfortunately, a moral nation. We’re a great nation. We met the United States military head on— have a chance to use our wealth and our unfortunately for them. [Laughter] The rea- abilities to help cure that epidemic that son I bring that up is our troops are still plagues a group of people. I call upon the in Afghanistan, and they’re doing a great generosity of the American people, at this job. The country needs our presence and time of tragedy, where thousands are dying, will have our presence—needs our pres- where thousands of children are being or- ence to help make sure that those remnants phaned, to join in a great cause, a great of Al Qaida that still lurk around the area humanitarian cause, a cause beyond all

95 Jan. 29 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 imaginable—a cause to solve unimaginable he’s dangerous. He’s used them. He tor- problems, to help the people who are need- tures his own people. He’s gassed his own lessly dying. We can make a huge dif- people. He’s attacked people in the neigh- ference, a significant difference in the lives borhood. of thousands of our fellow human beings. What’s changed for America, besides the I want people to step back at some point fact that he’s still dangerous and can create in time and say, ‘‘Thank God for America havoc with friends in the neighborhood, is and our generosity,’’ as lives were saved. that there’s now a shadowy terrorist net- My point is, our presence in the world work which he could use as a forward is more than just our might, but our might army, attacking his worst enemy and never is needed in the world right now to make leave a fingerprint behind, with deadly, the world a more peaceful place. The war deadly weapons. And that’s what’s changed. on terror is not confined strictly to the Al We’re having an honest debate in this Qaida that we’re chasing. The war on terror country, and we should, about peace and extends beyond just a shadowy terrorist net- how to achieve the peace. It should be work. The war on terror involves Saddam clear to you now, though, that in my judg- Hussein because of the nature of Saddam ment you don’t contain Saddam Hussein. Hussein, the history of Saddam Hussein You don’t hope that therapy will somehow and his willingness to terrorize, himself. change his evil mind—[laughter]—that you Saddam Hussein has terrorized his own deal with Saddam Hussein. I hope we can people. He’s terrorized his own neighbor- do this peacefully. hood. He is a danger not only to countries I went to the United Nations for a rea- in the region, but as I explained last night, son. One, I want the United Nations to because of Al Qaida connections, because be something other than an empty debating of his history, he’s a danger to the Amer- society. I wanted it to address this threat. ican people. And we’ve got to deal with By a 15-to-0 vote in the Security Council, him. We’ve got to deal with him before they said, ‘‘Yes, it’s a problem and he must it is too late. disarm.’’ But the fundamental question is, Before September the 11th, during a pe- when? riod when a lot of us thought oceans would There’s a lot of focus on the inspectors, protect us forever from gathering threats and we wish them well. But the role of far from our land, the thought of containing the inspectors is not to play hide-and-seek somebody like Saddam Hussein made with Saddam Hussein in a country the size sense—so we could step back in America of California. There’s 108 inspectors run- and say, ‘‘Gosh. Well, don’t worry. He’s ning around a country trying to stumble only a threat to somebody in the neighbor- into something, 108 people who are being hood, and we might pick or choose whether misled by a person who’s made a history or not we’re going to help in the neighbor- of fooling inspectors. See, the role of the hood.’’ But see, our fellow citizens must inspectors are not to play ‘‘gotcha.’’ He’s understand that September the 11th, 2001, better at playing ‘‘gotcha,’’ obviously—for changed the equation. It’s changed the stra- 12 years he’s played ‘‘gotcha.’’ The role of tegic outlook of this country, because we’re the inspectors are to watch Iraq disarm. not protected by oceans. The battlefield is That’s the role of the inspectors. They’re here, and therefore, we must address to report back and say, ‘‘Gosh, he’s started threats today as they gather, before they getting rid of all his mustard gas or sarin become acute. gas. He started getting rid of these weapons There’s a reason why the world asked of mass destruction. He’s now getting rid Saddam Hussein to disarm—for 12 years. of the biological laboratories.’’ That’s the [Laughter] And the reason why is because role of the inspectors.

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And it’s clear he’s not disarming. I’m will also go in to make sure that those convinced that this still can be done peace- who are hungry are fed, those who need fully. I certainly hope so. The idea of com- health care will have health care, those mitting troops is my last option, not my youngsters who need education will get first. I understand the terrible price of war. education. But most of all, we will uphold I understand what it means to put some- our values. And the biggest value we hold body into combat. I know what it means dear is the value of freedom. As I said to hug mothers and wives. But I’ve got last night, freedom and liberty, they are to tell you something. I’ve thought long not America’s gifts to the world. They are and hard about this. The risks of doing God’s gift to humanity. We hold that nothing, the risk of assuming the best from thought dear to our hearts. Saddam Hussein, it’s just not a risk worth This is a great nation. America is a strong taking. nation. America is a nation full of people So I call upon the world to come to- who are compassionate. America is a nation gether and insist that this dangerous man that is willing to serve causes greater than disarm. But should they choose not to con- ourselves. There’s no question we face chal- tinue to pressure Saddam and should he lenges ahead of us, challenges at home, continue to defy the world, for the sake challenges abroad. But as I said last night, of our peace, for the sake of the security, history has called the right nation into ac- this country will lead a coalition of other tion. History has called the United States willing nations, and we will disarm Saddam into action, and we will not let history Hussein. If need be, if war is brought upon down. us like I said last night, I want to assure Thank you all for coming. May God you, particularly those who wear the uni- bless. form and those who have a loved one in the military, we will commit the full force and might of the United States military, NOTE: The President spoke at 12:40 p.m. at and for the name of peace, we will prevail. the DeVos Performance Hall. In his remarks, And when we do, we will free people. he referred to Gov. Jennifer M. Granholm, This great, powerful Nation is motivated State Attorney General Mike Cox, and Sec- not by power for power’s sake but because retary of State Terri Lynn Land of Michigan; of our values. If everybody matters, if every and President Saddam Hussein of Iraq. The life counts, then we should hope everybody Office of the Press Secretary also released has the great God’s gift of freedom. We a Spanish language transcript of these re- go into Iraq to disarm the country. We marks.

Statement on the Reelection of Prime Minister Ariel Sharon of Israel January 29, 2003

I congratulate Prime Minister Ariel look forward to continuing to work with Sharon on his victory in Israel’s elections Prime Minister Sharon and his new govern- yesterday. The friendship between the ment in the search for peace and security United States and Israel, and our commit- for all Israelis and all Palestinians. ment to Israel’s security, remain firm. I

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Message to the Congress Transmitting a Report on the Extension of Normal Trade Relations Status for Certain Former Eastern Bloc States January 29, 2003

To the Congress of the United States: dent Clinton determined that title IV of On September 21, 1994, then-President the Trade Act of 1974 should no longer Clinton determined and reported to the apply to Kyrgyzstan, and on December 29, Congress that the Russian Federation was 2000, pursuant to section 3002 of Public not in violation of paragraphs (1), (2), or Law 106–476, he determined that title IV (3), of subsection 402(a) of the Trade Act of the Trade Act of 1974 should no longer of 1974, or paragraphs (1), (2), or (3), of apply to Georgia. subsection 409(a) of that Act. On June 3, As required by law, I am submitting an 1997, he also determined and reported to updated report to the Congress that was the Congress that Armenia, Azerbaijan, prepared by my Administration concerning Georgia, Moldova, and Ukraine were not the emigration laws and policies of Arme- in violation of the same provisions, and nia, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Moldova, the made an identical determination on De- Russian Federation, Tajikistan, cember 5, 1997, with respect to Turkmenistan, Ukraine, and Uzbekistan. Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, The report indicates continued compliance Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. These ac- of these countries with international stand- tions allowed for the continuation of normal ards concerning freedom of emigration. trade relations for these countries and certain other activities without the require- GEORGE W. BUSH ment of an annual waiver. On June 29, 2000, pursuant to section The White House, 302(b) of Public Law 106–200, then-Presi- January 29, 2003.

Message to the Congress Transmitting a Report on the National Emergency With Respect to the Western Balkans January 29, 2003

To the Congress of the United States: tion on the national emergency with respect As required by section 401(c) of the Na- to the Western Balkans that was declared tional Emergencies Act, 50 U.S.C. 1641(c), in Executive Order 13219 of June 26, 2001. and section 204(c) of the International GEORGE W. BUSH Emergency Economic Powers Act, 50 U.S.C. 1703(c), I transmit herewith a 6- The White House, month report prepared by my Administra- January 29, 2003.

98 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 30

Message to the Congress Transmitting a Notice of Intention To Enter Into a Free Trade Agreement With Chile January 29, 2003

To the Congress of the United States: and services between the United States and In accordance with sections 2103(a)(1) Chile totaled $8.5 billion. This Agreement and 2105(a)(1) of the Trade Act of 2002 will improve opportunities for U.S. exports, (the ‘‘Trade Act’’), I am pleased to notify growth, and investment, while also pro- the Congress of my intent to enter into viding increased opportunities for the peo- a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the ple of Chile. Government of Chile. In this Agreement, the vast majority of The Agreement we have negotiated pro- U.S. and Chilean goods will become duty- motes our commitment to secure a level free immediately. Most remaining tariffs playing field and to open new opportunities will be eliminated within 4 years and all for America’s workers, farmers, businesses, tariffs and quotas will be eliminated over and consumers in global trade. The United a 12-year period. Over three-quarters of States is a party to only three out of more U.S. farm goods will enter Chile duty-free than 200 existing FTAs, leaving Americans within 4 years. at a competitive disadvantage in many mar- The United States is a global leader in kets. With the enactment of Trade Pro- services. This Agreement locks in substan- motion Authority; the completion of this tial market access across the entire services Agreement; ongoing global, regional, and sector. bilateral trade negotiations; and the continued support of the Congress, the United Fair treatment of U.S. goods and services States is reasserting leadership in world is important to increasing market access. trade. This Agreement has, among other provi- United States leadership in promoting sions, specific and groundbreaking customs trade liberalization advances our national procedures and transparency requirements interests. Free trade promotes our values that will promote efficiency and fairness. by encouraging openness, the rule of law, It also establishes a secure and predictable and respect for private property. It builds legal framework for U.S. investors operating global prosperity and strengthens security. in Chile. Free trade employs the power of markets This is an agreement for the economy to meet the needs of the poor and has of the 21st century. Inventors, performers, helped lift millions of people out of poverty authors, and creative enterprises in the by putting them on the path to prosperity. United States and Chile will benefit from In the extended campaign against terrorism, enhanced copyright, patent, trademark, free trade can be an economic ally. By trade secret, and other intellectual property helping to create opportunity and hope in rights protection. The Agreement also con- poorer societies, open trade counters those tains state-of-the-art protections for digital who would destroy rather than create. products and electronic commerce. Securing open access to markets abroad My Administration is committed to mov- is vital to the strength and continued ing forward on multiple fronts to advance growth of the U.S. economy. In the pre- environmental protection and worker rights vious decade, exports accounted for 25 per- in a credible and responsible manner. This cent of our growth and currently support Agreement meets the labor and environ- the jobs of more than 12 million Ameri- mental objectives provided by the Congress cans. In 2001, two-way trade of all goods in the Trade Act.

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In sum, free trade is a fundamental ing with the Congress to develop appro- source of America’s economic vitality. This priate legislation to approve and implement Agreement will benefit the U.S. economy this Free Trade Agreement. through both higher-paying jobs created by exporters and lower prices paid by con- GEORGE W. BUSH sumers. It will strengthen U.S. ties with The White House, a valued economic partner and promote America’s political and security interests in January 29, 2003. an important region. As called for by the Trade Act, I am NOTE: This message was released by the Of- sending this notification at least 90 days fice of the Press Secretary on January 30. in advance of signing the U.S.-Chile FTA. The notice of January 29 is listed in Appendix My Administration looks forward to work- D at the end of this volume.

Message to the Congress Transmitting a Notice of Intention To Enter Into a Free Trade Agreement With Singapore January 29, 2003

To the Congress of the United States: Free trade employs the power of markets In accordance with sections 2103(a)(1) to meet the needs of the poor and has and 2105(a)(1) of the Trade Act of 2002 helped lift millions of people out of poverty (the ‘‘Trade Act’’), I am pleased to notify by putting them on the path to prosperity. the Congress of my intent to enter into In the extended campaign against terrorism, a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the free trade can be an economic ally. By Government of Singapore. helping to create opportunity and hope in The Agreement we have negotiated pro- poorer societies, open trade counters those motes our commitment to secure a level who would destroy rather than create. playing field and open new opportunities Securing open access to markets abroad for America’s workers, farmers, businesses, is vital to the strength and continued and consumers in global trade. The United growth of the U.S. economy. In the pre- States is a party to only three out of more vious decade, exports accounted for 25 per- than 200 existing FTAs, leaving Americans cent of our economic growth. They cur- at a competitive disadvantage in many mar- rently support the jobs of more than 12 kets. With the enactment of Trade Pro- million Americans. motion Authority; the completion of this Singapore is our 11th largest trading Agreement; ongoing global, regional, and bilateral trade negotiations; and the contin- partner with total two-way trade in goods ued support of the Congress, the United and services valued at $38.8 billion in 2001. States is reasserting leadership in world This FTA will improve opportunities for trade. U.S. exports, growth, and investment, while United States leadership in promoting also providing increased opportunities for trade liberalization advances our national the people of Singapore. This Agreement interests. Free trade promotes our values provides for substantial market access by encouraging openness, the rule of law, across the entire services sector and locks and respect for private property. It builds in Singapore’s zero tariff rates on goods, global prosperity and strengthens security. including agriculture.

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Fair treatment of U.S. goods and services In sum, free trade is a fundamental is important to increasing market access. source of America’s economic vitality. This This Agreement has, among other provi- Agreement will benefit the U.S. economy sions, specific and groundbreaking customs through both higher-paying jobs created by procedures and transparency requirements exports and lower prices paid by con- that will promote efficiency and fairness. sumers. It will strengthen U.S. ties with It also establishes a secure and predictable a valued economic partner and promote legal framework for U.S. investors operating America’s political and security interests in in Singapore. an important region. This is an agreement for the economy As called for by the Trade Act, I am of the 21st century. Inventors, performers, sending this notification at least 90 days authors, and creative enterprises in the in advance of signing the U.S.-Singapore United States and Singapore will benefit FTA. My Administration looks forward to from enhanced copyright, patent, trade- working with the Congress to develop ap- mark, trade secret, and other intellectual propriate legislation to approve and imple- property rights protection. The Agreement ment this Free Trade Agreement. also contains state-of-the-art protections for digital products and electronic commerce. GEORGE W. BUSH My Administration is committed to mov- The White House, ing forward on multiple fronts to advance January 29, 2003. environmental protection and worker rights in a credible and responsible manner. This NOTE: This message was released by the Of- Agreement meets the labor and environ- fice of the Press Secretary on January 30. mental objectives provided by the Congress The notice of January 29 is listed in Appendix in the Trade Act. D at the end of this volume.

Message to the Congress Transmitting a Report on the National Emergency With Respect to Iraq January 29, 2003

To the Congress of the United States: to Iraq that was declared in Executive As required by section 401(c) of the Na- Order 12722 of August 2, 1990. tional Emergencies Act, 50 U.S.C. 1641(c), GEORGE W. BUSH and section 204(c) of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, 50 The White House, U.S.C. 1703(c), I am providing a 6-month January 29, 2003. periodic report prepared by my Administra- NOTE: This message was released by the Of- tion on the national emergency with respect fice of the Press Secretary on January 30.

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Message to the Congress on the United States Air Force Operating Location Near Groom Lake, Nevada January 29, 2003

To the Congress of the United States: tinued protection of this information is, Consistent with section 6001(a) of the therefore, in the paramount interest of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act United States. (RCRA) (the ‘‘Act’’), as amended, 42 U.S.C. The determination was not intended to 6961(a), notification is hereby given that imply that, in the absence of a Presidential on September 13, 2002, I issued Presi- exemption, RCRA or any other provision dential Determination 2002–30 (copy en- of law permits or requires the disclosure closed) and thereby exercised the authority of classified information to unauthorized to grant certain exemptions under section persons. The determination also was not 6001(a) of the Act. intended to limit the applicability or en- Presidential Determination 2002–30 ex- forcement of any requirement of law appli- empted the United States Air Force’s oper- cable to the Air Force’s operating location ating location near Groom Lake, Nevada, near Groom Lake except those provisions, from any Federal, State, interstate, or local if any, that might require the disclosure hazardous or solid waste laws that might of classified information. require the disclosure of classified informa- GEORGE W. BUSH tion concerning that operating location to unauthorized persons. Information con- The White House, cerning activities at the operating location January 29, 2003. near Groom Lake has been properly determined to be classified, and its disclosure NOTE: This message was released by the Of- would be harmful to national security. Con- fice of the Press Secretary on January 30.

Remarks on the Anniversary of the USA Freedom Corps January 30, 2003

Thank you all for coming. The most com- course, Senators Glenn and Dole, distin- passionate thing Darrell Green has done guished Americans who have served their is to retire—[laughter]—particularly if country in many ways. Along with those, you’re a Dallas Cowboys fan. [Laughter] there’s a lot of other well-known Americans The most compassionate thing Darrell who have heard a call to be responsible Green has done is decided to lend his heart citizens for the future of this country by to help America be a more welcoming soci- using their positions of influence and stat- ety for every citizen. I appreciate his lead- ure to rally the true strength of the country, ership. I appreciate his friendship, and I which is the compassion of our fellow citi- appreciate the other members of the Presi- zens. And I want to thank them for their dent’s Council on Service and Civic Partici- participation in this commission. pation. It’s a commission not only to convince Darrell will lead this distinguished group our fellow citizens to love one another just of citizens. We have plucked two really fine like we like to be loved; it’s a commission Americans to be Vice Chairmen. That’s, of also to devise practical ways to encourage

102 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 30 others to serve. And one practical way is must play an active role at rallying the com- for the development of an award that passion of this country. Americans from all walks of life all around I want to thank the Boys & Girls Clubs our country will be able to post boldly on across the country but particularly here in their wall, that says, ‘‘I served this great Washington, DC—Pat Shannon and Tim country by loving somebody.’’ And I want Sheahan—for opening up this facility. The to thank you all for joining us. It is an Boys & Girls Club have got a grand history important program. of helping children understand the future I want to thank members of my adminis- is bright for them as well as any other tration who are here who will be involved child in America. Boys & Girls Clubs have in the implementation of some of the initia- been safe havens. They’re little beacons of tives that I’ve outlined to the United States light for children who might not see light. Congress. The Secretary of Education is And I want to thank them for their service here, Rod Paige, behind me. John Ashcroft to the country. Part of the vision for Amer- is here, the Attorney General. Rich ica is that we have a mosaic of all kinds Carmona, who is the U.S. Surgeon General, of people providing love and comfort for is with us today. Stephen Goldsmith, who people who need help. And Boys & Girls is the Chair of the Corporation for National Club is a part of that majestic mosaic of and Community Service, is with us. Les America. Lenkowsky is with us, who is the CEO One of the great strengths of our country of that Corporation. Gaddi Vasquez, who is the fact that the social entrepreneurial is the head of the Peace Corps, is with spirit is strong. We got people all across us. this land who don’t wait for some law And most importantly, Alma Powell, Sec- passed out of the United States Congress retary of Colin Powell, is with us. Where to say, ‘‘What can I do to help a neighbor are you? There she is. She’s kind of like in need?’’ There are thousands all across my mother in many ways. She’s always tell- this country who have—who are making a ing me what to do—[laughter]—and I’m singular difference in the lives of one cit- always listening. izen or one neighborhood or one commu- I want to thank Congressman Tom nity. And the impact of all that care and Osborne for coming today. Congressman, love allowed me to say point-blank to the I’m honored that you’re here. I appreciate American people after the tragedy that out your compassion and your care for our fel- of the evil done to America is going to low citizens. They tell me Tim Roemer is come some incredible good. here, who just retired from the United I do think there is an important role States Congress. I appreciate Tim’s partici- for Government. One of the roles of Gov- pation. ernment is to ask people to serve today. I know the Mayor is here. Mayor An- Once again, I’m asking our fellow citizens thony Williams, who is a—I like to tease to serve your community and to serve your the Mayor, remind him that—to keep fixing country by finding a program that will those potholes in front of the White make a difference in somebody’s lives. It House—[laughter]—keep that garbage col- doesn’t matter how big or small the pro- lected. [Laughter] But he’s doing a fine gram may sound. What matters is your love job, and I’m proud to call him friend, just and your energy and your participation. like many of the citizens here are proud Help somebody who is lonely. Mentor to call him Mayor. I want to thank mem- somebody who needs care and concern. bers of the city council who are here as Feed the hungry. Find shelter for the well. Mayors and city council members homeless. Answer the call of this country.

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A year ago we started what’s called the gress to pass the ‘‘Citizen Service Act’’ to USA Freedom Corps. I thought it was im- make sure that—[applause]. portant for the Federal Government to lend Part of being a compassionate country a structure to the thousands who may want also means we need to be compassionate to help, to provide an outlet for those who abroad. That’s one of the reasons I laid heard the call to provide 4,000 hours, 2 out a powerful AIDS initiative for the citi- years of service. And people are respond- zens in Africa who suffer from AIDS. It’s ing. There are over 60,000 opportunities an initiative that I believe will lend the that the USA Freedom Corps can steer great heart of the American people to the people to, opportunities to volunteer all salvation of life after life after life on that across the country. And thousands and continent. thousands and thousands of our fellow citi- And I want to tell the folks that Peace zens have inquired as to how to help, have Corps applications are up by 30 percent. said, ‘‘I want to help. Let me be a part And what I find—and even more inter- of an optimistic future for America.’’ And esting, 38 more countries have asked for I want to thank those thousands who have Peace Corps volunteers to come into their signed up. land to help their country and to help their Corporate America has a responsibility. citizens realize their full potential. See, in It’s fine to sell product, and that’s impor- this country, we say, ‘‘Every life matters. tant. There’s a lot of responsibilities that Everybody is precious. Everybody counts.’’ Senior Corps is vibrant and strong these come with running a company. Telling the days in America. There’s over a half a mil- truth is a responsibility that comes with lion members of Senior Corps. [Applause] running a country, by the way; treating Sounds like it’s vibrant and strong right your—being honest with your shareholder, here in this room. [Laughter] if you’re a public company; being thought- We’ve got 300 Citizen Corps Councils ful to your employee. But I also believe around America to help every community there’s a corporate responsibility to encour- prepare in case of emergency. It’s a useful age and provide incentive for employees way to—for many of our citizens to volun- to go help in the community in which the teer, to help lend their talents to make company exists. One hundred-sixty compa- sure America is buttoned up and prepared nies have signed up. I know Rich Parsons if the worst were to happen again. is here, of AOL/Time Warner, Gene Case; I think we ought to take our initiatives and this company has been one of the— and make sure that they’re focused and on the forefront, among others—Nardelli, pointed as well—particularly at the Federal of Home Depot, as well—have encouraged level. What I’m about to say doesn’t pre- their employees to not only provide good clude other good things happening in product but provide love and compassion America, but I do think it makes sense in their communities. to take some of our resources and lend And I want to thank corporate America them to help those who are vulnerable citi- for hearing the call. I encourage more com- zens, those who have got great potential panies and more corporations to participate but need a little extra help. in this quest to make sure the American I strongly believe in mentoring. I know Dream extends itself in every neighborhood we can change America one heart and one and in every corner of this country. soul at a time. There’s just no doubt in AmeriCorps has got tens of thousands my mind we can. So I want to rally the of people helping to inoculate children compassion of the country to focus on jun- against disease or tutoring children. I’m a ior high students who may need a mentor. supporter of AmeriCorps. I urge the Con- And I particularly—I want to help the boys

104 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 30 and girls whose mom or dad may be incar- I asked my fellow citizens to think about cerated. There are programs all across our how you can be a person making some- country that already do that. I fully recog- body’s life better. I talked to Cecil from nize that. This isn’t anything new. This is St. John’s Baptist in Columbus, Maryland. a way to build upon the good works that Cecil said his preacher called him into ac- already exist. tion and his wife said, ‘‘You keep talking I was in Philadelphia. I saw the program about the need for mentors, but you that has been existing way before I was haven’t done a darn thing about it.’’ Cecil thinking about writing my speech, about and I married well. The same thing hap- how that community—out of a church— pens to me, Cecil. [Laughter] But Cecil began to call upon other members of decided to become a mentor. He brought churches throughout Philadelphia to love his young mentoree with him today. I de- a child who has to hug a mom or dad cided I’d trick the guy and say, ‘‘You got through a prison bar. And it’s making a any goals?’’ He looked me right in the eye difference in the lives of those children. and said, ‘‘I’m going to be an architect. We need to have that type of program I’m going to be an architect.’’ Congratula- all across the country. I’m asking for the tions to a great future architect of America, Congress to provide $450 million. The but congratulation as well to his mentor money will go to encourage recruitment, who helped set the example. Cecil, thank provide structure, to cover the overhead you for coming, and thank your church. necessary to rally the mentors, to find the I met Mark Harris. Mark wears the uni- folks that are willing to hear the call. I form of the United States of America. He’s believe we can change lives through men- in our military. Mark is here to continue toring. his education, and he met Antonio. See, You know why I say that? I say it be- he’s a big brother, a part of the Big Broth- cause I’ve seen mentor and mentoree and ers and Big Sisters program, which is one heard their testimony, just like I did today, of our Nation’s strongest mentoring pro- earlier. I heard about the Best Friends Pro- grams. He realized service to the country gram here in Washington, DC, changing was more than just putting on the uniform. lives. I met a young lady, a junior in college Service to the country was serving our from Atlanta, Georgia. She goes to school country by loving somebody, by being a up here. And her college—they said, ‘‘We mentor. He understands what I know, that need people to help. We got what we call when you change a life, you change the a U.S. Dream Academy.’’ And she heard country for the better. Mark and I share the call—a junior in college. So I said, a deep passion. We not only want a secure ‘‘Can you help?’’ And she said, ‘‘You bet country, we want a hopeful country as well, I can help.’’ Erica is now mentoring, and an optimistic country. I want to thank her for her mentorship. I met Karin Walser. She’s what I call She’s changing one life. Her love and her a social entrepreneur. I think I’m looking compassion and her dedication to some- at a lot of social entrepreneurs here. These thing greater than herself will give her the are people who are, as we say in the great satisfaction of knowing that she has vernacular, ‘‘thinking outside the box’’ to made one life better. She may make a lot make America a better place. She started of other lives better, too. But right now, a program called Horton’s Kids, which is she can say, ‘‘I’m making one life better.’’ a mentoring program on Capitol Hill—use It’s that cumulative effect of people in the facilities there to help children under- America being able to say, ‘‘I have made stand structure and focus and love in their one life better,’’ that will make the whole lives. No, mentoring is a fabulous, fabulous country better. part of the American society.

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Larry Compton knows. He’s a 23-year- I believe we can achieve peace at home, old student who is with us today. He was and I believe we can achieve peace abroad. mentored as a kid coming up in Pontiac, Likewise, I believe we can achieve a hope- Michigan. He found direction in his life, ful, hopeful future. and guess what? He now mentors. He has Listen, there are pockets of despair in been mentored, and he now mentors. America. In spite our plenty, in spite of My point is, it’s the beginning of a proc- the fact that we’ve got great wealth com- ess that feeds upon itself. Mentoring will pared to many societies, there are people change the country. I ask the Congress to who hurt, people who wonder about their pass this initiative. I ask my fellow citizens future, people who are lost, people who to join many, many fellow citizens in loving are addicted, people who need help. And somebody who needs help. there is no question in my mind, however, And as we structure response to society’s that because of the great strength of our needs, we must never forget the power of country, the compassion of our people, we faith in our society. There’s a—some of can help those people realize a better to- the greatest programs, initiatives, come out morrow. of our faith-based programs or faith-based The goal of this country is for every- churches or synagogues or mosques. You one—not just a few—everyone in every know why? There is a universal call to love community in every State in every part of somebody like you’d like to be loved your- our country to understand the greatness self. The handbook is pretty clear about and potential of this country. Everybody the role of—[applause]. There are fabulous counts in life. Everybody matters. Every- programs that aren’t related to faith-based body is precious in the sight of the Al- initiatives. That’s fine, and that’s good. But mighty. Everybody has worth. That would the corollary to that is, Government should be a philosophy that drives this Govern- not discriminate against faith-based pro- ment as we work to strive to make the grams. They ought to welcome faith-based American experience strong and hopeful for programs in our society. every single citizen. There are fantastic programs that helped I want to thank my fellow citizens for drug addicts kick their habit, and I think your love. I want to thank my fellow citi- we ought to focus resources and time and zens for your time. I want to thank your efforts to help those who are addicted to fellow citizens—my fellow citizens for serv- drugs. But there are also some wonderful ing something greater than yourself, the programs based upon faith, on the under- greatest country on the face of this Earth. standing that if you change a person’s God bless you all, and God bless America. heart, you can change that person’s behavior. Our Government should welcome faith- NOTE: The President spoke at 10:25 a.m. at based programs into our society. the Jelleff Branch, Boys & Girls Clubs of So I’ll continue to work with Congress Greater Washington. In his remarks, he re- to get this, the full aspects of the Faith- ferred to former Washington Redskins player Based Initiative out of the Halls of Con- Darrell Green; Alma Powell, wife of Sec- gress. We ought not to be stuck on process. retary of State Colin Powell; Mayor Anthony We ought to be focused on results. We A. Williams of Washington, DC; Patricia G. ought to ask the question, does it work? Shannon, president and chief executive offi- And if it works, we ought to welcome any- cer, and Tim Sheahan, executive vice presi- thing that works to save American lives. dent, Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Wash- I’m a confident man. I’m a confident ington; Rich Parsons, chief executive officer, man about the future of this country. I and Steve Case, chairman, AOL/Time War- truly believe that we can achieve peace. ner; and Bob Nardelli, chairman, president,

106 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 30 and chief executive officer, Home Depot. leased a Spanish language transcript of these The Office of the Press Secretary also re- remarks.

Remarks Prior to Discussions With Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi of Italy and an Exchange With Reporters January 30, 2003

President Bush. I will make an opening Prime Minister Berlusconi. No, no. I statement; Silvio will make an opening have never the time. We have so much statement; we’ll have one question from the to do in Italy, I have not the time to—— Americans, one question from the Italians. President Bush. Not the time to practice? We’re running a little late. We’d like to Prime Minister Berlusconi. ——to learn spend hours answering your questions, but better English. the problem is we’ve got other matters to President Bush. Well, thank you for that work on. kind comment. Ron [Ron Fournier, Associ- First, it’s my honor to welcome Silvio ated Press]. Berlusconi back. He is a personal friend. President Saddam Hussein of Iraq Italy is a great friend of America; America is a great friend of Italy. The Prime Min- Q. Sir, are you open to giving Saddam ister and I will of course be talking about a final deadline, and are you willing to let a lot of matters, the most significant matter him slip into exile—this, a man who re- will be how to keep the peace, how to cently said he wants to break the neck of our country? make the world a peaceful place. President Bush. First, let me echo the I am most grateful that the Prime Min- comments of my National Security Adviser, ister signed a letter, along with other lead- who the other day in commenting about ers of European countries, which clarified this process said this is a matter of weeks, the issue that we’re dealing with, and that not months. In other words, for the sake is that Saddam Hussein is a clear threat of peace, this issue must be resolved. to peace. It was a strong statement. It also Hopefully, it can be done peacefully. Hope- was a statement of solidarity with the fully, the pressure of the free world will United States, and I appreciated that very convince Mr. Saddam Hussein to relinquish much. power. And should he choose to leave the Prime Minister Berlusconi. Thank you. country, along with a lot of the other President Bush. I appreciate your friend- henchmen who have tortured the Iraqi peo- ship. I welcome you back to the Oval Of- ple, we would welcome that, of course. fice and look forward to having a long and I will tell my friend Silvio that the use fruitful discussion. of military troops is my last choice, not Prime Minister Berlusconi. We are here my first. The commitment of young men for good work, for a just cause, and for and Americans into battle is a difficult deci- everybody, I think. And I am here with sion, because I understand the cost of war. a friend, with a country, that is the best But I also understand the cost of inaction. friend of my country. There is a high price to be paid for the President Bush. Well, thank you. And civilized world by not enforcing the opinion your English is very good. of the world, which was for Saddam Hussein to disarm.

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There’s a reason why leaders around the And I also want to assure Silvio that world believe he ought to disarm. There’s should we require military action, shortly a reason why the Security Council of the after our troops go in will go food and United Nations voted 15 to nothing to say medicine and supplies to the Iraqi people. to Saddam, disarm—and that’s because he’s We will, of course, win militarily, if we dangerous. have to. But we’ll also want to make sure Would you care to call on somebody that we win the peace as well. from the Italian press? Would you care to call on somebody in Prime Minister Berlusconi. In Italy, I al- the Italian press? ready said it. I had the opportunity to say that we have always been the faithful ally Italy-U.S. Relations country of United States; we are close Q. Mr. Prime Minister, I just had a ques- friends of the United States, also in this tion. You expressed your sentiment to case. friendship for the United States, and loy- I believe that the moment has arrived alty. Now, will you be ready to commit to find out where all the weapons of mass Italy to go along with the United States destruction that Saddam Hussein said he should the United States put together a had, where they ended up. We really fear coalition of the willing, as the President that after the series of terrorist attacks has said? which culminated with the attacks on Sep- And to you, Mr. President, do you expect tember 11th, there is the intention of the Mr. Berlusconi—— terrorists is to really come to a terrible Assistant Press Secretary Reed Dickens. disaster. And to do so, they have to avail Only one question. themselves of the biological, chemical President Bush. I would have answered weapons that we know were available as it, but they said no. [Laughter] But I don’t Saddam Hussein. even know the question. Go ahead. Therefore, on the basis of the United Prime Minister Berlusconi. We will never Nations Security Council Resolution 1441, forget that we owe our freedom—our free- Saddam Hussein has to reveal and account dom, our wealth to the United States of for the weapons that we know he has. So America, and our democracy. And we also the decision on peace rests in his hands. We all want peace. will never forget that there have been many And I’m here today to help my friend American young lives that were lost and President Bush to convince everybody that sacrifice themselves for us. this is in the interest of everybody. And So for us, the United States is not only if we are all united, the European Union, our friend, but they are the guarantee of the United States, the Federation of Russia, our democracy and our freedom. And I everybody, all the other states under the already had the opportunity to say this to United Nations, then Saddam Hussein will President Bush: Every time I see the U.S. understand that he will have no other op- flag, I don’t see the flag only representative tion but to reveal the arms and to destroy of a country, but I see it as a symbol of them. democracy and of freedom. President Bush. Along those lines, let me President Bush. Thank you, sir. Thanks. make one clarification on my statement. I think that no matter how Mr. Saddam is NOTE: The President spoke at 12:13 p.m. in dealt with, the goal of disarming Iraq still the Oval Office at the White House. Except stays the same, regardless of who is in for his opening remarks, Prime Minister charge of the Government. And that’s very Berlusconi spoke in Italian, and his remarks important for the Iraqi people to know. were translated by an interpreter.

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Statement on Joining the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor Collaboration January 30, 2003

I am pleased to announce that the The United States will be working with United States will join ITER, an ambitious the United Kingdom, other European international research project to harness the Union nations, Russia, China, Japan, and promise of fusion energy. The results of Canada on the creation of ITER. Today ITER will advance the effort to produce I am directing the Secretary of Energy to clean, safe, renewable, and commercially represent the United States at the upcom- available fusion energy by the middle of ing ITER meetings in St. Petersburg, Rus- this century. Commercialization of fusion sia. We welcome the opportunity to work has the potential to dramatically improve with our partners to make fusion energy America’s energy security while significantly a reality. reducing air pollution and emissions of greenhouse gases.

Statement on Senate Confirmation of John Snow as Secretary of the Treasury January 30, 2003

I am pleased that the Senate acted jobs so that everyone who seeks work can quickly to confirm John Snow as Secretary find work. I thank Chairman Grassley and of the Treasury. John will work with me Senator Baucus and commend them for to strengthen economic growth and create their leadership.

Letter to Congressional Leaders Transmitting the Reorganization Plan Modification for the Department of Homeland Security January 30, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. President:) enclosed Reorganization Plan Modification Pursuant to section 1502 of the Home- provides information concerning the ele- land Security Act of 2002 (Public Law 107- ments identified in section 1502(b), and is 296) (the ‘‘Act’’), I submit herewith the en- itself subject to modification pursuant to closed Reorganization Plan Modification for section 1502(d) of the Act. In accordance the Department of Homeland Security with section 1502(a) of the Act, please (DHS), which represents a modification of transmit this Reorganization Plan Modifica- certain aspects of the DHS Reorganization tion to the appropriate congressional com- Plan I submitted to you on November 25, mittees. 2002. The modification involves organiza- Sincerely, tional units within the DHS Border and Transportation Security Directorate. The GEORGE W. BUSH

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NOTE: Identical letters were sent to J. Den- resentatives, and Richard B. Cheney, Presi- nis Hastert, Speaker of the House of Rep- dent of the Senate.

Remarks on the Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief January 31, 2003

Thank you all for coming. I’m honored that the proposal becomes real. That means you all are here. I’m so grateful that many funded. [Laughter] There’s no doubt in my from the diplomatic corps are here. mind that when you’ve got the majority This is a historic year for America. It’s leader and a distinguished Senator like Sen- a year of great consequence. It’s a year ator Feingold teaming up together, that this in which we have an opportunity to work will get done. It’s just a matter of time. with others to shape the future of our I’m honored that Mark Malloch is here— globe. We have a chance to achieve peace. Mark Malloch Brown is here, who is the We have a chance to achieve a more com- U.N.—administrator of the U.N. Develop- passionate world for every citizen. America ment Program. I want to thank—the U.S. believes deeply that everybody has worth, Surgeon General Carmona is here with us. everybody matters, everybody was created Rich, thank you for coming. Andrew by the Almighty, and we’re going to act Natsios is USAID administrator. Dr. on that belief, and we’ll act on that passion. Zerhouni of the NIH is with us. Tony You know, the world looks at us and Fauci is here with us. There are a lot of say, ‘‘They’re strong.’’ And we are. We’re docs here today. [Laughter] Julie strong militarily, but we’ve got a greater Gerberding of the Centers for Disease strength than that. We’ve got a strength Control and Prevention. Thank you all for in the universality of human rights and the coming today. Les Crawford is the deputy human condition. It’s in our country’s his- commissioner of the Food and Drug Ad- tory. It’s ingrained in our soul. And today ministration. we’re going to describe how we’re going And of course, a man who is on my to act, not just talk, but act, on the basis staff who is going to make an enormous of our firm beliefs. difference here and abroad as a direct ad- I want to thank Tommy; he’s the new viser to the President, and that’s Dr. Joe chairman of the board of the Global Fund. O’Neill, who’s the director of National He’s also the Secretary of Health and AIDS Policy. He’s about as fine a human Human Services, doing a great job for our being as you’ll ever know. He cares deeply, administration. I want to thank so very and his care has had—he’s got a lot of much the Ambassadors from Guyana and influence, let me put it to you this way, Uganda for standing up here with us today. because of his convictions. I appreciate the other ambassadors from As I mentioned, we’re a strong nation, the continent of Africa and the Caribbean but we’re also a blessed nation, and it’s for being here. important for our citizens to recognize it. With us as well is Bill Frist, a United Richness is one thing; recognizing that States Senator, majority leader, passionate we’re blessed gives a different perspective, advocate of good health care for every cit- I think. I think it enhances the fact that izen on the globe, a man with whom this we have a responsibility. If you’re blessed, administration will work, along with Russ there is a responsibility to recognize your Feingold, from Wisconsin, to make sure blessings in a compassionate way. Blessings

110 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 31 are a two-way street. We’ve got to under- listen to the dialog on this initiative, to stand in this country that if you value life understand that there are mass burials and and say every life is equal, that includes unmarked graves on the continent of Afri- a suffering child on the continent of Africa. ca. So many people are dying that the If you’re worried about freedom, that’s just graves are unmarked. The pandemic is cre- not freedom for your neighbor in America; ating such havoc that there are mass bur- that’s freedom for people around the globe. ials, that there are wards of children that It’s a universal principle. are dying because of AIDS, not a ward, As I said in my State of the Union, free- not some wards, but wards after wards full dom is not America’s gift to the world; of dying children because of AIDS, that freedom is God’s gift to humanity. Free- there are millions of orphans, lonely chil- dom means freedom from a lot of things. dren, because their mom or dad has died— And today, on the continent of Africa, free- children left, in some cases, to fend for dom means freedom from the fear of a themselves. deadly pandemic. That’s what we think in Because the AIDS diagnosis is consid- America, and we’re going to act on that ered a death sentence, many folks don’t belief. Our founding belief in human dig- seek treatment, and that’s a reality. It’s as nity should be how we conduct ourselves if the AIDS pandemic just continues to around the world and will be how we con- feed upon itself over and over and over duct ourselves around the world. again, because of hopelessness. This coun- I want you all to remember, and our try needs to provide some hope, because fellow citizens to remember, that this is this disease can be prevented and it can nothing new for our country. Human dig- be treated. That’s important for our fellow nity has been a part of our history for a citizens to know. Anti-retroviral drugs are long time. We fed the hungry after World now dramatically more affordable in many War I. This country carried out the Mar- nations, and these drugs are used to extend shall plan and the Berlin airlift. the lives of those with HIV. In other words, Today we provide 60 percent—over 60 these drugs are really affordable. percent of all the international food aid. And when the treatment has come to We’re acting on our compassion. It’s noth- Africa, it is also important for our citizens ing new for our country. But there’s a pan- to understand the effect of that treatment. demic which we must address now, before It’s called the Lazarus effect. When one it is too late. And that’s why I took this patient is rescued by medicine, as if back message to our fellow citizens, that now from the dead, many others with AIDS is the time for this country to step up our seek testing and treatment, because it is efforts to save lives. After all, on the con- the first sign of hope they have ever seen. tinent of Africa, 30 million people have the We have the opportunity to bring that AIDS virus—30 million people. Three mil- hope to millions. It’s an opportunity for lion children under the age of 15 have the this Nation to affect millions and millions AIDS virus. More than 4 million people of lives. And so that’s why I’ve laid out require immediate drug treatment. Yet, just the Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief. I about one percent of people receive drug called it in my State of the Union a work treatment. I mean, there is a significant of mercy, and that’s what I believe it is. world problem that the United States of With approval of Congress, we will de- America can do something about. We can vote $15 billion to the fight AIDS abroad be involved. over the next 5 years, beginning with 2 Tommy mentioned the images, the hor- billion in the year 2004. I’ve been asked rible images, that take place in Africa. It’s whether or not we’re committed to the important for our fellow citizens, as they Global AIDS Fund. Well, first of all, I

111 Jan. 31 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 wouldn’t put Tommy as the head of it if The funding will initially go toward ex- we weren’t. And more importantly, he panding existing hospitals and, of course, wouldn’t have joined if we weren’t. drawing on the knowledge and the exper- And so we’re still committed to the tise of local physicians. That makes sense. Global AIDS Fund to fight disease. This You’ve got a doc in place, we want to en- program in no way diminishes our commit- courage that doc to be able to continue ment to the fund. We will continue bilat- his or her healing. We’ll build satellite fa- eral AIDS programs in more than 50 coun- cilities that can serve more people. Of tries. We’ve already got bilateral relations course, we’ll provide antiretroviral drugs with 50 countries with whom we’re working and as well work with folks on the ground on AIDS, and we’ll continue that program. for education and care. But this plan that I’ve laid out in front It’s important for our citizens to know of the Congress, and will work with Mem- that the infrastructure is—it’s hard for bers of the Senate and the House on, will many Americans to imagine the lack of in- dramatically focus our efforts. You notice frastructure that we’re working with on the I didn’t say, ‘‘focus our efforts,’’ I said, continent of Africa. So we use motorcycles, ‘‘dramatically focus our efforts.’’ And that’s trucks, bicycles. We use nurses and local important for the American people to un- healers to go to the farthest villages and derstand, because we want to bring a com- farms to test for the disease and to deliver prehensive system. It’s more than money medications that will save lives. It doesn’t that we bring; we bring expertise and com- matter how the medications get there; what passion and love and the desire to develop matters is they do get there. a comprehensive system, work with people in Africa to do so, for diagnosis and treat- Facilities across Africa and the Caribbean ment and prevention. will have now the medicine. And our fellow We are determined to turn the tide citizens must understand that the reason against AIDS. And we’re going to start in they do is because of your generosity, the 14 African and Caribbean countries, where taxpayers of the country. I hope when our the disease is most heavily concentrated. citizens absorb that knowledge—the mas- We whip it in those 15—or 14—we will sive attempt to save lives—that they feel show what is possible in other countries. proud of their country and proud of the We’re going to be involved with the compassion of America. We’re going to fund. We’ll continue to have bilateral aid. work with other governments, of course, We want to have intense focus where the private groups—there’s all kinds of faith- need is most severe and show the world based programs involved on the continent what is possible—not just show our fellow of Africa, and we welcome that, of course. citizens or show the folks on the continent And we encourage that. And we thank you of Africa, but the world needs to see what for that. we can do together. The model has been A fellow named Father Edward Phillips applied with great success in Uganda. Any- is here. Where are you, Father? Right body who knows the issue of AIDS on the there, yes. I thought you were Father Ed- African Continent appreciates the efforts of ward Phillips for a minute. [Laughter] He Uganda. And we feel like that it can be is in Kenya, works in Kenya. He’s obviously duplicated, and that’s the mission, the goal. followed his faith. He leads an organization Even though we’re on 14 countries initially that provides testing and treatment in with this major focus, we understand Nairobi. He’s helped thousands of people there’s suffering elsewhere. And we want every year. He ought to be giving this to expand beyond. We want to encourage speech, not me, because he knows what others to join us as well. it must feel like to play a significant role

112 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Jan. 31 in saving lives. And that’s what we’re here AIDS-related medicines for those without to talk about today, how best to save lives. health coverage. And we’re going to help And here’s what the experts believe that those abroad, and we’ll help those at home will be accomplished through the Emer- as well. gency Plan for AIDS Relief: that in this We must also move quickly to increase decade, we will prevent 7 million new in- the number of people who are tested for fections; that we’ll treat at least 2 million HIV. How can you treat if you don’t test? people with life-extending drugs. We’ll pro- How can you help if you don’t know? And vide humane care, of course, for those who so the Food and Drug Administration re- suffer and, as importantly, for the orphans. cently has approved a new HIV test, which To me, that’s just the beginning. But it’s can provide results in less than 30 minutes, a pretty good start. Most important thing with a 99.6 percent accuracy. is we’re providing hope, which is immeas- So today I’ve got an announcement to urable. How can you possibly measure the make, and it’s this: That the Department benefits of hope? There’s no—we can’t of Health and Human Services, after a lot quantify that. But it certainly can be quali- of careful review, has waived regulations fied by saying a hopeful society is a heck so that the test will soon be more readily of a lot better society than what they found available to doctors and public health facili- on the continent today. ties throughout the country. This project is urgent, and as we move As I’ve said, it’s going to be a significant forward on this program we will continue year for our country. I’m a person who to call upon other nations to join. The believes that there’s no obstacle put in our United States doesn’t mind leading, and we path that we can’t overcome; I truly believe believe others have a responsibility as well, that. I love what our country stands for. that we’re not the only blessed nation. I love the strength of America. The There are many blessed nations. And we strength of America really is the—lies in hope they join us. And as well we’ve got the hearts and souls of our fellow citizens. a lot of work to do here in America. It’s As we move forward into the 21st cen- important for our fellow citizens never to tury, there’s no doubt we can help the peo- think that one initiative or a major initiative ple on the African Continent, while we in Africa doesn’t mean we’re going to forget help our own folks at home with the deadly the 900,000 people living in America today disease. There’s no doubt we can arrest who carry the HIV virus. Of course we’ll the pandemic. There’s no doubt we can never do that. It’s important for our citizens bring hope in all parts of the world, not to understand that there’s 40,000 new in- only in Africa but in neighborhoods in our fections every year in this country. It’s an own country where people wonder what issue. It’s an issue we must continue to the American Dream means. There’s no deal with. doubt in my mind we can make the world The AIDS diagnosis still obviously brings more peaceful. tremendous grief and worries in parts of Today’s initiative is one—it’s a step to- our society. And so the budget I’ve sub- ward showing the world the great compas- mitted and worked with Congress on will sion of a great country. be a request for $16 billion for domestic Thanks for coming, and God bless. HIV prevention and care and treatment; it’s a 7 percent increase over ’03. It’s a NOTE: The President spoke at 11:31 a.m. in $93 million increase for AIDS research. It’s Room 450 of the Dwight D. Eisenhower Ex- $100 million more to support the AIDS ecutive Office Building. In his remarks, he Drug Assistance Program. This is a pro- referred to Odeen Ishmael, Guyana’s Ambas- gram which provides funding to purchase sador to the U.S.; Edith Grace Ssempala,

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Uganda’s Ambassador to the U.S.; Anthony tutes of Health; and Father Edward Phillips, S. Fauci, Director, National Institute of Al- chairperson, Eastern Deanery CBHC and lergy and Infectious Disease, National Insti- AIDS Relief Program.

The President’s News Conference With Prime Minister Tony Blair of the United Kingdom January 31, 2003

President Bush. It’s my honor to wel- that these twin threats that the world faces come Tony Blair back to the White House. are dealt with. And I have no doubt at We just had a wide-ranging discussion on all that we can deal with them. But we a lot of issues. I appreciate my friend’s should realize those two threats, terrorism, commitment to peace and security. I appre- weapons of mass destruction, are not dif- ciate his vision. I appreciate his willingness ferent; they’re linked. And dealing with to lead. Most importantly, I appreciate his both of them is essential for the future understanding that after September the peace and security and prosperity of the 11th, 2001, the world changed, that we face world. a common enemy, terrorists willing to kill Thank you. innocent lives, that we now recognize that President Bush. Fournier [Ron Fournier, threats which gather in remote regions of Associated Press]. Here’s what we’re going the world must be dealt with before others to do. I will call upon a reporter. The lose their lives. Prime Minister will call upon a reporter. Tony Blair is a friend. He’s a friend of And we’ll do this three different times. the American people. He’s a friend of Start with you. mine. I trust his judgment, and I appreciate his wisdom. Timetable for Action/U.N. Resolution 1441 Welcome. Q. Thank you, sir. First, quickly to the Prime Minister Blair. First of all, can Prime Minister, did you ask President Bush I say how delighted I am to be back in to secure a second U.N. resolution and to the White House and to see President give the inspectors more time? And Presi- Bush. And as he’s just described to you, dent Bush, the U.N. says—the U.N. inspec- we had an excellent discussion, covering all tors say Saddam is not complying; you say the key issues of the day. And I would Saddam is not complying. Why wait a mat- like to praise his leadership in the world ter of weeks? What’s—why hold up on the since September the 11th, particularly on decision? what I think are the two key issues that President Bush. First of all, you violated face our world today, which are issues of the two-question rule—as usual. He’s had international terrorism and weapons of a bad habit of this. I’ll start. mass destruction. And I think both of those Saddam Hussein is not disarming. He is issues come together because they threaten a danger to the world. He must disarm. the peace and the order and the stability And that’s why I have constantly said and of the world. the Prime Minister has constantly said this And what is essential is that in every issue will come to a head in a matter of respect, in every way that we can, we mobi- weeks, not months. lize international support and the inter- Prime Minister Blair. The whole point national community in order to make sure about the present situation is that when

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President Bush made his speech to the United Nations stand up as a body and United Nations, when we went down the show the world that it has got the capacity United Nations route, we passed Resolution to keep the peace?’’ 1441. And I think it really repays reading So, first of all, in answer to one part that, because we said very clearly that Sad- of your question, is this needs to be re- dam had what we said was a final oppor- solved quickly. Should the United Nations tunity to disarm and that he had to cooper- decide to pass a second resolution, it would ate fully in every respect with the U.N. be welcomed if it is yet another signal that weapons inspectors. we’re intent upon disarming Saddam Hus- As Dr. Blix said in his report to the sein. But 1441 gives us the authority to Security Council earlier this week, he’s not move without any second resolution. And doing that. And therefore, what is impor- Saddam Hussein must understand that if tant is that the international community he does not disarm, for the sake of peace, comes together again and makes it abso- we, along with others, will go disarm Sad- lutely clear that this is unacceptable. And dam Hussein. the reason why I believe that it will do Steve [Steve Holland, Reuters]. that is precisely because in the original Res- olution 1441, we made it clear that failure Secretary Powell’s Upcoming U.N. Visit to disarm would lead to serious consequences. Q. Thank you, sir. Mr. President, is Sec- So this is a test for the international com- retary Powell going to provide the undeni- munity. It’s not just a test for the United able proof of Iraq’s guilt that so many crit- States or for Britain. It’s a test for the ics are calling for? international community, too. And the judg- President Bush. Well, all due in modesty, ment has to be, at the present time, that I thought I did a pretty good job myself Saddam Hussein is not cooperating with of making it clear that he’s not disarming the inspectors and, therefore, is in breach and why he should disarm. Secretary Pow- of the U.N. resolution. And that’s why time ell will make a strong case about the danger is running out. of an armed Saddam Hussein. He will Andy. make it clear that Saddam Hussein is fool- Q. Andrew Marr, from the BBC. A ques- ing the world or trying to fool the world. tion for the President, if I may. What is He will make it clear that Saddam is a the status, in your view, of any second reso- menace to peace in his own neighborhood. lution? Is it something that you think it’s He will also talk about Al Qaida links, links worth spending time and energy trying to that really do portend a danger for America assemble and, if so, why? and for Great Britain—anybody else who President Bush. First, let me reiterate loves freedom. what I just said. This is a matter of weeks, As the Prime Minister says, the war on not months. Any attempt to drag the proc- terror is not confined to just a shadowy ess on for months will be resisted by the terrorist network. The war on terror in- United States. And as I understand the cludes people who are willing to train and Prime Minister—I’m loath to put words in to equip organizations such as Al Qaida. his mouth—but he’s also said weeks, not See, the strategic view of America months. changed after September the 11th. We Secondly, I want to remind you, I was must deal with threats before they hurt the the guy that went to the United Nations American people again. And as I have said in the first place. I said, ‘‘Why don’t we repeatedly, Saddam Hussein would like come together as a world to resolve this nothing more than to use a terrorist net- issue, once and for all? Why doesn’t the work to attack and to kill and leave no

115 Jan. 31 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 fingerprints behind. Colin Powell will con- disarm in front of inspectors. We know tinue making that case to the American what a disarmed regime looks like. We people and the world at the United Na- know what it means to disarm. There’s no tions. negotiations. The idea of calling inspectors Prime Minister Blair. Adam. in to negotiate is a charade. If he is going to disarm, he must start disarming. That’s Iraq and Terrorists the only thing he needs to talk to the in- Q. Adam Boulton, Sky News. One ques- spectors about, is, ‘‘Here. I’m disarming.’’ tion for you both. Do you believe that there Prime Minister Blair. That’s absolutely is a link between Saddam Hussein, a direct right. If you look back at the history of link, and the men who attacked on Sep- this, for 12 years, he’s played these games. tember the 11th? And that’s why it’s so important to realize President Bush. I can’t make that claim. what the U.N. inspectors were put back Prime Minister Blair. That answers your in to do. The U.N. inspectors—and this question. The one thing I would say, how- is the crucial point, because it’s on this ever, is I’ve absolutely no doubt at all that basis that the whole issue of the U.N. au- unless we deal with both of these threats, thority rests—the U.N. inspectors did not they will come together in a deadly form. go back into Iraq to play a game of hide- Because, you know, what do we know after and-seek with Saddam. They didn’t go back September the 11th? We know that these in as a detective agency. They went back terrorist networks would use any means in under an authority that said that they they can to cause maximum death and de- had to cooperate fully, in every respect: struction. And we know also that they will The interview of witnesses, not just access do whatever they can to acquire the most to sites; honest, transparent declarations in deadly weaponry they can. And that’s why the material they had. They’re not doing it’s important to deal with these issues to- that. gether. Now, why are they calling back the in- President Bush. Jim [Jim Angle, FOX spectors? I think it’s fairly obvious. It’s be- News]. cause as the pressure grows, they want to Role of U.N. Inspectors play the same games as they’ve been playing all the way through. That’s why it’s Q. Mr. President and Prime Minister, if important we hold to the path that we’ve I could, sir, the arms inspectors made their set out. They have to disarm. They have report on Monday this week. You’ve both to cooperate with the inspectors. They’re made clear that it’s a question of weeks, not doing it. If they don’t do it through not months. And here we are at the end the U.N. route, then they will have to be of the week and the Iraqis are suddenly disarmed by force. inviting the arms inspectors back to Bagh- Nick. dad for further consultations. Could I ask both of you what you make of that? President Bush. Let’s see if I can be po- Impact of September 11 lite. Saddam Hussein has had 12 years to Q. Nick Robinson, ITV News. Mr. Presi- learn how to deceive, and I would view dent, an account of the White House after this as more deception on his part. He ex- 9/11 says that you ordered invasion plans pects to be able to convince 108 inspectors for Iraq 6 days after September the 11th— that he is openminded. The only way that Bob Woodward’s account. Isn’t it the case he can show that he is truly a peaceful that you have always intended war on Iraq, man is to not negotiate with inspectors, is and that international diplomacy is a cha- not to string the inspectors along, but to rade in this case?

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President Bush. Actually, prior to Sep- law enforcement to protect the people of tember the 11th, we were discussing smart Great Britain. sanctions. We were trying to fashion a sanc- Today Italy rounded up yet another cell tion regime that would make it more likely of people who are willing to use weapons to be able to contain somebody like Sad- of mass destruction on those of us who dam Hussein. After September the 11th, love freedom. the doctrine of containment just doesn’t And so, no, quite the contrary. My vision hold any water, as far as I’m concerned. shifted dramatically after September the I’ve told you the strategic vision of our 11th, because I now realize the stakes. I country shifted dramatically, and it shifted realize the world has changed. My most dramatically because we now recognize that important obligation is to protect the Amer- oceans no longer protect us, that we’re vul- ican people from further harm. And I will nerable to attack. And the worst form of do that. attack could come from somebody acquir- Thank you all very much. ing weapons of mass destruction and using them on the American people, or the worst kind of attack could come when somebody uses weapons of mass destruction on our NOTE: The President’s news conference friends in Great Britain. began at 4:12 p.m. in the Cross Hall at the Recently, Tony Blair’s government rout- White House. In his remarks, he referred to ed out a poison plot. It should say to the President Saddam Hussein of Iraq. Prime people of Great Britain: There is a present Minister Blair referred to Hans Blix, Execu- danger—that weapons of mass destruction tive Chairman, United Nations Monitoring, are a danger to people who love freedom. Verification and Inspection Commission. A I want to congratulate you on your fabu- reporter referred to journalist Bob Wood- lous job of using your intelligence and your ward, author of ‘‘Bush at War.’’

Statement on the Return of Governors Island to the People of New York January 31, 2003

I am pleased to announce the return of will lead to the development of an out- Governors Island to the people of New standing resource for the people of New York. Last April, I informed the Governor York and all who visit. and the mayor of my intention to make I commend the parties that worked to- this transfer, and today, the transfer is com- gether to make this historic transfer a replete. Also, I am reaffirming our support ality, including the National Park Service, for the Governors Island National Monu- the General Services Administration, the ment, which now will encompass approxi- United States Coast Guard, the National mately 22 of the Island’s 172 acres, includ- Trust for Historic Preservation, and espe- ing historic Castle Williams and Fort Jay. cially the State and City of New York. Governor Pataki and Mayor Bloomberg have shared with me their vision of a Gov- ernors Island dedicated to public and civic NOTE: The proclamation of February 7 on purposes. New York’s stewardship of the establishment of the Governors Island Na- island combined with the National Park tional Monument is listed in Appendix D at Service’s management of the monument the end of this volume.

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Message to the Congress Transmitting a Report on Achieving Militarily Significant Benchmarks for a Sustainable Peace in Kosovo January 31, 2003

To the Congress of the United States: the International Criminal Tribunal for the Pursuant to section 1212 of the National Former Yugoslavia. Objectives for these Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year tasks were drawn from United Nations Se- 2001, Public Law 106–398, I hereby submit curity Council Resolution 1244, the NATO a report, prepared by my Administration, Operations Plan, the Military Technical on the progress made in achieving the mili- Agreement, and the Kosovo Liberation tarily significant benchmarks for conditions Army Undertaking. that would achieve a sustainable peace in I anticipate that Kosovo Force—and U.S. Kosovo and ultimately allow for the with- participation in it—will gradually reduce in drawal of the United States military pres- size as public security conditions improve ence in Kosovo. and Kosovars assume increasing responsi- The term ‘‘militarily significant’’ relates bility for their own self-government. to tasks and objectives significant from a military standpoint that once accomplished, GEORGE W. BUSH would allow for withdrawal of military forces from Kosovo. In the establishment The White House, of the Kosovo benchmarks, four critical January 31, 2003. tasks for NATO forces were identified: military stability; public security; border/ NOTE: An original was not available for boundary issues; and war crimes/support to verification of the content of this message.

The President’s Radio Address February 1, 2003

Good morning. Earlier this week, I re- foreign sources of energy by speeding up ported to the American people on the state development of pollution-free cars that run of our Union. I asked Congress to join me on hydrogen. We will renew the hope of in meeting the great challenges that con- welfare reform and support the faith-based front our Nation with the courage and re- and community groups who bring hope and solve our times require. healing to children who need mentors and Working together, we’ll strengthen our men and women who struggle with drug economy and lay the foundation for sus- addiction. tained growth so that every person who The qualities of courage and compassion wants to work can find a job. We will mod- that we strive for in America also deter- ernize Medicare to make sure that seniors mine our conduct abroad. Across the world, can choose the coverage that fits them best, we are meeting the threat of terrorism to including coverage for prescription drugs. make the world safer and confronting the We will reform America’s medical liability grave dangers posed by outlaw regimes. At system to cut down on excessive lawsuits the same time, America can also make this that are driving up the cost of health care. We will make America less dependent on

118 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 1 world better by bringing the merciful pow- national emergency food aid comes as a ers of modern medicine to people in great gift from the people of the United States. need. Building on this commitment, my budget Today in Africa, nearly 30 million people for 2004 calls for more than $1 billion to have the AIDS virus, including 3 million meet emergency food needs worldwide. children under the age of 15. To meet this Today I announced a new proposal for a growing crisis, I am proposing the Emer- $200 million famine fund to bring imme- gency Plan for AIDS Relief. This com- diate assistance to Africa and other regions prehensive plan will prevent 7 million new facing starvation. Money from the fund will AIDS infections, treat at least 2 million be available to purchase food supplies di- people with life-extending drugs, and pro- rectly or to support farmers in food produc- vide humane care for millions of people tion. We will encourage friends around the suffering from AIDS and for children or- world to set up similar funds and leverage phaned by AIDS. Facilities across Africa our combined resources to provide the will have the medicine to treat AIDS be- most help to famine-stricken lands. cause it will be purchased with funds pro- Through all our efforts to fight disease vided by the United States. and hunger, we can spare people in many I’m asking the Congress to commit $15 nations from untold suffering, and Africa billion to fight AIDS overseas for the next especially. Millions are facing great afflic- 5 years, beginning with $2 billion in 2004. tion, but with our help, they will not face This plan, coupled with our ongoing efforts, it alone. America has a special calling to will nearly triple our current annual spend- come to their aid, and we will do so with ing on the global fight against AIDS, ma- the compassion and generosity that have laria, and tuberculosis. always defined the United States. Our efforts to combat AIDS in Africa Thank you for listening. are made more difficult by severe food shortage sweeping that continent—a crisis NOTE: The address was recorded at 9:43 a.m. that affects up to 30 million people in on January 31 in the Cabinet Room at the southern Africa and the Horn of Africa, White House, for broadcast at 10:06 a.m. on particularly Ethiopia. Hunger, sickness, and February 1. The transcript was made avail- grief have left people across the continent able by the Office of the Press Secretary on even more vulnerable to the effects of January 31 but was embargoed for release AIDS. until the broadcast. The Office of the Press Across the Earth, America is feeding the Secretary also released a Spanish language hungry. More than 60 percent of inter- transcript of this address.

Address to the Nation on the Loss of Space Shuttle Columbia February 1, 2003

My fellow Americans, this day has above Texas. The Columbia is lost. There brought terrible news and great sadness to are no survivors. our country. At 9 o’clock this morning, Mis- On board was a crew of seven: Col. Rick sion Control in Houston lost contact with Husband; Lt. Col. Michael Anderson; our Space Shuttle Columbia. A short time Comdr. Laurel Clark; Capt. David Brown; later, debris was seen falling from the skies Comdr. William McCool; Dr. Kalpana Chawla; and Ilan Ramon, a colonel in the

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Israeli Air Force. These men and women In the skies today we saw destruction assumed great risk in the service to all hu- and tragedy. Yet farther than we can see, manity. there is comfort and hope. In the words In an age when space flight has come of the prophet Isaiah, ‘‘Lift your eyes and to seem almost routine, it is easy to overlook to the heavens. Who created all these? look the dangers of travel by rocket and He who brings out the starry hosts one the difficulties of navigating the fierce outer by one and calls them each by name. Be- atmosphere of the Earth. These astronauts cause of His great power and mighty knew the dangers, and they faced them strength, not one of them is missing.’’ willingly, knowing they had a high and The same Creator who names the stars noble purpose in life. Because of their also knows the names of the seven souls courage and daring and idealism, we will we mourn today. The crew of the shuttle miss them all the more. Columbia did not return safely to Earth. All Americans today are thinking as well Yet we can pray that all are safely home. of the families of these men and women May God bless the grieving families, and who have been given this sudden shock may God continue to bless America. and grief. You’re not alone. Our entire Na- tion grieves with you. And those you loved NOTE: The President spoke at 2:04 p.m. in will always have the respect and gratitude the Cabinet Room at the White House. The of this country. Office of the Press Secretary also released The cause in which they died will con- a Spanish language transcript of this address. tinue. Mankind is led into the darkness be- The proclamation of February 1 honoring the yond our world by the inspiration of dis- memory of the astronauts aboard Space covery and the longing to understand. Our Shuttle Columbia is listed in Appendix D at journey into space will go on. the end of this volume.

Memorandum on Declaration Under the Stafford Act for Louisiana: Space Shuttle Columbia February 1, 2003

Memorandum for the Director of the pursuant to section 501(b) of the Stafford Federal Emergency Management Agency Act includes the fact that the space shuttle and the space program are Federal prop- Subject: Declaration Under the Stafford Act erty and Federal programs. I, therefore, de- for Louisiana: Space Shuttle Columbia clare that such an emergency exists in the I have determined that the emergency State of Louisiana. conditions in certain areas of the State of In order to provide Federal assistance, Louisiana in connection with the events re- you are hereby authorized to coordinate lating to the loss of the Space Shuttle Co- and direct other Federal agencies and fund lumbia on February 1, 2003, are of suffi- activities not authorized under other Fed- cient severity and magnitude to warrant an eral statutes and allocate from funds avail- emergency declaration under section 501(b) able for these purposes, such amounts as of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief you find necessary for Federal emergency and Emergency Assistance Act, 42 U.S.C. assistance and administrative expenses. 5121–5206 (the ‘‘Stafford Act’’). The basis Pursuant to this emergency declaration, for my decision to make this declaration you are authorized to provide emergency

120 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 3 assistance as you deem appropriate under NOTE: An original was not available for title V of the Stafford Act at 100 percent verification of the content of this memo- Federal funding. randum. Further, you are authorized to make changes to this declaration to the extent allowable under the Stafford Act. GEORGE W. BUSH

Memorandum on Declaration Under the Stafford Act for Texas: Space Shuttle Columbia February 1, 2003

Memorandum for the Director of the In order to provide Federal assistance, Federal Emergency Management Agency you are hereby authorized to coordinate Subject: Declaration Under the Stafford Act and direct other Federal agencies and fund for Texas: Space Shuttle Columbia activities not authorized under other Fed- eral statutes and allocate from funds avail- I have determined that the emergency able for these purposes, such amounts as conditions in certain areas of the State of you find necessary for Federal emergency Texas in connection with the events relating assistance and administrative expenses. to the loss of the Space Shuttle Columbia Pursuant to this emergency declaration, on February 1, 2003, are of sufficient sever- you are authorized to provide emergency ity and magnitude to warrant an emergency assistance as you deem appropriate under declaration under section 501(b) of the title V of the Stafford Act at 100 percent Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Federal funding. Emergency Assistance Act, 42 U.S.C. 5121– Further, you are authorized to make 5206 (the ‘‘Stafford Act’’). The basis for changes to this declaration to the extent my decision to make this declaration pursu- allowable under the Stafford Act. ant to section 501(b) of the Stafford Act includes the fact that the space shuttle and GEORGE W. BUSH the space program are Federal property and Federal programs. I, therefore, declare NOTE: An original was not available for that such an emergency exists in the State verification of the content of this memo- of Texas. randum.

Remarks on Project BioShield in Bethesda, Maryland February 3, 2003

Thanks for that warm welcome. It’s a do work every day to help save lives, and delight to be here at the National Institutes we’re thankful for that. America is really of Health, a center of excellence, a center proud of what you do here. NIH is a great of the brilliance of the American people. credit to America. It is a place where so many good people

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Two days ago, America was yet reminded I’m honored that Members of the United again of the sacrifices made in the name States Congress have joined us. Senator of scientific discovery. The seven brave Ted Kennedy from Massachusetts is with men and women from the Columbia will us—thank you, Senator Kennedy—and be remembered for their achievements, Chris Cox of California, Jim Turner of their heroism, and their sense of wonder. Texas, Chris Van Hollen of Maryland. Our prayers are with their families and I want to thank Dr. Elias Zerhouni, who their loved ones. is the Director of the Institute—the Na- Their 16-day mission held the promise tional Institutes of Health—for his fine, of answering scientific problems that elude fine leadership of this really important insti- us here on Earth. Columbia carried in its tution. He really is doing a fine job. You payload* classroom experiments from some know, when I picked him, I thought he of our students in America. I hope these would do okay. [Laughter] He’s far exceed- children, our future scientists, will continue ed my expectations. He’s really, really a to ask questions, continue to explore, con- good man who is honoring our country with tinue to discover. And while we grieve the his leadership. loss of these astronauts, the cause of which Tony Fauci, of course, I’ve known him they died will continue. America’s journey for a long time. He is a distinguished Di- into space will go on. rector of the National Institute of Allergies The spirit of modern science embodied and Infectious Diseases, one of the generals in our space program can be found here in the war against HIV/AIDS, for which at NIH, where each day you make enor- we are really grateful, Tony, for your dedi- mous progress against disease and suf- cation. I want to thank—Mark McClellan fering—these achievements that come is here with us, the Director of the Food about through the great ingenuity and de- and Drug Administration. I appreciate your termination and the serious moral purpose leadership, Mark, on this incredibly impor- of America’s scientific community. tant agency. Now our scientists have been called to Gary Nabel is with us. He is the Director meet a different kind of challenge, man’s of the Vaccine Research Center, who just efforts to use diseases as weapons of war took us on a really interesting tour. I asked and terror. This threat has placed research him if this is the best in the world, and scientists at the center of our mission to he said, ‘‘You bet. Not only do we have defend the American people. It has put the best equipment in the world, Mr. Presi- NIH squarely in the midst of our war to dent, we’ve got the best people in the defend America and to defeat international world working there.’’ And I want to thank terrorism. With focus and determination you for your leadership, Gary. and necessary resources, this Government And I want to thank all of the hard- will act before dangers are upon us. working employees from the National Insti- I want to thank Tommy Thompson for tutes of Health and the Food and Drug his leadership at the Department of Health Administration, the Department of Health and Human Services. And I want to thank and Human Services and the new Depart- my friend Tom Ridge for taking on the ment of Homeland Security who are here Department of Homeland Security, the today. Thank you for your dedication to new agency designed to coordinate Federal our country. Thank you for working long assets over State and local assets in order hours, that enable me to go out to the to protect—better protect America. countryside and say to the American people there’s a lot of good folks working long, * White House correction. hard hours to protect you, do the best we

122 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 3 can do to make sure America is safe and So we’re going to do everything in our secure. power to protect the people and to prevent Today I sent to the United States Con- that day from ever happening. Across the gress my budget for fiscal year 2004. The world, we’re making a determined effort budget keeps the fundamental commit- with a lot of friends to round up terrorists ments of our Government, including our wherever they hide, whatever cave they commitments to be good stewards with tax- may be in, and bring them to justice. It payers’ money. I propose that discretionary doesn’t matter how long it’s going to take. Federal spending increase by no more than One by one, we are going to dismantle 4 percent this year. That’s about as much their networks, so that America and our of family income is expected to grow. It friends and allies are safe from harm. seems like a reasonable benchmark for the We’re working with international authori- Federal budget. Within that limit we can ties to track and control nuclear weapons. fund essential priorities at home and We seek to strengthen global agreements abroad, and meet the responsibility to show banning the production and shipment of spending discipline in Washington, DC. missile technologies and weapons of mass The first responsibility of our Govern- destruction. We’re working with others in ment is to defend our Nation. The attacks the world to face the new threat. And in Iraq, where a brutal regime is of September the 11th, 2001, awakened arming to threaten the world—the peace America to the dangers of a new era. We of the world, we have made our intentions face a different kind of threat than we were very clear. If the dictator does not disarm, used to. On that morning, we saw the face if he doesn’t get rid of his weapons of of an enemy that will use any means to mass destruction, then the United States strike America, no matter how much de- will lead a coalition to disarm him. And struction it causes, no matter how many we will do so in the name of peace, and innocent lives were lost. The kind of men we will do so for the security of the Amer- who would seize planes filled with innocent ican people. people and crash them into buildings would Also, as we confront dangers abroad, not hesitate to use biological or chemical we’re taking unprecedented action to pro- or nuclear weapons. They wouldn’t hesitate tect the homeland. We’ve stepped up secu- at all. They don’t value life, like we value rity at our borders and ports, posted Fed- life in America. They don’t see every life eral screeners in airports, begun vaccinating as precious, like we see every life as pre- troops and first-responders against small- cious in America. pox. And we have stockpiled enough vac- We have every reason to believe that ter- cine to inoculate the entire population. rorists and outlaw regimes would turn these We are proposing billions of dollars to weapons on the United States. We’ve been help first-responders and hospitals increase warned. On September the 11th, 2001, they their effectiveness. The Congress needs to clearly showed what they think about our finish the appropriations process as soon country. And we will heed the lessons of as possible, so we can get that money to 2001—September the 11th, 2001. the local governments. We know that our enemies have been We’re putting in place a national system working to acquire weapons of mass de- of air sensors to detect biological attack. struction. That is a fact. If their ambitions These are responsible and essential meas- were ever realized, they would set out to ures to protect our homeland and our peo- inflict catastrophic harm on the United ple. And in the years to come, we must States, with many times the casualties of broaden our defenses against the use of September the 11th. diseases as a weapon.

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In my State of the Union Address, I will gain new insights into the workings of asked Congress to approve a comprehensive many other diseases. This will also break plan for research and production of needed new ground in the search for treatments drugs and vaccines, a plan that we call and cures for other illnesses. This could Project BioShield. My budget requests al- bring great benefits for all of humanity, most $6 billion to quickly make available especially in developing countries where in- safer and more effective vaccines and treat- fectious diseases often go uncontrolled. ments against agents like smallpox, anthrax, America’s war on terror has tested this botulinum toxin, Ebola, and plague. Nation, has tested our resolve, our will, our We already have the knowledge and abil- determination, and I’m confident that we ity to manufacture some of the vaccines can call upon our resources and strengths and drugs we need. Yet, we have had little to prevail. There is no doubt in my mind, reason to do so up until now, because the the men and women of our scientific com- natural occurrence of these diseases in our munity are among this country’s greatest country is so rare. But the world changed strengths. on September the 11th, 2001, and we’ve HIV/AIDS once meant only terrible suf- got to respond to that change. fering and certain death. Now in America, In light of the new threats, we must now there are life-extending treatments for develop and stockpile these vaccines and AIDS, treatments we are going to share these treatments. Right now, America must across the world. This great and strong and go beyond our borders to find companies mighty Nation will not only work to keep willing to make vaccines to combat biologi- the peace, we will work to make sure soci- cal weapons. Two main drug therapies used ety is a more compassionate place. We to treat anthrax are produced overseas. We weep for those who suffer on the continent must rebuild America’s capacity to produce of Africa, and we intend to do something vaccines by committing the Federal Gov- about it. ernment to the purchase of medicines that Our scientists have made significant gains combat bioterror. in curing some forms of cancer. And we’re Under Project BioShield, the Govern- going to continue to work hard to make ment will have the spending authority to sure that we make progress to curing all purchase these vaccines in huge amounts, of cancer. sufficient to meet any emergency that may Illnesses that haunted other generations, come. Project BioShield will give our sci- such as polio and measles, are now part entific leaders greater authority and flexi- of the past because of the vision and inge- bility in decisions that may affect our secu- nuity of the men and women who work rity. Our labs will be able to hire the ex- here in NIH. This new century brings an perts, get more funding quickly, and build urgent need to apply this vision and inge- the best facilities to accelerate urgently nuity to the defense of this Nation, and needed discoveries. you are up for the task. We’ll have a better and safer smallpox I look forward to working with the vaccine, antibodies to treat botox, sophisti- United States Congress to get Project Bio- cated devices that can confirm a case of Shield out of its committees, onto the floor, anthrax infection almost instantly. We will onto my desk, so you all can work on behalf ensure that promising medicines are avail- of the American people, so you can use able for use in an emergency. your God-given talents, your fantastic Like other great scientific efforts, Project brains, your clear vision to better protect BioShield will have many applications be- America. This is the right course of action. yond its immediate goals. As scientists work This is what we owe the American people. to defeat the weapons of bioterror, they And this is what we will deliver.

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It is such an honor to be here—a place NOTE: The President spoke at 2:05 p.m. at of healing and hope, a place of genius and the Natcher Building at the National Insti- vision. Again, I want to thank you all very tutes of Health. In his remarks, he referred much for your hard and tireless work, on to President Saddam Hussein of Iraq. The behalf of a grateful nation. Office of the Press Secretary also released May God bless what you do, and may a Spanish language transcript of these re- God continue to bless the United States marks. of America.

Remarks Prior to Discussions With King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain February 3, 2003

President Bush. Tonight I’ll have a state- King Hamad. Thank you, Mr. President. ment; His Majesty will have a statement; And I thank the President for his won- and then we’ll ask you all to leave. We’ve derful reception and the clear objectives got some business to do. for security and development, especially in First, Your Majesty, welcome to the Oval our region. Office. It is such an honor to have you And this is something we really need at here. America has got a great friend in this level of leadership. The decisionmaking the Kingdom of Bahrain. It’s a place where process and the objectives are very clear we’ve had longstanding relations, a place concerning the well-being of the people of where we’ve had mil-to-mil relations for, the region and of the world. And I thank I think, nearly 50 years. And you have been him for receiving me today. a stalwart when it comes to peace, and I came all the way from Bahrain to here, we’re so appreciative that you’re here. really to show this warm relationship and His Majesty hopes that we’re able to— to support the President in what he’s doing like me, hopes that we’re able to resolve for our stability and purpose. this issue peacefully in Iraq. But if Saddam Thank you very much. Hussein does not disarm, for the sake of President Bush. Thanks very much. peace and security for not only the people Thanks. I appreciate you coming. in the region, for people here in America, we will go in and disarm him. And I have NOTE: The President spoke at 6:30 p.m. in made that clear to His Majesty in prior the Oval Office at the White House. In his conversations. He fully understands the po- remarks, he referred to President Saddam sition of the United States, and he has been Hussein of Iraq. A portion of these remarks incredibly supportive, for which I’m grate- could not be verified because the tape was ful. incomplete. Welcome.

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Remarks at a Memorial Service for the STS–107 Crew of the Space Shuttle Columbia in Houston, Texas February 4, 2003

Their mission was almost complete, and he became a role model, especially for his we lost them so close to home. The men two daughters and for the many children and women of the Columbia had journeyed he spoke to in schools. He said to them, more than 6 million miles and were min- ‘‘Whatever you want to be in life, you’re utes away from arrival and reunion. training for it now.’’ He also told his min- The loss was sudden and terrible, and ister, ‘‘If this thing doesn’t come out right, for their families, the grief is heavy. Our don’t worry about me. I’m just going on Nation shares in your sorrow and in your higher.’’ pride, and today we remember not only Laurel Salton Clark was a physician and one moment of tragedy but seven lives of a flight surgeon who loved adventure, loved great purpose and achievement. her work, loved her husband and her son. To leave behind Earth and air and grav- A friend who heard Laurel speaking to Mis- ity is an ancient dream of humanity. For sion Control said, ‘‘There was a smile in these seven, it was a dream fulfilled. Each her voice.’’ Laurel conducted some of the of these astronauts had the daring and dis- experiments as Columbia orbited the Earth cipline required of their calling. Each of and described seeing new life emerge from them knew that great endeavors are insepa- a tiny cocoon. ‘‘Life,’’ she said, ‘‘continues rable from great risks, and each of them in a lot of places, and life is a magical accepted those risks willingly, even joyfully, thing.’’ in the cause of discovery. None of our astronauts traveled a longer Rick Husband was a boy of 4 when he path to space than Kalpana Chawla. She first thought of being an astronaut. As a left India as a student, but she would see man, and having become an astronaut, he the nation of her birth, all of it, from hun- found it was even more important to love dreds of miles above. When the sad news his family and serve his Lord. One of Rick’s reached her hometown, an administrator at favorite hymns was ‘‘How Great Thou Art,’’ her high school recalled, ‘‘She always said which offers these words of praise: ‘‘I see she wanted to reach the stars. She went the stars. I hear the mighty thunder. Thy there, and beyond.’’ Kalpana’s native coun- power throughout the universe displayed.’’ try mourns her today, and so does her David Brown was first drawn to the stars adopted land. as a little boy with a telescope in his back- Ilan Ramon also flew above his home, yard. He admired astronauts, but, as he the land of Israel. He said, ‘‘The quiet that said, ‘‘I thought they were movie stars. I envelops space makes the beauty even thought I was kind of a normal kid.’’ David more powerful, and I only hope that the grew up to be a physician, an aviator who quiet can one day spread to my country.’’ could land on the deck of a carrier in the Ilan was a patriot; the devoted son of a middle of the night, and a shuttle astronaut. Holocaust survivor served his country in His brother asked him several weeks ago two wars. ‘‘Ilan,’’ said his wife, Rona, ‘‘left what would happen if something went us at his peak moment, in his favorite wrong on their mission. David replied, place, with people he loved.’’ ‘‘This program will go on.’’ The Columbia’s pilot was Commander Michael Anderson always wanted to fly Willie McCool, whom friends knew as the planes and rose to the rank of lieutenant most steady and dependable of men. In colonel in the Air Force. Along the way, Lubbock today they’re thinking back to the

126 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 4

Eagle Scout who became a distinguished is lonely, but you are not alone. In time, naval officer and a fearless test pilot. One you will find comfort and the grace to see friend remembers Willie this way: ‘‘He was you through. And in God’s own time, we blessed, and we were blessed to know can pray that the day of your reunion will him.’’ come. Our whole Nation was blessed to have And to the children who miss your mom such men and women serving in our space or dad so much today, you need to know program. Their loss is deeply felt, especially they love you and that love will always be in this place, where so many of you called with you. They were proud of you, and them friends. The people of NASA are you can be proud of them for the rest being tested once again. In your grief, you of your life. are responding as your friends would have The final days of their own lives were wished, with focus, professionalism, and un- spent looking down upon this Earth. And broken faith in the mission of this agency. now, on every continent, in every land they Captain Brown was correct: America’s could see, the names of these astronauts space program will go on. are known and remembered. They will al- This cause of exploration and discovery ways have an honored place in the memory is not an option we choose. It is a desire of this country. And today I offer the re- written in the human heart. We are that spect and gratitude of the people of the part of creation which seeks to understand United States. all creation. We find the best among us, May God bless you all. send them forth into unmapped darkness, and pray they will return. They go in peace for all mankind, and all mankind is in their NOTE: The President spoke at 12:35 p.m. in debt. a courtyard at NASA’s Lyndon B. Johnson Yet, some explorers do not return, and Space Center. The Office of the Press Sec- the loss settles unfairly on a few. The fami- retary also released a Spanish language tran- lies here today shared in the courage of script of these remarks. The related procla- those they loved, but now they must face mation of February 1 is listed in Appendix life and grief without them. The sorrow D at the end of this volume.

Message to the Congress Transmitting a Report on Benchmarks for a Sustainable Peace Process in Bosnia and Herzegovina February 4, 2003

To the Congress of the United States: sustainable peace process in Bosnia and As required by the Levin Amendment Herzegovina. to the 1998 Supplemental Appropriations This seventh report, which also includes and Rescissions Act (section 7(b) of Public supplemental reporting as required by sec- Law 105–174) and section 1203(a) of the tion 1203(a) of Public Law 105–261, pro- Strom Thurmond National Defense Author- vides an updated assessment of progress ization Act for Fiscal Year 1999 (Public on the benchmarks covering the period Jan- Law 105–261), I am providing a report pre- uary 1 to December 31, 2002. pared by my Administration on progress made toward achieving benchmarks for a GEORGE W. BUSH

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The White House, February 4, 2003.

Message to the Congress Transmitting a Report on Plan Colombia February 4, 2003

To the Congress of the United States: the last two quarters of Fiscal Year 2002 Pursuant to Public Law 106–246, section in support of Plan Colombia. 3204(e), I am providing a report prepared GEORGE W. BUSH by my Administration detailing the progress of spending by the executive branch during The White House, February 4, 2003.

Statement on Legislation To Implement the Community and Faith-Based Initiative February 5, 2003

I applaud the Senate Finance Com- playing field for community and faith-based mittee, under the leadership of Senators organizations that provide effective social Grassley and Baucus, for moving quickly services to our fellow citizens who are in on a key component of bipartisan faith- need. I look forward to working closely based legislation sponsored by Senators with the Senate and House to improve the Santorum and Lieberman. Today’s action legislation to get a strong, bipartisan faith- brings us one step closer to creating incen- based bill on my desk as soon as possible. tives for Americans to donate more to char- Together, we can help encourage acts of ities, many of which are facing tough finan- compassion that can transform our Nation, cial times. We must also work to level the one heart and one soul at a time.

Message to the Congress Transmitting the Norway-United States Agreement on Social Security February 5, 2003

To the Congress of the United States: Oslo on November 30, 2001. This revised Pursuant to section 233(e)(1) of the So- Agreement is intended to modify certain cial Security Act, as amended by the Social provisions of the original United States and Security Amendments of 1977 (Public Law Norwegian Agreement, which was signed 95–216, 42 U.S.C. 433(e)(1)), I transmit in Washington on January 13, 1983, and, herewith the Agreement Between the upon its entry into force, will replace the United States of America and the Kingdom 1983 Agreement. of Norway on Social Security, with a related The revised United States-Norwegian administrative agreement, both signed at Agreement is similar in objective to the

128 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 5 other social security agreements already in points of the Agreement, along with a para- force with Austria, Belgium, Canada, Chile, graph-by-paragraph explanation of the pro- Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, visions of the principal agreement and the Italy, Korea, Luxembourg, The Nether- administrative agreement. Annexed to this lands, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzer- report is the report required by section land, and the United Kingdom. Such bilat- 233(e)(1) of the Social Security Act, a re- eral agreements provide for limited coordi- port on the effect of the Agreement on nation between the United States and for- income and expenditures of the United eign social security systems to eliminate States Social Security program and the dual social security coverage and taxation, number of individuals affected by the and to help prevent the lost benefit protec- Agreement. The Department of State and tion that can occur when workers divide the Social Security Administration have rec- their careers between two countries. The ommended the Agreement and related doc- revised United States-Norwegian Agree- uments to me. ment contains all provisions mandated by I commend the United States-Norwegian section 233 and other provisions, which I Social Security Agreement and related doc- deem appropriate to carry out the purposes uments. of section 233, pursuant to section 233(c)(4). GEORGE W. BUSH I also transmit for the information of the Congress a report prepared by the Social The White House, Security Administration explaining the key February 5, 2003.

Message to the Congress Transmitting Proposed Legislation To Establish the Millennium Challenge Account and the Millennium Challenge Corporation February 5, 2003

To the Congress of the United States: this new assistance, countries must dem- I am pleased to transmit a legislative pro- onstrate commitment to three standards— posal to establish the Millennium Challenge ruling justly, investing in their people, and Account and the Millennium Challenge encouraging economic freedom. Given this Corporation. Also transmitted is a section- commitment, and the link between financial by-section analysis. accountability and development success, The Millennium Challenge Account special attention will be given to fighting (MCA) represents a new approach to pro- corruption. viding and delivering development assist- The goal of the Millennium Challenge ance. This new compact for development Account initiative is to reduce poverty by breaks with the past by tying increased as- significantly increasing economic growth in sistance to performance and creating new recipient countries through a variety of tar- accountability for all nations. This proposal geted investments. The MCA will be ad- implements my commitment to increase ministered by a new, small Government current levels of core development assistance by 50 percent over the next 3 years, thus providing an annual increase of $5 billion by fiscal year 2006. To be eligible for

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corporation, called the Millennium Chal- The Millennium Challenge Account ini- lenge Corporation, designed to support in- tiative recognizes the need for country own- novative strategies and to ensure account- ership, financial oversight, and accountability for measurable results. The Corpora- ability for results to ensure effective assist- tion will be supervised by a Board of Direc- ance. We cannot accept permanent poverty tors chaired by the Secretary of State and in a world of progress. The MCA will pro- composed of other Cabinet-level officials. vide people in developing nations the tools The Corporation will be led by a Chief they need to seize the opportunities of the Executive Officer appointed by the Presi- global economy. I urge the prompt and fa- dent, by and with the advice and consent vorable consideration of this legislation. of the Senate. This proposal provides the Corporation with flexible authorities to op- GEORGE W. BUSH timize program implementation, con- tracting, and personnel selection while pur- The White House, suing innovative strategies. February 5, 2003.

Remarks at the National Prayer Breakfast February 6, 2003

Thank you all for that warm welcome. here. I pray for your wisdom on a daily Great introduction—[laughter]—especially basis. [Laughter] since you mentioned Laura. [Laughter] I I want to thank all the members of my want to thank the Speaker and Leader Cabinet who are here. I really appreciate Pelosi. Ray, I want to thank you very much leaders from around the globe who have for being the chairman of the National come to share in prayer with us today. It Prayer Breakfast. I was wondering why the reminds me that the Almighty God is a Grace Singers from Peoria managed to get God to everybody, every person. here—[laughter]—but I’m sure glad they I really am so honored that Dr. did. Thank you all for coming. It might Condoleezza Rice is going to share some have been the best decision you made, Mr. comments with you. I know this, that the Chairman. [Laughter] Reverend John W. Rice, Jr., would be in- I want to welcome Michael W. Smith credibly proud of his wise and gracious and his wife here. Michael W. is going to daughter. have dinner at the White House tonight. It is fitting that we have a National Pray- We look forward to seeing you both. er Breakfast. It is the right thing to do, They’ve been great friends of Laura and because this is a nation of prayer. I know me and my family. It is a treat to have from firsthand knowledge that this is a na- him here, to lend his God-given talents to tion of prayer. See, I work the ropelines this important breakfast. a lot, and I hear all kinds of things on the ropelines. But the thing I hear the I appreciate the fact that Tenet and most, the comment I hear the most from Myers will be up here at the head table. our fellow citizens, regardless of their polit- It is fitting that in the midst of tough times, ical party or philosophy, is, ‘‘Mr. President, that these two leaders are sharing with I pray for you and your family, and so Scripture and prayer with the country. I does my family.’’ That’s what I hear. I turn appreciate all the Members of Congress to them without hesitation and say, ‘‘It is

130 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 6 the greatest gift you can give anybody, is haven’t always lived up to them. But we to pray on their behalf.’’ do stand for those ideals, and we will de- I especially feel that because I believe fend them. in prayer. I pray. I pray for strength. I We believe, as Franklin Roosevelt said, pray for guidance. I pray for forgiveness, that men and women born to freedom in and I pray to offer my thanks for a kind the image of God will not forever suffer and generous Almighty God. the oppressor’s sword. We are confident As Dick mentioned, we mourn the loss that people in every part of the world wish of seven brave souls. We learned a lot for freedom, not tyranny, prefer peace to about them over the last couple of days. terror and violence. And our confidence And Laura and I learned a lot about their will not be shaken. families in Houston, because we met with We can also be confident in the ways them. My impressions of the meeting was of providence, even when they are far from that there was—that Almighty God was our understanding. Events aren’t moved by present in their hearts. There was such in- blind change and chance. Behind all of life credible strength in the room of those who and all of history, there’s a dedication and were grieving that it was overwhelming, to purpose, set by the hand of a just and be with those who just lost their husband faithful God. And that hope will never be or wife or dad or mom and to feel the shaken. presence of the Almighty. I attribute it to In this hour of our country’s history, we the fact that they, themselves, are in prayer. stand in the need of prayer. We pray for And our country prays for their strength, the families that have known recent loss. and we must continue to pray for those We pray for the men and women who who suffer and those who grieve. serve around the world to defend our free- This is a testing time for our country. dom. We pray for their families. We pray At this hour we have troops that are assem- for wisdom to know and do what is right. bling in the Middle East. There’s oppres- And we pray for God’s peace in the affairs sive regimes that seek terrible weapons. We of men. face an ongoing threat of terror. One thing May God bless you all. is for certain: We didn’t ask for these challenges, but we will meet them. I say that with certainty, because this Nation has strong foundations that won’t be shaken. As America passes through this decisive period, there are things we can count on. NOTE: The President spoke at 8:11 a.m. in We can be confident in the character of the International Ballroom at the Wash- the American people. The months since ington Hilton. In his remarks, he referred September the 11th, 2001, have not to House Speaker J. Dennis Hastert and Mi- brought fear and fatigue or rash anger. In- nority Leader Nancy Pelosi; Representative stead we’ve witnessed courage and resolve Ray LaHood of Illinois; entertainer Michael and calm purpose. We’ve seen that a new W. Smith and his wife, Deborah; Director generation of Americans is strong and of Central Intelligence George J. Tenet; Gen. steadfast in the face of danger, and our Richard B. Myers, USAF, Chairman, Joint confidence will not be shaken. Chiefs of Staff; Rev. John W. Rice, Jr., father We can be confident in America’s cause of National Security Adviser Condoleezza in the world. Our Nation is dedicated to Rice; and Vice President Dick Cheney. The the equal and undeniable worth of every Office of the Press Secretary also released person. We don’t own the ideals of free- a Spanish language transcript of these re- dom and human dignity, and sometimes we marks.

131 Feb. 6 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Remarks on Energy Independence February 6, 2003

Thanks for the warm welcome. I’m glad the cutting edge of change that is going you’re here, and I’m glad I’m here. The to dramatically change this country for the technology that we have just seen—and I better. And it’s exciting to see the products hope you take a look at—is going to be that you’re producing. More importantly, seen on the roads of America. And it’s im- it’s exciting to meet the entrepreneurs who portant for our country to understand that are willing to take the risks necessary to by being bold and innovative, we can produce those products. change the way we do business here in I also want to thank the students who America. We can change our dependence are here, the science and technology stu- upon foreign sources of energy. We can dents who are here—our future scientists, help with the quality of the air. We can those who are going to take what appears make a fundamental difference for the fu- to be dramatic innovation today and im- ture of our children. prove on it in the coming years. And so But what we do today can make a tre- thanks for your interest, and thanks for car- mendous difference for the future of this ing about your country. Keep studying country. How we invest taxpayers’ monies hard. Don’t watch too much TV. [Laughter] today can help change the world. And that’s Read a lot. what we’re here to discuss. We’ve got some responsibilities in our I want to thank my Secretary of Energy, Nation. We’ve got a responsibility to our Spence Abraham, for doing a fine job, for environment. That’s why I’ve sent up to being willing to help us think beyond the the United States Congress a Clear Skies normal by leading an important Depart- Initiative. It’s an initiative that I take very ment, a Department that’s going to help seriously. It’s an initiative that we worked America maintain a technological advantage closely with Christie Todd and Spence on when it comes to energy and devices that to develop, that makes sense for our coun- require energy. try. It’s an initiative that will reduce air I also want to thank Christie Todd pollution from powerplants by 70 percent Whitman for being a really, really good Ad- by the year 2018. It’s an initiative that seri- ministrator of the Environmental Protection ously addresses sulfur dioxide, nitrogen Agency. And I want to thank all of the oxide, and mercury. It’s an initiative which employees from both the Energy Depart- must get a hearing in the United States ment and the EPA who are here today. Congress. It’s an initiative I expect to pass Thank you for your service to the country. this year. I appreciate so very much Members of the I laid out a comprehensive energy plan United States Senate who are here, Pete last year. It got—there was a lot of debate Domenici from New Mexico and Byron about it, a lot of discussion. It didn’t pass Dorgan from North Dakota. Thank you all the Congress. I expect it to pass this year. for your interest in this project. I look for- I look forward to working with you, Mr. ward to working with both distinguished Chairman. It’s a plan that will encourage Members of the Senate to get this initiative conservation. It’s a plan that will increase through. production at home in an environmentally And I want to thank the folks who have sensitive way. It is a plan which will mod- brought your technologies here for me to ernize our electricity delivery systems. It see. I wish I had more time to spend, but is a plan which is needed. It is a plan in the brief tour I took, it is—we’re on needed for economic security. It is a plan

132 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 6 needed for national security. I want to sign going to run out of it, and two, it means a comprehensive energy bill this year. that society is going to be more friendly Today, we have a chance to move be- for those who are trying to purchase the yond the environmental debates of the past, supply for needed—for life’s needs. debates that centered around regulation Hydrogen power is also clean to use. and lawsuit—what I like to call the com- Cars that will run on hydrogen fuel mand-and-control era of environmental pol- produce only water, not exhaust fumes. icy, where all wisdom that seemed to ema- Eliminating pollution from cars will obvi- nate out of Washington, DC, where things ously make our air healthier. Hydrogen got hamstrung and stuck because lawyers power will dramatically reduce greenhouse got more involved in the process than the gas emissions, helping this Nation take the people on the frontlines of actually improv- lead when it comes to tackling the longing our environment. term challenges of global climate change. We can move beyond that through tech- One of the greatest results of using hy- nology, and that’s what I want to discuss drogen power, of course, will be energy today. Hydrogen fuel cells represent one independence for this Nation. It’s impor- of the most encouraging, innovative tech- tant for our country to understand—I think nologies of our era. And if you’re interested most Americans do—that we import over in our environment and if you’re interested half of our crude oil stocks from abroad. in doing what’s right for the American peo- And sometimes we import that oil from ple, if you’re tired of the same old endless countries that don’t particularly like us. It struggles that seem to produce nothing but puts us at a—it jeopardizes our national noise and high bills—let us promote hydro- security to be dependent on sources of en- gen fuel cells as a way to advance into ergy from countries that don’t care for the 21st century. America, what we stand for, what we love. We saw cars engineered to run on hydro- It’s also a matter of economic security, to gen. When you walk around this curtain be dependent on energy from volatile re- and you take a look at those vehicles, they gions of the world. Our economy becomes are going to run on hydrogen. We saw cell subject to price shocks or shortages or dis- phones that can run on hydrogen, laptop ruptions or, one time in our history, cartels. computers. There’s going to be all kinds If we develop hydrogen power to its full of applications for the use of hydrogen- potential, we can reduce our demand for powered fuel cells in our society. oil by over 11 million barrels per day by And there’s a lot of advantages that I the year 2040. That would be a fantastic want to explain to the American people legacy to leave for future generations of about why this initiative makes sense. First, Americans. See, we can make the world the hydrogen can be produced from do- more peaceful, and we will. We can pro- mestic sources: initially, natural gas; eventu- mote freedom, and we will. Those will be ally, biomass, ethanol, clean coal, or nuclear wonderful legacies, but also think about a energy. That’s important. If you can legacy here at home, about making invest- produce something yourself, it means ments today that will make future citizens you’re less dependent upon somebody else of our great country less dependent on for- to produce it. eign sources of energy. And so that’s why And not only that, the sources of hydro- I’m going to work with the Congress to gen are abundant. The more you have of move this Nation forward on hydrogen fuel something relative to demand for that, the cell technologies. It is in our national inter- cheaper it’s going to be, the less expensive est that we do so. it’ll be for the consumer. The more supply So I’m asking Congress to spend $1.2 you have of something, one, you’re not billion on a new national commitment to

133 Feb. 6 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 take hydrogen fuel cell cars from the lab- say we did our duty. You know, we can oratory to the showroom. And as I said look back and say, ‘‘We came, stayed here in my State of the Union: The idea is to for just a little bit, proposed some initia- see that a car born today—I mean, a child tives that would fundamentally alter the born today—will be driving a car, as his American way of life in a positive way, got or her first car, which will be powered by it started, and went home—knowing we hydrogen and pollution-free. were called upon and we answered the It won’t be easy to get there because bell.’’ there are obstacles. It’s important for the And as we—and I believe we can lead American people to know there are obsta- the world for creating a market for hydro- cles to overcome. I wouldn’t be proposing gen. We’re also going to work to produce this initiative if I didn’t think we could electricity and hydrogen through a process overcome the obstacles. We must make hy- called fusion. Fusion is the same kind of drogen more plentiful and produce it in nuclear reaction that produces—that pow- the most efficient, cost-effective way. That ers the sun. The energy produced will be is one of our challenges. We must lower safe and clean and abundant. We’ve spent the cost of fuel cells, so that the automobile quite a bit of money, as the Senators here can compete—the cost of the automobile will tell you, on whether or not fusion is cost effective. We must increase the ca- works. And we’re not sure if it will be pacity of hydrogen storage systems. able to produce affordable energy for ev- And we put in place the infrastructure eryday use, but it’s worth the try. It’s worth to get hydrogen to the consumers. There the look, because the promise is so great. would be nothing worse than developing So the United States will work with a car and having no place for somebody Great Britain and several European nations, to find the fuel. People aren’t going to buy as well as Canada, Japan, Russia, and many cars if they can’t refuel their car. China, to build a fusion test facility and [Laughter] We’re—work has well begun. create the largest and most advanced fusion The FreedomCAR initiative created part- experiment in the world. I look forward nerships between our Government and the to working with Congress to get it funded. automakers to engineer the next generation I know you all have considered this in the of hydrogen fuel cells to power cars. And past. It’s an incredibly important project we’re making progress. to be a part of. The new effort that we’re undertaking Imagine a world in which our cars are with Congress’ help is to develop a system driven by hydrogen and our homes are for producing and delivering hydrogen fuel heated by electricity from a fusion power- so that when the cars are ready, people plant. It’ll be a totally different world than can fill them up at their convenience. It’s what we’re used to. The quality of life will a big project because we’re—we’ll be be advanced. People will say, ‘‘Gosh, I’m changing years of habit; years of infrastruc- glad those folks went to Washington and ture must be replaced by a modern way. were willing to think beyond the current.’’ But we’ll achieve this. It’s going to make We’re willing to have a vision for what is economic sense to do this. It’s going to possible. After all, that’s what a lot of our mean that our air is cleaner and our na- forefathers used to think. That’s how they tional security is more secure. It’s going envisioned a better America, for the Amer- to happen, and I look forward to working ica we have today. And we have that oppor- with Congress to start the process. tunity here in Washington, DC. We have Pete, I don’t know if you and I are going the opportunity to blaze new paths. I’m to be driving one of these cars, but our willing to get on a path. I know the Mem- grandkids will. And we can be—we can bers of Congress here are willing to get

134 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 6 on the path. It makes sense for America to stand in your way but stand by your to do so. side as we blaze new paths for our country. For the entrepreneurs here—thanks for Thank you all for your interest. God being an entrepreneur. Keep dreaming bless. your dreams. It’s the collective dreams of the American entrepreneurial set which NOTE: The President spoke at 1:35 p.m. at really define our future for us. Here today, the National Building Museum. The Office I’m going to say your Government is not of the Press Secretary also released a Spanish language transcript of these remarks.

Remarks on the Iraqi Regime’s Noncompliance With United Nations Resolutions February 6, 2003

The Secretary of State has now briefed cooperating with inspectors. In intercepted the United Nations Security Council on conversations, we have heard orders to con- Iraq’s illegal weapons programs, its at- ceal materiels from the U.N. inspectors. tempts to hide those weapons, and its links And we have seen through satellite images to terrorist groups. I want to thank Sec- concealment activity at close to 30 sites, retary Powell for his careful and powerful including movement of equipment before presentation of the facts. inspectors arrive. The information in the Secretary’s brief- The Iraqi regime has actively and se- ing and other information in our possession cretly attempted to obtain equipment need- was obtained through great skill and often ed to produce chemical, biological, and nu- at personal risk. Uncovering secret informa- clear weapons. Firsthand witnesses have in- tion in a totalitarian society is one of the formed us that Iraq has at least seven mo- most difficult intelligence challenges. Those bile factories for the production of biologi- who accept that challenge, both in our in- cal agents, equipment mounted on trucks telligence services and in those of our and rails to evade discovery. Using these friends and allies, perform a great service factories, Iraq could produce within just to all free nations, and I’m grateful for their months hundreds of pounds of biological good work. poisons. The Iraqi regime’s violations of Security The Iraqi regime has acquired and tested Council resolutions are evident, and they the means to deliver weapons of mass de- continue to this hour. The regime has struction. All the world has now seen the never accounted for a vast arsenal of deadly footage of an Iraqi Mirage aircraft with a biological and chemical weapons. To the fuel tank modified to spray biological agents contrary, the regime is pursuing an elabo- over wide areas. Iraq has developed spray rate campaign to conceal its weapons mate- devices that could be used on unmanned riels and to hide or intimidate key experts aerial vehicles with ranges far beyond what and scientists, all in direct defiance of Se- is permitted by the Security Council. A curity Council 1441. UAV launched from a vessel off the Amer- This deception is directed from the high- ican coast could reach hundreds of miles est levels of the Iraqi regime, including inland. Saddam Hussein, his son, the Vice Presi- Iraq has never accounted for thousands dent, and the very official responsible for of bombs and shells capable of delivering

135 Feb. 6 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 chemical weapons. The regime is actively done so. Saddam Hussein was given a final pursuing components for prohibited bal- chance. He is throwing that chance away. listic missiles. And we have sources that The dictator of Iraq is making his choice. tell us that Saddam Hussein recently au- Now the nations of the Security Council thorized Iraqi field commanders to use must make their own. On November 8, chemical weapons, the very weapons the by demanding the immediate disarmament dictator tells the world he does not have. of Iraq, the United Nations Security Coun- One of the greatest dangers we face is cil spoke with clarity and authority. Now that weapons of mass destruction might be the Security Council will show whether its passed to terrorists, who would not hesitate words have any meaning. Having made its to use those weapons. Saddam Hussein has demands, the Security Council must not longstanding, direct, and continuing ties to back down when those demands are defied terrorist networks. Senior members of Iraqi and mocked by a dictator. intelligence and Al Qaida have met at least The United States would welcome and eight times since the early 1990s. Iraq has support a new resolution which makes clear sent bomb-making and document forgery that the Security Council stands behind its experts to work with Al Qaida. Iraq has previous demands. Yet resolutions mean lit- also provided Al Qaida with chemical and tle without resolve. And the United States, biological weapons training. along with a growing coalition of nations, We also know that Iraq is harboring a is resolved to take whatever action is nec- terrorist network headed by a senior Al essary to defend ourselves and disarm the Qaida terrorist planner. The network runs Iraqi regime. a poison and explosive training center in On September the 11th, 2001, the Amer- northeast Iraq, and many of its leaders are ican people saw what terrorists could do known to be in Baghdad. The head of this by turning four airplanes into weapons. We network traveled to Baghdad for medical will not wait to see what terrorists or ter- treatment and stayed for months. Nearly rorist states could do with chemical, bio- two dozen associates joined him there and logical, radiological, or nuclear weapons. have been operating in Baghdad for more Saddam Hussein can now be expected to than 8 months. begin another round of empty concessions, The same terrorist network operating out transparently false denials. No doubt, he of Iraq is responsible for the murder, the will play a last-minute game of deception. recent murder, of an American citizen, an The game is over. American diplomat, Laurence Foley. The All the world can rise to this moment. same network has plotted terrorism against The community of free nations can show France, Spain, Italy, Germany, the Repub- that it is strong and confident and deter- lic of Georgia, and Russia, and was caught mined to keep the peace. The United Na- producing poisons in London. The danger tions can renew its purpose and be a source Saddam Hussein poses reaches across the of stability and security in the world. The world. Security Council can affirm that it is able This is the situation as we find it. Twelve and prepared to meet future challenges and years after Saddam Hussein agreed to dis- other dangers. And we can give the Iraqi arm and 90 days after the Security Council people their chance to live in freedom and passed Resolution 1441 by a unanimous choose their own government. vote, Saddam Hussein was required to Saddam Hussein has made Iraq into a make a full declaration of his weapons pro- prison, a poison factory, and a torture grams. He has not done so. Saddam Hus- chamber for patriots and dissidents. Sad- sein was required to fully cooperate in the dam Hussein has the motive and the means disarmament of his regime. He has not and the recklessness and the hatred to

136 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 7 threaten the American people. Saddam NOTE: The President spoke at 4:33 p.m. in Hussein will be stopped. the Roosevelt Room at the White House. In Thank you. his remarks, he referred to President Saddam Hussein of Iraq.

Remarks Prior to the Swearing-In Ceremony for John Snow as Secretary of the Treasury and an Exchange With Reporters February 7, 2003

The President. I’m looking forward to the threatening? And are you willing to use official swearing-in of this good man. I ap- military force if you can’t resolve the crisis preciate you joining us, joining our Cabinet. diplomatically? The President. All options are on the Iraqi Regime Compliance With U.N. table, but I believe we can solve this dip- Resolutions lomatically. I spoke to Jiang Zemin today Q. Sir, can you tell us what you plan about this very subject, and I will continue to do to win over France, Germany, China, working diplomatically to convince Kim Russia, other allies that are still skeptical Chong-il that he will be further isolated about your need to confront Saddam? if he continues to develop a nuclear pro- The President. The Security Council gram. unanimously passed a resolution, called I talked to the President of China, re- 1441, that said Saddam Hussein must com- minded him that we have a joint responsi- pletely disarm. Saddam Hussein has not bility to uphold the goal that we talked disarmed. Colin Powell made that case very about in Crawford—that goal being a nuclear, and now the members of the Security clear-weapons-free Peninsula—that we have Council can decide whether or not that responsibilities, joint responsibilities, that resolution will have any force, whether it Russia has a responsibility. I explained that means anything. to President Putin the other day when I This is a defining moment for the U.N. Security Council. If the Security Council spoke to him. were to allow a dictator to lie and deceive, We will continue—when I spoke to the Security Council would be weakened. Prime Minister Koizumi recently, I talked I’m confident that when the members as- about the North Korean issue. And we will sess their responsibilities and the respon- continue to work diplomatically to make it sibilities of the U.N., that they will under- very clear to Kim Chong-il that should he stand that 1441 must be upheld in the full- expect any kind of aid and help for his est. people, that he must comply with the Q. They don’t seem to be buying that world’s demand that he not develop a nu- argument quite yet. clear weapon. Q. And the threat of preemptive strike, North Korea sir? Q. Mr. President, some in Congress say The President. No, all options are on the you’re not paying enough attention to table, of course. But as I said many times, North Korea, due to the Iraq showdown. and I still believe this, this will be solved Are you concerned that North Korea could diplomatically. And we will continue to carry out the preemptive strikes it has work diplomatically. As I mentioned this

137 Feb. 7 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 morning, I did just that this morning with I mean, he’s a master at it. He’s a master the President of China. of deception. As I said yesterday, he’ll Stretch [Richard Keil, Bloomberg News]. probably try it again. He’ll probably try to Iraqi Regime Compliance With U.N. lie his way out of compliance or deceive Resolutions or put out some false statement. You know, if he wanted to disarm, he would have dis- Q. Mr. President, given the facts as Sec- armed. We know what a disarmed regime retary Powell laid them out at the U.N. looks like. the other day, do you really see any means I heard somebody say the other day, of disarming Saddam other than, at this ‘‘Well, how about a beefed-up inspection point, using military force? regime?’’ Well, the role of inspectors is to The President. That’s up to Saddam Hus- sit there and verify whether or not he’s sein. I mean, the record is poor, at best. disarmed, not to play hide-and-seek in a The man has been told to disarm for 12 country the size of California. If Saddam long years. He’s ignored the demands of Hussein was interested in peace and inter- the free world. And then we passed another ested in complying with the U.N. Security resolution, and for 90 days he’s—the best Council resolutions, he would have dis- way I can describe it is—played a game armed. And yet, for 12 years, plus 90 days, with the inspectors. So the U.N. Security he has tried to avoid disarmament by lying Council has got to make up its mind soon and deceiving. as to whether or not its word means any- Yes, John [John Cochran, ABC News], thing. last question, then we’ve got to go swear And you know, I’ve never felt we needed the man in. a resolution; 1441 speaks very clearly. It Q. Sir, if the Security Council doesn’t talks about serious consequences if he go along with you, what happens then? doesn’t disarm. However, I said yesterday The President. I have said that if Saddam that it would be helpful to have a resolution so long as it demands compliance with Hussein does not disarm, we will lead a 1441, confirms the spirit of 1441. But Sad- coalition to disarm him. And I mean it. dam Hussein is—he’s treated the demands Thank you all. of the world as a joke up to now, and it was his choice to make. He’s the person NOTE: The President spoke at 10:48 a.m. who gets to decide war and peace. outside the Treasury Building. In his re- Q. Do you have any confidence in him marks, he referred to President Saddam Hus- at all, given his track record, that he will sein of Iraq; President Jiang Zemin of China; change his ways? Chairman Kim Chong-il of North Korea; The President. This is a guy who was President Vladimir Putin of Russia; and asked to declare his weapons, said he didn’t Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi of Japan. have any. This is a person who we have A tape was not available for verification of proven to the world is deceiving everybody. the content of these remarks.

138 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 7

Remarks at the Swearing-In Ceremony for John Snow as Secretary of the Treasury February 7, 2003

Listen, thank you all for coming, and with the Congress. I proposed a plan to good morning. Today we welcome John boost the economy with tax relief for every Snow as the 73d Secretary of the Treasury. American who pays Federal income taxes. In this position John Snow will be a key Here’s what we believe: By leaving more adviser on the economy, will be an advo- money in the hands that earned it, we will cate for my administration’s agenda of fast- stimulate consumer spending and encour- er growth, more new jobs, and wider trade. age investment, so that businesses large and John has had a distinguished career, both small can expand and employ more people. in the private sector and the public sector. We know the role of Government is not And I am so pleased to have him join in to create wealth, but an environment in my Cabinet. And I am grateful for his will- which the entrepreneurial spirit flourishes. ingness to serve our Nation once again. We know that businesses hire when they I want to thank Judge Wilkinson for grow, and they grow when they invest. And swearing in his good buddy. [Laughter] so our proposal will promote capital forma- Thank you for coming, Judge. I’m honored tion. It is important for Congress to re- you and your wife are here. I’m also so member that most small businesses are sole pleased that the Snows are with us; Carolyn proprietorships or limited partnerships. And and all the Snows are up here with us. when we cut individual tax rates, we are [Laughter] Thank you all for coming. I stimulating capital formation in the small- want to thank Donnie Evans, who is the business sector of America. Secretary of Commerce, for being here; Our proposal will promote capital forma- Ken Dam, the Deputy Secretary of the tion and investment by ending the unfair Treasury, who serves so well in that posi- double taxation on dividends. Not only will tion; other distinguished guests who are this proposal help when it comes for job here to witness this swearing-in. I want to creation; it will help all investors, including thank all of those who work in the Depart- nearly 10 million seniors who receive divi- ment of the Treasury for joining us today dend income. as well. The Secretary of Treasury has been to Secretary Snow takes office at a time of Capitol Hill a lot already. [Laughter] And challenge for this country. The American he went up there recently to talk about economy is in its second consecutive year the budget I submitted to the Congress. of growth; yet it is not growing fast enough. This budget calls for spending discipline The economy is not strong enough. Many in Washington, DC. We believe the best family budgets are strained in America way to deal with our deficits is to encour- today. Too many small businesses are strug- age economic growth and encourage spend- gling just to stay afloat. The Nation’s rate ing discipline in Washington, DC. of unemployment was 5.7 percent last In addition to his work as economic ad- month, down from the prior months. But viser and economic spokesman for the we will not be satisfied until this economy country and for this administration, Sec- grows fast enough to employ every man retary Snow will lead one of the oldest, and woman who seeks a job. largest, and most important departments of We will work with the United States our Government. The Department of Congress to address these challenges. And Treasury bears responsibility for a wide John Snow will be on point and working range of important tasks, from minting our

139 Feb. 7 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Nation’s currency to stopping the flow of Congratulations. money to terrorist groups. I appreciate the good work of the dedicated men and women throughout this De- partment. And you can rest assured that NOTE: The President spoke at 11 a.m. in the your new boss is a superb executive and Cash Room at the Treasury Building. In his a fine man, with a good heart. John will remarks, he referred to Chief Judge J. Harvie be an active advocate for policies that en- Wilkinson III of the U.S. Court of Appeals courage economic growth. And he’ll be a for the Fourth Circuit and his wife, Lossie; good steward of the taxpayers’ dollars. And and Carolyn Snow, wife of Secretary Snow. that is fitting, because very soon each one The transcript released by the Office of the of those dollars will bear the signature of Press Secretary also included the remarks of Secretary John Snow. Secretary Snow.

The President’s Radio Address February 8, 2003

Good morning. On Wednesday, Secretary The Iraqi regime has acquired and tested of State Powell briefed the United Nations the means to deliver weapons of mass de- Security Council on Iraq’s illegal weapons struction. It has never accounted for thou- programs, its attempts to hide those weap- sands of bombs and shells capable of deliv- ons, and its links to terrorist groups. ering chemical weapons. It is actively pur- The Iraqi regime’s violations of Security suing components for prohibited ballistic Council resolutions are evident. They are missiles. And we have sources that tell us dangerous to America and the world, and that Saddam Hussein recently authorized they continue to this hour. Iraqi field commanders to use chemical The regime has never accounted for a weapons, the very weapons the dictator vast arsenal of deadly biological and chem- tells us he does not have. ical weapons. To the contrary, the regime One of the greatest dangers we face is is pursuing an elaborate campaign to con- that weapons of mass destruction might be ceal its weapons materials and to hide or passed to terrorists who would not hesitate intimidate key experts and scientists. This to use those weapons. Saddam Hussein has effort of deception is directed from the longstanding, direct, and continuing ties to highest levels of the Iraqi regime, including terrorist networks. Senior members of Iraqi intelligence and Al Qaida have met at least Saddam Hussein, his son, Iraq’s Vice Presi- 8 times since the early 1990s. Iraq has sent dent, and the very official responsible for bombmaking and document forgery experts cooperating with inspectors. to work with Al Qaida. Iraq has also pro- The Iraqi regime has actively and se- vided Al Qaida with chemical and biological cretly attempted to obtain equipment need- weapons training. And an Al Qaida opera- ed to produce chemical, biological, and nu- tive was sent to Iraq several times in the clear weapons. Firsthand witnesses have in- late 1990s for help in acquiring poisons and formed us that Iraq has at least seven mo- gases. bile factories for the production of biologi- We also know that Iraq is harboring a cal agents, equipment mounted on trucks terrorist network headed by a senior Al and rails to evade discovery. Qaida terrorist planner. This network runs

140 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 9 a poison and explosives training camp in its previous demands. Yet, resolutions mean northeast Iraq, and many of its leaders are little without resolve, and the United known to be in Baghdad. States, along with a growing coalition of This is the situation as we find it: 12 nations, will take whatever action is nec- years after Saddam Hussein agreed to dis- essary to defend ourselves and disarm the arm and more than 90 days after the Secu- Iraqi regime. rity Council passed Resolution 1441 by a Thank you for listening. unanimous vote, Saddam Hussein was required to make a full declaration of his NOTE: The address was recorded at 9:15 a.m. weapons programs. He has not done so. on February 7 in the Cabinet Room at the Saddam Hussein was required to fully co- White House for broadcast at 10:06 a.m. on operate in the disarmament of his regime. February 8. The transcript was made avail- He has not done so. Saddam Hussein was able by the Office of the Press Secretary on given a final chance. He is throwing away February 7 but was embargoed for release that chance. until the broadcast. In his remarks, the Presi- Having made its demands, the Security dent referred to President Saddam Hussein Council must not back down when those of Iraq and his son Qusay; and Vice President demands are defied and mocked by a dic- Taha Yasin Ramadan and presidential adviser tator. The United States would welcome Lt. Gen. Amir Al-Saadi of Iraq. The Office and support a new resolution making clear of the Press Secretary also released a Spanish that the Security Council stands behinds language transcript of this address.

Statement on the Terrorist Attack in Colombia February 8, 2003

Last night, terrorists attacked a nightclub I extend to President Uribe and the peo- in Bogota, Colombia. The latest reports are ple of Colombia our deepest sympathy for that 25 innocent men and women were this horrible tragedy. killed and more than 150 wounded. We stand with the Colombian people in On behalf of the United States, I con- their fight against narcoterrorists who demn this barbaric act of terrorism. I offer threaten their democratic way of life. our deepest condolences to the Colombian We will offer all appropriate assistance families and friends of all who were mur- to the Colombian Government in bringing dered. We also hope and pray for the quick to justice the murderers responsible for this recovery of those that were injured. act.

Remarks at the ‘‘Congress of Tomorrow’’ Republican Retreat Reception in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia February 9, 2003

Thank you. Please be seated. Nothing lunch—[laughter]—trying to loosen up my like about an hour’s speech for a Sunday vocal cords for the week.

141 Feb. 9 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Thanks for having me. And thanks for We believe strongly that if somebody is serving our country. First, I want to tell looking for work and can’t find a job, then the family members who are here, I appre- we’ve got to do everything we can to grow ciate your sacrifice. I know it’s hard to our economy. Our whole philosophy is leave a district and a State that you love. based upon growth of the economy. We I know your spouse is working incredibly equate jobs and growth. And we know the long hours, and I want you to know that role of Government is not to create wealth I feel that you’re just as an important part but an environment in which the entrepre- of your spouse’s mission. So on behalf of neurial spirit flourishes, in which small a grateful nation, thank you all very much businesses can grow to be big businesses. for the sacrifices you make. And that is why I am passionate about I want to thank the Speaker and I want my plan to give people more money. The to thank Senator Frist for their leadership. more money they have in their pockets, I’m confident in their abilities. I know we the more likely it is that somebody will can work together. And I’m proud to call find work. It is also important for us never them friends. I want to thank DeLay for to forget that we represent the entre- serving in the capacity he does. He brings preneurs of America and that when you a lot of Texas wisdom into the House of reduce the individual income-tax rates, Representatives. [Laughter] Texas tough, you’re putting money into the pockets of and I’m proud to call him friend as well. the sole proprietorship or the limited part- I’ve known Tom a long time, and I’m con- nership or the subchapter S. The tax reduc- fident by working together we can get a tion plan that I want you to pass and I lot done. want to sign will put more money into the I want to thank Santorum—Rick pockets of the entrepreneurs of America, Santorum, that is—and I want to thank which is good for those who are looking Deborah for putting on this event. Where for work. are you, Santorum? There you are. I know We’ve already passed it once. We had it’s not easy to herd cats. It’s a lot easier a pretty good battle. I see some of the when you do it in a beautiful place like soldiers in the tax cut fight of 2001 sitting the Greenbrier though. [Laughter] I want out there. I repeat what I said earlier: If to thank Roy Blunt for being a good vote the tax relief is good 2 or 4 or 5 years counter, and we’re counting on you to from now, with an economy that is not count. And I appreciate—and Jon Kyl. as strong as we want it to be, it is good Thank you, Jon. I’m honored you’re up enough today. Let us get the tax relief plan here with us today. passed. So we’ve got some big challenges facing And while we’re doing it, it makes sense us. I don’t exaggerate when I say this is to help our seniors and to make the Tax a significant year for our country. I truly Code more fair. The double taxation of believe that. My attitude: It doesn’t matter dividends is unfair. It is unfair to tax profits how high the hurdle is; we’ll cross it. It and the distribution of those profits. And doesn’t matter how big the obstacle is; we’ll therefore, for the sake of capital formation deal with it, because we represent the and for the sake of the lifestyle of the 10 greatest country on the face of the Earth. million seniors who receive dividend in- I know there’s a lot of people paying come, let us end the double taxation of attention to what’s happening overseas, and dividends. so am I. But I want to begin by reminding I want to appreciate those who are in- us that we’ve got a domestic agenda that volved with appropriations for working hard is positive and strong and hopeful and opti- to get an appropriations bill to my desk mistic. as soon as possible. It would be nice to

142 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 9 get the 2003 issue out of the way, as we not to try to talk his nomination into the start to deal with the 2004 budget and ap- ground, because Miguel Estrada not only propriations process. I am serious about represents the American Dream but will holding the line on Federal spending. I do us proud on the bench. I want to thank submitted a budget to you which sets clear the Senators for standing strong for this priorities, meets those priorities, and will good nominee. And when the vote comes enable us to say to the American taxpayer, up, this guy is going to be confirmed, and ‘‘We are wise with your money.’’ And America—the bench and America will be therefore, I look forward to working with better for it. you to pass a budget which is realistic and I look forward to working with you on a budget which is responsible. a compassion agenda, one that recognizes We will address the Medicare issue in that in our plenty there are people who a way which enables us to say as a country, hurt, there are people who need love and ‘‘We’ve fulfilled our promise to senior citi- compassion, there are people who wonder zens.’’ Medicine is becoming modern. whether or not the American experience Medicare isn’t, and we have an obligation is meant for them. I look forward to work- to the future of this country to modernize ing to get the Faith-Based Initiative out the Medicare system, to fulfill the promise of the House and the Senate. I look for- to thousands of seniors, a system which in- ward to getting the ‘‘Citizen Service Act’’— cludes more choice, more options, and pre- a reformed ‘‘Citizen Service Act’’ passed scription drugs for the senior citizens of as well. this country. I’m going to Nashville tomorrow to talk We need an energy bill in America, a about the compassion agenda. We’ve got bill which encourages conservation and ex- a role in Washington, but the biggest role, ploration. We need a Clear Skies legislation of course, takes place in the neighborhoods so that we can say our party has led to of our country, when people hear the call reasonable, sane environmental policy. And to love somebody like they’d like to be we need a forest policy in America, a loved themselves, when people fully under- Healthy Forest Initiative which enables us stand that one person can make a signifi- to maintain the vast treasures, particularly cant difference in the life of somebody who of forest land in the West, and at the same hurts. I’m going to reiterate my call for time be wise about how we clear under- a mentoring initiative, aimed particularly at brush so that we don’t encourage forest junior high students as well as children fires that—some of the devastating forest whose mom or dad may be in a prison. fires that took place in the West this year. I’m going to call for a focus on those who I look forward to working with the Sen- are addicted to drugs. Listen, we will work ate to get my judges confirmed. I have hard to continue to drive the demand for named some really honorable people to the drugs down and interdict supply, but there bench. I want to thank Senator Hatch and are sad souls in our society who are hooked other members of the Senate Judiciary on drugs. And I look forward to working Committee for kind of putting aside all that with the Congress to empower programs political—the politics that so dominated the which work, particularly faith-based pro- discourse. grams which work, to help save Americans The first test, of course, is Miguel one heart, one soul, one conscience at a Estrada. Fabulous story. He’s a great, great time. jurist—a lawyer who will be a great jurist. And as we show our compassion here And I expect that he be given a fair hearing at home, I feel strongly about our need on the floor of the Senate. I expect the to show our compassion abroad as well. people of the Senate not to hold him up, Some of you have been to Africa and have

143 Feb. 9 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 seen the suffering. Some of you know first- committees and, of course, the House and hand the stories about thousands of aban- the Senate to get that passed. doned children who are in orphanages, The best way to secure the homeland crowded orphanages, because their mom or is to continue to hunt the killers down one dad—and dad—and/or dad have died be- at a time. The best way to deal with the cause of AIDS. Some of you know the star- threat we face is to find them and bring tling statistics that the people of the con- them to justice, which is precisely what our tinent face. It’s a pandemic. It is destruc- military is doing right now. We are sharing tion of human life, the likes of which the intelligence the likes of which we’ve never modern world hasn’t seen, and we need done before. We’re cutting off money. to do something about it. We’ve got some of our best units chasing In my strong judgment, this Nation these people down, and one by one, we needs to stand up and show our compassion are dismantling their network. when a fellow human being suffers. See, The other day the Italians hauled some if we say every life matters, if we believe in. The Brits hauled some in. Anytime one that every life has worth, that the Almighty of these people is arrested, whether we do God believes in the worth of every indi- it or not, we’re making progress against the vidual, if we believe that, then it makes shadowy killer network of Al Qaida. Slowly sense for us to help save lives when we but surely, we’re bringing them to justice, can. and we’re not quitting until the American I want to work with you to get the AIDS people are secure and safe. initiative passed out of the Senate and the The issue facing our Nation and the House as quickly as possible. It is a plan world is the extension of the war on terror that is a plan of mercy. It’s an important to places like Iraq. Prior to September the initiative. It’s a vital initiative, because 11th, there was apparently no connection we’re talking about saving human life. between a place like Iraq and terror. Oh, We’re talking about showing the world the sure, he had run some terrorist networks great strength and compassion of the out of his country, and that was of concern United States of America. There is no to us. But it was very difficult to link a doubt that when you pass this initiative, terrorist network and Saddam Hussein to when our time in Washington, DC, is past the American soil. As a matter of fact, it and we go home and—sitting around the was very difficult to link any attack on the ranch in Crawford or the front porch in American soil, because prior to September Plano or in Woodlands, that we’ll say we the 11th, we were confident that two heard the call, the cry of people who suffer, oceans could protect us from harm. and we responded, and the world is a bet- The world changed on September the ter place because of the actions we took. 11th. Obviously, it changed for thousands And I believe the world will be a better of people’s lives for whom we still mourn. place because of the actions we take when But it changed for America, and it’s very it comes to fighting terror. First, I thank important that the American people under- you all for your hard work to get us a stand the change. We are now a battle- homeland security bill late last year. We’ll ground. We are vulnerable. Therefore, we work with the Congress to implement that cannot ignore gathering threats across the so that we can all say that we’re doing ocean. It used to be that we could pick everything we can to protect the homeland. or choose whether or not we would become We’ve got other initiatives. The BioShield involved. If we saw a threat, it may be initiative is an important initiative, and we a threat to a friend, in which case we would look forward to working with the respective be involved, but never did we realize the

144 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 9 threat could be directed at the American But one thing is certain: For the sake people. of peace and for the sake of security, the And that changed. And therefore, when United States and our friends and allies, we hear of stories about weapons of mass we will disarm Saddam Hussein if he will destruction in the hands of a brutal dictator not disarm himself. who hates America, we need to take that And so we’ve got a lot to do—we’ve got seriously, and we are. And when we find a lot to do to leave behind a safer country out there’s links between Baghdad and a and a better country and a safer and better killer who actually ordered the killing of world. But I’m glad history has called this one of our fellow citizens, we’ve got to country into action at this point in time, realize the—what that means to our future. because there’s no doubt in my mind, when And that’s why this administration and we make our mind up, we can achieve a this country is holding the U.N. Security lot. Council and the world to its demands that And there’s no doubt in my mind, when Saddam Hussein disarm. It is important for the United States acts abroad and home, the country to realize that Saddam Hussein we do so based upon values, particularly has fooled the world for 12 years, is used the value that we hold dear to our hearts, to fooling the world, is confident he can and that is, everybody ought to be free. fool the world. He is—wants the world to I want to repeat what I said during my think that hide-and-seek is a game that we State of the Union to you: Liberty is not should play. And it’s over. America’s gift to the world. What we be- You see, our country recognizes, and a lieve strongly and what we hold dear is, lot of other countries now recognize as liberty is God’s gift to mankind. And we well, the role of the inspector is to show hold that value precious, and we believe up and verify whether Saddam Hussein is it is true. disarming. That’s the role of the inspector. And as we work to make the world a The role of inspectors—there’s 104 of safer place, we’ll also work to make the them—the role of the inspector is not to world a freer place. And as we work to go into a state the size of—a country the make America a freer place, we’ll work to size of California and try to figure out make it a more compassionate place. Big where this guy has hid things over a 12- obstacles have been placed in our way. year period of time. Working together, we will achieve what we And the inspectors have gone to Iraq, need to achieve to cross those obstacles. and it is clear that not only is Saddam Thank you all for your interest. May God Hussein deceiving, it is clear he’s not dis- bless you, and may God bless America. arming. And so you’ll see us, over the next short period of time, working with friends and allies and the United Nations to bring that body along. And it’s a moment of truth NOTE: The President spoke at 11:23 a.m. at for the United Nations. The United Nations the Greenbrier. In his remarks, he referred gets to decide shortly whether or not it to Representative Deborah Pryce of Ohio; is going to be relevant in terms of keeping Miguel A. Estrada, nominee to be U.S. Cir- the peace, whether or not its words mean cuit Judge for the District of Columbia Cir- anything. cuit; and President Saddam Hussein of Iraq.

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Remarks at the National Religious Broadcasters Convention in Nashville, Tennessee February 10, 2003

Thank you so much for that warm wel- My call to our fellow Americans is, while come. I’m honored to be here. I want to one person can’t do everything, one person thank Glenn Plummer for his kind intro- can do something to make our society a duction. I want to thank those who put more compassionate and decent place. And on the convention for letting some of my I want to thank you, Sherry Jean, for rep- fellow Texans in the hall. [Laughter] I see resenting all the decent people, whether Evans. I see Gramm. It’s good to see they be foster moms or dads—and by the friendly faces. It’s good to see people with way, being a foster parent is an incredibly whom I’ve spent a lot of quality time. important part of our society—or whether Thanks for letting me come. And I’m hon- being a mentor or whether being somebody ored to be with so many of you all who volunteering their time for after-school pro- have dedicated your lives to sharing the grams to help save lives, particularly the good news. lives of our children. Before I came in this hall, I had the It’s also great to be here in Opryland. opportunity to have what they call a round- It’s an unbelievable complex. [Laughter] table discussion with members of the faith You need a roadmap to get around here. community here in Nashville, Tennessee, [Laughter] Either that, or a good Secret people who are changing Nashville through Service driver. [Laughter] But I’m honored their love and compassion and decency. I to be back, and I appreciate the warm hos- met folks from the Campus for Human De- pitality. velopment. It’s an extraordinary testament Opryland has a way of bringing out hid- to social entrepreneurship based upon faith. den talents of politicians. You may recall, And I want to thank all the roundtable in 1974, Richard Nixon came to Opryland participants for sharing with me your sto- and played the piano and serenaded his ries. I particularly want to thank the four wife. In 1998, Ashcroft, the great Attorney folks who have recovered from homeless- General of the United States, came and ness, addiction to alcohol and drugs, for sang a duet with Ray Stevens. [Laughter] your courage to share your story with the So I was just thinking—[laughter]—but President. It’s so inspirational to see your that’s as far as it got. [Laughter] courage as well as to see the great works I think I’ll leave the talent to my great of our Lord in your heart. friend Michael W. Smith and Sara Paulson I also landed today and met an extraor- Brummett. It’s good to see Michael W. I dinary woman from Nashville named Sher- like a man whose middle name is W. ry Jean Williams. She is sitting right over [Laughter] He and Debbie joined Laura here. Sherry Jean, you mind standing up and me at the White House a couple of just for a second? [Applause] Thank you nights ago. It was good to be in his pres- for coming. You’ll hear me talk about the ence. And one of the remarkable things armies of compassion in America; she is about the evening is Michael agreed to play a soldier in the armies of compassion. Sher- the piano for us. He had to sing for his ry Jean mentors children whose mom or dinner. Thankfully, he did—[laughter]—but dad may be in prison. She volunteers to what a joy. help grandparents who are raising their For more than 80 years, America’s reli- children. She is one of millions of people gious broadcasters have been sharing the who are helping people in need. gospel on the airways. You bring words of

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truth and comfort and encouragement into People of faith led the struggle against slav- millions of homes. Broadcasting is more ery. People of faith fought against child than a job for you. It is a great commission. labor. People of faith worked for women’s You serve with all your heart and soul, and equality, and people of faith worked for America is grateful. Each one of you knows civil rights. that the power of faith can transform a And in America today, people of faith life. People of faith and goodness and ideal- are doing the work of compassion. So many ism also have the power to transform our good people are serving their neighbors be- neighborhoods and our Nation. I’ve set a cause they love their God. The spirit of great goal for America: We must apply the service is vital because the need in America great compassion of our people to the is great. There are pockets of despair and deepest problems of this country. This country is blessed with virtually mil- loneliness and hopelessness in America. We lions of good-hearted volunteers who work do not accept as a fact of life that some daily miracles in the lives of their fellow Americans must endure permanent poverty citizens. And today I ask our religious or bigotry or a childhood without love and broadcasters, those who reach into every guidance. Our work as Americans is not corner of America, to rally the armies of complete until we build a single nation of compassion so that we can change America justice and a nation of opportunity. one heart, one soul at a time. Government, of course, must be involved The American people have deep and di- and will be involved. We just reformed our verse religious beliefs, truly one of the welfare in America, and we’ve helped a great strengths of our country. And the lot of people. Yet, even as we work to faith of our citizens is seeing us through improve the welfare laws, we know that some demanding times. We’re being chal- welfare policy will not solve the deepest lenged. We’re meeting those challenges be- problems of the spirit. cause of our faith. I first heard an interesting reminder of After we were attacked on September that fact from Tony Evans. He doesn’t re- the 11th, we carried our grief to the Lord member, but I do. We were in Greenville, Almighty in prayer. Last week, our Nation Texas. He tells a story about the guy who lost seven brave Americans—brave souls, owns the house and there’s a crack running six Americans and one Israeli citizen, up the wall in the house. So he hires the aboard the Space Shuttle Columbia. Laura and I went to Houston. We were so hon- best painter he can find, and the guy covers ored to meet the families. There’s no ques- the crack and everything is fine, until the tion in my mind they are finding strength crack reappears. And so he hires another and comfort because of your prayers and painter and he covers the crack. And Tony because of the Almighty God. In times of Evans reminded me and the audience, he tragedy, faith assures us that death and suf- said, ‘‘You don’t fix the crack on the wall fering are not the final word, that love and until you first fix the foundation.’’ hope are eternal. This economy of ours is growing okay. Religious faith not only comforts; it chal- It can be better. As a matter of fact, we’ve lenges. Faith teaches that every person is got plans in place to encourage job growth, equal in God’s sight and must be treated ways to stimulate the entrepreneurial spirit with equal dignity here on Earth. This idea of the country, encourage small-business of human dignity forces us to constantly expansion so that people can find work. examine our own country and our own Yet, there are some needs that prosperity hearts. And this ideal has inspired some can never meet. of the great reforms in American history.

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We’ve arrested and we convict criminals. they’re religious are coming to an end. [Ap- Yet, building more prisons will not sub- plause] Thank you. I have issued an Execu- stitute for responsibility and order in our tive order banning discrimination against souls. faith-based charities in social service grants The role of Government is limited, be- by Federal agencies. I continue to work cause Government cannot put hope in peo- with members of Congress of both political ple’s hearts or a sense of purpose in peo- parties to enact faith-based legislation to ple’s lives. That happens when someone encourage more charitable giving, so we’re puts an arm around a neighbor and says, more likely able to rally the armies of com- ‘‘God loves you. I love you, and you can passion. We created faith-based offices in count on us both.’’ key Cabinet departments to ensure that And it is that spirit which defines some faith-based groups get equal treatment and of the most effective social programs in fair access to Government funds. America. It is that spirit of love and com- I recognize some people around our passion which makes healing lives work. country asking, ‘‘What does this Faith- Yet, for too long, some in Government Based Initiative mean? And is it a threat thought there was no room for faith-based to my very program?’’ And so we’re holding groups to provide social services. I have meetings across the country to help faith- a different point of view. I believe Govern- based groups to understand how they can ment should welcome faith-based groups as qualify for Government grants without allies in the great work of renewing Amer- compromising their mission. We’re on an ica. education campaign. We’re reaching out to I welcome faith. I welcome faith to help find the social entrepreneurs who exist all solve the Nation’s deepest problems. I un- across this Nation. derstand there’s a—that Government must I went to Congress at my State of the not and will not endorse a religious creed Union and spoke about two needs I want or directly fund religious worship. That’s to share with you today. I have concerns— obviously not a role of Government, and I know you do as well—about children that’s not what we’re talking about here. whose mom or dad may be in prison. Imag- But governments can and should support ine what life must be like for those chil- effective social services provided by reli- dren. Imagine how they wonder about their gious people, so long as they work and future, whether or not this great country as long as those services go to anyone in holds out hope for them. I know by calling need, regardless of their faith. And when upon the compassionate hearts of our fel- Government gives that support, it is equally low citizens, we can help save those lives important that faith-based institutions by mentoring programs, by putting the should not be forced to change the char- child in touch with somebody like Sherry acter or compromise their prophetic role. Jean Williams, who realizes somebody does If a charity’s helping the needy, it should care about them during these tough and not matter if there is a rabbi on the board, difficult times. or a cross on the wall, or crescent on the Now, I asked Congress to support a wall, or religious commitment in the char- mentoring proposal which will bring caring ter. I need to ask, does it work? If an adults into the lives of more than a million earthquake or hurricane damages a Chris- children, disadvantaged children, including tian or Jewish or Muslim school, that school the children whose mom or dad may be should not be denied Federal disaster as- in prison. There’s no question in my mind sistance because of its religious character. that if this Nation puts our mind to it, What I’m saying is, the days of discrimi- we can surround those little ones with love nating against religious groups just because and provide a better hope for them.

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As well, I am concerned about those who When a suburban church and an urban are addicted to drugs, who fight for their church become full partners, great things very lives and survival against addiction. I can happen. Both churches benefit. The believe that we can take an approach that Chicago Christ Church of Oak Brook and focuses on the addict, give that person a Lawndale Community Church are working voucher to be redeemed at any program together to serve the sick in Lawndale’s that he or she chooses, especially those pro- health care clinic for the poor. In Boston, grams that have got the capacity to change Wellesley Congregational Church and the heart and, therefore, change habit. Con- historic Charles Street AME Church are gress needs to hear this call and work with creating a new center to boost the reading us to facilitate the mentoring and the heal- and computer skills of Roxbury residents. ing of those who hurt. Right here on the outskirts of Nashville, America’s religious broadcasters can real- Tennessee, in Franklin, Tennessee, a con- ly play an important role in this work, and version between an associate pastor of I want to discuss what I think that role Christ Community Church and the pastor can be and make a few suggestions today. of First Missionary Baptist Church began [Laughter] Christian media outlets like a fellowship that now includes nearly 60 yours reach 141 million people every year. pastors and church members of all different That’s a huge audience, and it’s a responsi- races and denominations. I know that to bility that I know you take seriously. This be a fact because I heard them both talk Nation has got a lot of wealthy and caring today. Their churches work together to sup- congregations, and we’ve got a lot of port a medical clinic for poor children, a churches in low-income areas that need legal office that gives free advice, a New help too. Your voices reach them all. You Hope Academy, a faith-based school where can communicate with them, rich and poor children from different backgrounds study alike, suburban church and urban church together, learn the classics together. The alike. And you can help bring them to- inspiration for the church told me that her gether to serve those who hurt, so we can hope was to provide a vision for the chil- achieve a more just and generous society. dren, a vision that was positive and opti- It’s been said that 11 a.m. on Sunday mistic and clear. She said it’s one thing is the most segregated hour in America. to teach a child to read, but she wants We all have a responsibility to break down the literate child to see a better day. the barriers that divide us. In Scripture, At first, Pastor Denny Denson of the God commands us to reach out to those First Missionary Baptist—Denny is with us, who are different, to reconcile with each by the way—was a little wary about how other, to lay down our lives in service to these very different churches would work others. And He promises that the fruits together. And here’s what he says. He says, of faith and fellowship, service and rec- ‘‘There’s some walls still there, but they’re onciliation will far surpass the struggles we down low enough that we can just step go through to achieve them. over them.’’ And then he said this, he said, Suburban churches are often just a short ‘‘We are committed to each other to the drive away from brothers and sisters who end.’’ And the Nashville area is better off are facing great need and doing God’s for it. work. There’s an opportunity here to end In all these partnerships, lives are lifted artificial divisions and join together in fel- up. We see unity and racial reconciliation. lowship and service. There’s also an obliga- We see faith renewed by its works. tion. The poor and suffering are the re- So today I ask you to challenge your sponsibility of the whole church, even when listeners to love somebody just like they’d they’re not members of any church. like to be loved themselves, to remind

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them that one person can make a dif- closest friends and allies. We don’t accept ference in somebody’s life, to encourage this threat. them to mentor, to encourage them to start As a matter of fact, the world saw this a ministry which will find the children of as a threat 12 years ago. Twelve years ago, those who are incarcerated and love them. Saddam Hussein was told to disarm for a I ask you to challenge your listeners to reason: He’s a dangerous man. And he encourage your congregations to work to- hasn’t disarmed. We’ve tried economic gether for the good of this Nation, to work sanctions. He hasn’t changed. Over the hard to break down the barriers that have years, we’ve tried limited strikes against divided the children of God for too long. military facilities. It didn’t work. We’ve of- There is no question that we can rid fered Iraq the path of voluntary disar- this Nation of hopelessness and despair, be- mament and inspections. The Iraqi regime cause the greatest strength of America is is rejecting it. the character of the American people. We Saddam Hussein has broken every prom- are a compassionate country, and we are ise to disarm. He has shown complete con- generous toward our fellow citizens. And tempt for the international community. Last we are a courageous country, ready when fall the international community spoke with necessary to defend the peace. united voice. It said, ‘‘This is your last And today, peace is threatened. We face chance, Mr. Saddam Hussein, to do what a continuing threat of terrorist networks you said you would do, which is, in the that hate the very thought of people being name of peace, disarm. Destroy your weap- able to live in freedom. They hate the ons of mass destruction.’’ The role of the thought of the fact that in this great coun- inspectors is not to play hide-and-seek, in try, we can worship the Almighty God the way we see fit. And probably what makes a country the size of California, with 104 them even angrier is, we’re not going to people. The role of inspectors is to verify change. [Laughter] whether or not Mr. Saddam Hussein is We face an outlaw regime in Iraq that keeping his word, whether or not he’s hates our country, a regime that aids and showing up with his weapons and destroy- harbors terrorists and is armed with weap- ing them—the weapons, by the way, he ons of mass murder. Before September the says he doesn’t have. 11th, 2001, there’s a lot of good folks who My attitude is that we owe it to future believed that Saddam Hussein could be generations of Americans and citizens in contained. Before September the 11th, freedom-loving countries to see to it that 2001, we thought oceans would protect us Mr. Saddam Hussein is disarmed. It’s his forever, that if we saw a gathering threat choice to make as to how he will be dis- somewhere else in the world, we could re- armed. He can either do so—which it spond to it if we chose—so chose to do doesn’t look like he’s going to. For the sake so. But that all changed on that fateful of peace, we will lead a coalition of willing day. countries and disarm Saddam Hussein. Chemical agents, lethal viruses, and shad- If war is forced upon us—and I say owy terrorist networks are not easily con- ‘‘forced upon us’’ because use of the mili- tained. Secretly, without fingerprints, Sad- tary is not my first choice. I hug the moth- dam Hussein could provide one of his hid- ers and the widows of those who may have den weapons to terrorists or help them de- lost their life in the name of peace and velop their own. Saddam Hussein is a freedom. I take my responsibilities incred- threat. He’s a threat to the United States ibly seriously about the commitment of of America. He’s a threat to some of our troops. But should we need to use troops,

150 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 10 for the sake of future generations of Ameri- and to lead the world to peace, and we cans, American troops will act in the honor- will meet both challenges with courage and able traditions of our military and in the with confidence. highest moral traditions of our country. There’s an old saying, ‘‘Let us not pray We will try in every way we can to spare for tasks equal to our strength. Let us pray innocent life. The people of Iraq are not for strength equal to our tasks.’’ And that our enemies. The true enemy of the Iraqi is our prayer today, for the strength in people, Saddam Hussein, has a different every task we face. strategy. In violation of the Geneva Con- I want to thank each of you for your ventions, Saddam Hussein is positioning his prayers. I want to thank you for your faith- military forces within civilian populations in fulness. I want to thank you for your good order to shield his military and blame coali- work. And I want to thank you for loving tion forces for civilian casualties that he your country. has caused. Saddam Hussein regards the May God bless you all, and may God Iraqi people as human shields, entirely ex- bless America. pendable when their suffering serves his purposes. America views the Iraqi people as human NOTE: The President spoke at 11:07 a.m. in beings who have suffered long enough the Presidential Ballroom at the Opryland under this tyrant. And the Iraqi people can Hotel. In his remarks, he referred to Glenn be certain of this: The United States is R. Plummer, executive committee chairman, committed to helping them build a better National Religious Broadcasters; Anthony T. future. If conflict occurs, we’ll bring Iraq Evans, founder and president, The Urban Al- food and medicine and supplies and, most ternative; former Senator Phil Gramm of importantly, freedom. As I said in my State Texas; entertainers Ray Stevens, Michael W. of the Union, liberty is not America’s gift Smith, and Sara Paulson Brummett; and to the world. Liberty is God’s gift to every President Saddam Hussein of Iraq. The Of- human being in the world. fice of the Press Secretary also released a America has great challenges, challenges Spanish language transcript of these remarks. at home and challenges abroad. We’re The Executive order of December 12, 2002, called to extend the promise of this country on equal protection of the laws for faith- into the lives of every citizen who lives based and community organizations was pub- here. We’re called to defend our Nation lished at 67 FR 77141.

Remarks Following Discussions With Prime Minister John Howard of Australia and an Exchange With Reporters February 10, 2003

President Bush. I’m going to make some speak quite frequently. I believe he’s a man welcoming comments. The Prime Minister of clear vision. He sees the threats that is going to say some things. We’ll then take the free world faces as we go into the 21st some questions—two from the American century. I’m proud to work with him on side and two from the Australian side. behalf of a peaceful world and a freer soci- Prime Minister Howard is a close, per- ety. He’s a man grounded in good values, sonal friend of mine, a person whose judg- and I respect him a lot, and I’m glad he’s ment I count on, a person with whom I back here in the Oval Office.

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Welcome. to argue that Saddam Hussein is not—is Prime Minister Howard. Well, thank you not cooperating? very much, Mr. President. I’m delighted President Bush. Iraq needs to disarm. to be back in the United States. We’ve And the reason why we even need to fly talked naturally about Iraq and other re- U–2 flights is because they’re not dis- lated matters. I want to say that from the arming. We know what a disarmed country very beginning, the President has shown looks like, and Iraq doesn’t look like that. very strong leadership on a difficult issue. This is a man who is trying to stall for He’s been prepared to go out and argue time, trying to play a diplomatic game. He’s a very strong case. It’s not been an issue been successful at it for 12 years. But no, that’s been free of criticism for any of those the question is, will he disarm? who’ve advocated a particular point of view. I notice somebody said the other day, Australia’s position concerning Iraq is ‘‘Well, we need more inspectors.’’ Well, a very clear. We believe a world in which disarmed—a country which is disarming weapons of mass destruction are in the really needs one or two inspectors to verify hands of rogue states, with the potential the fact that they’re disarming. We’re not threat of them falling into the hands of playing hide-and-seek. That’s what he wants terrorists, is not a world that Australia, if to continue to play. And so, you know, we can possibly avoid it, wants to be part Saddam’s got to disarm. If he doesn’t, we’ll of. And that is the fundamental reason why disarm him. Australia has taken the position she has. And it’s the fundamental reason why we believe the goals that the United States set Australia and the Coalition of disarming Iraq are proper goals, and they are goals that the entire world should Q. Sir, can I ask an Australian question? pursue. We all hope that there might— President Bush. Please. despite the apparent unlikelihood, we all Q. Could you tell us whether you count hope that there might be a peaceful solu- Australia as part of the coalition of the will- tion. The one real chance of a peaceful ing? solution is the whole world saying the same President Bush. Yes, I do. You know, thing to Iraq. And that’s why we believe what that means is up to John to decide. the closest possible cooperation and unity But I certainly count him as somebody who of—objective and unity of advocacy is very understands that the world changed on important. September the 11th, 2001. Ironically President Bush. Thanks, John. Don’t enough, John Howard was in America that worry, malfunctioning light. There it is. day, in Washington, DC, the day the enemy Patsy [Patricia Wilson, Reuters] and then hit. Ron [Ron Fournier, Associated Press]. In our country it used to be that oceans Were you from Australia? could protect us. At least we thought so. Q. Yes. Do I get two questions? One There was wars on other continents, but from each side? [Laughter] we were safe. And so we could decide President Bush. Knowing Ron’s habit, whether or not we addressed the threat you probably will, I guess. on our own time. If there was a threat gathering from afar, we could say, ‘‘Well, let’s see; it may be in our interest to get Iraqi Regime Concessions involved, or it may not be.’’ We had the Q. Iraq has agreed to allow U–2 flights luxury. September the 11th, that changed. and also private interviews with some sci- America is now a battleground in the war entists. Does this make it harder for you on terror.

152 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 10

Secondly, the Secretary of State made late stage, what’s your personal message to it very clear that there are connections be- them? tween Saddam Hussein and terrorist net- President Bush. My personal message is works. And therefore, it is incumbent upon that I want to keep the peace and make all of us who love freedom to understand the world more peaceful. I understand why the new world in which we live. John How- people don’t like to commit the military ard understands that. to action. I can understand that. I’m the Ron. person in this country that hugs the mothers and the widows if their son or husband France-U.S. Relations/NATO Unity dies. I know people would like to avoid Q. In addition to being among the some armed conflict, and so would I. But the people who are calling for inspections, the risks of doing nothing far outweigh the risks French today blocked NATO from helping of whatever it takes to disarm Saddam Hus- Turkey. And President Chirac said nothing sein. today justifies a war. I’ve thought long and hard about this President Bush. Yes. issue. My job is to protect the American people from further harm. I believe that Q. Given what Americans and the Saddam Hussein is a threat to the Amer- French went through in the last century, ican people. I also know he’s a threat to are you upset by their attitude now? our friends and allies. President Bush. No, I wouldn’t—‘‘upset’’ The second thing—my message is, and isn’t the proper word. I am disappointed I started speaking about this today, I also that France would block NATO from help- have got great compassion and concern for ing a country like Turkey prepare. I don’t the Iraqi people. These are people who understand that decision. It affects the Alli- have been tortured and brutalized, people ance in a negative way. who have been raped because they may Q. You think it does? disagree with Saddam Hussein. He’s a bru- President Bush. I think it affects the Alli- tal dictator. In this country and in Australia, ance in a negative way, when you’re not people believe that everybody has got able to make a statement of mutual de- worth, everybody counts, that everybody is fense. I had a good talk with Jacques equal in the eyes of the Almighty. So the Chirac recently. I assured him that, you issue is not only peace, the issue is freedom know, that we would continue to try to and liberty. work with France as best we can. France I made it clear in my State of the has been a long-time friend of the United Union—and the people of Australia must States. We’ve got a lot in common. But understand this—I don’t believe liberty is I think the decision on NATO is short- America’s gift to the world. I believe it sighted in my judgment. Hopefully, they’ll is God’s gift to humanity. reconsider. Thank you all.

Reasons for Action Against Iraqi Regime NOTE: The President spoke at 5:46 p.m. in Q. Mr. President, there are many Aus- the Oval Office at the White House. In his tralians—there are many Australians and remarks, he referred to President Saddam others who are still not convinced that they Hussein of Iraq and President Jacques should be going with you to war. At this Chirac of France.

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Message on the Observance of Eid al-Adha January 27, 2003

I send greetings to Muslims in the important opportunities. The United States United States and around the world as you remains committed to promoting justice, celebrate the Eid al-Adha holiday. tolerance, and understanding through-out The Qur’an teaches that the sacred feast the world, and we will continue to work of Eid al-Adha is a time for Muslims to together with our Muslim friends and peo- join family and friends in thanking the Al- ple of all faiths to build a future of peace, mighty for His many blessings and to re- freedom, and opportunity for all. flect on the great sacrifice and devotion Laura joins me in sending our best wish- of Abraham. During this festive celebration, es for a joyous celebration. peace-loving people around the world, including millions of American Muslims, GEORGE W. BUSH honor Abraham’s example by sharing love and demonstrating compassion for those in NOTE: This message was released by the Of- need. fice of the Press Secretary on February 11. This year’s celebration comes at a time An original was not available for verification when our world faces great challenges and of the content of this message.

Remarks Prior to a Meeting With Congressional Leaders February 11, 2003

Judicial Nominee Miguel A. Estrada playing politics with his nomination. And It’s my pleasure to welcome members it’s shameful politics. This man is highly of both political parties from the House qualified, and I expect him to be nomi- of Representatives to discuss how we can nated. And I expect him to get fairer treatment than he’s getting from those who are continue to make progress in welfare re- really playing against the spirit of the form. The welfare law of 1996 made a sig- United States Senate. And so I call upon nificant difference in the lives of a lot of fair play in the Senate, for the sake of our fellow citizens. Our job now is to build a good, sound judiciary. on that progress, and I want to thank the Thank you. Members for being here. I look forward to a good and fruitful discussion. NOTE: The President spoke at 4:38 p.m. in I nominated a good man named Miguel the Cabinet Room at the White House. In Estrada for the Circuit Court here in his remarks, he referred to Miguel A. Washington, DC. Miguel Estrada is highly Estrada, nominee to be U.S. Circuit Judge qualified, extremely intelligent. He has the for the District of Columbia Circuit. The Of- votes necessary to be confirmed. Yet a fice of the Press Secretary also released a handful of Democrats in the Senate are Spanish language transcript of these remarks.

154 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 11

Statement on Senate Action on the Nomination of Miguel A. Estrada To Be a United States Court of Appeals Circuit Judge February 11, 2003

Last week, the Senate began floor con- he receive an up-or-down vote on the Sen- sideration of the nomination of Miguel ate floor. I urge the Senate to act quickly Estrada to the DC Circuit Court of Ap- and allow for an up-or-down vote on this peals. Mr. Estrada’s nomination was first worthy candidate. submitted to the Senate in May 2001— almost 2 years ago. Miguel Estrada is a well-qualified and well-respected nominee NOTE: The Office of the Press Secretary also who enjoys the bipartisan support of a ma- released a Spanish language version of this jority of Senators. Fairness demands that statement.

Message to the Senate Transmitting Amendments to the Treaty on Fisheries Between Certain Pacific Island States and the United States of America February 11, 2003

To the Senate of the United States: portunities for collaboration between the With a view to receiving the advice and Pacific Island Parties and the United States consent of the Senate to ratification, I on fisheries conservation and management transmit herewith Amendments to the 1987 issues. The relationships established as a Treaty on Fisheries Between the Govern- result of the Treaty have also helped to ments of Certain Pacific Island States and safeguard U.S. commercial and security in- the Government of the United States of terests in the region. America, with Annexes and agreed state- The Amendments to the Treaty will, ments, done at Port Moresby, April 2, 1987 among other things, allow U.S. longline ves- (the ‘‘Treaty’’), done at Koror, Palau, March sels to fish in high seas portions of the 30, 1999, and at Kiritimati, Kiribati, March Treaty Area; streamline the way amend- 24, 2002. I also transmit, for the informa- ments to the Treaty Annexes are agreed; tion of the Senate, the report of the Sec- and allow the Parties to consider the issue retary of State with respect to these of capacity in the Treaty Area and, where Amendments, related Amendments to the appropriate, to promote consistency be- Treaty Annexes, and the Memorandum of tween the Treaty and the relevant fisheries Understanding regarding provisional appli- management convention, which is likely to cation. come into force during the duration of the The United States enjoys positive and extended operation of the Treaty. constructive fisheries relations with the Pa- Existing legislation, including the Magnu- cific Island Parties through the implemen- son-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Man- tation and operation of the Treaty, which agement Act, 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. and is one of the cornerstones of our overall the South Pacific Tuna Act of 1988, Public foreign relations with the Pacific Island Law 100–330, provides sufficient legal au- Parties. This Treaty, and the good relation- thority to implement U.S. obligations under ships it has fostered, has provided new op- the Treaty. Therefore, no new legislation

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is necessary in order for the United States I recommend that the Senate give favor- to ratify these Amendments. However, able consideration to these Amendments minor amendments to section 6 of the and give its advice and consent to their South Pacific Tuna Act of 1988, Public Law ratification at an early date. 100–330 will be necessary to take account of the Amendment to paragraph 2 of Arti- GEORGE W. BUSH cle 3 ‘‘Access to the Treaty Area,’’ which opens the high seas of the Treaty Area The White House, to fishing by U.S. longline vessels. February 11, 2003.

Remarks to Small Investors in Alexandria, Virginia February 12, 2003

Thank you all for coming. Thanks for ica?’’ And he said yes, and I’m thankful your interest in this country and its future. for that. I’m glad to have him on my team. We’ve got some big challenges ahead of His job is to talk about our program all us. We’ve got an opportunity to make the around the country and particularly in the world a more peaceful place and a freer Halls of Congress and convince them about place. And I believe, as a result of the the wisdom of what we’re proposing. resolve of the United States of America, Speaking about Halls of Congress, John the world will be more peaceful, and the mentioned George Allen, the Senator from world will be more free. And here at home, Virginia. I’m glad that George is here. And we’ve got a challenge with our economy. Don Manzullo from Illinois is here, too. I mean, frankly, it’s not strong enough. It I’m honored both you guys came. I appre- is not robust enough. Anytime somebody ciate your interest. I look forward to work- is looking for a job and can’t find one ing with you and your colleagues, both Re- means we’ve got to work together to create publicans and Democrats, to do what’s jobs. right for the American people. Now, the role of Government is not to I want to thank Chuck Schwab, as well, create wealth. The role of Government is for coming. He’s a—he is a leading entre- to create an environment in which the en- preneur in the country, built his own busi- trepreneurial spirit can flourish, in which ness. Tomorrow, when I go down to Flor- people are encouraged to invest and save, ida, I’m going to talk about the dreams in which there’s confidence in the future for small businesses that grow to be big of the country. And that’s what we’re here businesses. This is a guy that took a small to discuss today. business and grew it into a big business. I want to thank John Snow for agreeing It’s really what America is all about, is to to serve in our administration. He came have unlimited horizons for people to take at a pretty tough time. [Laughter] Some risk so they can achieve dreams, no matter people would have said, ‘‘Well, I don’t what their status in life may be. And the think I want to take on the job unless ev- Schwab Company certainly is—represents erything is precooked and the markets will the great entrepreneurial spirit of our coun- be surging.’’ But he realized that this country. try needed all of us pulling together. So I also want to thank Susan Meisinger I asked him; I said, ‘‘Would you be willing and David Hutchins, who run the Society to leave the private sector to serve Amer- for Human Resource Management. Thank

156 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 12

you for opening up your hall. It’s awfully nies, thought they could lie and cheat. And thoughtful of you to let us come in here. that created a lot of small investors—and I fully recognize it’s not easy to host a large investors, for that matter—began to Presidential entourage—[laughter]—but wonder whether or not the numbers they you did it. And thanks for giving us a were reading were accurate. There was a chance to come and talk about how we’re loss of confidence in the markets because going to address some of the big challenges of the corporate scandals. here at home. And we dealt with that, and we’re deal- My attitude about the economy is that, ing with that. Pretty soon, a good man first, we’ve done a pretty remarkable job named Bill Donaldson will become the here in America of overcoming some dif- Chairman of the SEC. He knows what his ficulties. The first three quarters of the year charge is. His charge is to make sure that 2000 were recessionary. They were negative when an investor, a member of an investor growth. Fortunately, we passed tax relief, club opens up his or her portfolio or the which—based upon the principle, if people balance sheet of a company they’ve in- have more of their own money, they’re like- vested in, they know they’re reading true ly to spend it. And when they spend it, numbers, so we can regain confidence. somebody’s likely to provide a good or a Our economy is growing, in spite of all service. And when somebody provides a of what I’ve just described, but it’s not good or a service, somebody’s more likely growing strong enough. And so I went back to find work. And I think most economists to the Congress and proposed a plan that would tell you that the recession—most ob- is an aggressive plan, no question about jective economists—would tell you that the it. But the principle of the plan says, we recession was shallower as a result of the initial tax relief package that both Repub- trust people in this administration. We trust licans and Democrats voted for. the people to make wise investments. We Then the terrorists hit us. And people trust the people with their own money. We of Virginia know full well the impact of trust the moms and dads to be able to the terrorist attack on the Pentagon and save for their children. It’s really the crux this part of the world. Of course, the peo- of the economic plan. It says it’s the people ple in the great city of New York under- of America; it’s the ingenuity and hard stood the effect that it had, the terrorist work and wise investment capabilities of attack had, on the New York economy. But the American people that make this econ- it affected our whole economy. The airline omy strong and different. And therefore, industry became—had difficult times. We the plan is a plan that puts trust in people. couldn’t get projects started—real estate, It’s a well-thought-out plan. As a matter big building projects going because of the of fact, over 200 economists today enthu- lack of terrorism insurance. We actually siastically embraced it, said it’s a good idea. dealt with that issue in the Halls of Con- The first part of the plan has to do with gress, and hopefully big construction your income-tax levels. It says everybody projects which will put our hardhats back who pays taxes ought to get relief. The to work will get going. role of the Government is not to try to The country was resilient, though, and pick and choose who the good taxpayers strong, determined to defeat terror and de- are and who the bad taxpayers are. If you termined to go about our life, no matter pay taxes, you ought to get relief. what the threat may be. And we began Of course, that was already passed in to recover. And then it—then we found the year 2001. We also are phasing—we’re out some of our fellow citizens, a few of increasing the child credit to $1,000 over the many executives which run our compa- a period of time, reducing the marriage

157 Feb. 12 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 penalty over a period of time, reducing the stands this—is that most small businesses bottom rate from 15 percent to 10 percent. pay tax at the individual tax rate. So what we’ve said to the Congress is, When you hear somebody say, ‘‘I’m a ‘‘You’ve already passed all this. You’ve al- sole proprietorship,’’ that means you’re pay- ready accepted the major principle involved ing individual income taxes. If you’re a in tax relief, which is, trust American peo- Subchapter S or a limited partnership, that ple with their money. You’ve already seen means you’re paying individual income the effects of what a tax relief plan can taxes. And so when you reduce income do. Just accelerate what you’ve already got taxes, you’re really putting capital in the on the books. Take that which you have hands of small-business owners, and capital, passed, and instead of phasing it in over extra money, gives that person a more like- 3 or 5 years, let’s move it this year. If ly—a chance to expand. And expansion the economy needs a little extra oomph, means jobs. And by far, the vast majority if more money needs to go into the pockets of new jobs in America are created by of our people, so as to encourage economic small-business owners. And so this tax plan vitality, why wait? You’ve been through the not only helps our fellow Americans save, debate. You’ve already talked about the it also helps small-business owners with ad- principles involved. Move it up.’’ ditional capital. It’s like a huge capital infusion into the small-business sector of Amer- This will affect 92 million Americans who ica. will receive, on average, a tax relief of On top of that, I’m asking Congress to $1,083. Now, some in Washington may say, allow small firms to write up up to $75,000 ‘‘Well, that’s paltry. That’s not enough.’’ worth of equipment in the year in which Uh-uh, $1,083 is a lot of money for people, they spend it, as opposed to limiting the particularly when you think about the effect deductions to $25,000. And that means a it will have on our economy when millions lot for small businesses. When a person of Americans take that and invest it or buy can deduct an additional $50,000 of capital things with it. It will have an effect that investment, it means you may have the will increase the economic vitality of Amer- small-business person invest in one extra ica. machine. But when that’s multiplied all You hear a lot of talk about stimulative— across the country, all throughout America, what’s stimulative, what’s not stimulative. it means the machine manufacturer is more We anticipate that this plan—this aspect likely to be able to provide jobs. It means of the plan is over $50 billion in the econ- the business that buys the machine be- omy this year. You see, I plan to not only comes more efficient. It means somebody get them to accelerate the tax relief; I’m is probably needed to operate the machine going to ask Congress to make it retroactive so that there’s extra employment there. It to January 1st, so it will have an immediate will have a ripple effect throughout our effect on the economy. That’s what’s need- economy, which is very important for our ed. The timing of tax relief is important, fellow Americans to understand. just as important as tax relief is. The other thing I want to talk to you And so I’m optimistic that Congress was about is the dividend proposal. In America wise once, and they’ll be wise again on today we tax corporate-income profits, the same plan. This also will have an effect which is fine. We should. It makes sense. on small businesses. Tomorrow I’m going But then we take that profit and distribute to Florida to talk to small-business owners it to a shareholder in the form of a divi- and entrepreneurs, and what Americans dend, one of the owners of the company. and Congress must understand—I know And then he gets taxed again, and that George Allen understands this; Don under- doesn’t make sense. You don’t want to keep

158 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 12 taxing capital. If capital equals jobs, you country when it comes to stocks and bonds. really don’t want to tax it but one time, Eighty-four million Americans own a stock seems like to me. It makes sense. directly and/or through a pension plan. And So when people in America hear us talk so, therefore, policy, public policy which about the elimination of the double taxation affects stock ownership, public policy which of dividends, they’ve got to understand affects those who own equities and those— we’re doing so with two things in mind: public policy which encourages ownership, How do we improve the lot of our fellow makes sense. Americans, and what do we do to increase I mean, after all, we want 100 percent jobs? If somebody is looking for work out of our people to be a part of the ownership there, and capital equal jobs, therefore, the society. The more somebody owns, the more capital available for investment, the more somebody is going to have a stake more likely it is he’s going to find work in the future of the country. We want ev- or she’s going to find work. And that’s what erybody to have their own home. We want we’re here to talk about today. everybody to have their own balance sheet, The idea of allowing people to keep their own savings, their own plans. And more of their own money is particularly excluding the double taxation of dividends important for many of our retired citizens. rewards small investors. It encourages stock You’ve got a person who’s worked all their ownership. life, and they’ve got medical bills, maybe, It also will have a positive effect when piling up, particularly since Medicare isn’t it comes to our corporate America. And all that effective these days for some. Or a lot of corporate America said, ‘‘Invest in you’re worried about your grandkids’ edu- me. The sky’s the limit, a fantastic growth cation. But really what you’re worried about potential.’’ They say, you know, ‘‘We may is you want to make sure that you have not be making any money, but, hey, give got a comfortable existence. me a shot.’’ And that works in some cases. Ten million senior Americans receive But it also makes sense to have people some sort of dividend income. It certainly say, ‘‘Invest in me because you’re going makes sense to me that if part of good to get a steady source of the cashflow of policy is to encourage job creation with my company. I’m going to share it with more capital, it’s a nice dividend, so to you. We’re proud that you took risk in us, speak, to allow our seniors to have more and in return we’re going to give you a money as well. So this relief plan will im- steady flow of the cash coming into the mediately give seniors $800 on average a company through the form of a dividend.’’ year more money, which is vital for their Eliminating the double taxation of divi- retirement. It’s a plan which affects peo- dends will encourage more of corporate ple’s lives in a positive way. America to distribute profits and cashflow Secondly, this is a nation of investors. to their investors through dividends. And It used to be when you talk about stocks that’s good; that’s a good corporate reform. and bonds—it probably wasn’t all that long It’s also good for encouraging the owner- ago—you’d say, ‘‘Well, gosh, how’s your ship society, and it’s good for enhancing portfolio?’’ And that would probably pertain the lifestyle of millions of Americans all to a handful of people that lived—knew across the country. something about Wall Street. There prob- The getting rid of the double taxation ably weren’t a lot of them in Crawford, of dividends is good economic policy for Texas, all that long ago, saying, ‘‘Hey, my the short term for America; it is good eco- portfolio’s good. How’s yours?’’ But now, nomic policy for the long term of America. America’s becoming a nation of owners and And I urge the Congress to eliminate the investors. We’re a much more sophisticated double taxation of dividends.

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One of the things we did before coming Kempers of the world taking that extra over here is we had a roundtable discus- money and investing it will mean somebody sion, sitting around a square table. [Laugh- else is likely to find a job, and that’s impor- ter] I like—I appreciate Chuck providing tant for our fellow Americans to under- the square table—[laughter]—but I’m more stand. appreciative of the members of the round- We met with Tim Roberts and the table who came to talk. Lanes, Brian and Wendy Lane. They Now, we talked to Joan Hanover. She were—they are younger parents. The tax and her husband, George, were visiting relief plan will mean they will have more with us. They are near retirement—retir- money to invest for their children. When ing—in the process of retiring, meaning they set aside the—some of the money that they’re very smart, active, capable people they get in a child’s education trust, for who are retirement age and are retiring. example, and that compounds over time, They receive $1,700 additional dollars a it means it’s more likely that that child year when we get rid of the double taxation is going to have a pretty good nest egg. of dividends. That is a significant amount The more money they have, the more likely of money for the Hanovers. It’s additional it is they’ll be able to save for their chil- money that they can choose to do with dren’s future. what they—they can do with their own If we get rid of the double taxation of money. dividends, it means that one of the good Part of the dialog, by the way—the investment vehicles for a child who is money we’re talking about today is not the young today will be a dividend-paying Government’s money. See, that’s the other stock, because not only will the person be important thing to remember. It’s an im- able to get the yield, the person will get portant principle when it comes to tax re- the appreciation of the company in which lief. It’s your money we’re talking about. they invest. And the Hanovers are having more money These good couples work hard for their to invest. children. They make sacrifices for their Joe Kemper will have an additional children. And it makes sense for our tax $1,600, he shared with us. The whole tax policy to reward them for their sacrifices. relief will actually give him $3,500 addi- The plan we’ve laid out is good for job tional money in his own pocket, of which creation. The plan we’ve laid out also 1,600 will be from getting rid of the double speaks to the aspirations of many of our taxation of dividends. I hope you didn’t citizens. And that’s very important for Con- mind me saying that, Joe. But the point gress to understand when they debate this is, is that—I think Joe will tell you, he’s plan. It speaks for the aspirations of the not one of these superrich in America. He’s senior citizen to have a comfortable lifestyle a guy who served his country. He worked when they retire. It speaks to the aspira- hard all his life; $3,500 means something tions of the moms and dads to be able to him. to invest for their children. It speaks to When you hear the debate about this the aspirations of a person looking for work kind of class warfare, rhetoric about, ‘‘Oh, today. It really speaks to the hopes of our this is for the rich, only for the rich,’’ I country that we want our economy to be want you to think about the Joe Kempers as strong as it possibly can be, as we take of the world. I certainly will—a fellow who on some of the great challenges which this worked for our Government and now a fel- country has ever faced. low who we trust with that $3,500, because This country will accomplish anything we it’s his money. And when he invests it, it’s set our mind to. We will achieve peace going to have a positive effect. All the Joe in the world. We will work for freedom,

160 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 12 not only here in America, a free and just dict that with wise diplomatic policy the society. We believe in freedom around the world will be more peaceful. And I can world because everybody has got worth. predict that, because we happen to live in See, one of the great principles of America the greatest nation on the face of the is everybody has dignity. Everybody counts. Earth. Thank you all for coming. And may Everybody matters. As I said in my State God bless America. of the Union, liberty is not America’s gift to the world. It is God’s gift to human— NOTE: The President spoke at 2:13 p.m. in mankind, and that’s what I believe. the Founders Room at the Society for And as we think about how to have a Human Resource Management. In his re- better society and a more peaceful world, marks, he referred to Charles Schwab, chair- we’ve got to trust in the wisdom and man, Charles Schwab Corp.; Susan strength of the American people. After all, Meisinger, president and chief executive offi- the American people is this country’s great- cer, and David B. Hutchins, chair, Society est asset. for Human Resource Management. The Of- I boldly predict that with good policy fice of the Press Secretary also released a this economy will be strong. I boldly pre- Spanish language transcript of these remarks.

Statement on Initiatives To Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions February 12, 2003

The United States is taking prudent steps America’s electric utilities; petroleum re- to address the long-term challenge of global finers and natural gas producers; chemical, climate change. We are reducing projected automotive, magnesium, iron and steel greenhouse gas emissions in the near term, manufacturers; forest and paper producers; while devoting greater resources to improv- railroads; the mining, cement, aluminum ing climate change science and developing and semiconductor industries; and many of advanced energy technologies. America has America’s leading corporations have com- already made great progress in this effort: mitted to actions that will prevent millions Between 1990 and 2001, industrial sector of tons of greenhouse gas emissions in the emissions were held constant, while our coming decade. I commend these initiatives economy grew by almost 40 percent. Sus- which will help these businesses and indus- taining and accelerating this progress will tries continue to improve their energy effi- help us meet our goal of reducing the ciency and overall productivity, while con- greenhouse gas intensity of the American tributing toward achieving our goal to re- economy by 18 percent by 2012. duce the greenhouse gas intensity of the American economy. A year ago, I challenged American businesses to develop new, voluntary initiatives As I said last year, every sector of the economy will need to contribute to our ef- to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. I am forts to achieve our ambitious national goal. pleased to announce today that 12 major These initiatives are a first step in what industrial sectors and the membership of we expect to be an ongoing engagement the Business Roundtable have responded with these and other sectors of our econ- with ambitious commitments to reduce omy in the years ahead. their greenhouse gas emissions in the com- Underpinning our approach to climate ing decade. change is an understanding that meeting

161 Feb. 12 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 this long-term challenge requires policies and productivity improvements. The United that recognize that sustained economic States is the world’s leader in technological growth is an essential part of the solution. development, industrial productivity, and Policies that undermine the health of our environmental quality. These strengths economy would only hamper America’s make possible the initiatives that have been ability to develop and deploy new energy announced today to reduce or capture and technologies and invest in energy efficiency store greenhouse gas emissions.

Memorandum on the Interagency Working Group on Assistive Technology Mobility Devices February 12, 2003

Memorandum for the Secretary of ordinated. Other Federal programs provide Education, the Secretary of Health and funding of assistive technology mobility de- Human Services, the Secretary of Labor, vices for medical purposes, but the intent the Commissioner of Social Security of these programs has always been, and should remain, medical rather than edu- Subject: Interagency Working Group on cational or vocational. Assistive Technology Mobility Devices Consistent with my interest in improving When President George H.W. Bush the coordination of the Federal programs signed the Americans with Disabilities Act that help provide individuals with assistive of 1990, America opened its door to a new technology mobility devices, I hereby direct age for people with disabilities. Although the following: much progress has been made since then, Section 1. Establishment of the Inter- significant challenges remain for individuals agency Working Group on Assistive Tech- with disabilities who seek full participation nology Mobility Devices. (a) There is here- in American society. by established, within the Department of My Administration is committed to in- Education for administrative purposes, the creasing education and employment oppor- ‘‘Interagency Working Group on Assistive tunities for individuals with disabilities. My Technology Mobility Devices’’ (Working New Freedom Initiative strives to provide Group). The Working Group shall consist people with disabilities increased opportu- exclusively of: nities to lead more independent lives by (i) the Secretary of Education, the Sec- expanding education and job opportunities, retary of Health and Human Services, and by ensuring that the latest technologies, the Secretary of Labor, and the Com- which often make education and employ- missioner of Social Security; and ment possible, are readily available. (ii) such other Federal officials as the As- Often, individuals with disabilities require sistant to the President for Domestic assistive technology mobility devices—such Policy from time to time, on my be- as powered wheelchairs and scooters—in half, may designate. order to access education, training, and (b) The Secretary of Education shall competitive employment. While there are serve as Chairman of the Working Group. several Federal programs, as well as State The Chairman shall convene and preside and local efforts, that help individuals with at any meetings of the Working Group, de- disabilities obtain these and other assistive termine its agenda, direct its work, and, technologies, they are not adequately co- as appropriate to particular subject matters,

162 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 12 establish and direct subgroups of the Work- funding from existing resources to obtain ing Group, which shall consist exclusively the assistive technology mobility devices of Working Group members. that they need to pursue their educational (c) A member of the Working Group and employment goals. may designate, to perform the Working Sec. 4. Termination. The Working Group Group or Working Group subgroup func- shall terminate 30 days after the date of tions of the member, any person who is the submission of the report as described part of the member’s agency and who is in section 3 of this memorandum. an officer appointed by the President with Sec. 5. General. (a) Agencies shall assist the advice and consent of the Senate, or the Working Group and provide informa- a member of the Senior Executive Service. tion to the Working Group consistent with Sec. 2. Functions of the Working Group. applicable law as may be necessary to carry The Working Group shall: (a) identify exist- out the functions of the Working Group. ing Federal Government programs and re- To the extent permitted by law, the De- sources that are designed to help individ- partment of Education shall provide fund- uals with disabilities obtain the assistive ing and administrative support for the technology mobility devices that they need Working Group. for education and employment; and (b) (b) As used in this memorandum, the work with State, local, and tribal govern- term ‘‘agency’’ means an executive departments, as appropriate, to identify State, ment or agency of the Federal Govern- local, and tribal programs that are designed ment. to help individuals with disabilities obtain (c) Nothing in this memorandum shall assistive technology mobility devices for be construed to impair or otherwise affect education and employment. The Secretary the functions of the Director of the Office of Education shall take the lead in coordi- of Management and Budget relating to nating these efforts. budget, administrative, or legislative pro- Sec. 3. Report. In performing its func- posals. tions the Working Group shall present to (d) This memorandum is intended only me, through the Assistant to the President to improve the internal management of the for Domestic Policy, a report not later than Federal Government and is not intended 180 days from the date of this memo- to, and does not, create any right or ben- randum. The report shall include the spe- efit, substantive or procedural, enforceable cific steps that each of the agencies rep- at law or equity by a party against the resented on the Working Group will take United States, its departments, agencies, in- to: (a) improve coordination among their strumentalities or entities, its officers or existing programs; (b) train vocational reha- employees, or any other person. bilitation counselors, other service providers, and individuals with disabilities, as GEORGE W. BUSH provided by law; and (c) inform individuals with disabilities about these opportunities. NOTE: The Office of the Press Secretary also The report shall also include a description released a Spanish language version of this of how individuals with disabilities can pool memorandum.

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Letter to the Speaker of the House of Representatives Transmitting a Subsidy Budget Authority Request for Frontier Airlines February 12, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker: lion, as an emergency requirement pursu- In accordance with provisions of Public ant to section 252(e) of the Balanced Budg- Law 107–42, the Air Transportation Safety et and Emergency Deficit Control Act of and System Stabilization Act, 2001, I here- 1985. by request the subsidy budget authority The details of this request are set forth necessary to support a $70 million Federal in the enclosed letter from the Director credit instrument for Frontier Airlines. of the Office of Management and Budget. I hereby designate this subsidy budget Sincerely, authority, currently estimated at $12.7 mil- GEORGE W. BUSH

Message to the Congress Reporting a Certification Required by the Ratification Resolution of the Chemical Weapons Convention February 12, 2003

To the Congress of the United States: The Australia Group remains a viable Consistent with the resolution of advice mechanism for limiting the spread of chem- and consent to ratification of the Conven- ical and biological weapons-related mate- tion on the Prohibition of the Develop- rials and technology, and the effectiveness ment, Production, Stockpiling, and Use of of the Australia Group has not been under- Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruc- mined by changes in membership, lack of tion, adopted by the United States Senate compliance with common export controls on April 24, 1997, I hereby certify pursuant and nonproliferation measures, or the to Condition 7(C)(i), Effectiveness of the weakening of common controls and non- Australia Group, that: proliferation measures, in force as of April 25, 1997. Australia Group members continue to The factors underlying this certification maintain equally effective or more com- are described in the enclosed statement of prehensive controls over the export of: toxic justification. chemicals and their precursors; dual-use processing equipment; human, animal, and GEORGE W. BUSH plant pathogens and toxins with potential The White House, biological weapons applications; and dual- February 12, 2003. use biological equipment, as that afforded by the Australia Group as of April 25, 1997; NOTE: This message was released by the Of- and fice of the Press Secretary on February 13.

164 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 13

Remarks in a Discussion With Small-Business Owners in Jacksonville, Florida February 13, 2003

The President. Thank you all. Thanks for somebody’s life and why the plan that I’ve the warm welcome. I’m sure glad I came. described to the Congress is such an opti- [Laughter] It’s—I want to talk about some mistic, hopeful plan for every American. of the challenges which face our country. Before I begin, I want to thank Broth- A little later on, I’m going to go speak er—that would be your Governor. So he to those souls who wear the uniform of had his 50th birthday on the 11th of Feb- the United States military and thank them ruary. I called him and said, ‘‘Happy birth- for their service to the country and tell day. Fifty is not quite as old as it seemed them we’ve got all the confidence in their to be, is it?’’ [Laughter] But we’re proud capacity to help us keep the peace and of him, and we love him. Actually, I had promote freedom. coffee with Mother and Dad this morning. It’s clear we have challenges abroad, par- And Mother said to make sure I told Jeb ticularly the challenge to keep the peace, she loved him still, so—[laughter]—she still to secure our homeland, to adjust our way loves you. [Laughter] of thinking to make sure that we do every- I want to thank Hector Barreto for being thing we can to say with complete con- here as well. Hector is the head of the fidence that we’ll protect America. We’ll Small Business Administration. One of the protect this generation of Americans, and commitments of this administration is to we’ll secure the homeland and make the promote the entrepreneurial spirit through- world more peaceful, so that future genera- out all our country. We want anybody from tions of Americans can grow up in peace. any walk of life to realize if they have a That’s a big challenge. And equally as dream and work hard, they can realize their big a challenge is to make sure our econ- dreams. That’s the greatness of America. omy is strong so that America is a hopeful And I’m honored that Joe, Joe Dagher, place, that our economy is strong enough would invite us into his facility. He had to make sure the entrepreneurial spirit is a dream. He realized his dream. He owns alive and well—and today we’re going to his own business. He can call it his own. talk to some entrepreneurs who are living And we’re proud of you, Joe, and thanks the American Dream—that our economy for letting us come. is strong enough to make sure moms and So here’s my attitude about economic dads have got the capacity to save and in- growth and vitality. It’s based upon the vest for their children if that’s what they principle that if people have more money choose to do, that our economy is strong in their pocket, they’re likely to demand enough so that people who are looking for a good or a service. And when they de- work can find a job. mand a good or a service, somebody in And that’s also a challenge we face. the marketplace is going to produce a good Today you’ll hear me talk about the plan or a service. And when somebody meets that I have asked Congress to approve. I that demand with production, somebody is want the folks on the stage up here to more likely to find work. And so when you share with me and with you and others couple that with the understanding that the listening what that plan means for their role of Government is not to create wealth lives. In Washington, we spend a lot of but an environment in which the entre- time talking about numbers. I like to re- preneur is willing to take risks, it yields mind people that behind each number is this kind of plan.

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I believe we ought to cut the rates on for them. And if they feel like it, they may everybody who pays taxes, and I believe share with us what they intend to do with that we ought to reduce the income-tax it. [Laughter] But one thing is for certain, rates. But you know what’s interesting is I will assure them, is at least I understand Congress has already agreed with that plan. the money we’re talking about up in Wash- In the year 2001, in the face of a recession, ington is not the Government’s money. See, we convinced both Republicans and Demo- it’s their money and your money. It’s the crats to support a rate reduction. It helped people’s money we’re talking about. make our recession more shallow. People Now, one of the things—reasons we did get more money in their pockets, and came to Joe’s business is, I wanted to make they did spend that money. it very clear to the American people that What’s interesting about the rate reduc- tax rate reductions have got an incredibly tion plan that we’ve proposed is that it is positive effect on small businesses. Most scheduled to phase in over time. It takes small businesses are what they call a sole 5 years to get the rates down. It takes years proprietorship or a limited partnership or to get the child credit up to $1,000 per a Subchapter S corporation. If you happen child. It takes years to get the marriage to be one of those three entities, you pay penalty reduced to where we want it to tax at your business, on your business prof- be reduced to. its, at the individual income-tax rates. And Now, if the economy is still not as strong so therefore, by reducing income-tax rates, as it should be and if Congress has already you’re really affecting small-business recognized that tax rate reduction helps growth, and because over half the jobs in economic growth, my message to the America are created by small businesses, United States Congress is: Speed up the it makes sense to stimulate that aspect of growth. If it’s good enough 5 years from our economy. now, it is good enough today. This economy needs immediate help, so Twenty-three million businesses will re- I will ask Congress, when they pass the ceive over $2,000 in income-tax relief. Now, bill, to make it retroactive to January 1st, that means a lot when you start thinking which means workers will get money in about the implications. I mean, you’ve got their pockets immediately, will mean small a one-man shop; $2,000 may mean the ca- businesses will get money to invest imme- pacity to buy a machine, leverage the diately. It will have an immediate effect money to buy a machine, which means an- on today’s economy, something I think we other job. need, something a lot of Americans under- One of the things we understand in stand we need, as we—coming out of re- America, though, is investments equals cession and recovering from a terrorist at- jobs, and therefore, one of the things we’re tack and as we’re finally getting—washing going to try to do is encourage more invest- out of the system those who thought they ment. And so I want to—right now, small could lie and cheat when it came to their businesses are limited to the deduction of balance sheets. We’re recovering from only $25,000 for a capital expenditure. We three shocks to the system, and we need want to raise it to $75,000, to encourage a little further wind at the back of this small businesses to buy more equipment. economy. And so those are two aspects of this plan Now, that means 92 million Americans that makes sense. One is how to encourage will receive an average income-tax relief people to have—how do we encourage package of $1,083. And that’s good. And Congress to let people have more money we’ll hear from some of our fellow citizens in their pocket, for the good of economic up here about how much relief this means growth and jobs, and what do we do about

166 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 13 stimulating small-business activity and because I want a share of their cashflow growth. or share of their profits.’’ And therefore, The third aspect of the plan is really the company ownership must base its pro- to make the Tax Code more fair. We tried jections on how they treat the shareholder, to address that earlier, by the way. It is as opposed to some pie-in-the-sky prognos- unfair to tax a person’s assets twice. That’s tication about what may or may not occur. why I’ve called upon Congress to get rid Growth will occur based upon the certainty of the death tax. See, really what we want of the dividend being distributed. It will is, we want our small-business owners to be a really important corporate reform in work hard, to keep their vision, to build America, in my judgment. up their assets, so they can leave it to who- So this is what I’ve asked the Congress ever they want to leave it to, without the to approve. There’s a lot of talk about Government standing in between. Congress whether or not this is what they call stimu- passed it. They need to make that aspect lative, whether or not it will affect the of the tax relief permanent, like they need economy. Of course it will, because over to make all aspects of tax relief permanent. the next 15 months we’ll have pumped in But today I want to talk to you about $100 billion of additional money into the another unfair aspect of the Tax Code, and private sector. That money will circulate. that is the double taxation of dividends. As that money circulates, it’s more likely It’s fair to tax a company’s profits. What’s somebody is going to be able to find work. not fair is when you take—the company And so I’m here not only to share the takes those profits and distributes them to details of the plan with you; I’m here to one of the owners of the company, the ask you to contact your Senators and your shareholder, and that person then has to Members of Congress, remind them of pay tax on it. It means Government is really whose money we’re talking about, and re- interfering with capital. It means there’s mind them of the philosophy I’ve just out- less capital in the system for investment. lined to you as how best to create jobs. And if investment means jobs, by nature, The role of Government is to create an getting rid of the double taxation of divi- environment in which people are willing dends will make it easier for capital to ac- to risk and take risks and to go to work cumulate, make it more likely people will and work hard, and tax relief encourages find work. that kind of environment. Secondly, the double taxation of dividends hurts our senior citizens. It’s particu- So we’re going to first start off and hear larly acute here in the State of Florida. from Sue Butts. Sue is a entrepreneur. She There’s over 10 million seniors rely upon owns her own business. She owns Supreme dividend income during their retirement Janitorial. She has owned it since 1968. Is years. Why would we want to have some- that right? thing unfair in the Tax Code which also Ms. Butts. Ninety-two. penalizes those who we really need to help The President. Ninety-two. Okay. [Laugh- after their retirement? ter] The double taxation of dividends will also Ms. Butts. It’s been in existence since put a premium on good accounting. In ’68. other words, if you’re distributing divi- The President. You bought it in ’92. dends, your whole growth portfolio, your Ms. Butts. Ninety-two. whole growth agenda will be based upon The President. I will just tell you that yield, as opposed to pie-in-the-sky projec- she will receive a $3,300 tax reduction if tions. Of course, people will say, ‘‘Well, Congress—when Congress passes this plan. gosh, I’m going to invest in this company I’m optimistic, by the way, that Congress

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is going to get the message. Why don’t The President. See, here’s the thing you tell us? Give us your thoughts. about—you know, a dad puts aside money for the daughter. The daughter invests it. [At this point, the discussion proceeded.] It rolls over. There is a compounding effect The President. Yes, I think it’s important when it comes to investments. Money saved for our fellow citizens to know that there and invested will keep rolling over and roll- are ways for Government to incent people ing over. So the $2,100, by the time she to invest, and this is a good way. I mean, goes to college 8 years from now, will be here’s a classic example of somebody who significantly larger than that. And I appre- has limited the amount she is going to in- ciate you thinking about that. It’s very im- vest based upon tax policy. And the idea portant for people to make the sacrifices of raising the limit to $75,000, in this case, for their children. It’s hard to raise kids. it sounds like, could encourage more invest- Tax relief will make it easier for people ment. to make sacrifices. It will help people meet Now, what that means is somebody is the priorities they’ve set. going to be tasked with building the ma- And I want to thank you, James, for that. chine she purchases or the equipment she Zim is an entrepreneur. He—Zim, tell purchases, and that person will be working. us about your business. You’ve got some And then, of course, the people who she of your employees here, too. hires will have more equipment. And it [The discussion continued.] may mean that she needs an extra person The President. We’re in Joe’s house, Joe’s to deal with the equipment she purchases. business. Joe, tell us what you do. Tell us Economies grow with the circulation of when you started this company, why you money. And this is a classic example of started the company. And thanks for letting how tax policy will encourage investment us come by. and the circulation of money. And so, thanks for sharing that with us. [The discussion continued.] Congratulations on being a successful en- The President. This country must never trepreneur, by the way. forget what Joe just said. This is a wel- Ms. Butts. Thank you, Mr. President. coming society, based upon allowing people The President. James is a installation su- to realize their dreams. I love to be in pervisor. He is a taxpayer. He is a man the presence of somebody who is realizing who has got a daughter that he cares a their dreams. lot about. And he’s a guy who is going We love freedom in America. We love to have his taxes fall by 20 percent when the fact that people are free. And I want this plan goes through. You see, there’s a to remind you what I said, Joe, and I be- lot of rhetoric in Washington about the— lieve this as sure as I’m sitting here: Liberty rich this, rich that, class warfare. This is is not America’s gift to the world; liberty the kind of guy I’m worried about, and is the Almighty God’s gift to mankind. We this is what this tax plan—the tax plan just have a chance here in America to pro- speaks to people like James Thomas. Wel- tect liberty and freedom. And I want to come. thank you for sharing that with us. Another man who is living the American [The discussion continued.] experience is Joey Gonzalez, a hard-work- The President. You’ve got more to say ing man. You recommend him, don’t you? than that. Here’s your chance. [Laughter] He works for Zim. [Laughter] Joey, thanks Mr. Thomas. I’m going to let it rest at for coming. that. [The discussion continued.]

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The President. What you just said—you or small businesses benefit, we all benefit. said, your most important job is not work- It’s the cumulative effect of millions of ing for Zim, necessarily; your most impor- acts—decisionmakers in the marketplace, tant job is to be a loving dad. And I appre- which affects job creation. ciate that example. This administration is committed to job growth. I want to repeat to you, so long [The discussion continued.] as any American who wants to work can’t The President. Jodie also works with Zim. find a job, we will be committed to job And Jodie, we’re proud you’re here. She’s growth. married. She’s got a little girl who is 9. And so I want to thank you for giving me a chance to come and share this plan [The discussion continued.] with you. This is a realistic plan. It is a The President. Well, I appreciate you hopeful plan. It is a plan based upon sound sharing that with us. Thanks. You’re right, principle. It’s a plan which will work. It’s some of those pennies are going to the a plan that your Members of Congress— Government, and they should. I mean, as Ander is all right. Don’t worry about him; a matter of fact, I’m now going over to Crenshaw is with us. John Mica is with the base, and we’re sending people into us. I don’t worry about those two. But harm’s way. They deserve the best pay, the there are some who haven’t gotten the best equipment, the best possible training. message yet, and they need to hear from And that requires—there are legitimate you. And you can start right here in the uses of Government. But what we’re talking State of Florida, contacting your elected about today is really setting priorities, fund- Representatives and letting them know how ing those priorities, but remembering how you feel. to increase revenues. Revenues increase I want to thank you for coming. I want with economic vitality and fiscal discipline you to know that we’re citizens of the in Washington, DC. Revenues increase by greatest country on the face of the Earth. empowering people and entrepreneurs and God bless. small businesses to grow and, at the same time, saying to Congress, ‘‘Let us focus on NOTE: The discussion began at 10:28 a.m. important priorities.’’ Remember whose in a printing press room at Dagher Printing. money it is we’re talking about. We’re talk- Discussion participants were: Gov. Jeb Bush ing about your money. of Florida; Joseph Dagher, owner, Dagher And I want to thank you all for coming Printing; Sue Butts, owner and president, Su- today to give us—give me a chance to talk preme Janitorial Services; and Zimmerman about our vision for economic vitality and Boulos, owner and president, James Thomas, growth, for letting people understand that installer, Jose Gonzalez, installer, and Jodie behind every number there is a life that Beere, sales assistant, Office Environments will benefit, and when individuals benefit and Services.

Remarks at Naval Station Mayport in Jacksonville February 13, 2003

Thank you all very much. Admiral, thank to be with the service men and women you for that—for those kind words, and and families of the Jacksonville naval thanks for the warm welcome. I’m honored

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community. I’m proud to be at Naval Sta- Today when I landed on Air Force One, tion Mayport. I met a fellow named Arden Battle. He Last August, the sailors and pilots of the is a machinist mate, senior chief, U.S. ‘‘Big John’’ returned from 4 months in the Navy. Let me tell you something. He rep- North Arabian Sea, where you served in resents the spirit of this military that makes Operation Enduring Freedom. With your me proud. Not only are we tough and good outstanding performance, you proved that fighters, he leads hundreds of your fellow ‘‘Jack is back.’’ [Laughter] sailors into volunteering in the community Some of you here have served in the in Jacksonville, Florida. He and others like U.S.S. Enterprise battlegroup. You were him serve as a role model for young kids. among the first American ships in the Af- He mentors. He and his group teach chil- ghan theater. And when it came time to dren how to read. He not only serves this strike the terrorists in Afghanistan, you were ready on arrival. Together, the ‘‘Big country to keep the peace, he serves this John’’ and the ‘‘Big E’’ launched thousands country to be more compassionate for all of sorties from their decks, supporting coa- of our citizens. lition forces on the ground. You helped lib- My call to you is, a lot of people look erate the Afghan people. You defended the up to you because you wear the uniform. American people, and each and every one Do your duty. Not only work hard to be of you here has made America proud. a good soldier and sailor, but also love The United States Navy carries the might somebody like you’d like to be loved your- and the mission of America to the farthest self. parts of this world. In this challenging pe- I want to thank Arden and all those of riod for our country, great tasks lie ahead you who have heard a call to become infor the Navy and for our entire military. volved in your neighborhoods and your And I know we can depend on you, be- communities to help somebody who hurts. cause this United States military is second America is a better place for your compas- to none. sion and your love. I appreciate Admiral Natter for his lead- I want to thank the other community ership. I want to thank the Governor of leaders who are here. I want to thank those Florida for his leadership too. [Laughter] of you who support our military, but I’m He’s doing everything just like his mother particularly grateful to all the military fami- told him to. [Laughter] I’m listening to the lies who are here with us today. Family same mother, I want you to know. [Laugh- members serve and sacrifice for our Nation. ter] Each one of you knows that Navy life is I want to thank the members from the congressional delegation. Ander Crenshaw, rewarding, but it can be dangerous. It can who represents this district, I know he’s be difficult. Every day our military families a strong supporter of the military families are putting America’s interests first, and living here in Jacksonville, and I appreciate America thanks you. John Mica coming as well. These are two Across this great land, I hear it all the Members of the United States Congress time: The people of this country admire that I know I can count on when it comes our men and women in uniform. They’re to making sure this United States military praying for you. They’re concerned about is strong and ready. you and your families. Our people in uni- I want to thank State Senator Jim King form and families deserve our gratitude, and his wife, Linda, for being here today. and you deserve our support. I appreciate all the leadership from dif- Last year I signed the largest increase ferent battlegroups here—based here. in defense spending in a generation. Last

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week I sent a budget to Congress with an- saw what terrorists could do with four air- other significant increase in defense spend- planes as weapons. We’re not going to wait ing. Those who wear our uniform and their and see what they can do with even dead- families deserve the best possible housing, lier weapons. the best possible pay, and the best possible Today, the gravest danger in the war on training. With the support of this Congress, terror, the gravest danger facing America I will make sure that our military has every and the world, is outlaw regimes that seek resource, every weapon, everything you and possess nuclear, chemical, and biologi- need to defend America and to keep the cal weapons. These regimes could use such peace. weapons for blackmail, terror, mass murder. Across six decades, ever since World War They could also give or sell those weapons II, Mayport has been providing the ‘‘Finest to terrorist allies who would use them with- Service to the Finest Fleet.’’ This port has out the least bit of hesitation. That’s the been home to generations of sailors who reality of the world we live in, and that’s fought America’s battles with distinction what we’re going to use every ounce of and courage. Now you’re called to defend our power to defeat. our freedom and to defend the security We have an obligation to protect Amer- of America against a new kind of enemy. ica and the Americans. We understand our This enemy reaches across oceans. It tar- responsibility, and jointly we’ll do just that. gets the innocent. There are no rules of We’ll protect America and our friends and war for these coldblooded killers. They seek allies from these thugs. biological and chemical and nuclear weapons to commit murder on a massive scale. The civilized world has awakened to the This enemy will not be restrained by mercy growing danger posed by the Iraqi regime. or by conscience. This enemy will be Twelve years ago, Saddam Hussein agreed stopped, and it will be stopped by the to disarm as a condition of suspending the might and will of the United States and Gulf war. Three months ago, the United our friends and our allies. Nations Security Council gave him a final The terrorists brought this war to us, and chance to meet that obligation. Saddam now we’re taking it back to them. We’re Hussein is not disarming. He’s deceiving. on their trail. We’re smoking them out. America has laid out the facts for the We’ve got them on the run. We’re hunting world to see. Saddam Hussein has chemical them down one by one, all across the weapons programs and the means to use world. With our allies, we’ve arrested or them. Saddam Hussein has biological weap- otherwise dealt with—[laughter]—many of ons program and the means to deliver those the key commanders of Al Qaida. And that weapons. He has secretly attempted to ob- includes the terrorists who planned the tain materials needed to produce nuclear bombing of the U.S.S. Cole. weapons. Saddam Hussein aids and protects So far, more than 3,000 suspected terror- terrorists, including members of Al Qaida. ists have been arrested in many countries. He harbors a senior Al Qaida leader who Just about that number met a different kind ordered the assassination of an American of fate. They’re not a problem anymore. diplomat, the same man who plotted The world changed on September the against Spain and Italy and the Republic 11th, 2001. You see, we learned that oceans of Georgia and Russia and Great Britain no longer protect us, that a threat that and France and Germany. The Iraqi regime gathers on the other side of the Earth can is engaged in a massive campaign to con- strike our own cities, can kill our own peo- ceal its weapons of mass destruction and ple. That’s what we learned. And I’m not its ties to terrorists, and that deception con- going to forget that lesson. You see, we tinues today.

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At any moment during the last 97 days— If there is a conflict, American forces and during the last 12 years—Saddam will act in the honorable traditions of our Hussein could have completely and imme- military and in the highest moral traditions diately disarmed himself. Instead, he’s used of this country. Our military will be fighting all this time to build and to hide weapons. the oppressors of Iraq, not the people of He must be hoping that by stalling he’ll Iraq. America’s military fights not to con- buy himself another 12 years. He’s wrong. quer but to liberate. This country will not accept a serious and In case of conflict, this great Nation is mounting threat to our Nation, our people, already putting plans and supplies into and our friends and allies. place so that food and other humanitarian Military force is always this Nation’s last relief will flow quickly to the Iraqi people. option. Yet if force becomes necessary to You see, we seek more than the defeat disarm Iraq and enforce the will of the of terror; we seek an advance of freedom United Nations, if force becomes necessary and a world at peace. That is the charge to secure our country and to keep the that history has given us, and that is a peace, America will act deliberately; Amer- charge we will keep. ica will act decisively; and America will act In crucial hours, the success of our cause victoriously with the world’s greatest mili- will depend on the men and women of tary. our military. You serve this Nation’s ideals, and you live out those ideals in your code America will also be acting with friends and in your character. I’ve seen your love and allies. An overwhelming majority of of country and your devotion to a cause NATO members oppose the threat of Iraq larger than yourself. I’ve seen your dis- and understand that tough choices may be cipline, your idealism, and your sense of necessary to keep the peace. Many nations honor. I know that every mission you are have offered to provide forces or other sup- given will be carried out with skill and un- port to disarm the Iraqi regime. Every na- selfish courage. tion of the Gulf Cooperation Council has The first time the U.S.S. Enterprise was agreed to help defend and protect Kuwait. ever deployed in a crisis was October 1962, And now the world’s most important multi- when President John F. Kennedy ordered lateral body faces a decision. it to quarantine Cuba, which was arming The decision is this for the United Na- itself with nuclear missiles aimed at our tions: When you say something, does it Nation. President Kennedy understood that mean anything? You’ve got to decide, if dangers to freedom had to be confronted you lay down a resolution, does it mean early and decisively. He said of the cold anything? The United Nations Security war, ‘‘These are extraordinary times. We Council can now decide whether or not face an extraordinary challenge. Our it has the resolve to enforce its resolutions. strength as well as our convictions have im- I’m optimistic that the U.N. Security posed upon this Nation the role of leader Council will rise to its responsibilities and in freedom’s cause.’’ this time ensure enforcement of what it Today, at the dawn of a new century, told Saddam Hussein he must do. See, I America is still the leader in freedom’s believe, when it’s all said and done, free cause. And our generation is called to a nations will not allow the United Nations central role in this Nation’s history. As to fade into history as an ineffective, irrele- Americans, we can be confident: The vant debating society. I’m optimistic that American people are strong and resolute. free nations will show backbone and cour- The American Armed Forces are brave and age in the face of true threats to peace ready, and in freedom’s cause, we will pre- and freedom. vail.

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May God bless you all. May God bless referred to Adm. Robert J. Natter, USN, our family—your families—and may God commander, U.S. Atlantic Fleet; Gov. Jeb continue to bless the United States of Bush of Florida; and President Saddam Hus- America. sein of Iraq. The Office of the Press Sec- retary also released a Spanish language tran- NOTE: The President spoke at 11:58 a.m. at script of these remarks. the Echo Foxtrot Pier. In his remarks, he

Statement on House of Representatives Action on Welfare Reform Legislation February 13, 2003

I commend the House for acting quickly while freeing States to seek innovative ways on bipartisan welfare reform legislation that to improve services to those who are builds upon our successful efforts that have transitioning from the welfare rolls to the moved millions of Americans from welfare workforce. to work. This compassionate approach will I now urge the Senate to act without help many more Americans realize a better delay to strengthen our efforts to help our life of independence, hope, and dignity that fellow Americans on welfare achieve inde- comes with having a job. It will also pro- pendence through work. mote strong families and healthy marriages,

Statement on Congressional Action on 2003 Appropriations Legislation February 13, 2003

I commend the Congress for finishing ing to the spending restraint set forth in work on the 2003 appropriations bills. This my budget. I look forward to signing this budget will provide valuable resources for legislation and to continuing a course of priorities such as homeland security, mili- fiscal discipline. tary operations, and education, while adher-

Statement on Senate Confirmation of William Donaldson as Chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission February 13, 2003

I applaud the Senate for acting quickly doing, work to protect investors, and re- to confirm William Donaldson to be the store confidence in our capital markets. I Chairman of the Securities and Exchange also thank Chairman Shelby, Senator Sar- Commission. In this new role, he will con- banes, and the Senate leadership and com- tinue to crack down on corporate wrong- mend them for their efforts.

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Letter to Congressional Leaders Transmitting a Report on Iraq February 13, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. President:) tion 3 of the Authorization for Use of Mili- Pursuant to the Authorization for Use of tary Force Against Iraq Resolution (Public Military Force Against Iraq Resolution of Law 102–1) on our efforts to obtain compli- 2002 (Public Law 107–243) and as part of ance by Iraq with the resolutions adopted my effort to keep the Congress fully in- by the United Nations Security Council. formed, I am providing a report prepared Sincerely, by my Administration on matters relevant to that resolution including on matters re- GEORGE W. BUSH lating to planning for post-liberation Iraq under section 7 of the Iraq Liberation Act NOTE: Identical letters were sent to J. Den- of 1998 (Public Law 105–338). The report nis Hastert, Speaker of the House of Rep- also discusses recent developments in the resentatives, and Richard B. Cheney, Presi- areas previously reported pursuant to sec- dent of the Senate.

Remarks on Improving Counterterrorism Intelligence February 14, 2003

Thanks for the warm welcome. It’s nice which will help us meet the challenges of to be back to the FBI again. The last time war, will help us do everything we can to I was here was 14 months ago, and our say clearly to the American people, ‘‘We’re country had just realized we were at war. working overtime to protect you. We’re We had just learned that America was a doing everything in our power to make sure battlefield. Since the morning this country the homeland is secure.’’ was attacked on September the 11th, folks The officials who are present here rep- in law enforcement all around the country resent thousands of patriotic Americans have been working under urgent and dif- who know that we’ve been called into ac- ficult circumstances. And the first thing I tion, that this is a new era. One of the want to tell you all is that this Nation is reasons I express such confidence in the grateful for your hard work. country is because I understand the char- Across the world we are tracking and acter of the people who have been called confronting and defeating international ter- into action. And there’s no doubt in my ror. Within our own country, we’re taking mind we will prevail. unprecedented measures to protect the I want to thank Attorney General John American people against a serious and con- Ashcroft for doing such a fabulous job at tinuing danger. There is no such thing as the Department of Justice. He’s assembled perfect security against a hidden network a fantastic team which is representing our of coldblooded killers. Yet, abroad and at country with distinction. I want to thank home, we’re not going to wait until the Tom Ridge for becoming the first Cabinet worst dangers are upon us. We continue Secretary of the Department of Homeland to be in a state of war, but we’re making Security. I want to thank Wolfowitz and progress. And today I want to talk about Armitage, who are up here with us—two the Terrorist Threat Integration Center,

174 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 14 of the prettiest members of my administra- But everything changed on that morning, tion. [Laughter] They’re doing a fabulous and it’s important for our fellow citizens job. Paul works with the Secretary of De- to understand that everything did change, fense, Don Rumsfeld. Dick works with the that we must do everything in our power Secretary of State, Colin Powell. Both these to stop an enemy from coming here to men are incredibly important members of hurt us—that’s our first task. Last week’s a team that is doing everything in our decision to raise our national terrorist power to protect freedom and security and threat is a stark reminder of the new era peace. I appreciate their hard work. I want we’re in, that we’re at war and the war to thank Bob Mueller, who’s transforming goes on. the FBI. He’s got all my confidence. And We’ve got agencies at every level meet- so does the Director of the CIA, George ing threats. We’ve got people standing Tenet. Both these men head incredibly im- watch 24 hours a day. Perseverance is portant agencies in our war against terror. power in this war. Determination is essen- Both of them have responded to the call. tial in this war. We will persevere, and it America is better off for their service to doesn’t matter how long it takes. See, that’s our country. the nature of the country that we live in. I want to thank the Members of Con- We owe it to our citizens to protect us gress who are here. I see Senator George within the Constitution that we’re all sworn Allen is here, Chris Cox, Frank Wolf, Jim to uphold, and we will do that. We’re not only doing everything here at Turner, and Jane Harman, Members of the home, but we’re doing everything we can Congress—the House, the last four—rep- abroad. Let me first tell you this: We’re resenting both political parties. I want to winning the war on terror. We’ve hauled thank you for your dedication to the coun- in thousands of terrorists. They’re captured. try. It’s been a joy to work with you all They’re off the street. They’re not a prob- to better secure our homeland, to join to- lem. Like number were not as lucky, and gether to do everything we can to protect they’re not a problem, either. We’re dis- America. mantling Al Qaida one person at time. I also want to thank Chief Ramsey, who There used to be a kind of a brain trust is here, and Chief Moose and Jim Pasco. of these people, and slowly but surely, I appreciate you all and all the other local we’re bringing them to justice. We’re at law enforcement officials who have come war in a different kind of war. It’s a war today. You play an integral role in the de- that requires us to be on an international fense of our country. You’re on the front- manhunt. We’re on the hunt. It’s a war line, and for that the American people are that causes us to need to get the enemy grateful. When you get back home, I hope on the run. We got them on the run. And you tell the troops how much I respect it’s just a matter of time before we bring them and what they do, how much America them to justice. counts on them, and how grateful we are This war requires us to understand that for their sacrifices on behalf of the safety terror is broader than one international net- and security of the American people. work, that these terrorist networks have got Before September the 11th—if you can connections, in some cases, to countries run remember that far back—we all thought by outlaw dictators. And that’s the issue oceans could protect us from attack. The with Iraq. When I speak about the war Nation thought we were secure from any on terror, I not only talk about Al Qaida. gathering danger that might be occurring I talk about Iraq, because, after all, Saddam somewhere else. After all, our history pretty Hussein has got weapons of mass destruc- well predicted that we would be safe. tion, and he’s used them. Saddam Hussein

175 Feb. 14 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 is used to deceiving the world, and he con- formation all the time, which helps us deal tinues to do so. Saddam Hussein has got with any terrorist threat. ties to terrorist networks. Saddam Hussein We’re also strengthening the is a danger, and that’s why he will be dis- counterterrorism efforts by forming part- armed—one way or the other. nerships across all levels of the government. All our successes in the war on terror It’s important for our fellow citizens to depend on the ability of our intelligence know that there is great cooperation be- and law enforcement agencies to work in tween the Federal Government and the common purpose. In order to better pro- State government and the local govern- tect our homeland, our intelligence agen- ments. We’ve formed what’s called joint cies must coexist like they never have be- terrorism task forces throughout our coun- fore. In order to hunt the terrorists down, try, which bring together dedicated officials one by one, our intelligence agencies must at all levels of government. cooperate fully with agencies overseas. Not only is the cooperation better be- Under the leadership of Director Tenet tween the CIA and the FBI, not only is and Mueller, the CIA and the FBI have the cooperation better between intel- improved their communications and co- ligence-gathering services all around the world, but our cooperation at the Federal, operation. These agencies are now quicker State, and local level is unprecedented. And to share intelligence with each other. And it needs to be, because we fight a ruthless we’ve enhanced an overseas coordination as enemy. well. When you read in the newspapers The FBI is expanding the terrorist identi- that a European country has hauled in parts fication system so that 18,000 State and of a poison network, it’s important to un- local law enforcement agencies will be bet- derstand that the reason they were able ter able to identify known or suspected ter- to do so is because we shared intelligence, rorists in near real time. Local police offi- that we’re cooperating, that this vast net- cers will be able to access Federal ter- work of freedom-loving countries is intact rorism information from their squad cars. and real. And the message is, either you’re In other words, a guy in Crawford pulls with us or with the terrorists, and it still somebody over, he’s able to call up whether stands. or not the person is on a terrorist list, The increased cooperation of the CIA whether or not the person is a suspect. and FBI counterterrorism operations is All across our country we’ll be able to tie proving to be one of the greatest advan- our terrorist information to local informa- tages in this war on terror. Under the lead- tion banks so that the frontline of defeating ership of Bob Mueller, the FBI has been terror becomes activated and real, and transforming itself since September the those are the local law enforcement offi- 11th. It has no greater priority than pre- cials. We expect them to be a part of our venting terrorist attacks against America. effort; we must give them the tools nec- The Bureau has assigned more than essary so they can do their job. 1,800 agents to counterterrorism. That’s a We will continue to work with Congress 40-percent increase than prior to Sep- to make sure that the budgets reflect the tember the 11th. In other words, this agen- new reality of the 21st century. That’s why cy now understands that we’re at war and I requested $500 million for additional the first responsibility of an incredibly im- money for training preparedness equip- portant agency, the FBI, is to prevent the ment, technical assistance for State and enemy from hitting us and hurting us. The local law enforcement. agents that are out working in the field The Terrorist Threat Integration Center are gathering an evaluation—evaluating in- marks another crucial advance in meeting

176 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 14 the threats of this time. This joint effort technology to protect innocent life of the across many Departments of our Govern- Iraqi people, at the same time achieve an ment will integrate and analyze all terrorist objective of achieving world peace. threat information, collected domestically One of the things this country stands for and abroad, in a single location. And that’s is freedom. That’s what we believe. For an important advance. The goal is to de- years the freedom of our people were really velop a comprehensive picture of terrorist never in doubt because no one ever activity. When the center is fully oper- thought that the terrorists or anybody could ational, it will fully house a database of come and hurt America. But that changed. known and suspected terrorists that officials As a matter of fact, the more threatened across the country will be able to access we are here at home, the more we love and act upon. freedom. The more there’s a chance that I’m pleased that Bob—George Tenet and somebody might think they can take it away Bob Mueller will take the next important from us, the more stubborn we are in our steps in assembling their counterterrorism demand for freedom universally. resources, both operational and analytical, As I said in my State of the Union, lib- and locate them in a single facility with erty is not America’s gift to the world; it the Terrorist Threat Integration Center. is God’s gift to each and every human The new Department of Homeland Secu- being. So as we pursue peace, we also pur- rity will be a full partner in this center. sue liberty. We care about those who suffer The Department will act to identify and under the hands of a dictator in Iraq. We reduce our vulnerabilities to terrorism and care deeply about those who dissent and coordinate with the FBI to ensure the then are tortured, about those who express threat information is quickly disseminated. an opinion other than what the dictator All of these efforts will formalize a new thinks and are raped and mutilated. The spirit of cooperation that began 15 months condition of the Iraqi citizen is on our ago. mind and in our hearts. As we work to The American people need to know that secure the peace, we’ll always hold those we’re collecting a lot of information and values of freedom dear to our heart. we’re going to share it in a way that enables There’s no question in my mind that the us to do our jobs that you expect us to challenges we face will be overcome, be- do, that we’re going to use the best infor- cause our Nation is full of decent and hon- mation technologies available to not only orable and strong people, many of whom make sure information flows freely at the are in this room. Thank you for caring Federal level but flows from this databank about your country. May God bless your of information to local law enforcement of- work. And may God continue to bless ficials. It will enable us to make sure that America. we do everything we can to win the war on terror at home, just like we’re going NOTE: The President spoke at 1:15 p.m. in to do everything we can by unleashing one the Bonaparte Auditorium at the Federal Bu- of the greatest militaries—the greatest mili- reau of Investigation Headquarters. In his retary ever assembled abroad. marks, he referred to Charles H. Ramsey, We’ve got fabulous men and women in chief of police, Washington, DC; Charles A. uniform who are on the hunt. The finest, Moose, chief of police, Montgomery County, bravest soldiers ever known to mankind are MD; James O. Pasco, Jr., executive director, helping us track them down, one by one. Fraternal Order of Police; and President And if we have to send them into Iraq Saddam Hussein of Iraq. The Office of the to make sure that that regime is disarmed, Press Secretary also released a Spanish lan- we’ll use every ounce of our ingenuity and guage transcript of these remarks.

177 Feb. 14 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Statement on the National Strategy for Combating Terrorism February 14, 2003

Today I am pleased to issue the National they attack. Our country works closely with Strategy for Combating Terrorism. This every nation committed to this fight, and strategy outlines the effort our Nation is we will continue to help our allies and making to win the war against global terror. friends improve their ability to fight terror. The strategy complements important ele- The war against global terror will be hard ments of the National Security Strategy, as and long. Today, terror cells exist on nearly well as our National Strategies for: Home- every continent and in dozens of countries, land Security, to Combat Weapons of Mass including our own. Victory will depend on Destruction, to Secure Cyberspace, for the the courage, strength, and fortitude of Physical Protection of Critical Infrastruc- America’s people and our partners around ture and Key Assets, and the National Drug the world. It will be measured through the Control Strategy. Together these efforts es- steady, patient work of dismantling terror tablish critical goals for strengthening networks and bringing terrorists to justice, America’s security against the threats of the oftentimes one by one. Our Nation is unal- 21st century. terably committed to protecting our citi- The United States’ strategy for com- zens, routing terror wherever it exists, and bating terrorism focuses on taking the fight building a safer, better world of greater to the terrorists themselves. We are using opportunity and freedom for all peoples. all elements of our national power and We will not rest until we succeed. international influence to attack terror networks; reduce their ability to communicate NOTE: This statement was made available by and coordinate their plans; isolate them the Office of the Press Secretary on February from potential allies and from each other; 14 but was embargoed for release until 4 and identify and disrupt their plots before p.m.

Statement on the National Strategy To Secure Cyberspace and the National Strategy for the Physical Protection of Critical Infrastructures and Key Assets February 14, 2003

The National Strategy to Secure Cyber- sectors, are privately owned and operated. space and the National Strategy for the The strategies outline Federal efforts and Physical Protection of Critical Infrastruc- State and local roles in securing the Na- tures and Key Assets will help us protect tion’s critical infrastructures and identify America from those who would do us harm, opportunities for partnership with the pri- whether through physical destruction or by vate sector. The Department of Homeland attacking our infrastructures through cyber- Security will take the lead in accomplishing space. many of the objectives of these strategies. These strategies recognize that the ma- Other departments and agencies also have jority of our critical assets and infrastruc- important roles to play. I encourage every- tures, such as those in the banking, tele- one, government at all levels, industry, and communications, energy, and transportation

178 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 15 private citizens to continue to work together to make our Nation secure.

The President’s Radio Address February 15, 2003

Good morning. Last week the national attack. And we are moving to better coordi- terrorist threat level was raised to ‘‘high.’’ nate the efforts of law enforcement. This is primarily a signal to Federal, State, This week at FBI headquarters, I spoke and local law enforcement to take addi- to some of the fine men and women who tional precautions and increase security are leading our antiterrorism efforts in law measures against potential terrorist attacks. enforcement and intelligence. The FBI, Raising the threat level also informs the CIA, Department of Homeland Security, general public to be more alert to their and Department of Defense are working surroundings and prepared for possible together as never before to assemble and emergencies in the event of an attack. analyze the threat information so we can Americans should go about their lives. act before our enemies can strike us. And for those seeking specific guidance on We are gathering the best information how to be more vigilant, I encourage you possible and using it to make sure the right to visit the Department of Homeland Secu- people are in the right places to protect rity web site at dhs.gov. our citizens. Throughout the country, Joint These recent threats are a stark reminder Terrorism Task Forces are bringing to- that our country remains engaged in a war gether Federal, State, and local officials to on terror. Our enemies are still determined fight terrorism. The FBI is expanding its to attack America, and there is no such terrorist identification system so that 18,000 thing as perfect security against a hidden State and local law enforcement agencies network of killers. Yet, I assure you that will be able to identify known or suspected our government at every level is responding to this threat, working to track down every terrorists almost immediately. Local police lead and standing watch 24 hours a day will be able to access Federal terrorist in- against terrorism. formation from their squad cars to deter- This past week, Secretary of Homeland mine whether individuals they have pulled Security Tom Ridge issued strategic plans over or detained have terrorist links. to protect our critical infrastructure. These I’ve also asked Congress to fill a critical plans will guide local officials in securing need in our defense against bioterror by our Nation’s dams and powerplants, elec- committing almost $6 billion to quickly trical grids, computer networks, and com- make available effective vaccines and treat- munications systems. ments against agents like smallpox, anthrax, Our effort to safeguard the homeland in- botulinum toxin, Ebola, and plague. cludes tighter security at the borders and Our Nation is preparing for a variety of ports of entry. We have posted more than threats we hope never will arrive. Many 50,000 newly trained Federal screeners at of these dangers are unfamiliar and unset- airports. We have begun inoculating troops tling. Yet the best way to fight these dan- and first-responders against smallpox. We gers is to anticipate them and act against are deploying the Nation’s first early warn- them with focus and determination. This ing network of sensors to detect biological vigilance is a fundamental responsibility of

179 Feb. 15 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 your Government, and we are fulfilling that at the White House for broadcast at 10:06 duty in every way we can. a.m. on February 15. The transcript was In the fight against terror, the American made available by the Office of the Press people are resolute. We will persevere, and Secretary on February 14 but was embar- we will prevail. goed for release until the broadcast. The Of- Thank you for listening. fice of the Press Secretary also released a Spanish language transcript of this address. NOTE: The address was recorded at 10:15 a.m. on February 14 in the Cabinet Room

Remarks at the Swearing-In Ceremony for William Donaldson as Chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission and an Exchange With Reporters February 18, 2003

The President. Darn right. Bill, welcome, fidence in our markets. There’s no better and Jane, thanks for coming. It’s my honor person to help achieve that commitment to welcome your family here to the Roo- than Bill Donaldson. In the 2004 budget, sevelt Room. And I’m proud to welcome I’m asking Congress to increase SEC fund- Bill Donaldson as the Chairman of the Se- ing by 73 percent over the year 2002. We curities and Exchange Commission. want to make sure the SEC has the tools Bill will be a strong leader of the SEC necessary to pursue its important mission. and a forceful advocate for the interests This Nation is increasingly a nation of of investors. He’s the right man at the right stockholders, who invest for their families time. We’re so honored you’ve agreed to and for their futures. Americans should be accept this challenge, really appreciate it. confident in the information they use in Bill Donaldson spent a career preparing order to make investment decisions. All infor this challenge. He has served as a vestors deserve to be treated fairly in the founder of a leading investment banking Tax Code as well. Investors should not be firm, chairman of the New York Stock Ex- change, the founding dean of the Yale punished for saving and investing in Amer- School of Management. He has set high ica’s future. Investors should not be— standards throughout his entire career. He should be rewarded for taking risk in the will lead an active and energetic agency. marketplace. The Tax Code ought to treat This agency has been working hard. these people fairly, and so that’s why I’ve They’ve last year filed a record number of proposed that Congress end the unfair and actions for financial reporting and disclo- unwise double taxation of dividends. This sure violations, sought the removal of more measure could improve corporate govern- than 100 corporate officers and directors ance in America as well. on the grounds of misconduct, and ordered Companies across America attract inves- corporations and executives to return to in- tors in a number of ways. One such way vestors hundreds of million dollars in im- is to promise rapid growth, is to say, ‘‘Even proper gains. though we may not have cashflow, the fu- This administration is committed to the ture of our company is magnificent. There- enforcement of the security laws. We’re fore, invest with us.’’ Another way, of committed to creating a climate of con- course, is to promise a steady source of

180 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 18 income in the form of dividends. Elimi- I welcome people’s right to say what they nating double taxation of dividends would believe. give more companies a reason to distribute Secondly, evidently some of the world their profits through direct cash to investors don’t view Saddam Hussein as a risk to in the form of dividends. With dividends peace. I respectfully disagree. Saddam Hus- serving as a stronger foundation for long- sein has gassed his own people. Saddam term value, companies that pay them will Hussein has got weapons of mass destruc- have less motive to artificially inflate profits tion. Saddam Hussein has made—has de- just to cause temporary increases in stocks. fied the United Nations. Saddam Hussein Our law should not discriminate against is providing links to terrorists. Saddam Hus- those companies that focus on stable, long- sein is a threat to America, and we will term growth. Eliminating the double tax- deal with him. ation of dividends is good for American You know, I—war is my last choice. But investors; it’s good for American seniors; the risk of doing nothing is even a worst it’s good for corporate reform. option, as far as I’m concerned. I owe it I’m glad Bill Donaldson has agreed to to the American people to secure this coun- take charge of an agency with the vital pur- try. I will do so. pose of showing the American investor that Q. Have you decided how to do so yet? they’re—can rely upon the data on which The President. Pardon me? they use to evaluate investments, to really Q. Have you decided how you’re going say to the markets loud and clear that we to deal with him yet? expect there to be corporate integrity The President. Hopefully, Saddam throughout our system. This is a man who Hussein will disarm. has not only set high standards but has Q. Mr. President—— achieved them. He’s got a lot of talent and The President. If he chooses not to dis- a lot of drive, a lot of wisdom, and a lot arm, as I have been saying for a long time, of integrity. Ron, we’ll lead a coalition of the willing Mr. Chairman. to disarm him. Steve [Steve Holland, Reuters]. [At this point, Chairman Donaldson made brief remarks.] U.N. Security Council Resolutions on Iraq The President. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Q. Should a second resolution on Iraq Good job. include a deadline? And how are you going Chairman Donaldson. Thanks. to get around the opposition from France, The President. Thank you. Ron [Ron Russia, and China? Fournier, Associated Press]. I’ll answer a The President. We’re working with our couple of questions here. friends. As I said, a second resolution would be useful. We don’t need a second Protests and Action Against Iraq resolution. It’s clear this guy could even Q. Thank you, Mr. President. What do care less about the first resolution. He’s you make of the fact that millions of people in total defiance of 1441. But we want to across the globe have taken to the streets work with our friends and allies to see if to protest your approach to Iraq? And if we can get a second resolution. That’s what you decide to go to war, how do you wage we’re doing right now. a campaign in the face of such stiff opposi- Q. With a deadline? tion? The President. We’re working with our The President. Two points: One is that friends and allies right now to—how best democracy is a beautiful thing and that to get a resolution out of the United Na- people are allowed to express their opinion. tions. As I say, it would be helpful to get

181 Feb. 18 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 one out. It’s not necessary, as far as I’m go out into the future. And there’s nothing concerned. less useful than issuing a resolution and then not upholding the resolution. And, Turkey after all, I want to remind the people that Q. Mr. President, are you any closer to this man has been in defiance of resolution an aid package for Turkey, particularly after resolution after resolution after resolu- given the continued problems with NATO tion for 12 long years. And I think unless regarding any defense of Turkey? the United Nations shows some backbone The President. Well, first of all, as you and courage, it will render the—it could know, NATO did express their desire to render the Security Council irrelevant. And help Turkey, and I appreciate the NATO that’s a danger, in dealing with the new Allies. I also appreciate the EU statement threats that the civilized world faces. yesterday that Saddam Hussein needs to We face terrorism. We face the idea of fully disarm. I thought those were positive people having nuclear arms. We face peo- developments. We’re working closely with ple who have got weapons of mass destruc- the Turks. And you know, we’ve got great tion. We face these deadly terrorist net- respect for the Turkish Government. works teaming up with countries with They’ve got—had no better friend than the weapons of mass destruction who could at- American Government. And hopefully we tack anytime. Those are the threats of the can come up with an agreement that’s satis- 21st century. The best way to deal with factory to both parties. We’re still working those threats is to have international organi- it. zations which are effective. And if the Yes, Bill [Bill Plante, CBS News]. United Nations can’t enforce its own reso- Iraq/United Nations lutions—a resolution which, by the way, has been around for 12 years—it says some- Q. Mr. President, would it be easier to thing about its utility as we head into the win the peace after the war in Iraq—if future. there is one—if you had the allies with I want the United Nations to be effective you going in? And what about the idea body. I think it’s in our country’s interest of an ultimatum for Saddam, another last that it be effective. And we’ll see whether chance? or not it’s got the capacity to be effective. The President. Well, you mean another, Yes, Anne [Anne Kornblut, Boston another, another last chance? Well, he Globe]. knows my feelings, and that is he needs to disarm—completely, totally disarm. Lis- Prime Minister Tony Blair of the United ten, he’s a fellow that likes to buy time Kingdom through deception and delay. He believes Q. Given the size of the protests in Eng- time is on his side. After all, he was quoted land over the weekend, do you have any in an Egyptian newspaper as saying all he’s concerns that Tony Blair might pay a seri- got to do is stall and defy the world, and, ous political price for supporting you on you know, coalitions will fall apart. Iraq? I am determined to keep the peace. I’m The President. I think anytime somebody determined to hold this man to account. shows courage, when it comes to peace, And there’s two reasons why: One, we have that the people will eventually understand the obligation, I have the obligation, this that. administration has the obligation to do ev- First of all, you know, size of protest, erything we can to protect the American it’s like deciding, well, I’m going to decide people; secondly, I think it’s very important policy based upon a focus group. The role for the United Nations to be useful as we of a leader is to decide policy based upon

182 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 19 the security—in this case, the security of Listen, thank you all very much. the people. Tony Blair understands that Saddam Hussein is a risk. Tony Blair sees that, you know, a weakened United Nations NOTE: The President spoke at 10:22 a.m. in is not good for world peace. And he is the Roosevelt Room at the White House. In a courageous leader, and I’m proud to call his remarks, he referred to Jane Donaldson, him friend. wife of Chairman Donaldson; President Sad- Another courageous leader is coming to dam Hussein of Iraq; and President Jose the ranch this weekend, Jose Maria Aznar. Maria Aznar of Spain. The transcript released I’m looking forward to having a good meet- by the Office of the Press Secretary also in- ing with him. These are men of vision. cluded the remarks of Chairman Donaldson. They see the task at hand. And I’m proud The Office of the Press Secretary also re- to call them allies. We’ll work together for leased a Spanish language transcript of these the sake of peace. remarks.

Remarks Prior to Discussions With Secretary General Lord Robertson of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization February 19, 2003

President Bush. Today we’ll have a state- in trouble, under threat, asking for help. ment. I’m going to make a statement. That’s what the Alliance of free nations is George will make a statement. No ques- all about. tions. Sometimes we—you know, we can take George, welcome. I’m honored to have a bit of time to do it. It reminded me you here. You represent our Nation’s most of Winston Churchill, whose bust is over important Alliance, NATO. Today, this Alli- there, who once famously said of the ance is providing equipment to Turkey to United States of America, ‘‘The United help protect our Turkish ally from a poten- States can always be counted on to do the tial attack from Iraq. right thing, after it’s exhausted every other I want to thank you for your leadership. alternative.’’ [Laughter] You’ve done a fantastic job of keeping this Well, you can say exactly the same thing Alliance together, moving it forward by not about NATO, but when we get there, we’re only addressing the current threats that we strong, and we stand for the values that face but preparing NATO to address unite a great Alliance. threats into the future. And I congratulate President Bush. Well, thank you, sir. on a great leadership and welcome you Lord Robertson. You’re welcome. back to the Oval Office. President Bush. I appreciate you. Thanks. Lord Robertson. Thanks, Mr. President. Thank you. On the 12th of September, NATO passed a declaration of Article 5 of the Washington Treaty. We came to the aid of an Ally, the United States, under threat, under attack. NOTE: The President spoke at 5:29 p.m. in And today we’ve sent AWACS aircraft the Oval Office at the White House. A tape and Patriot missiles and chem, bio, and de- was not available for verification of the con- fensive equipment to Turkey, another Ally, tent of these remarks.

183 Feb. 19 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Statement on the North Atlantic Treaty Organization’s Decision on Planning for the Defense of Turkey February 19, 2003

I welcome today’s decision by NATO’s Heads of State and Government, stated at Defense Planning Committee to approve Prague on November 21, 2002, ‘‘to take the deployment of AWACS aircraft, Patriot effective action to assist and support the missiles, and biological and chemical de- efforts of the U.N. to ensure the full and fense equipment to Turkey. This is an im- immediate compliance by Iraq, without portant demonstration of the solidarity of conditions or restrictions, with UNSCR NATO Allies in view of a potential threat 1441.’’ to an Alliance member. It follows the deci- I am grateful for the resolute leadership sion taken on Sunday by the same com- of NATO Secretary General Lord mittee to request military planning for such Robertson in bringing the Alliance discus- deployments. sions to a successful conclusion. I also ap- Today’s decision is a direct response to preciate the efforts of all the members of the request by Turkey for consultations the Defense Planning Committee to fulfill under Article 4 of the Washington Treaty their responsibilities as Alliance members as well as the commitment by all NATO in exceptionally difficult circumstances.

Letter to Congressional Leaders Transmitting a Report on Cyprus February 19, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. Chairman:) Ambassador to Cyprus Michael Klosson are In accordance with section 620C(c) of encouraging all relevant parties to maintain the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, as a spirit of compromise and a commitment amended, I am providing a report prepared to reaching an agreement by February 28, by my Administration on progress toward 2003. I will do the same as part of our a negotiated solution of the Cyprus ques- continuing commitment to the U.N. effort tion covering the period December 1, 2002, to find a just and lasting settlement for through January 31, 2003. The previous Cyprus. submission covered events from October 1, Sincerely, 2002, through November 30, 2002. My Administration was particularly active during this reporting period in supporting GEORGE W. BUSH U.N. Secretary-General Annan’s efforts to foster a comprehensive Cyprus settlement on the basis of the plan he has proposed. Although such a settlement did not emerge NOTE: Identical letters were sent to J. Den- at the European Union’s Summit in Copen- nis Hastert, Speaker of the House of Rep- hagen in December, intense diplomatic ac- resentatives, and Richard G. Lugar, chair- tivity has continued. Secretary Powell, man, Senate Committee on Foreign Rela- Under Secretary Marc Grossman, Special tions. This letter was released by the Office Cyprus Coordinator Thomas Weston, and of the Press Secretary on February 20.

184 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 20

Remarks in Kennesaw, Georgia February 20, 2003

Thank you all very much. Thanks a lot. Those of us in office have the responsi- So, I’m on my way down to Crawford, and bility to reject partisan politics which di- I thought it would be wise to stop in Cobb vides our Nation, that—ugly politics, which County. And I’m glad I did. Thank you says, if so and so wins, such and such has for that incredibly warm welcome. It is got to lose—the zero-sum politics that of- wonderful to be here at Harrison High. tentimes enters the discourse of Wash- I’m honored to be in the presence of the ington, DC. We have a responsibility to principal, Donnie Griggers. I want to thank lift up issues beyond the mud pit of poli- he and his staff—he and his fine staff for tics. putting up with the entourage. [Laughter] And that’s why I’m so honored to be I appreciate all the teachers here at Har- standing here with Democrat Senator Zell rison High. I want to thank you for teach- Miller, American first. He is the kind of ing. Yours is a noble profession, an impor- fellow that tells you exactly what he thinks. tant profession, and all of us who care If he agrees with you, he tells you he about our children and our children’s fu- agrees with you. If he doesn’t agree with ture thank you for teaching and sharing you, he’ll tell you that, too. [Laughter] One your wisdom and your love for our chil- thing you can be certain of, he puts his dren. country ahead of the political party. I’m I appreciate the Harrison High students proud to call him friend. I listen to him. who are here. Listen to your teacher and And I’m proud of the fact that he is going your mother, by the way. I’m still listening to sponsor the tax relief plan I’m going to mine. [Laughter] But I’m honored the to tell you about in a minute. students are here, and thank you for shar- I’m also proud to be traveling with Saxby ing your facility with us. Chambliss, newly elected Senator from I’ve come to your school to talk about Georgia. These two Senators make a fine the need for this Nation to assume respon- combination on behalf of all the people. sibilities, that we have a responsibility to Your State is really well represented in the keep the peace and to protect the home- Halls of the United States Senate. land, that we have a responsibility to make I’m proud to be with the man who’s got sure this economy is strong so people can one of the greatest jobs in America, the find work. We have a responsibility to Governor of the State of Georgia. It’s inter- nourish the entrepreneurial spirit of Amer- esting we’re here with Sonny in a school, ica. We have that responsibility. And I want because I understand his passion for public to talk to you about the need for all of education. He understands that’s the num- us to assume our responsibilities as we go ber one priority of any State. And I believe through life. a result of his leadership and working with If you’re fortunate enough to be a mom the teachers and principals and administra- or a dad, you’re responsible for loving that tors and parents, education in this great child with all your heart and all your soul. State is going to flourish for every single If you’re a citizen of democracy, you’re re- child. No child is going to be left behind sponsible for participating in the political in the State of Georgia. process. If you’re a leader, you’re respon- We’ve got the members of the mighty sible for doing what you think is right on Georgia congressional delegation with us. behalf of all of the citizens. And that’s why I say ‘‘mighty’’ because they’re mighty I’m so honored—[applause]. strong. And I’m mighty proud to call them

185 Feb. 20 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

all friends. The Congressman from this dis- thank you for your example. I thank you trict, Johnny Isakson, is with us today. for what you do in the city of Atlanta to Newly elected Phil Gingrey is with us as help somebody in need. Welcome. well. And John Linder from the Atlanta We’ve got an amazing country. Just look region is with us. And some of the country what we have been through the last couple boys from the delegation arrived with us of years, starting with the economic chal- today—[laughter]—Charlie Norwood, Mac lenges that this country has faced. First the Collins, and Max Burns, all fine Members. stock market peaked in March of 2000, Thank you all for coming. people feeling pretty good about the stock I am proud to be in the presence of market, and then it started heading down. State and local leaders. Thank you all for And then the economy went into three being here. Recently I had a—recently— quarters of negative growth, which is the like 15 minutes ago, I had a chance to— definition of a recession. In other words, [laughter]—really recently—[laughter]—I we weren’t—we were going backwards for had a chance to visit with some of our three solid quarters. That affects a lot of fellow citizens. I’m going to talk about people’s lives when that happens. It means them a little later on. I think it’s very im- people are—can’t find work. It means that portant for our fellow Americans to know instead of being optimistic about the future, that when I talk about tax relief and talk many of our citizens were pessimistic about about the entrepreneurial spirit, that it can their future. relate directly to people in your neighbor- And so we did something about it. I want hoods and your communities. I want to to thank Zell for his leadership in the Halls thank you all for coming today. of the Senate. We passed tax relief, which I also want to recognize a fellow named helped this economy begin to grow again. Bob Langley. Where are you, Bob? Right And this—as the economy was beginning there. Thank you for coming. The reason to grow, then the terrorists, the killers, hit I mentioned Bob is he came out to Air us. And that affected the economic vitality Force One to greet me. He represents of the country. There’s no question about thousands of our fellow citizens who have it—the shock to a system, the damage that heard a call to help somebody in need. the attacks did on our financial markets He is a volunteer for Hospice Atlanta and as well as the airline industry, for example. the American Cancer Society. He is a cit- But we acted. We came together as a izen, like many of you here and many country. We responded. The people re- around the country, who know that each sponded with great strength and courage. of us has a responsibility to make our com- The Congress responded by passing ter- munities better by following our hearts and rorism insurance. The administration re- helping people in need. sponded by getting the financial markets See, the greatest strength of America, the opened quickly. We responded by helping greatest strength of our country, lies in the airlines, such as Delta Airlines, to get flying hearts and souls of our fellow citizens. And again. The Nation responded. my call—my call to particularly the students And then we suffered another shock to here—is that in a responsible society, not the system, and that is we found out some only do you have a responsibility to make corporate citizens were not responsible citi- right choices, but you’ve got a responsibility zens, because they thought they could not to help somebody who hurts, to make tell the truth and get away with it. And somebody’s life a little brighter, to love a that caused a lot of Americans to take a neighbor just like you’d like to be loved step back and reflect about what they were yourself. Here’s a living example of a mem- hearing when it came to somebody’s bal- ber of the army of compassion. Bob, I ance sheet. In other words, if they were

186 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 20 an investor, they got a little nervous about a job. And that is the principle of the plan the numbers they were looking at. So the I’m going to describe to you, that I de- country responded. And I had the honor scribed to Congress, a plan that will be of signing the most sweeping corporate ac- introduced by Zell and supported by the countability reforms, supported by both Re- Members here, a plan that both—members publicans and Democrats, since Franklin of both parties recognize that makes sense. Roosevelt was the President of the United It starts with reducing the rates of people States. who pay taxes. Everybody who pays taxes, And now we’re sending a clear message in my judgment, ought to get rate relief. that in a responsible society, if you don’t We ought not try to pick and choose. I tell the truth, there’s going to be a condon’t think your Government wants to de- sequence. We’re going to find you and hold cide, ‘‘Well, you qualify for rate relief, and you to account if you don’t tell the truth you don’t.’’ If you pay taxes and there’s to shareholders and employees alike. going to be tax reduction, everybody who So it’s been an amazing period for this pays taxes ought to get relief. It’s only fair Nation and our economy to have overcome that it be done that way. You don’t want those obstacles. But there’s still too many your Government picking winners and los- people looking for work. There’s still too ers when it comes to tax policy. many people who wonder whether or not Secondly, we have what’s called a mar- their future is bright enough. And I think riage penalty in the Tax Code. That’s back- we need to continue to move forward with wards. We ought not to penalize marriage good, positive legislation that will turn this in America. So therefore, we must phase recovery into lasting prosperity. It’s to make out the effects of the marriage penalty. sure that the economic growth we’re seeing We’ve got in our Tax Code a child credit, now lasts, so that the great American hope and we think we ought to raise the child and American Dream can spread its—can credit from $600 a child to $1,000 a child. spread throughout all our society. That policy will not only help moms and And so you ask the question, ‘‘If things dads, it will—it sends the right signal in aren’t going as well as they should, what our society. It’s good policy to do that. It’s should we do?’’ Well, I agree with Zell, got the right social policy with it as well, with this economic theory, that when a per- it seems like to us. son has more money in their pocket, And so I’ve asked Congress to pass rate they’re likely to demand somebody to reductions and increase the child credit, do produce them a good or a service. In other away with—start the process of getting rid words, you get money in your pocket, you of the marriage penalty. But the interesting say, ‘‘Well, I think I’d like this product, thing is we’ve already passed this, see. In or I’d like this service.’’ And when you 2001, the Congress decided—along with a make that demand in a market-oriented so- little urging from the White House, I might ciety like ours, somebody is going to add—[laughter]—to reduce all rates on produce it. And when somebody produces people who pay taxes, to get rid of the— a good or a service to meet your demand, to phase out, to the extent possible, the it means somebody is more likely to find marriage penalty, to raise the child credit work. to $1,000. It’s been approved. And therefore, the cornerstone of good But instead of approving it and having economic policy recognizes that the money it all in one year, Congress decided in 2001 in Washington, DC, is not the Govern- that they would phase it in over a period ment’s money. It’s the people’s money. And of years. And so I’m going to the United the more of it you have in your pocket, States Congress and say, ‘‘Wait a minute. the more likely somebody is going to find If these—tax relief is good enough 3 or

187 Feb. 20 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

5 or 7 years from now, and the economy I also want you to know this plan is is not as strong as it should be, if you fair, and it is balanced. One of the things thought tax relief would help economic that’s important about any stimulative plan growth, let’s accelerate the tax relief. You’ve or tax relief plan, it’s got to be fair. Under already passed it once. Let’s make it effec- this plan, 92 million Americans receive an tive this year.’’ average tax cut of $1,083. That’s fair. Near- And I’m also going to ask Congress to ly 2.5 million taxpayers in your State of make sure that we make the tax relief ef- Georgia will see lower income-tax bills. fective as of January 1st so that it has an That’s widespread. immediate effect on our economy. So I What’s interesting about tax relief, look forward to working with Members of though, is how it affects our small busi- the House and the Senate to get this nesses. And it’s very important for our fel- passed, to make it effective January 1st, low citizens to know that many small-busi- so that the hard-working citizens of Amer- ness owners organize their businesses in ica will see this in their paychecks as soon such a way as that they pay tax at the as possible. That’s how you stimulate the individual tax rates. A Subchapter S cor- economy. That’s how you make sure people poration will pay tax at the individual tax who are looking for work can find work. rates. A limited partnership pays tax at the individual tax rates. A sole proprietorship I’m optimistic about our future because pays tax at the individual tax rates. Most I’m optimistic about Americans. I’m opti- small businesses are one of those three— mistic about the entrepreneurial spirit of are organized in one of those three fash- this country. There’s a blue chip survey ions. So when you hear me talk about indi- from leading economists that predict vidual tax rate cuts, I want you to think growth this year of 3.3 percent. And that’s about its effect on small-business Georgia positive. But I want to remind the Mem- or small-business America. bers of Congress who are going to be In this State, 614,000 small-business studying whether or not there needs to be owners will have more money in their cof- tax relief that a part of the fine print of fers as a result of reducing the individual this prediction is this: The economists are tax rates. And that’s important. That’s im- basing this prediction on Congress passing portant because most job growth—new jobs tax relief this year. In other words, inherent in America are created by our small busi- in the 3.3 percent prediction of economic nesses, by the entrepreneurs of America. growth is that Congress acts in a positive We estimate that 23 million small-business way. owners across America will receive average If Congress doesn’t act, there’s a risk we income-tax rate cut of $2,042. That matters. won’t have economic vitality the likes of You’ll hear in a minute what people do which we all support. My point to you is with extra money in their pockets. You that this plan makes sense. It makes sense know what they do? They invest, or they from not only what sounds—a hire. And it’s the cumulative effect of 23 commonsensical perspective, but it makes million small-business owners making the sense when analyzed by the economists be- decision to make an investment in equip- hind the blue chip forecasts. And I’m going ment or to hire somebody else, which will to remind Congress—I don’t need to re- have an incredibly positive effect on this mind these Members of Congress, but I economy. We believe the tax relief plan want to remind other Members of Con- will create 1.4 million new jobs by the end gress—[laughter]—that without the stim- of 2004. ulus, without tax reductions, we could jeop- We also believe the Tax Code ought to ardize the recovery that we long for. be used to encourage people to make wise

188 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 20 decisions in their businesses right now. A tor pays less in taxes because the double small business can only deduct up to taxation of dividends is gone, that person $25,000 in the year in which they make has got more money to invest. And sec- a capital purchase—$25,000. And so we be- ondly, dividend-paying stocks become more lieve that in order to encourage more in- attractive to the investor. If you don’t pay vestment, to encourage small-business own- tax on the dividends, it’s more likely you’ll ers to buy more machines, for example, purchase a stock that pays dividends, and that make their business grow faster or that’s positive news. more productive, we ought to raise that In other words, the benefits—Americans limit to $75,000. If you raise the limit to would get more money to save and more $75,000 and somebody is only buying money to invest. And that means that more $25,000 worth of equipment because of the capital will be available for companies, large Tax Code, there’s an additional $50,000 of and small, to use for expansion. The more purchases in a year. money in circulation through investment, Somebody goes out and buys a piece of the more capital available. And capital equipment, it means somebody’s got to equals jobs, and that’s what’s important to make the piece of equipment, which means know. somebody is likely—more likely to find a The greater the number of people who job in the equipment manufacturing com- are willing to invest or who want to invest pany. And if somebody buys that equip- also helps the stock market. The markets ment, it makes their company more pro- will benefit. And that’s important because ductive, which increases wages over time. America is now an ownership society. It It’s really important that our fellow citizens used to be in our history that only a few understand the stimulative effects of good economic policy when you encourage peo- would own stocks. I bet there’s a lot of ple to make wise investments, and they people in Georgia in the old days who have more money in their pocket to make would look up at Wall Street and say, ‘‘You those investments. know, they own stocks. What is that all I also want to make this Tax Code more about?’’ Well, those days have changed. fair. It’s important that the Tax Code be There are millions of our fellow citizens fair. It’s fair to tax corporate profits. That’s who own stocks directly or through pension fair. What’s not fair, it seems to me, is plans. that when a corporation distributes those America is an ownership society, by the profits to the shareholders in the form of way, and that is fantastic news for the fu- what they call a dividend, that you tax it ture of this country. And as an ownership again. It doesn’t make economic sense to society, we’ve got to understand what it keep taxing the same dollar over time. If means to reduce taxes on dividends. It part of a healthy economic society is one means there will be $20 billion—this in which money is circulating in the private year—more dollars in circulation for invest- sector—this causes fewer dollars to cir- ment. culate—it means less investment when you It means that 10 million seniors, nearly stand in between the owner of the com- one in four who receive dividend income, pany, the shareholder, and the distribution will get relief. Now, that’s important. Ten of once-taxed profits of that company. million seniors rely upon dividend income And so I’ve asked for the Congress to as a way to make sure the quality of their join me in getting rid of the double taxation life is strong in their retirement years— of dividends. Let me describe why I think 10 million of them. They rely—and getting this makes sense. First, obviously, people rid of the double taxation on dividends is will have more money to invest. If an inves- a incredibly positive thing for the quality

189 Feb. 20 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 of life of our seniors. Nine hundred thou- 60 employees, 60 people working with sand of your citizens will benefit right away them. He is what I described as a Sub- from getting rid of the double taxation of chapter S. The Kings pay individual tax dividends; 60 percent of them made rates for their corporation. $75,000 or less in the year 2000. That’s If you’re interested in the Kings expand- a fair plan. ing their business, which I am—they cer- There’s also an old expression in eco- tainly are—it makes sense to reduce the nomics that says, ‘‘Profit is an opinion, but tax rates they pay. And by cutting the indi- cash is a fact.’’ [Laughter] When a company vidual tax rates, the Kings will have more pays a dividend, you know the profits are cashflow. They also told me that it’s impor- real. You get that check. Dividends encour- tant for them to have the best computers age open and honest accounting. Good possible, that they got to got—upgrade business practices shouldn’t be punished in their equipment to make sure that the 60 this Tax Code. smart folks they’ve got working for them I know there’s some concern about over- have got the best ability to compete in the stating of numbers, you know, ‘‘Invest in marketplace and that equipment purchases my company because the sky’s the limit. are important to enhance the productivity, We may not be cashflowing much, but the the ability for a worker to increase their sky’s the limit.’’ Well, when you pay divi- output per hour. dends, that ‘‘sky’s the limit’’ business And therefore, when we raise the exemp- doesn’t hunt. What only matters is whether tion by 75—the ability to expense up to or not they can distribute that cash they $75,000 of equipment purchases, they have say they’re going to distribute. It leads to told me they’re going to invest in new conservative business practices. It leads to equipment. The person that manufactures being people—more businesses being re- the equipment the Kings purchase also will sponsible with your money. After all, you’re have a—will benefit from the tax rate re- the owner of the company. duction because it’s more likely they’re And so this dividend policy makes sense going to need somebody to help build that from a senior’s perspective. It makes sense equipment. to encourage investment, and it makes In other words, good tax policy has an sense to make sure the balance sheets of effect throughout the economy. We want America are treated with respect. And so the Kings to continue to expand their busi- I urge the United States Congress to listen ness. I said, ‘‘Are you optimistic?’’ They to the citizens who will benefit from this said, ‘‘You bet we’re optimistic.’’ We want plan and get rid of the double taxation of to make them a little more optimistic by dividends, for the good of the American letting them have more of their own economy. money. And so, as I said, I recently met with Lee Pickard—he’s the pretty one in the some of your fellow citizens, starting with back row—or at least his mother thinks so. the Kings. The Kings started their own [Laughter] Anyway, he runs Mid-State RV business right here, in 1996. You know, Sales and Rentals. It’s his own business. I don’t know the moment it happened, but He’s a Subchapter S. In other words, he it had to have been an exciting moment pays taxes at the individual tax rate, too. for somebody to say, ‘‘I’m starting’’—or in When you hear the rhetoric about cut- this case, ‘‘we are starting our own busi- ting taxes on individuals, it’s important for ness, something I can—we can call our our fellow citizens to also understand how own.’’ They’ve always invested in the profits many small businesses are affected. That’s of their firm. They believe in growing their why the Kings and Lee are here. They firm, and their firm now has 60 people— represent hundreds and thousands of the

190 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 20 companies that pay tax at the individual to her children. That’s noble, and that’s rate. When we talk about income-tax reduc- great. As a matter of fact, anybody who tions, we’re affecting his ability to save builds up their own assets ought to be able money; his ability—he, too, wants to in- to leave it to whoever they want to. The crease the amount of capital expenditure problem is, the Government stands in be- he’s going to make as a result of increasing tween that through the death tax. For the the limit to $75,000. good of the entrepreneurial spirit in Amer- I said, ‘‘What does this mean to you?’’ ica, we need to get rid of that death tax He says, ‘‘Three more employees for next forever. year.’’ Three more employees from this Part of the 2001 tax relief package, we man’s good business, 3 more employees put the death tax on its way to extinction. from the guy across the street, 3 more em- But it’s hard to explain what I’m about ployees and 10 over here, how many for to tell you. It really doesn’t go away for- the Kings—it adds up. If you’re interested ever, because of some of the quirky rules in job security, growth in jobs in America, of the United States Senate. And we the Congress must understand that this need—the Senate needs to join with Zell plan directly benefits the entrepreneurs of and Saxby, who agree with me that it’s this country and will make a huge dif- important to have certainty in our society. ference in the ability to find people work. If people need to plan for their families, It also helps individuals. Stirlyn Harris it’s—you don’t want the Tax Code saying, works for Stanley King. He and his wife ‘‘Well, it may be this way; it may not be Billie Jeanne both work, and you’re doing this way.’’ The tax relief plan, including get- what you’d expect them to do as the par- ting rid of the death tax, needs to be made ents of two children: They’re saving. permanent. They’re saving through the 401(k) plan, a stock purchase plan, a credit union account. Carolyn says that as a result of allowing They are saving. This tax relief plan will for more expensing, she’s going to quad- mean $1,300 extra for them. I asked them, ruple the investments that her company will ‘‘What does that mean, $1,300? You going make this year. That’s important. As she to play the lottery?’’ [Laughter] He said makes additional investments, somebody is he didn’t think so. He thinks Timothy and more likely to find work. It has a positive Travis need to have as good an education effect. Her decision, one of millions of de- as possible throughout their life. He’s put- cisions that will be made, will have an in- ting aside that money, he and his wife, credibly positive effect on a person looking Billie Jean, putting aside that money for for work. There is a connection between their children’s future. her decision and jobs, and there is a con- That extra money in their pocket will nection between how she makes a decision help them be responsible parents, will help and good tax policy. them save. And you put $1,300 aside for I also want you to know that her tax two children who are young and let it accu- bill will fall by about $5,500 this year alone, mulate and grow, those children are going mainly because we’re getting rid of the to say, ‘‘We were blessed to have such a double taxation of dividends. It is likely— good mother and daddy.’’ Tax relief has I’m not going to tell her what to do, but positive effects on the families of America. it is likely she will, being the optimistic Carolyn Galvin is with us. She owns soul that she is—[laughter]—will invest Storeel Corporation. Carolyn, thank you for that, is—make a decision that, ‘‘Well, you coming. She’s got a couple of things in know, things are going to get better. I think mind. One, she wants to make sure her I’ll buy a stock or two or save it.’’ And business grows, and she wants to leave it it’s that act, that decision, that circulates

191 Feb. 20 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 more capital in the private sector which year. To me, it’s a good benchmark for helps this economy recover. the year 2003. No, the people that we have talked to Congress needs to make sure that it today—Chris Mitchell and Pamela Talley— holds discretionary spending to 4 percent. Pamela, by the way, is a single mom. She’s If it’s good enough for the American fam- got the toughest job in America. It’s a hard ily’s income, it’s good enough for the job. She can use a little extra money— spending habits of the United States Con- of her own money, by the way. She told gress. me that she wants to save for her 3-year- This great country is equal to every chal- old child’s education as well. lenge we face here at home, and it’s equal See, these are real-life stories that will to every challenge we face abroad, and affect this economy. The whole premise of we’ve got some challenges. As we move the jobs-and-growth package is to trust peo- to strengthen this economy, we’re going to ple with their own money, based upon the protect the American people and this idea that more money in your pocket will homeland against ruthless killers. The ter- mean more consumption and more invest- rorists who struck the United States are ment. More consumption and more invest- still determined to harm this country. It’s the cold reality of the 21st century, but ment means somebody is more likely to we are even more determined to hunt them find work. down one by one, to disrupt their plans, Not only do we need to deal with this and to bring them to justice. economy—and we’ll spend a lot of time It’s important—it’s very important for on it in Washington and, I’m confident, our citizens to understand the significant pass good legislation—but we’ll continue to change that took place on September the make sure this homeland is secure. In 11th, 2001. Obviously, it changed a lot of order to make sure the homeland was more people’s lives, and we still mourn for the secure, we’re obviously spending money on families who lost life. But it used to be our military and on homeland security. And that oceans—we thought oceans could pro- when you couple that with a recession, tect us, that we were guarded by the which means less money coming to Gov- oceans, and that if there was a threat over- ernment, we’ve got us a deficit. First of seas, as a result of the protection from the all, you’ve got to know, when it comes to oceans, we could decide whether to be in- the deficit, I’m—I believe the best way to volved or not. It might affect us overseas, get out of it is to grow the economy so but it couldn’t affect us at home. And more revenues come in and then make sure therefore, we have the luxury of kind of Congress doesn’t overspend. picking and choosing gathering threats. But as we insist that Congress be wise That changed on September the 11th, with your money, we’re going to make sure 2001, because the stark reality of 2001 is we spend enough to win this war. And by that America is now a battlefield, that the spending enough to win a war, we may war has come home. And therefore, this not have a war at all. Nation must also confront not only shadowy We’ve got to spend enough to protect terrorist networks but the gravest danger this homeland too. But the money—the in the war on terror: outlaw regimes arming budget I submitted holds growth—setting to threaten the peace with weapons of mass a priority our military, setting as a priority destruction. our homeland security—it holds growth to After Secretary of State Powell’s presen- 4 percent on discretionary spending. That’s tation to the United Nations Security Coun- about as much as the average America’s cil, the world knows that Saddam Hussein family’s income is expected to grow this has weapons of mass destruction, even

192 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 20 though he said he didn’t, and that he is ening its neighbors and harboring terrorists, not complying with the United Nations de- Iraq can be an example of progress and mands to destroy them. He is actively de- prosperity in a region that needs both. If ceiving the inspectors. He is actively hiding we liberate the Iraqi people, they can rest the weapons. And so the Security Council, assure that we will help them build a coun- earlier on, gave Saddam Hussein one final try that is disarmed and peaceful and chance to disarm, and he’s throwing that united and free. chance away. The disarmament of Iraq will also dem- If military force becomes necessary to onstrate that free nations have the will and disarm Iraq, this Nation, joined by others, resolve to defend the peace. By defeating will act decisively in a just cause, and we this threat, we will show other dictators will prevail. that the path of aggression will lead to their Military action is this Nation’s last option. own ruin. By defeating the threat of Iraq, And let me tell you what’s not an option. we will show the world—we will show that Trusting in the sanity and restraint of Sad- the world is able and prepared to meet dam Hussein is not an option; denial and future dangers wherever they arise. endless delay in the face of growing danger Our goal is peace, and achieving peace is not an option; leaving the lives and the requires resolve and action by free nations. security of the American people at the In a more peaceful world, the American mercy of this dictator and his weapons of people will not live in fear, and the Iraqi mass destruction, not an option. people will not live in oppression. America and our allies are called once The United States of America, joined by again to defend the peace against an ag- many nations—by many nations—is com- gressive tyrant, and we accept this responsi- mitted to building a world at peace and bility. bringing a better day. There is no question We defend the security of our country, in my mind—no question in my mind— but our cause is broader. If war is forced that because of the strength of this country, upon us, we will liberate the people of the heart and soul of the American people, Iraq from a cruel and violent dictator. The the courage of the American people, the Iraqi people today are not treated with dig- determination of the American people, and nity, but they have the right to live in dig- the values of the American people, that nity. The Iraqi people today are not al- we can have a more peaceful world, a more lowed to speak out for freedom, but they just society, and a more hopeful America. have a right to live in freedom. We don’t May God bless you all. believe freedom and liberty are America’s gift to the world; we believe they are the NOTE: The President spoke at 10:58 a.m. in Almighty’s gift to mankind. And for the op- the gymnasium at Carl Harrison High pressed people of Iraq, people whose lives School. In his remarks, he referred to Gov. we care about, the day of freedom is draw- Sonny Perdue of Georgia; and President Sad- ing near. dam Hussein of Iraq. The Office of the Press A free Iraq can be a source of hope Secretary also released a Spanish language for all the Middle East. Instead of threat- transcript of these remarks.

193 Feb. 20 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Statement on Signing the Consolidated Appropriations Resolution, 2003 February 20, 2003

Today I have signed into law H.J. Res. and other assistance that is only partially 2, the ‘‘Consolidated Appropriations Reso- offset by spending reductions in the re- lution, 2003,’’ which contains the remaining cently enacted Farm Bill. 11 annual appropriations acts for fiscal year In addition, a number of provisions of 2003. The funds appropriated by this bill H.J. Res. 2 are inconsistent with the con- will provide valuable resources for priorities stitutional authority of the President to con- such as homeland security, military oper- duct foreign affairs, command the Armed ations, and education. Forces, supervise the unitary executive I am very concerned that the Congress branch, protect sensitive information, and failed to provide over $1 billion in funds make recommendations to the Congress. that my Administration requested for State Other provisions unconstitutionally condi- and local law enforcement and emergency tion execution of the laws by the executive personnel, and that much of the funding branch upon approval by congressional that the Congress did provide is heavily committees. earmarked for lower-priority programs that Thus, the executive branch shall construe are not best designed to protect Americans as advisory the provisions of the bill that against terrorism. As a result, the shortfall purport to: direct or burden the Executive’s for homeland security First Responder pro- conduct of international negotiations, such grams is more than $2.2 billion. Funds that as sections 514, 556, 576, and 577 in the should have been made available to the Foreign Operations Appropriations Act; Department of Homeland Security are limit the President’s authority as Com- being diverted to programs unrelated to higher-priority terrorism preparedness and mander in Chief, such as language under prevention efforts. My Administration will the heading ‘‘Andean Counterdrug Initia- use all the tools at its disposal to ensure tive’’ in the Foreign Operations Appropria- that as much of this funding as possible tions Act and section 609 of the Commerce is directed toward terrorism preparedness Appropriations Act; or limit the President’s and prevention. authority to supervise the unitary executive Further, although the funding level in branch, such as section 718 of the Agri- the bill is largely consistent with the agreed culture Appropriations Act and the provi- upon top line level that I urged the Con- sions relating to Office of Management and gress to adopt, the bill is not fully con- Budget review of executive branch orders, sistent with the agreed upon non-defense activities, regulations, transcripts and testi- discretionary funding levels due to the ex- mony in the Treasury Appropriations Act. panded use of budgetary mechanisms, such In addition, the executive branch shall as advance appropriations. This bill includes construe provisions that mandate, regulate, an increase in advance appropriations of or prohibit submission of information to the $2.2 billion, which should not be used to Congress or the public, such as sections evade top line agreements on total discre- 561(a), 568(a), and 574(d) of the Foreign tionary funding. Operations Appropriations Act and sections Therefore, the FY 2004 congressional 620 and 622 of the Treasury Appropriations budget allocations should be reduced ac- Act, in a manner consistent with the Presi- cordingly and the device should not be re- dent’s constitutional authority to withhold peated in FY 2005. Finally, the bill includes information that could impair foreign rela- $3.3 billion for unrequested drought aid tions, national security, the deliberative

194 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 20 processes of the Executive, or the perform- of the Federal building fund for emergency ance of the Executive’s constitutional du- repairs and transfers with the fund, unobli- ties. Also, the executive branch shall con- gated balances for salaries and expenses, strue provisions that mandate or prohibit office improvements, and law enforcement submission of recommendations to the training facilities in the Treasury Appropria- Congress, such as section 723 of the Agri- tions Act. culture Appropriations Act and the provi- Furthermore, the duty of the President sions purporting to require submission of under section 586 of the Foreign Oper- a request for a supplemental appropriation ations Appropriations Act to issue and pro- in the Interior Appropriations Act, in a vide copies of an order relating to consider- manner consistent with the President’s con- ation of the release of information is as- stitutional authority to submit for congres- signed to the Attorney General, who shall sional consideration such measures as the ensure that the section is implemented in President judges necessary and expedient. a manner consistent with the President’s Also, the executive branch shall construe constitutional authority to withhold infor- as advisory, or as calling solely for notifica- mation, the disclosure of which could im- tion, the provisions of this bill that purport pair foreign relations, national security, the to require congressional committee ap- deliberative processes of the Executive, or proval for the execution of a law. Any other the performance of the Executive’s con- construction would be inconsistent with the stitutional duties. principles enunciated by the United States Finally, to ensure proper respect for the Supreme Court in INS v. Chadha. Such distinct powers of the executive and legisla- provisions include: provisions relating to the tive branches and to ensure effective co- ‘‘Working Capital Fund,’’ Food and Drug ordination between them in emergencies, Administration fund transfers, and sections the Attorney General shall serve as the sin- 704 and 719 relating to fund transfers in gle officer within the executive branch au- the Agriculture Appropriations Act; the pro- thorized to receive requests from the Chief vision relating to an expenditure plan for of the Capitol Police and to approve action the entry-exit system in the Commerce Ap- by the executive branch in the implementa- propriations Act; and the provisions on tion of section 1017 of the legislative transfer of United States Customs Service branch Appropriations Act. aircraft, automated commercial environment, business systems modernization, GEORGE W. BUSH funds transfers within and among Treasury The White House, entities, Secret Service protective mission February 20, 2003. travel, museum construction, high-intensity drug trafficking area and other funding lev- NOTE: H.J. Res. 2, approved February 20, els, building prospectus funding levels, use was assigned Public Law No. 108–7.

Statement on Signing the Consolidated Appropriations Resolution, 2003 February 20, 2003

Today I signed into law H.J. Res. 2, an will provide important and long overdue Omnibus appropriations bill funding the re- resources for our Nation’s priorities, includ- maining 11 appropriations bills for FY ing fighting the war on terrorism and edu- 2003. The funds provided in this resolution cating our most vulnerable children.

195 Feb. 20 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

This bill provides over $397 billion in the expiration of today’s farm bill, and may discretionary budget authority, including prove illusory. $10 billion in reserve funding for the De- Most troublesome, H.J. Res. 2 falls near- partment of Defense, and is largely con- ly $1 billion short of my request for State sistent with the agreed upon overall fund- and local law enforcement and emergency ing level. My original budget request, made personnel, and in particular underfunds ter- a year ago, asked for the War on Terror rorism preparedness for first responders. I reserve. I had separately agreed to endorse requested $3.5 billion for the First Re- new funds for election reform, a bill that sponders Initiative. The bill, however, pro- was passed months after my budget was vides only $1.3 billion for this purpose. submitted. Meanwhile the bill provides $2.2 billion for Unfortunately, the Congress chose to cir- existing State and local grant programs, which are not directly related to higher- cumvent the spending limit for FY 2003 priority terrorism preparedness and preven- by borrowing $2.2 billion in funding from tion efforts. This is unsatisfactory, and my FY 2004. This action must be corrected Administration will use every appropriate by adjusting both the 2004 budget alloca- tool available to ensure that these funds tions and appropriations, and holding ad- are directed to the highest priority home- vance appropriations constant with the level land security needs. enacted last year. I will ask the Leadership This belated agreement to last year’s ap- to ensure this happens. propriations process is not perfect, but it This bill allocates over $53 billion in total underscores the need to move quickly on Education funding. The Congress provided this year’s priorities outlined in my 2004 increases for many of my high-priority pro- budget request. I look forward to working grams, including programs for reading, dis- with the Congress to continue funding the advantaged students, special education, and war on terror, strengthening our economy, Pell Grants. and protecting the homeland. The bill also includes $3.3 billion in GEORGE W. BUSH unrequested drought and other assistance, which is only minimally offset by real re- NOTE: H.J. Res. 2, approved February 20, ductions in existing farm spending. Ninety- was assigned Public Law No. 108–7. An origi- five percent of purported savings are sched- nal was not available for verification of the uled to come several years from now, after content of this statement.

Letter to Congressional Leaders Transmitting a Report on United States Individuals Involved in the Antinarcotics Campaign in Colombia February 20, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. President:) that provides ‘‘the aggregate number, loca- Pursuant to section 3204(f), title III, tions, activities, and lengths of assignment chapter 2 of the Emergency Supplemental for all temporary and permanent U.S. mili- Act, 2000 (the ‘‘Act’’), as enacted in the tary personnel and U.S. individual civilians Military Construction Appropriations Act, retained as contractors involved in the 2001, Public Law 106–246, I am providing antinarcotics campaign in Colombia.’’ a report prepared by my Administration

196 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 22

In so doing, I note and appreciate the Colombia involved in supporting Plan Co- continued strong bipartisan support given lombia. This report further indicates that to U.S. programs assisting Colombia in the during November and December 2002, and Act and elsewhere. January 2003, these figures never exceeded This report is classified because of force the ceilings established in section 3204(b) protection considerations and the high level of the Act, as amended. of terrorist threat in Colombia. However, Sincerely, the aggregate numbers given below are unclassified. GEORGE W. BUSH The report indicates that as of January 13, 2003, the end of this reporting period, NOTE: Identical letters were sent to J. Den- there were 208 temporary and permanent nis Hastert, Speaker of the House of Rep- U.S. military personnel and 279 U.S. civil- resentatives, and Richard B. Cheney, Presi- ians retained as individual contractors in dent of the Senate.

The President’s Radio Address February 22, 2003

Good morning. This week, Members of down floor vote on all judicial nominees. the House and Senate will return to Wash- Yet a handful of Democratic Senators, for ington with a full agenda to address, from partisan reasons, are attempting to prevent strengthening our economy to reforming any vote at all on highly qualified nomi- health care, to protecting national security. nees. On the Senate side, there is a crucial One of these nominees is Miguel item of business that has been delayed for Estrada, my selection for the DC Court too long. We face a vacancy crisis in the of Appeals. I submitted his nomination in Federal courts, made worse by Senators May of 2001, and Miguel Estrada has been who block votes on qualified nominees. waiting ever since. That’s almost 2 years, These delays endanger American justice. and that’s a disgrace. Vacant Federal benches lead to crowded Miguel Estrada’s credentials are impec- court dockets, overworked judges, and cable. He has served in the Justice Depart- longer waits for Americans who want their ment under Presidents of both political par- cases heard. Regional appeals courts have ties. He’s argued 15 cases before the U.S. a 15-percent vacancy rate, and filings in Supreme Court, and he has earned the those courts reached an alltime high again American Bar Association’s highest mark, last year. a unanimous rating of ‘‘well-qualified.’’ Since taking office, I have sent to the Miguel Estrada is an exceptional nomi- Senate 34 qualified mainstream nominees nee for the Federal bench. He also has for the Federal courts of appeals. To date, a remarkable personal story. He came to only half of them have received a vote in America from Honduras as a teenager, the Senate, and 12 of the remaining 17 speaking little English. Within a few years, nominees have been waiting more than a he had graduated with high honors from year for a floor vote. Columbia College and Harvard Law It is my responsibility to submit judicial School. Miguel Estrada then served as a nominations. It is the Senate’s responsibility law clerk to Supreme Court Justice An- to conduct prompt hearings and an up-or- thony Kennedy, as a Federal prosecutor in

197 Feb. 22 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

New York, and as assistant to the Solicitor vain for a reason to reject him. Some Sen- General of the United States. ators who once insisted that every appeals If confirmed, Miguel Estrada would be court nominee deserves a vote have aban- the first Hispanic American ever to serve doned that principle for partisan politics. on this court, which is often considered Their tactics are unfair to the good man the second highest in the land. He would I have nominated and unfaithful to the break through a barrier that has stood for Senate’s own obligations. too long. His nomination has strong support I call on the Senate Democratic leader- from citizens and leaders in both parties ship to stop playing politics and permit a and endorsements from the Hispanic Na- vote on Miguel Estrada’s nomination. Let tional Bar Association, the League of each Senator vote as he or she thinks best, United Latin American Citizens, and more but give the man a vote. than a dozen other distinguished groups. Thank you for listening. He’s a role model for young people all across this Nation, living proof that in NOTE: The address was recorded at 10 a.m. America, anything is possible. on February 21 at the Bush Ranch in I nominated Miguel Estrada for the Crawford, TX, for broadcast at 10:06 a.m. on Court of Appeals because he’s a man of February 22. The transcript was made avail- talent and character who will be an excel- able by the Office of the Press Secretary on lent judge. Yet after 21 months, he still February 21 but was embargoed for release cannot get an up-or-down vote from the until the broadcast. The Office of the Press Senate. Democrats are stalling Miguel Secretary also released a Spanish language Estrada’s nomination, while they search in transcript of this address.

The President’s News Conference With President Jose Maria Aznar of Spain in Crawford, Texas February 22, 2003

President Bush. I welcome my good the cause of liberty is more than a phrase; friend President Jose Maria Aznar to it is a fundamental commitment expressed Crawford. We’re especially pleased that in resolute action. Ana is with him as well. I visited his ranch President Aznar and I agree that the fu- on my first visit to Europe as the President. ture of peace depends on the disarmament I’m very pleased to return the hospitality. of Iraq. We agree that Saddam Hussein Spain is a strong and trusted ally. Our continues to be in violation of U.N. Secu- two nations have drawn closer than ever rity Council Resolution 1441. We agree that before in fighting terrorism across Europe the terms of that resolution must be fully and beyond. Spain has apprehended mem- respected. By Resolution 1441, the Security bers of Al Qaida and continues to share Council has taken a clear stand, and it now vital information, intelligence information. faces a clear choice. With all the world President Aznar is a strong fighter in the watching, the Council will now show war against terror, and I value his advice. whether it means what it says. I respect and appreciate his leadership Early next week, working with our in the U.N., the EU, and NATO, to meet friends and allies, we will introduce an ad- the new threats of this new century. For ditional Security Council resolution that will the Spanish people and for their leader, set out in clear and simple terms that Iraq

198 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 22 is not complying with Resolution 1441. For maintain. We share the efforts and the the record, this would not be a second res- needs within the Security Council that the olution on Iraq’s weapons of mass destruc- international community has to maintain to tion; it would only be the latest in a long guarantee peace and security in the world. series of resolutions going back 12 years. Precisely, it is in the Security Council We will discuss this resolution with mem- that the international community has laid bers of the Security Council, and we will the responsibility of maintaining world hear again from Chief Inspector Blix. Dur- peace and security. Our responsibility is ing these final deliberations, there is but precisely to work so that the Security one question for the Council to address: Council can exercise its responsibilities, Is Saddam Hussein complying with Resolu- working in order to achieve in agreement tion 1441? That resolution did not ask for the firm compliance of international legal- hints of progress or minor concessions. It ity. demanded full and immediate disar- I cannot but underline the importance mament. That and that alone is the issue of that relationship in our struggle against before the Council. We will not allow the terrorism. We free societies are the targets Iraqi dictator, with a history of aggression of terrorists, and they must be fought un- and close ties to terrorist groups, to con- conditionally, with no reservations and not tinue to possess or produce weapons of being allowed to be blackmailed by them. mass destruction. And we cannot be kidnaped by this fear Our coalition draws its strength from the that—we cannot be the hostages of the ter- courage and moral clarities of leaders like rorists, and we will not be. President Aznar. In times of testing, we And allow me to say two things in this discover who is willing to stand up for the regard. Cooperation between the United security of free peoples and the rights of States and Spain against terrorism is total. mankind. Mr. President, you are clearly a And I would like to thank President Bush man willing to take this stand. I thank you for his resolve and his commitment in this for your leadership. I thank you for your regard. And secondly, I would like to ex- friendship. press how satisfied I am in the—again hav- President Aznar. Well, good morning, ing arrested important terrorists today in good day to everyone. I would firstly like Spain, people who only think of murdering to thank, on behalf of my wife and for and committing crimes. myself, I would like to thank Laura Bush Spain is a democratic and European and George Bush for their invitation to visit voice, and we know that there cannot be the ranch. And this is a time to work, to peace without law, and that peace cannot rest, to talk in truly marvelous sur- be separate from security. And in these— roundings. international law and the disarmament obli- Spain is an EU member and a non- gations that Saddam Hussein has been sub- permanent member of the U.N. Security ject to for the last 12 years must be imple- Council. Spain is very clearly in favor of mented. And this has to be based on the the strength of the transatlantic link. In will and everyone’s commitment and our these three extremely important dimen- capacity to do so. sions, Spain is committed with an active We have expressly reaffirmed Resolution role in contributing to an appropriate re- 1441 and the usefulness of the military ca- sponse to the threat that Saddam Hussein’s pabilities deployed in order to achieve regime entails for international peace and Saddam’s disarmament. We are committed security. We’ve worked very hard and with to peace, and peace is our horizon. But good results to forge consensus within the if we are unable to combat aggressive dic- European Union that it is necessary to tators, tyrannic regimes, this is something

199 Feb. 22 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 that endangers the very existence of inter- with this new resolution, even if you don’t national peace and harmony. And if we are have the votes to pass it? incapable of guaranteeing this peace, inter- And to the Prime Minister—President national peace would become senseless Aznar, you’ve been making many calls your- rhetoric. And we honestly do not want to self to world leaders and members of the get into rhetoric when we’re speaking of Security Council. Have you been able to international order, weapons of mass de- change anyone’s mind? And if not, why struction, terrorist groups, lives in danger, not? or threats that we have to confront. President Bush. There’s not even a reso- Thus, my position in my talks with Presi- lution put on the table yet. There will be dent Bush can be summarized as follows. one soon. And so the people will be able Expressly, we are ready to fight together to see what they’re asked to vote on. We against weapons of mass destruction and just got off a phone call with Tony Blair terrorism; that is, for a world in peace and and Silvio Berlusconi. It was a four-way for a safe world. And we are working in conversation to talk about the resolution order that the U.N. Security Council, in and the strategy. its role based on the U.N. Charter, may This discussion sounds vaguely familiar. work towards peace and security in the I think I remember getting asked the same world through a new resolution that has questions prior to the last resolution, the the greatest support and majority support. Resolution 1441 that passed 15 to 0, where Our aim is for Iraq to disarm and for the Security Council said with a unanimous Saddam to comply with his obligations. And voice, Saddam must disarm. He hasn’t dis- international legality has to be credible, and armed. And so the clarity of vision that we have to strengthen our efforts. We have took place 4 months ago I’m confident will to continue with our pressure on Saddam be in place after the Security Council takes Hussein and do all this in unity and in a good look at the facts. And so we’re just agreement within the framework of the Se- beginning, is my point. curity Council. Of course, time is not in- President Aznar. I hear many messages definite. We don’t have much time. on unilateral actions. But what I must say And lastly, as I already talked about with is that President Bush, the U.S. Govern- President Bush, we have to work towards ment, and all the allies are all working to- peace and security in the region. And this gether in the framework of the United Na- requires quick action on our part to solve tions. And that’s how Resolution 1441 came the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. In that sce- out. And that’s how the new resolution nario, we are also ready and willing to work we’re working on has to come out. jointly. It’s difficult to ask for an agreement on President Bush. Thank you. something that doesn’t exist yet. We’ll ask We’ll answer two questions a side, start- for people’s agreement when it does exist. ing with Tom [Tom Raum, Associated We hope it’s soon. We hope it’s good. And Press]. we hope it assembles the greatest possible supporters, because what we cannot forget New U.N. Security Council Resolution on is that our aim is disarmament and to avoid Iraq the threat that weapons of mass destruc- Q. Mr. President, you need nine votes tion, a possible use by Saddam Hussein, in the Security Council and no vetoes. And the threat that this poses to the world. yet, as of this point, only four countries Q. My question is for the Spanish Presi- have spoken out in favor of moving for- dent of the Government. Regarding this ward, and no minds seem to have been new proposal for a new resolution, we changed. Are you ready to move ahead now know it will bear the seal of the United

200 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 22

States and of Great Britain. But will it also Nations. That would be the worst possible bear the Spanish seal? Will Spain be con- message we could send for peace. sidered or will it be a coauthor of that resolution? New U.N. Security Council Resolution on President Aznar. Well, we’re working on Iraq it, and we devoted some time last night and this morning to precisely that. And we Q. My question is addressed to both want to be as clear as possible in that it Presidents. I would like to know whether has as many possible supporters in the Se- in your proposed resolution you are going curity Council. And as I said, our commit- to be talking about the al-Samoud long- ment is a very active commitment, and it’s range missiles and whether you are going also very active in supporting this resolu- to be—because Iraq has today mentioned tion. We know very much and very well that it was ready to start destroying them— what we’re handling here and what’s at and whether in your resolution you’re going stake. And what we want for the world to be speaking about an ultimatum, a dead- is peace and security, and that’s what we’re line, or a threat for the use of force. What working for with our best will, in order do you think this is going to be—what are not to be submitted to blackmail of any you going to contain? kind. We’re not thinking of our comfort President Bush. We’re in the process of but of our responsibility. We want peace, discussing the language. If Iraq decides to freedom, and prosperity for all. destroy the weapons that were long-range President Bush. Patsy [Patricia Wilson, weapons, that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Reuters]. My question is, why don’t they destroy every weapon—illegal weapon? Saddam Hussein wants time. And after Relevance of U.N. Security Council all, he thinks he will get time, because he Q. It took almost 2 months to get Reso- has done so—he has deceived the world lution 1441 out of the Security Council. for 12 years. He’ll play like he’s going to Are you willing to wait that long this time, disarm. He has no intention of disarming. and is this the really last chance for the Otherwise, he would have done so. He’ll United Nations to prove its relevancy? say words that encourage—that sound en- President Bush. Yes. Si. Last chance. couraging. He’s done so for 12 years. And Q. Are you going to wait that long? so the idea of destroying a rocket or two President Bush. No. As the President rockets or however many he’s going to de- said, time is short. Tiempo es corte. And stroy says to me that he’s got a lot more this is a chance for the Security Council weapons to destroy, and why hasn’t he de- to show its relevance. And I believe the stroyed them yet? Security Council will show its relevance, In terms of language, that’s exactly why because Saddam Hussein has not disarmed. we’ve—that’s exactly why Jose Maria and President Aznar. What I want to say is I are talking. And we’ll let you know what’s that if Resolution 1441 states that it’s in the resolution when we put it down. Saddam’s last opportunity, that means that President Aznar. Well, what I want to time cannot be long, because the last op- say is that we cannot designate Saddam portunity has already been given to him. Hussein as the manager of international What we have to verify now is whether peace and security. We’ve been with this he has disarmed or not. If we now said item on the agenda for 12 years. And what that time was infinite, it would be a laugh. we cannot do is play this game in which It would be very difficult for anyone to you have inspectors are handed over some- take us seriously, beginning with the United thing, everything is going well, but if it

201 Feb. 22 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 isn’t, well, that means they’re hiding weap- NOTE: The President’s news conference ons. began at 11:44 a.m. at the Bush Ranch. Presi- So the world can make these mistakes, dent Aznar spoke in Spanish, and his remarks but the mistake we cannot make is to let were translated by an interpreter. In his re- Saddam Hussein being the one managing marks, President Bush referred to Ana peace and a threat. And that’s why we’re Botella, wife of President Aznar; President working so intensely towards a new resolu- Saddam Hussein of Iraq; Hans Blix, Execu- tion. And that’s why I’m convinced, and tive Chairman, United Nations Monitoring, that’s why we’re all working towards these Verification and Inspection Commission; common aspirations of peace, security, and Prime Minister Tony Blair of the United freedom for the world. Kingdom; and Prime Minister Silvio President Bush. Good job. Thank you Berlusconi of Italy. very much. Very good job. Thank you all.

Remarks at a Dinner for the Nation’s Governors February 23, 2003

Good evening. Laura and I really look grown especially close to the Governor of forward to these yearly dinners with our Florida. [Laughter] The man is like a Nation’s Governors and spouses, and we brother to me. [Laughter] welcome you all back to the White House. We each have a shared experience, and For those of you who are first-timers here we have shared responsibilities. We share as Governors, we welcome you as well. the responsibility for protecting the home- I’m particularly pleased that Lyle Lovett, land. We share the responsibility for en- from the great State of Texas, is here with couraging economic growth and jobs. We us. We look forward to hearing you tonight, share the responsibility for making sure Lyle. every child learns and no child is left be- I also welcome former Governors who hind. We share the responsibility for ex- serve in my Cabinet. Tommy Thompson panding access to high-quality, affordable and Christie Todd Whitman, John Ashcroft health care and for helping our fellow citi- are here. Tom Ridge is now a member zens in need. And we’ll meet these respon- of my Cabinet; he’s not here. He’ll still sibilities together. be invited to the Cabinet Room. [Laughter] I’m honored to have you all here. I now Governors are strong leaders with a prac- ask you to join me in a toast to the Gov- tical point of view, and I’m really grateful ernors of the United States. Thank you. for my former fellow Governors for serving their country. There are 25 new Governors who are here. I know it’s an exciting experience for you to set an agenda and to put together NOTE: The President spoke at 8:03 p.m. in a great team to solve problems for your the State Dining Room at the White House. State or your territory. In his remarks, he referred to entertainer I loved being the Governor of Texas. In Lyle Lovett. The transcript released by the my 6 years, I placed great value on the Office of the Press Secretary also included advice of fellow Governors and made many the remarks of Gov. Paul E. Patton of Ken- friendships which continue to this day. I’ve tucky, chair, National Governors Association.

202 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 24

Remarks to the National Governors Association Conference February 24, 2003

Thank you very much. Thanks for com- It’s got a lot of positive effects in it. ing back. I hope you enjoyed our dinner First of all, you know, I’m always startled last night as much as I did. It was really to talk about the marriage penalty in the a lot of fun. [Applause] Thank you. Tax Code. I don’t know why we penalize Obviously, we take your business seri- marriage in the Tax Code. It doesn’t make ously. I’ve asked my Cabinet to show up sense. It seems like we ought to encourage to visit with you about ways that we can marriages. We ought to accelerate that as- work together. What I thought I’d do is pect of the tax relief. We’ve increased the share some things that are on my mind child credit to $1,000. It ought to be done right now and then answer any questions this year and not in the out-years. you have. And as importantly, when you reduce the What’s on my mind is to make sure this tax rates at the individual level, you also country is strong and safe. One way to provide capital for small-business growth. make it strong is to do everything we can See, most companies are—most small busi- to encourage job growth. My attitude is— nesses are sole proprietorships or limited I’m sure you share the same attitude—is partnerships or Subchapter S’s. And there- that if somebody is looking for work and fore, that entity pays tax at the individual can’t find a job, it means we’ve got a prob- tax rate. And so the reduction of all rates, lem. And therefore, to the extent that gov- not just a selected few but the reduction ernment influences job creation, we’ve got of all rates, provides needed capital in the to do everything we can to create an envi- small-business sector of our economy. ronment for the entrepreneur to flourish. Secondly, I’m asking Congress to allow I believe strongly in the notion that if for the deduction of up to $75,000 worth a person has more money in their pocket, of capital expenditure for small businesses, I know they’re likely to demand a good which will have a stimulative effect on our or a service, and when they do so, in a economy. market-oriented economy, somebody is And thirdly, I believe we ought to get likely to produce that good or a service, rid of the double taxation of dividends. It’s which means somebody is more likely to bad for—when you tax something twice, find work. it’s unfair tax policy. It’s fair to tax cor- That’s the whole principle behind that porate profits. It’s unfair to tax the senior which I laid out for the country in ’01. who receives the dividend from the cor- It’s a principle which the Congress listened poration you’ve already taxed. to and passed meaningful tax relief, because I think getting rid of the double taxation we were in a recession at the time. I of dividends will not only help our sen- worked—we worked with Congress in ’01, iors—I know it will help our seniors—it and they phased in this tax reduction plan will be stimulative in the sense that it gets over a period of years. 20 billion into our economy this year. But My attitude is, since the economy is not more importantly, it helps capital forma- as good as we like it to be, we ought to tion, in a society which—if jobs equal cap- accelerate the tax relief which they’ve al- ital, we ought to be working on policy to ready planned. That will put about $70 bil- encourage more capital formation. lion immediately into our economy, since It’s a positive—it’ll also have the positive I intend to ask for this plan to be made effect of corporate reform. After all, we retroactive to January 1st of this year. went through a period of time when people

203 Feb. 24 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 said, ‘‘Invest in my company because the crats. They like to appropriate, and our jobs sky is the limit, see. We may not have as chief executives is to make sure they any cashflow, but our story is a good one. appropriate within reasonable levels. And You know, we may not be able to show I intend to work hard to encourage them tangible assets, but we’ve got a wonderful to spend within reasonable levels and set story, so buy on us.’’ When you have a priorities. dividend-oriented policy, the only thing you One of the interesting things about the can distribute is cash, not false promises. ’04 budget I’ve submitted is that there’s And so the elimination of the double tax- $400 billion worth of grants to States. ation of dividends will, in itself, serve as That’s a 9-percent increase. As a matter a corporate reform measure, which is im- of fact, the grants to States have been portant. growing by 9 percent since I’ve been the So this is the plan that I’m asking Con- President of the United States. We can dis- gress to pass, and I believe we’re going cuss whether that, in your mind, is enough to get a lot of it passed. And I believe or not. I suspect I may know the answer. it’s going to encourage growth. As a matter But nevertheless, it put things in perspec- of fact, you know, these economists pre- tive. Of the 4-percent increase in discre- dicted in the blue-chip forecast that the tionary spending, $400 billion, or a 9-per- economy would grow at 3.3 percent if Con- cent increase, goes directly to the States. gress responded to a stimulative package— That’s a bigger increase than 4 percent, if it responded. And so you just need to I guess is the point I’m trying to make know that jobs are on my mind, and I’m to you. going to work hard to get Congress to pass I look forward to working with you on the package. And I’m optimistic about it. health care matters, on Medicare. Look, In this town, you hear a lot of early Medicare is an issue that is a vital issue noise which sometimes fades when a Chief for our country. It is a—Medicare is an Executive starts taking the message to the old system. It’s hidebound with rules, and people. And that’s what I intend to do. it really doesn’t address the needs of many And I know you do the same things, when seniors because of its age. I like to put you sell your packages at home. It’s got it this way: Medicine’s changed; Medicare a good effect, and I’m just beginning to hasn’t. And we’ve got to deal with it. And make the case. we will deal with it. And Medicaid is also Secondly, I understand we’ve got an an issue that we will discuss with you, and issue with our own budget, and you’ve got work with you. issues with your budgets. We can talk about Tommy—I don’t know if you’ve had the that. Our budget is in a deficit. It’s because Tommy briefing yet or not. Well, he’s got we went through a recession, and we’re a good vision, a good idea. We’ll work with at war. So I’m going to do everything I Congress. We got the bill out of the House can to mitigate the deficit by encouraging, already. The welfare reform bill is out of on the one hand, more revenues coming the House, and we hope we can get it into our Treasury through economic growth out of the Senate this time. but also limiting the spending to reasonable This is a matter of making sure that amounts. And I thought a 4-percent discre- there are proper incentives, particularly for tionary spending increase was the right people to find work. We believe, in this amount. administration, work and dignity go hand And I look forward to working with Con- in hand. We want to encourage work and gress. As you know, appropriators are ap- training for work. propriators. They live up to their name, And at the same time, I want you to whether they be Republicans or Demo- know that I’m—feel just as strongly about

204 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 24 the Faith-Based Initiative today as when can read and write and add and subtract, I first came into office because I under- because you can’t cure unless you measure. stand a modern welfare system must under- And there are too many of our children stand the power of our faith-based institu- who cannot read and write and add and tions and their ability to change lives and subtract, and we better figure out how to help people who need. I don’t talk about not only figure out who can’t read and a particular faith. I talk about all faiths. write but how to cure it now, before it’s Some of you have done some great too late. things. I know that Virginia and, I think, Margaret tells me we’ve talked about the Jersey—I’ve gone there—Florida, I hope— Head Start initiative to help you better co- anyway, have done good things with the ordinate the early childhood development faith-based offices. I encourage you to take programs. I firmly believe that those chil- advantage of this initiative. I encourage you dren can be taught the basics for reading to go into your inner cities and find some now and should be, and people ought to of these neighborhood helpers and healers be held to account as to whether or not and empower them. Tell them that if they they are being taught the basics of reading decide to help a neighbor in need, govern- now. ment is not going to make them take the I look forward to working with you on cross off the wall or the Star of David our homeland security initiatives. I was dis- off their wall. Encourage their faith-based appointed that the Congress did not re- initiative to go forward. It is an integral spond to the 3.5 billion we asked for. They part of saving lives in America. not only reduced the budget that we asked I had a little—Congress, they balked a for; they earmarked a lot of the money. little bit on the Faith-Based Initiative. So That’s a disappointment, a disappointment I put out an Executive order that said there when the executive branch gets microman- will be a level playing field for any faith- aged by the legislative branch. You may based program with Federal agencies. If have had that experience yourself. [Laugh- you’ve got a housing initiative based upon ter] a faith-based initiative, HUD will treat you But we’ll do everything we can to not fairly. They’re not going to fund you if it’s only get that money out quickly but figure a lousy deal, but you’ll be treated fairly out ways to get as much of the money coming in. And I just urge you to do this. to you in ways that will help you respond I’m absolutely confident—well, I know one to the threats this country faces. of the great strengths of the country is the I want to thank you very much for work- heart and soul of the American people. And ing on these Joint Terrorism Task Forces. there are thousands of our fellow citizens They’re effective tools to help prevent at- who will answer a call to love a neighbor tack. The culture of the FBI has changed in need. from one that said, ‘‘We’re going to find I want to work with you on education. criminals and arrest them,’’ to one, ‘‘We’re It’s a subject I spent a lot of time on as going to do everything we can to’’—let me the Governor of Texas. It is the most im- start over. That’s still an important function portant thing a State does, as far as I’m of the FBI. But it’s now—its primary func- concerned. Today I look forward, if you’ve tion is now to prevent attack. got any questions on the No Child Left I say that because America is still a bat- Behind bill, I’ll be glad to answer your tlefield. You know, after September the questions. 11th, our perspective had to change about But you’re going to hear a guy who is the world. I remind your constituents when not going to relent when it comes to mak- I travel around the country that prior to ing sure we measure whether every child September the 11th, oceans would protect

205 Feb. 24 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 us. That’s what we thought, at least—that months. The Iraqi regime is not disarming. we were safe. September the 11th, we The Iraqi regime is not disarming as re- learned that we’re vulnerable to attack. It’s quired by last fall’s unanimous vote of the just the nature of the world we live in. Security Council. Saddam Hussein’s refusal As leaders, our job is to remind the Amer- to comply with the demands of the civilized ican people that—of the reality of the dan- world is a threat to peace, and it’s a threat gers we face and do everything we can to stability. It’s a threat to the security of to prevent attack. our country. It’s a threat to the security So we’re doing everything here at home. of peace-loving people everywhere. I hope you feel the level of coordination We’re going to work with the members is good. If it’s not, we need to hear about of the Security Council in the days ahead it, so we can continue to button up the to make it clear to Saddam that the de- homeland to the best of our ability. The mands of the world and the United Nations best way to protect America is find the will be enforced. It’s an interesting moment killers before they kill us. And that’s what for the Security Council and the United we’re going to do. That’s why this war— Nations. It’s a moment to determine for the budget I asked for Congress had a lot this body, that we hope succeeds, to deter- of defense spending in it, because we’re mine whether or not it is going to be rel- on the hunt, and we’re going to stay on evant as the world confronts the threats the hunt until we bring terrorist networks to the 21st century. Is it going to be a to justice. That’s what we owe the Amer- body that means what it says? We certainly ican people. hope it does. As we speak today, we are not only pro- But one way or the other, Saddam Hus- viding help to the people of Afghanistan; sein, for the sake of peace and for the we’re hunting down the remnants of Al security of the American people, will be Qaida. And they’re on the run. And it disarmed. doesn’t matter how long it takes, they will We face common challenges. I look for- be brought to justice. ward to working with you all to meet those The war on terror is more than just chas- challenges. The country expects leaders to ing down shadowy terrorist networks. The lead. And that’s exactly what we all are war on terror is recognizing that weapons going to do for the good of mankind, for of mass destruction in the hands of brutal the good of the American people. dictators also threatens the American peo- Thank you very much. ple. I’ve come to the conclusion that the risk of doing nothing far exceeds the risk NOTE: The President spoke at 11 a.m. in the of working with the world to disarm State Dining Room at the White House. In Saddam Hussein. I came to that conclusion his remarks, he referred to Health and because of the new realities we all face Human Services Secretary Tommy G. as American citizens who love freedom and Thompson; Assistant to the President for Do- who aren’t going to change. mestic Policy Margaret Spellings; and Presi- Today we’re going to submit a resolution dent Saddam Hussein of Iraq. The Office of to the U.N. Security Council that spells the Press Secretary also released a Spanish out what the world has witnessed the last language transcript of these remarks.

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Remarks Honoring NCAA Fall Champion Teams February 24, 2003

Welcome. Ken, how are you? Good. he was coaching at another university at Please be seated. Thank you all for coming. that time. I used to work out a lot at the Thanks for the warm welcome. Welcome gym, and he was always quick to give me to the people’s house on Champions Day. pointers about how to stay in shape. It’s my honor to welcome some of our Na- [Laughter] I listened. I knew he was a tion’s finest athletes and finest people. I high-quality man when he was there at the really enjoy the chance to rub elbows with University of Texas. He’s a high-quality the champs. man still, and he’s brought some national I first want to thank Members of the champs to the White House. Congratula- Congress who are here. Gordon Smith from tions. Oregon, Senator, thanks for coming. I know And I appreciate Lisa Love coming and you are proud of the Portland team for Carol Dougherty, both from the University their first national championship. of Southern California as well. It’s one of For some reason it seems like we’ve got our Nation’s great schools, as is UCLA, a large contingent from the State of Ohio who is represented here as the men’s na- with us today. Governor Taft, thanks for tional soccer champs. I’m so honored you coming, and Ken, good to see you, sir. I’m all are here. And I want to welcome Tom glad you all are here. And Attorney Gen- Fitzgerald, the head coach, and Daniel eral, thanks for coming. And I’m so hon- Guerrero, the athletic director, as well as ored that Oxley and Deborah and Pat the team. Welcome to the White House, Tiberi are here as well. They’ve been brag- and thanks for coming. ging about the Buckeyes every time they And then, of course, there’s the Univer- come to the White House. [Laughter] My sity of Portland. They hadn’t been to the little brother had to wear a Ohio State shirt White House too many times as national today. champs. Matter of fact, this is the first na- I want to thank Karen Holbrook, who tional championship of their great univer- is the president of Ohio State. Thank you, sity. I’m so proud to welcome Reverend Karen, for coming. Andy Geiger is the ath- David Tyson, who is the president; Joe letic director. Archie Griffin, I’m so hon- Etzel, who is the athletic director; Clive ored to see you, Archie. It’s a—I remember Charles, who is the head women’s soccer when you carried the ball—back-to-back coach, who brought the team to great Heisman Trophies. things. By the way, the men’s team and And of course, Coach Jim Tressel. When the ladies’ team won their championships I had the honor of speaking at the Ohio in the State of Texas. Now you must be State graduation last spring, the coach said, as fond of the State as I am. [Laughter] ‘‘You know, watch us this year. We’re going But I do want to welcome the University to be pretty good.’’ [Laughter] ‘‘Matter of of Portland here. You all did a great job fact, I think we’ll be visiting you in the in being the first national champs in your White House.’’ [Laughter] You were right. school’s history. I know you’re proud. Congratulations on doing a fine job. I also want to welcome Kirk Herbstreit Also my honor to welcome Mick Haley, here. Since I don’t spend too much time who is the women’s volleyball coach at the watching national news, I get stuck with University of Southern California, here. ESPN, and—[laughter]—there you are. Mick, it’s great to see you. I knew Mick You look just like yourself. [Laughter] But when I was the Governor of Texas and I’m glad you’re here, and welcome.

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The teams who are represented here yourself, that recognizing in the midst of represent hard work and dedication and vi- plenty here in America, there are some are sion and goals, the things that really make some who suffer and some who hurt. And a healthy society more healthy. Not only you have an example now as champs to are the folks up here with me great athletes help solve America’s issues one person at and disciplined individuals; they’re people a time. And so I’m here to recognize you in a position of responsibility now that as great athletes but, better yet, as great they’ve become champs. You have a chance people who are a part of the greatest nation now to influence people’s lives like you on the face of the Earth. never had before. Congratulations on your championship. I guarantee you there’s a bunch of junior More importantly, congratulations on using high kids in the State of Ohio wondering the capacity you now have to help this Na- what it’s like to be a champion. They know tion fulfill its great potential. May God their football team won the championship, bless your universities. May God bless you and now they’re wondering what it’s like. all and the families. And may God continue How does a champion behave? What does to bless America. a champion do? Not only can a champion run fast and tackle hard, but hopefully the champs up here send the signal that mak- NOTE: The President spoke at 2:10 p.m. in ing right choices in life for youngsters is the East Room at the White House. In his an important part of living a responsible remarks, he referred to Gov. Bob Taft, Sec- existence. retary of State J. Kenneth Blackwell, and I know there’s a lot of young ladies who State Attorney General Jim Petro of Ohio; are growing up wondering whether or not Representatives Michael G. Oxley, Deborah they can be champs. And they see the Pryce, and Patrick J. Tiberi of Ohio; Archie championship teams from USC and Univer- Griffin, associate athletic director, Ohio State sity of Portland here, girls who worked hard University; Lisa Love and Carol Dougherty, to get to where they are, and they’re won- senior associate athletic directors, University dering about the example they’re setting. of Southern California; and Kirk Herbstreit, What is life choices about? reporter, ESPN television network. The I guess my point to you is that you’re President honored the Ohio State University a champ on the field, and now you have men’s football team, the University of South- a great opportunity to be a champion off ern California women’s volleyball team, the the field by setting good examples, by University of California-Los Angeles men’s showing people that there is such thing as soccer team, and the University of Portland a compassionate society, that—encourage women’s soccer team. The Office of the people in the university you go to to love Press Secretary also released a Spanish lan- a neighbor just like you’d like to be loved guage transcript of these remarks.

Remarks Following a Meeting With the National Economic Council and an Exchange With Reporters February 25, 2003

The President. Thank you all for coming. who have been traveling the country, listen- I’m meeting with my National Economic ing to the voices of small-business people, Council, key members of my administration entrepreneurs, workers, listening to their

208 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 25

concerns about our future. And at the same David [David Jackson, Dallas Morning time explaining to them how we address News]. the economic issues of our country. Q. Mr. President, one of the uncertain- This administration is firmly committed ties about the economy is the possibility to the principle that if people have more of a war. Do you have any idea how much of their own money, they’re likely to spend a war might cost and how it might affect it on a good or a service, which means our economy here at home? somebody is more likely to be able to find The President. David, there is all kinds work. We’re committed to the notion that of estimates about the cost of war. But investment of capital equals jobs. the risk of doing nothing, the risk of the And so therefore, our policies are aimed security of this country being jeopardized at encouraging investment and job creation, at the hands of a madman with weapons as well as consumer confidence and spend- of mass destruction, far exceeds the risks ing. And we are confident that when the of any action we may be forced to take. Congress listens to the people, that they There are people who worry about the will support this plan. It’s an important eco- future. I understand that, and I worry nomic plan, and it’s one that we look for- about the future. I worry about a future ward to vigorously working with Congress in which Saddam Hussein gets to blackmail to get it done here. and/or attack. I worry about a future in I’ll be glad to take some questions. Let which terrorist organizations are fueled and me start off with Angle [Jim Angle, FOX funded by a Saddam Hussein. And that’s News]. why we’re bringing this issue to a head. Heidi [Heidi Pryzbyla, Bloomberg News]. Iraqi Disarmament/Risks of War Q. Will the outcome of any U.N. Secu- Q. Mr. President, what would it take at rity Council vote have any effect on wheth- this point to avoid a war with Iraq? er or not we go to war in Iraq? The President. Full disarmament. The President. Obviously, we’d like to Q. Could you expand on that, sir? I have a positive vote. That’s why we’ve sub- mean, what—— mitted a Security Council resolution, along The President. Well, there’s only one with Great Britain and Spain. But as I said thing. There’s full disarmament. The man all along, it would be helpful and useful, has been told to disarm. For the sake of but I don’t believe we need a second reso- peace, he must completely disarm. I sus- lution. Saddam Hussein hasn’t disarmed. pect we’ll see him playing games, that he He may play like he’s going to disarm, but will—the world will say disarm, and he will he hasn’t disarmed. And for the sake of all of a sudden find a weapon that he peace and the security of the American claimed he didn’t have. people, he must disarm. Q. Happened this morning, as a matter Fournier [Ron Fournier, Associated of fact. Press]. The President. I suspect that he will try Q. Sir, how big and exactly what kind to fool the world one more time. After of sacrifices will be asked of the U.S. all, he has had a history of doing that for troops, their families, the American public, 12 years. He’s been successful at gaming should you decide to go to war? the system, and our attitude is, it’s now The President. Well, any time you put time for him to fully disarm. And we expect a troop into harm’s way, that in itself is the Security Council to honor its word by a sacrifice. First of all—and that’s why war insisting that Saddam disarm. Now is the is my last choice. That’s why I’ve said all time. along I would hope that the world would

209 Feb. 25 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 come together to convince Saddam to make innocent life. And it is important for Iraqi the decision to disarm. leadership and Iraqi generals to clearly un- Perhaps the biggest risk in the theater, derstand that if they take innocent life, if if we were to commit our troops, is Saddam they destroy infrastructure, they will be himself. He shows no regard for human held to account as war criminals. life in his own country. After all, he’s gassed them; he’s used the weapons of mass destruction on his own people that NOTE: The President spoke at 11:16 a.m. in he now claims he doesn’t have. He tortures the Cabinet Room at the White House. In people. He brutalizes them. He could care his remarks, he referred to President Saddam less about human condition inside of Iraq. Hussein of Iraq. The Office of the Press Sec- And so I think one of the biggest dangers retary also released a Spanish language tran- we face, if we go to war, is how he treats script of these remarks.

Message to the Senate Transmitting the Second Additional Protocol to the Mexico-United States Taxation Convention February 25, 2003

To the Senate of the United States: treaties between the United States and I transmit herewith for Senate advice and other developed nations. It would provide consent to ratification, the Second Addi- maximum rates of tax to be applied to var- tional Protocol that Modifies the Conven- ious types of income and protection from tion Between the Government of the double taxation of income. The Protocol United States of America and the Govern- was concluded in recognition of the impor- ment of the United Mexican States for the tance of the United States economic rela- Avoidance of Double Taxation and the Pre- tions with Mexico. vention of Fiscal Evasion with Respect to I recommend that the Senate give early Taxes on Income, signed at Mexico City and favorable consideration to this Protocol, on November 26, 2002. I also transmit, for and that the Senate give its advice and the information of the Senate, the report consent to ratification. of the Department of State concerning the GEORGE W. BUSH proposed Protocol. The Convention, as amended by the pro- The White House, posed Protocol, would be similar to tax February 25, 2003.

Message to the Congress Transmitting a Report on the National Emergency With Respect to the Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction February 25, 2003

To the Congress of the United States: Act, 50 U.S.C. 1703(c), and section 401(c) As required by section 204(c) of the of the National Emergencies Act, 50 U.S.C. International Emergency Economic Powers 1641(c), I transmit herewith a 6-month

210 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 26

periodic report prepared by my Administra- struction that was declared in Executive tion on the national emergency with respect Order 12938 of November 14, 1994. to the proliferation of weapons of mass de- GEORGE W. BUSH The White House, February 25, 2003.

Remarks to the Latino Coalition February 26, 2003

Bienvenidos. I want to thank mi abogado Latino Coalition. I also want to thank Jane and my close friend for his leadership and Delgado as well for your leadership and his participation in our Government. Every- for working for what you think is right for body has got to have a good lawyer— the country. [laughter]—especially in my line of work. El Gobernador del Estado de Hidalgo is [Laughter] And I’ve got a great one with with us today. Gobernador, bienvenidos. Al Gonzales. I’m proud to call him friend. Glad you’re here. I see my friend Alfredo And I also want to thank the members Phillips. One of the great honors when I of the Latino Coalition who are here today. was the Governor of Texas was to work I want to thank you for your work in— closely with our Mexican counterparts. obviously, on political issues. But really I Senor Phillips was a man who came to Aus- want to thank you for what you’re doing tin quite frequently to talk about NADBank in your own community, showing people and mutual development programs. I’m that through hard work there’s opportunity honored you’re here. I appreciate your del- and hope, that if you’re an entrepreneur— egation coming. thanks for setting such a great example. This Nation is committed to making sure Truly, one of the greatest things about the we’ve got great relations with Mexico. The Nation is that somebody who’s got a dream cornerstone of good foreign policy starts and who works hard can own their own with making sure the neighborhood is pros- business, realize their own potential. So thanks for setting the example for a lot perous and peaceful. I look forward to con- of our fellow citizens. tinuing to work with Vicente Fox on ad- I’m honored that Mel Martinez is here vancing a common agenda for the good with us, and Hector Barreto, serving my of both nations. administration. Both men are doing a fine And so I welcome you all here. You job in important positions. I want to thank come to America today during times of Ambassador Hans Hertell from the Domin- great challenges. There are some challenges ican Republic for coming. [Applause] I see which face us, but there’s no hurdle big you brought an entourage with you. enough for the American people not to [Laughter] Rosario Marin, who’s the Treas- cross. This is—we’ve got some mighty chal- urer, is here. Rosario, great to see you. lenges to make sure the country is more Josefina Carbonell, who is the Assistant prosperous and more hopeful and the Secretary for Aging, Health and Human world more peaceful. But sin duda, we’re Services, is with us. going to achieve what we need to achieve, I want to thank very much the—Robert porque este pais es un gran pais, with great de Posada, who is the president of the values and great hope and great strength.

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The first challenge we have is to make quite briefly what I am asking Congress sure people can find work. We want every- to do. body working who wants to find a job. The First of all, I think it’s very important challenge was created, really, because of for us to focus on small-business growth. a recession and an attack on America and We’re interested in job creation. The first the fact that some of our fellow citizens thing—the first fact that Congress has got didn’t realize that they needed to tell the to understand is most small—most jobs are truth all the time when it came to the created by small businesses, most new jobs. numbers on their balance sheets. All three And so, therefore, any package ought to of those circumstances has created a chal- be focused on small business in America. lenge for the country. And the challenge And this package is. It basically says, is how to make sure the entrepreneurial we’re—we’ve asked Congress to cut rates. environment is strong and steady, so that They did, but they phased in the tax rate people are confident in taking risk, that cuts over 3, 5, or 7 years. Well, if the small businesses are willing to take risk to economy is not doing as well as it should expand. today, and if Congress has one time seen And so I put out an economic plan that the wisdom of letting people keep more addresses the challenges that we face. First, of their own money, then step one is they I want to remind you we responded to ought to accelerate the tax relief plan to the recession by tax relief. We believe that this year. All tax cuts in the future ought if a person has more money in their pock- to be accelerated to this year. If they’re ets, they’re likely to demand a good or a good enough 5 years from now, they’re service. And when they do so in the mar- good enough today. ketplace, somebody is likely to produce the Most small businesses are sole propri- good or a service. And when that happens, etorships or limited partnerships or Sub- somebody is more likely to find work. chapter S corporations, which means that That’s the premise of the economic policy they pay tax at the individual income-tax we laid out in ’01. I worked with the Re- rate. And so therefore, when you accelerate publicans and Democrats to get the tax rate cuts, you’re really accelerating capital plan through. to be invested by small businesses. And We responded to the attacks on Sep- that’s what Congress must understand. The tember the 11th, 2001. We had terrorism rate reduction package is good for the insurance bill passed to encourage con- small-business sector of the American econ- struction programs to go forward. We dealt omy. with the airline issue. We got the stock As well, we believe we ought to increase market opened up quickly. And of course, the amount of expensing available to small then we liberated Afghanistan as we sought businesses from the current limitation of to bring justice to the killers of the thou- $25,000 to $75,000 a year. This will encour- sands of Americans and others. age capital expenditure. It will provide in- We dealt with the corporate scandals by centive for people to expand their busi- passing the law that clearly says that if you nesses. Capital expenditure equals jobs, and lie, cheat, or steal, that if you defraud a the more capital accumulation and capital shareholder or an employee, there is going expenditure we can encourage, the more to be certain consequences. likely it is somebody is going to find work. And so we made progress. But the econ- And so this plan focuses on boosting the omy still needs more work as far as we’re amount of money consumers have to spend, concerned. And so I’ve gone to Congress, strengthening demand for products. But it and I want to share with you quite quickly, also focuses on capital accumulation, capital

212 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 26 formation, particularly at the small-business plan makes sense for the economic vitality sector of the American economy. of this country. Furthermore, I believe we ought to We continue to face a hurdle with our eliminate the double taxation on dividends, schools. If you want America to be a hope- and I will tell you why. If capital equals ful place, we better make sure the public jobs, the double taxation of dividends school system of America works. And so means there is less capital in the private I want to continue—I say we face a prob- markets for investment. It’s fair to tax a lem because not every school is working company’s profits. It is unfair to tax that the way we want it to. I proposed reform profit again when it’s distributed to one which the Senate and the House passed of the shareholders. And so our plan en- in my first year as the President. The re- courages capital formation. Our plan ad- form said, if you spend money, then it dresses the needs of the 10 million seniors makes sense to demand results. We spend who have dividend income. It is beneficial money at the Federal level. Therefore we for those seniors not to have to pay a tax ought to ask, what are the results? We’re on their dividends. As a matter of fact, asking the simple question, ‘‘If you receive it will help them in the later years of their money, can the children read and write lives. and add and subtract?’’ That’s what we The dividend plan also is going to have want to know. a positive effect on our accounting process. It’s really important for Latino parents I mean, after all, we went through a period to have that question asked. It’s essential of time when people said, ‘‘Invest in my to ask that question if you want the future company. Even though I may not have any of this country to be bright, because often- earnings, I’ve got a good idea. So let’s in- times the Latino child just gets passed vest’’—let’s invest in something that may through the system without asking the fun- or may not happen. A society which is fo- damental question of whether or not that cused on dividends says, you know, cash child can read and write and add and sub- is really what matters. You can’t—if you tract. say, ‘‘Invest in my company. I’m going to You see, it’s oftentimes easy to walk into pay you a dividend,’’ it’s not based upon a classroom full of the so-called ‘‘hard to some pie-in-the-sky projection. It’s based educate’’ and say, ‘‘We’re moving you on the reality of cash. The dividend policy, through.’’ It’s what I call the soft bigotry if more companies pay dividends, will have of low expectations. I told the American a positive effect when it comes to the bal- people when I was running for office, ‘‘I ance sheets of America. It will have a re- will challenge the soft bigotry of low expec- form effect, because you can’t project what tations, because I believe every child can may be. When you’re promising dividends, learn, regardless of the status of their par- you’ve got to project what is. And that’s ents.’’ And we have done that. We have going to be good for investors, and it’s done that. We’ve increased Federal edu- going to be good for accountability when cation spending by 50 percent from the it comes to the corporate sector of Amer- time I got here. But more importantly, ica. we’re demanding accountability because we So this is the plan I’m asking Congress believe in the value of every child, and to look at. It’s a reasonable plan; it’s a we don’t want one child left behind here stimulative plan; it’s a plan that makes in America. sense. And I’m asking for your help. I’d We look forward to working with you like for you to contact your Congressman on health care matters. We want the Medi- or your Senator and let him know that this care system to function well. We want to

213 Feb. 26 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 make sure that there is a capacity for peo- I also want to talk to you about how ple to get primary care through community to make sure our judiciary works well. It health centers. It’s an initiative which I starts with me naming good people to serve strongly support and I’m pushing Congress on the bench, good, solid, honest, decent to fund to its fullest. We want to make Americans who are willing to forgo the pri- sure that there is a—health tax credits to vate practice of law, the comforts of private help the working uninsured. And we want life, and serve on the Federal bench. And to make sure there’s medical liability re- that’s exactly what I’ve done. I’ve named form to make sure that health care is not some incredibly fine Americans to serve in only affordable but available. In other this important part of our Government, and words, we don’t want our docs sued to the no finer American as Miguel Estrada. He point where they’re leaving the profession, is a man I have named, nominated for the where people can’t find good medical care. DC Circuit Court of Appeals. When con- There’s a lot we can work with you on, firmed, he’ll be the first Hispanic to serve and intend to do—associated health care on what they call the second most impor- plans, incredibly important part of making tant court in America. sure small-business owners can provide af- His story is the American story. His fordable health care to their employees. story—it’s what makes this country so pro- I also want to work with—continue to found and so hopeful and so promising. work with you all in America on making After all, he came to the country from Honduras. He could barely speak English. sure that our welfare system is complete. He came as a teenage boy, had trouble I say complete because the best welfare with our native language, and yet ends up programs oftentimes are those found in our shortly thereafter in Harvard Law School iglesias, our churches and synagogues and as one of the top students. It speaks about mosques. And our Government must not a man who has a dream and works hard fear the power of faith in our society but to achieve that dream, understands the must welcome faith-based programs which value of education, overcame difficulties, exist to heal hearts and provide hope for and became one of the top law students broken lives. out of Harvard. The great strength of this country lies He has argued 15 cases before the Su- in the hearts of our fellow citizens. The preme Court. He has taken his knowledge great power of transformation in neighbor- and capacity and argued before the highest hoods can take place because thousands of court of our land. He has served in the citizens have heard the universal call to Justice Department under Presidents from love a neighbor like they would like to be both political parties. He is a incredibly loved themself. And so you’ll see us con- bright mind. tinue to work with our neighborhood help- Yet, his nomination is being delayed and ers and healers at the Federal level to en- stalled by Democratic Senators. His nomi- courage faith-based programs to flourish nation has been stalled for 2 years. They’re and exist. blocking the vote on this good man for I recognize that one person can’t solve purely political reasons. The Senators are all of our society’s problems, but one per- applying a double standard to Miguel son can help save one life. And it’s that Estrada by requiring him to answer ques- accumulative effect, what I call the gath- tions that other judicial nominees over time ering momentum of millions of acts of have not been forced to answer. And that kindness which take place on a daily basis, is not right, and that is not fair. which literally can transform this country, By blocking a vote on Miguel Estrada, one heart and one soul at a time. some Democrats in the Senate are flaunting

214 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 26 the intention of the United States Constitu- But the best way to secure the homeland tion and the tradition of the United States is to find killers before they kill us and Senate itself. Alexander Hamilton wrote bring them to justice. And that’s what we’re that the purpose of the Senate confirmation going to do. was to prevent the appointment of unfit So we’re on the hunt, on Al Qaida. This characters. No one can possibly call Miguel is a different kind of war. It’s a war which Estrada ‘‘unfit.’’ The American Bar Associa- requires a good intelligence-sharing, and it tion has given him its highest ratings—high- requires cutting off money. It requires spe- est ratings. And he has the qualifications cially skilled troops to smoke these people and the experience and the temperament out of their caves and to bring them to to make an outstanding judge. justice. And that’s what we’re doing, one The partisans in the Senate are sub- by one. Sometimes you’ll see success, and jecting Miguel Estrada to an unfair double sometimes you won’t. You’ve just got to standard. Failing to allow an up-or-down know the mighty United States, along with vote—a vote which will pass—on Miguel 89 other countries in our coalition for En- Estrada’s nomination is a travesty, an injus- during Freedom, are doing everything we tice being carried out by those responsible can to protect you and protect other people for helping to uphold justice in this coun- who love freedom. try. There’s also a threat gathering in Iraq. I want to thank you for your work on It’s been gathering for a long period of Miguel’s nomination. I will stand by that time. The danger with Iraq is that he can man’s side until he is sworn in as a judge. strike in the neighborhood. And the danger And finally, we have been called to de- with Iraq is that he has got the willingness fend America and to keep the peace. We and capacity to train Al Qaida-type organi- face a significant challenge, and that is to zations and provide them with equipment protect the homeland of the American peo- to hurt America. ple. Prior to September the 11th, 2001, The world has waited a long time for we thought oceans would protect the Mr. Saddam Hussein to disarm. They’ve homeland of the American people. We waited a long time. He is a master of dis- thought that history would continue to re- guise and delay. He’ll say, ‘‘Oh, I’m dis- peat itself, that this Nation was safe and arming,’’ after he said he has no arms. secure, that if there was a gathering threat We will continue to work with our overseas, we could deal with it if we felt friends, people who understand the value like dealing with it, but it was not a prob- of freedom. We will insist that the United lem for the home people. Yet, on Sep- Nation Resolution 1441 be adhered to in tember the 11th, the world changed. It its fullest. After all, we want the United changed dramatically and sadly for thou- Nations to be a legitimate, effective body. sands of citizens. It also changed for how But for the safety of the American people this country must view our position in the and for peace in the world, Saddam world. The strategic vision of the country Hussein will be disarmed one way or the shifted. other. And this Nation does so for the sake We’re doing everything we can here at of peace. home to secure the homeland. We’ve got The use of our military is the absolute agencies working overtime, people sharing last option. It is the last alternative for the information. Our borders are becoming President. But the risk of doing nothing, more efficient. We want people, commerce the risk of assuming that Saddam Hussein to move freely, but we don’t want terrorists will change, the risk of thinking and hoping to move freely. So we’re doing as good for the best for the American people, far a job as we possibly can to protect you. outweighs the risk of committing troops if

215 Feb. 26 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 we have to. The choice is Saddam Hus- and a policy designed to protect the Amer- sein’s to make. It’s been his to make all ican people. along. He gets to choose between peace Thank you for your interest. May God and war. bless you all, and may God bless America. And the other thing that is an inherent part of our view of Iraq is how I started NOTE: The President spoke at 10:30 a.m. in the discussion here. See, we believe every- Room 450 of the Dwight D. Eisenhower Ex- body matters; everybody counts. It doesn’t ecutive Office Building. In his remarks, he matter your background, where you’re referred to Hans H. Hertell, U.S. Ambas- from; everybody has worth. As I said in sador to the Dominican Republic; Jane Delgado, president and chief executive offi- my State of the Union Address, liberty is cer, National Alliance for Hispanic Health; not America’s gift to the world; liberty is Gov. Manuel Angel Nunez Soto of Hidalgo, God’s gift to human—to the human—man- Mexico; Alfredo Phillips Olmedo, former kind. And that’s what we believe. Managing Director, North American Devel- So in the days ahead, as we deal with opment Bank; President Vicente Fox of Mex- this challenge facing our country, you need ico; and President Saddam Hussein of Iraq. to know that the value of freedom and lib- The Office of the Press Secretary also re- erty will be at the forefront of a policy leased a Spanish language transcript of these designed to make the world more peaceful remarks.

Remarks at the American Enterprise Institute Dinner February 26, 2003

Thank you all very much. Thanks for the Vice-Presidential search committee. warm welcome. I’m proud to be with the [Laughter] Thank God Dick Cheney said scholars and the friends and the supporters yes. of the American Enterprise Institute. I Thanks for fitting me into the program want to thank you for overlooking my dress tonight. I know I’m not the featured speak- code violation. [Laughter] They were about er. I’m just a warmup act for Allan Meltzer. to stop me at the door, but Irving Kristol But I want to congratulate Dr. Meltzer for said, ‘‘I know this guy. Let him in.’’ a lifetime of achievement and for tonight’s [Laughter] well-deserved honor. Congratulations, Dr. Chris, thank you for your very kind intro- Meltzer. duction, and thank you for your leadership. At the American Enterprise Institute, I see many distinguished guests here to- some of the finest minds in our Nation night, members of my Cabinet, Members are at work on some of the greatest chal- of Congress, Justice Scalia, Justice Thomas, lenges to our Nation. You do such good and so many respected writers and policy work that my administration has borrowed experts. I’m always happy to see your sen- 20 such minds. I want to thank them for ior fellow, Dr. Lynne Cheney. Lynne is their service, but I also want to remind a wise and thoughtful commentator on his- people that for 60 years, AEI scholars have tory and culture and a dear friend to Laura made vital contributions to our country and and me. I’m also familiar with the good to our Government, and we are grateful work of her husband. [Laughter] You may for those contributions. remember him, the former director of my

216 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 26

We meet here during a crucial period and stability of our world. The current Iraqi in the history of our Nation and of the regime has shown the power of tyranny civilized world. Part of that history was to spread discord and violence in the Mid- written by others; the rest will be written dle East. A liberated Iraq can show the by us. On a September morning, threats power of freedom to transform that vital that had gathered for years, in secret and region, by bringing hope and progress into far away, led to murder in our country on the lives of millions. America’s interests in a massive scale. As a result, we must look security and America’s belief in liberty both at security in a new way, because our coun- lead in the same direction, to a free and try is a battlefield in the first war of the peaceful Iraq. 21st century. The first to benefit from a free Iraq We learned a lesson: The dangers of our would be the Iraqi people themselves. time must be confronted actively and force- Today they live in scarcity and fear under fully, before we see them again in our skies a dictator who has brought them nothing and in our cities. And we set a goal: We but war and misery and torture. Their lives will not allow the triumph of hatred and and their freedom matter little to Saddam violence in the affairs of men. Hussein, but Iraqi lives and freedom matter Our coalition of more than 90 countries greatly to us. is pursuing the networks of terror with Bringing stability and unity to a free Iraq every tool of law enforcement and with will not be easy. Yet that is no excuse to military power. We have arrested or other- leave the Iraqi regime’s torture chambers wise dealt with many key commanders of and poison labs in operation. Any future Al Qaida. Across the world, we are hunting down the killers one by one. We are win- the Iraqi people choose for themselves will ning. And we’re showing them the defini- be better than the nightmare world that tion of American justice. And we are op- Saddam Hussein has chosen for them. posing the greatest danger in the war on If we must use force, the United States terror, outlaw regimes arming with weapons and our coalition stand ready to help the of mass destruction. citizens of a liberated Iraq. We will deliver In Iraq, a dictator is building and hiding medicine to the sick, and we are now mov- weapons that could enable him to dominate ing into place nearly 3 million emergency the Middle East and intimidate the civilized rations to feed the hungry. We’ll make sure world, and we will not allow it. This same that Iraq’s 55,000 food distribution sites, tyrant has close ties to terrorist organiza- operating under the oil-for-food program, tions and could supply them with the ter- are stocked and open as soon as possible. rible means to strike this country, and The United States and Great Britain are America will not permit it. The danger providing tens of millions of dollars to the posed by Saddam Hussein and his weapons U.N. High Commission on Refugees and cannot be ignored or wished away. The to such groups as the World Food Program danger must be confronted. We hope that and UNICEF to provide emergency aid to the Iraqi regime will meet the demands the Iraqi people. of the United Nations and disarm, fully and We will also lead in carrying out the peacefully. If it does not, we are prepared urgent and dangerous work of destroying to disarm Iraq by force. Either way, this chemical and biological weapons. We will danger will be removed. provide security against those who try to The safety of the American people de- spread chaos or settle scores or threaten pends on ending this direct and growing the territorial integrity of Iraq. We will seek threat. Acting against the danger will also to protect Iraq’s natural resources from sab- contribute greatly to the long-term safety otage by a dying regime and ensure those

217 Feb. 26 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 resources are used for the benefit of the in Iraq would serve as a dramatic and in- owners, the Iraqi people. spiring example of freedom for other na- The United States has no intention of tions in the region. determining the precise form of Iraq’s new It is presumptuous and insulting to sug- Government. That choice belongs to the gest that a whole region of the world, or Iraqi people. Yet, we will ensure that one the one-fifth of humanity that is Muslim, brutal dictator is not replaced by another. is somehow untouched by the most basic All Iraqis must have a voice in the new aspirations of life. Human cultures can be Government, and all citizens must have vastly different, yet the human heart desires their rights protected. the same good things everywhere on Earth. Rebuilding Iraq will require a sustained In our desire to be safe from brutal and commitment from many nations, including bullying oppression, human beings are the our own. We will remain in Iraq as long same. In our desire to care for our children as necessary and not a day more. America and give them a better life, we are the has made and kept this kind of commit- same. For these fundamental reasons, free- ment before, in the peace that followed dom and democracy will always and every- a World War. After defeating enemies, we where have greater appeal than the slogans did not leave behind occupying armies; we of hatred and the tactics of terror. left constitutions and parliaments. We es- Success in Iraq could also begin a new tablished an atmosphere of safety, in which stage for Middle Eastern peace and set in responsible, reform-minded local leaders motion progress towards a truly democratic could build lasting institutions of freedom. Palestinian state. The passing of Saddam In societies that once bred fascism and militarism, liberty found a permanent home. Hussein’s regime will deprive terrorist net- There was a time when many said that works of a wealthy patron that pays for the cultures of Japan and Germany were terrorist training and offers rewards to fam- incapable of sustaining democratic values. ilies of suicide bombers. And other regimes Well, they were wrong. Some say the same will be given a clear warning that support of Iraq today. They are mistaken. The na- for terror will not be tolerated. tion of Iraq, with its proud heritage, abun- Without this outside support for ter- dant resources, and skilled and educated rorism, Palestinians who are working for people, is fully capable of moving toward reform and long for democracy will be in democracy and living in freedom. a better position to choose new leaders, The world has a clear interest in the true leaders who strive for peace, true lead- spread of democratic values, because stable ers who faithfully serve the people. A Pales- and free nations do not breed the tinian state must be a reformed and peace- ideologies of murder. They encourage the ful state that abandons forever the use of peaceful pursuit of a better life. And there terror. are hopeful signs of a desire for freedom For its part, the new Government of in the Middle East. Arab intellectuals have Israel, as the terror threat is removed and called on Arab governments to address the security improves, will be expected to sup- ‘‘freedom gap’’ so their peoples can fully port the creation of a viable Palestinian share in the progress of our times. Leaders state and to work as quickly as possible in the region speak of a new Arab charter toward a final status agreement. As progress that champions internal reform, greater po- is made toward peace, settlement activity litical participation, economic openness, and in the occupied territories must end. And free trade. And from Morocco to Bahrain the Arab states will be expected to meet and beyond, nations are taking genuine their responsibilities to oppose terrorism, steps toward political reform. A new regime to support the emergence of a peaceful and

218 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 26 democratic Palestine, and state clearly they If the members rise to this moment, then will live in peace with Israel. the Council will fulfill its founding purpose. The United States and other nations are I’ve listened carefully as people and lead- working on a roadmap for peace. We are ers around the world have made known setting out the necessary conditions for their desire for peace. All of us want peace. progress toward the goal of two states, The threat to peace does not come from Israel and Palestine, living side by side in those who seek to enforce the just demands peace and security. It is the commitment of the civilized world. The threat to peace of our Government and my personal com- comes from those who flout those de- mitment to implement the roadmap and mands. If we have to act, we will act to to reach that goal. Old patterns of conflict restrain the violent and defend the cause in the Middle East can be broken, if all of peace. And by acting, we will signal to concerned will let go of bitterness and ha- outlaw regimes that in this new century, tred and violence and get on with the seri- the boundaries of civilized behavior will be ous work of economic development and po- respected. litical reform and reconciliation. America Protecting those boundaries carries a will seize every opportunity in pursuit of cost. If war is forced upon us by Iraq’s peace. And the end of the present regime refusal to disarm, we will meet an enemy in Iraq would create such an opportunity. who hides his military forces behind civil- In confronting Iraq, the United States ians, who has terrible weapons, who is ca- is also showing our commitment to effective pable of any crime. The dangers are real, international institutions. We are a perma- as our soldiers and sailors, airmen and manent member of the United Nations Secu- rity Council. We helped to create the Secu- rines fully understand. Yet, no military has rity Council. We believe in the Security ever been better prepared to meet these Council so much that we want its words challenges. to have meaning. Members of our Armed Forces also un- The global threat of proliferation of derstand why they may be called to fight. weapons of mass destruction cannot be They know that retreat before a dictator confronted by one nation alone. The world guarantees even greater sacrifices in the fu- needs today and will need tomorrow inter- ture. They know that America’s cause is national bodies with the authority and the right and just, liberty for an oppressed peo- will to stop the spread of terror and chem- ple and security for the American people. ical and biological and nuclear weapons. A And I know something about these men threat to all must be answered by all. High- and women who wear our uniform: They minded pronouncements against prolifera- will complete every mission they are given tion mean little unless the strongest nations with skill and honor and courage. are willing to stand behind them and use Much is asked of America in this year force if necessary. After all, the United Na- 2003. The work ahead is demanding. It will tions was created, as Winston Churchill be difficult to help freedom take hold in said, to ‘‘make sure that the force of right a country that has known three decades will, in the ultimate issue, be protected by of dictatorship, secret police, internal divi- the right of force.’’ sions, and war. It will be difficult to cul- Another resolution is now before the Se- tivate liberty and peace in the Middle East, curity Council. If the Council responds to after so many generations of strife. Yet the Iraq’s defiance with more excuses and security of our Nation and the hope of delays, if all its authority proves to be millions depend on us, and Americans do empty, the United Nations will be severely not turn away from duties because they weakened as a source of stability and order. are hard. We have met great tests in other

219 Feb. 26 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 times, and we will meet the tests of our NOTE: The President spoke at 7:22 p.m. in time. the International Ballroom at the Wash- We go forward with confidence, because ington Hilton Hotel. In his remarks, he re- we trust in the power of human freedom ferred to Irving Kristol, senior fellow, and to change lives and nations. By the resolve Christopher DeMuth, president, American and purpose of America and of our friends Enterprise Institute; Allan H. Meltzer, re- and allies, we will make this an age of cipient of the first Irving Kristol Award at progress and liberty. Free people will set the dinner; and President Saddam Hussein the course of history, and free people will of Iraq. keep the peace of the world. Thank you all very much.

Remarks Following Discussions With President Hamid Karzai of Afghanistan and an Exchange With Reporters February 27, 2003

President Bush. A couple of opening people for their support of the—of Afghani- statements; we’ll answer questions today. stan and our desire for the—human life Mr. President, welcome back to the Oval to improve there. Office. And Mr. President, we appreciate your The President has just brought me and leadership, your determination. And we members of my administration up to date continue to look forward to working with on the progress being made in Afghanistan. you to bring not only peace to that part I guess the best way to summarize the dis- of the world but a hopeful future for the cussion is that I’m welcoming a courageous citizens. So welcome back to the Oval Of- leader, who’s got a clear vision about the fice. future of a country he loves, back to the President Karzai. Well, thank you very Oval Office. much, Mr. President. It’s an honor for me I was deeply impressed by some of the to be here with you in the White House. statistics that he talked about. Over 2 mil- The United States and yourself have helped lion refugees have returned back to Afghan- tremendously in the past year to rebuild istan since he was last here in the Oval Afghanistan, to help us in all aspects of Office. As the President pointed out, those are people who are expressing their opinion life, including the 3 million children that about the future of Afghanistan by making now go to school have been receiving help a decision to return home. from the United States. You have helped He also told me that there are now 3 us with the roads, with the building of the million children going to school in Afghani- National Army of Afghanistan. stan. Right after and during the period of I’m here to thank you and the American the Taliban and right after the war, the people. And I’m also here to ask you to number of children going to school was do more for us in making the life of the negligible. Afghan people better, more stable, more This is tremendous progress, and I want peaceful. I’m also here to tell you that the the American people to know that we’re war against terrorism is going on. We have proud of the progress which is being made. defeated them, but some elements are still I want to continue to thank the American there. And we should go on strong and

220 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 27 tough to get them all and free the world Situation in the Middle East from that menace. Q. You talked last night about the Mid- President Bush. Thank you, sir. dle East roadmap. What’s holding that up? President Karzai. Thank you. When can we see that? President Bush. Ron [Ron Fournier, As- President Bush. We have been working sociated Press]. on the Middle East every day. We will continue to work to bring peace to the Middle East. And my fervent desire is for the— is to achieve peace and to improve the Iraq plight of the Palestinian citizen and, at the same time, improve the security for not Q. Mr. President, following up on your only the Palestinians but the Israelis. We speech last night, if the United States had work the peace issue constantly. expanded its mission beyond the liberation of Kuwait and removed Saddam Hussein National Economy from power in the 1990s, would the Middle Q. Mr. President, consumer confidence East be more peaceful now? numbers hit their lowest levels in, I think, President Bush. The mission in early 9 years yesterday. And many of those sur- 1990s was to liberate Kuwait, and the veyed say that they’re more concerned United States achieved that mission. The about the economy than they are about mission now is to disarm Saddam Hussein, Iraq. Money managers on Wall Street say in the name of peace. And we will disarm that even when the uncertainty over what Saddam Hussein. is happening in Iraq is resolved, there re- I noticed today there is some talk about main many obstacles of a purely business the illegal rockets in Iraq. He—this is part nature that leave them less than confident of his—the discussion about these rockets looking forward. Are you frustrated by the is part of his campaign of deception. See, sense that perhaps perception could be- he’ll say, ‘‘I’m not going to destroy the come reality here, that the lack of con- rockets,’’ and then he’ll have a change of fidence seems to be becoming more en- mind this weekend and destroy the rockets trenched? and say, ‘‘I’ve disarmed.’’ The rockets are President Bush. I’ve got confidence in just the tip of the iceberg. The only ques- the future of our economy. There’s strong tion at hand is total, complete disarmament, signals that this economy will improve. But which he is refusing to do. I understand we need to have a stimulus Steve [Steve Holland, Reuters]. package to make sure that the forecasts Q. If I could just follow up, though, on and the predictions become true. A lot of your rationale from yesterday. If we could the experts are projecting growth at 3.3 have peace in the Middle East by removing percent. Inherent in their projections is Saddam now, couldn’t we have had it if that Congress pass a stimulus package, fis- we had removed him 10 years ago? Or cal stimulus package. I proposed the one is that a—— that I think will work. President Bush. The mission—just re- And so that is one of the reasons why member what the mission was. When you you’re seeing this administration on a reg- commit troops to war, you must have a ular basis pursue a stimulus package that clear mission. Should we be forced to com- will have a positive effect for job creation, mit our troops because of his failure to a stimulus package directed to small-busi- disarm, the mission will be complete disar- ness owners in America, a stimulus package mament, which will mean regime change. which will encourage investment, a stimulus That was not the mission in 1991. package which will ultimately help seniors

221 Feb. 27 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 because their dividends might be taxed NOTE: The President spoke at 11:51 a.m. in twice. So this is a stimulus package that the Oval Office at the White House. In his is very positive. remarks, he referred to President Saddam But I’m very optimistic about the future Hussein of Iraq. The Office of the Press Sec- of this country—the economic future, and retary also released a Spanish language tran- I’m optimistic about our chances to achieve script of these remarks. peace. Thank you all.

Joint Statement Between the United States of America and Afghanistan February 27, 2003

President Bush and President Karzai re- will continue our work together, with other affirm their common vision for an Afghani- partners, to gather the resources that will stan that is prosperous, democratic, at hasten the day when all Afghans lead pros- peace, contributing to regional stability, perous and secure lives. market friendly, and respectful of human President Karzai has declared 2003 to rights. They affirm their ironclad and last- be a year of national institution building ing partnership in pursuit of this vision, for Afghanistan, a year when the economic and will work together to ensure that Af- and social benefits of peace are extended ghanistan is never again a haven for terror- throughout the country. ists and that no resurgence of terrorism Afghans are enjoying newfound freedoms threatens Afghanistan. and hope for a brighter tomorrow. The The United States has demonstrated its United States will work with Afghanistan commitment to Afghanistan, providing U.S. to extend the accomplishments of the Bonn forces to combat terror and secure stability, Accord of December 2001 and the Emer- and granting over $900 million in assistance gency Loya Jirga of June 2002 so that Af- since 2001. Working together, Afghans, ghans can build a democratic, constitutional Americans, and our international partners government within the context of Afghani- have made great progress in ridding Af- stan’s unique culture and history. ghanistan of Al Qaida and Taliban ele- The United States military will continue ments. We averted famine for some 7 mil- with its primary mission to prevent terrorist lion Afghans last year, and have begun the elements from undermining the security essential and challenging work of rebuilding environment, while also building the Af- after decades of dictatorship, war, and ex- ghan national army—a central priority for tremism. As a sign of confidence in the both governments—and facilitating recon- future, some 2 million refugees have re- struction. President Karzai strongly favors turned to Afghanistan over the past year. the creation by the United States and other But much remains to be done. This year coalition partners of a number of Provincial will mark a shift toward long-term recon- Reconstruction Teams that will work closely struction projects and the rebuilding of Af- with Afghan government ministries, UN ghan institutions. The United States will be agencies, and NGOs in advancing common a full partner in this transition, helping to reconstruction objectives while also working secure stability and supporting reconstruc- with the graduate battalions of the Afghan tion throughout the country, including National Army to advance the mission of roads, schools, clinics, and agriculture. We enhancing security nationwide.

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President Bush reaffirms that the United • In the area of education, the United States will continue to be a full partner States is initiating a $60 million pro- in Afghanistan’s reconstruction and, with gram to build or repair 1000 schools, the support of Congress, continue with a print 15 million textbooks, train 30,000 comprehensive program of U.S. assistance teachers, and offer accelerated learning to Afghanistan at levels commensurate with programs to 60,000 students. the past. To support President Karzai’s goal • Health is also a priority sector for U.S. of seeing a transition to broad-based recon- assistance, with $133 million planned struction efforts, the United States will for a three-year program that will con- focus its efforts on particular projects in struct or rehabilitate 550 primary the areas of transportation, agriculture, edu- health care centers, expand access to cation, and health. health services in rural areas, and ad- • The United States has committed $80 dress the basic health care needs of million to the rebuilding of the Kabul- women and children. Kandahar-Herat road—Afghanistan’s The United States and Afghanistan will main transportation artery. Japan and work together toward that day when Af- Saudi Arabia are joining us in this ghanistan is fully secure and self-sufficient. project. The United States, in partner- In Afghanistan as elsewhere, the United ship with Norway, will also provide States covets no resources and seeks no $12 million to build a bridge over the special advantage. President Bush and river between Afghanistan and President Karzai reaffirm the bond of Tajikistan, forming a key road link. friendship that unites the peoples of Amer- • Agricultural projects will include a ica and Afghanistan in the common pursuit package of irrigation programs, includ- of a safer, freer, and more prosperous ing $6 million to assist Afghanistan in world for the benefit of all. managing water systems that are already being repaired under cash-for- work programs and a $15 million NOTE: An original was not available for project to restore irrigation systems verification of the content of this joint state- and other essential services. ment.

Statement on Proposed Legislation To Implement the Clear Skies Initiative February 27, 2003

In my State of the Union Address, I Barton have introduced Clear Skies in the urged Congress to enact my aggressive and House and Chairman Inhofe and Chairman innovative plan to cut air pollution, the Voinovich have introduced it in the Senate. Clear Skies Initiative. Clear Skies will cut In the last 30 years, America has dra- powerplant emissions by 70 percent—much matically improved air quality. Clear Skies further, faster, more cost-effectively and is the next step in this positive trend to- with more certainty than current law. wards bringing cleaner air and better health Today, with the reintroduction of my leg- to more of our citizens. We have learned islation, Clear Skies takes an important step a lot about what approaches work best, and towards delivering health and environ- now is the time to put those lessons to mental benefits to Americans. I am pleased use. that Chairman Tauzin and Chairman

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Clear Skies builds on the proven success the use of a market-based system that guar- of our most effective clean air program— antees results while keeping electricity the acid rain reduction program, which sig- prices affordable for Americans. nificantly reduced acid rain in the North- I thank Chairmen Tauzin, Inhofe, Bar- east. Clear Skies expands this program so ton, and Voinovich for their leadership on that in the next decade alone, we will re- this important environmental initiative. move 35 million more tons of pollution Clear Skies represents cost-effective pollu- from the air than would the current Clean tion reductions that make sense for the en- Air Act. This will also help protect our for- vironment and the economy. Administrator ests, lakes, streams, and coastal waters from Whitman and I look forward to working acid rain, nitrogen, and mercury degrada- with Congress to deliver the benefits prom- tion. And Clear Skies will do this through ised by passage of Clear Skies legislation.

Statement Announcing the Hydrogen Powerplant Demonstration Project and the Carbon Sequestration Leadership Forum February 27, 2003

Today I am pleased to announce that international partners on advancing the re- the United States will sponsor a $1 billion, search, development, and commercial de- 10-year demonstration project to create the ployment of carbon capture and storage world’s first coal-based, zero-emissions elec- technologies in the next decade. tricity and hydrogen powerplant. This Recently, my administration has pro- project will be undertaken with inter- posed initiatives to accelerate research and national partners and power and advanced development of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles technology providers to dramatically reduce to allow for commercialization by 2020, and air pollution and capture and store emis- fusion energy by the middle of this century. sions of greenhouse gases. We will work This demonstration project and the Carbon together on this important effort to meet Sequestration Leadership Forum will build the world’s growing energy needs, while on these initiatives to provide the American protecting the health of our people and our environment. people and the world with advanced tech- Secretaries Powell and Abraham will also nologies to meet the world’s energy needs, initiate an international Carbon Sequestra- while improving our global environment for tion Leadership Forum, to collaborate with future generations.

Statement on House of Representatives Action on Legislation To Prohibit Human Cloning February 27, 2003

Today’s resounding bipartisan vote in the lieve human cloning is deeply troubling, House demonstrates concern for the pro- and I strongly support efforts by Congress found moral and social issues posed by to ban all human cloning. We must advance human cloning. Like most Americans, I be- the promise and cause of medical science,

224 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 27 including through ethical stem cell re- ture of life. I urge the Senate to act quickly search, yet we must do so in ways that on legislation banning all human cloning. respect human dignity and help build a cul-

Statement on Proposed Jobs-and-Growth Tax Relief Legislation February 27, 2003

I commend Senators Nickles and Miller nate the unfair double taxation of divi- and Chairman Thomas for their leadership dends, increase small-business investment in introducing my jobs-and-growth package, incentives, help families with children, and which will put money back into the hands end the penalty paid by working couples. of millions of Americans and increase in- I look forward to continuing to work with vestment and job opportunities. Chairman Thomas, Chairman Grassley, and Today’s action demonstrates bipartisan members of both parties who share my vi- commitment to promoting economic sion for strengthening America’s economic growth and creating jobs. The plan will cut recovery and ensuring that every individual taxes for everyone across the board, elimi- who wants a job is able to find one.

Message to the Congress on Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to Cuba February 27, 2003

To the Congress of the United States: destruction of two unarmed U.S.-registered Section 202(d) of the National Emer- civilian aircraft in international airspace gencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)) provides north of Cuba on February 24, 1996, is for the automatic termination of a national to continue in effect beyond March 1, emergency unless, prior to the anniversary 2003, to the Federal Register for publica- date of its declaration, the President pub- tion. lishes in the Federal Register and transmits GEORGE W. BUSH to the Congress a notice stating that the emergency is to continue in effect beyond The White House, the anniversary date. In accordance with February 27, 2003. this provision, I have sent the enclosed notice, stating that the emergency declared NOTE: The notice is listed in Appendix D with respect to the Government of Cuba’s at the end of this volume.

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Remarks to Department of Homeland Security Employees February 28, 2003

Thanks for the warm welcome. It is an Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton, hon- honor for me to speak to the men and ored she is with us today. I appreciate so women who go to work every day and every very much Sam Bodman, the Deputy Sec- night to protect our great country. Since retary of Commerce, being with us. Admi- the day this Nation was attacked, you have ral James Loy, who is the Under Secretary been on the frontlines on the war against of the Department of Transportation, is terror. You’ve worked hard under urgent with us. Thank you for coming. Janet Hale, and sometimes incredibly difficult cir- the Under Secretary of the Department of cumstances. America is really grateful. Homeland Security; Mike Brown, the Tomorrow marks an historic day for our Under Secretary-designee at the Depart- Government and for our country. Around ment of Homeland Security; Dr. Charles 170,000 people from more than 20 Federal McQueary, the Under Secretary-designee, agencies will officially join the new Depart- Department of Homeland Security, who I’ll ment of Homeland Security, creating a talk about a little bit later. more effective, organized, and united de- Commandant Tom Collins of the Coast fense of our homeland. Every member of Guard is with us today. I appreciate so this new Department accepts an essential very much Robert Mueller, who is the head mission to prevent another terrorist attack. of the FBI as well. Robert Bonner runs Yours is a vital and important step in reor- the Customs Service; Ralph Basham, head ganizing our Government to meet the of the Secret Service. I really like the head of the Secret Service—[laughter]—if you threats of a new era as we continue the know what I mean. [Laughter] Michael work of securing this country. Garcia, INS; Chief Gus de la Vina, who I picked a good man to be the first Cabi- is the Border Patrol. The men and women net Secretary of this new Department, a on this stage, who represent thousands of man who’s got courage to lead, a man who our fellow citizens, who care a lot about speaks clearly about our goals, a man who our country, the people in the audience, understands accountability, and I appreciate thank you for giving me a chance to come. my friend Tom Ridge for serving in this The world changed on September the capacity. 11th, 2001. We learned that a threat that I want to thank other members of my gathers on the other side of the Earth can Cabinet who are here for this historic an- strike our own cities and kill our own citi- nouncement: Attorney General John zens. It’s an important lesson, one we must Ashcroft—Mr. General, thank you for com- never forget. Oceans no longer protect ing. Ann Veneman of the Department of America from the dangers of this world. Agriculture is with us today. Norm Mi- We’re protected by daily vigilance at home. neta—Norm just got out of the hospital. And we will be protected by resolute and Norm did an incredible job on the Trans- decisive action against threats abroad. portation Security Agency. He was given We’re tracking down terrorists who hate a task that a lot of people thought would— America, one by one. We’re on the hunt. the Department of Transportation could We got them on the run. And it’s a matter never accomplish. And thanks to his leader- of time before they learn the meaning of ship and his team, he did a fabulous job. American justice. We’re opposing terror re- You’re looking pretty darn good to me, by gimes that are arming with weapons of the way. mass destruction to threaten the peace and

226 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 28 freedom of this world. And we’re taking preventing terrorism its top priority and in- unprecedented measures to defend the creased agents assigned to counterterror ef- homeland with the largest reorganization of forts by nearly 40 percent. I want to thank our Government in more than a half a cen- the leadership of Bob Mueller. He and the tury. agents who work for the FBI are doing The agencies that join the Department a fantastic job on behalf of the American of Homeland Security tomorrow will retain people. their longstanding responsibilities. And of The Department of Homeland Security course, the individuals who join the De- is also charged with strengthening our department will retain their rights as Federal fenses against cyberterrorism and the even workers. Each agency, with its own proud greater dangers of biological, chemical, or and honored tradition, will also gain a new nuclear weapons. We’ve established a mandate and must adopt a new mindset. Science and Technology Directorate within We created this Cabinet Department in a the Department so we can apply some of time of war. And every professional in the our Nation’s best minds to the task of pro- Department of Homeland Security plays a tecting our people. valuable role in winning the first war of I’ve nominated a good man, Dr. Charles the 21st century. For a vast and free nation, McQueary, to head up this effort. His team there is no such thing as perfect security, is engaged in a major effort to develop no such thing as a 100-percent guarantee and deploy the technologies for detecting that we’re protected against the hidden net- weapons of mass destruction. As these tech- work of coldblooded killers. Yet, we’re de- nologies are deployed, border inspectors termined to do everything in our power will have better tools to intercept dangerous to defeat this enemy and to defend our materials before they enter our country. people while upholding the great Constitu- Emergency services personnel will be able tion of the United States of America. to identify biological or chemical weapons We’ve taken some critical steps to in- and agents so they can use the most effec- crease homeland security, and there’s more tive decontamination methods available. work for this Department to do. The De- And as part of the BioWatch Initiative, we partment of Homeland Security is charged are deploying early warning sensors around with analyzing the vulnerabilities of our Na- the country to help detect potential biologi- tion’s critical infrastructure, from dams to cal attacks. banks to seaports. And when our intel- This week, I sent to Congress my pro- ligence agency learn of new threats, the posal for Project BioShield, a major re- Department will move quickly to take pro- search and production effort to guard our tective action. people against bioterrorism. I’ve requested In meeting this responsibility, the De- nearly $6 billion for this project to quickly partment will be a full partner in the new make available effective vaccines and treat- Terrorism Threat Integration Center, which ments against agents like anthrax, botu- will integrate and analyze all threat infor- linum toxin, Ebola, and plague. We must mation collected domestically and abroad assume that our enemies would use these in a single location. When the Center is diseases as weapons, and we must act be- fully operational, it will fully house a data- fore the dangers are upon us. I urge the base of known and suspected terrorists that Congress to pass this legislation as soon officials across this country will be able to as possible. access and to act upon. The Department of Homeland Security In these and other efforts, the FBI and is charged with promoting cooperation be- the CIA are communicating and cooper- tween Washington and State and local gov- ating as never before. The FBI has made ernments. Our enemies can strike anywhere

227 Feb. 28 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 in America, and we must be ready to re- cines, and other medical supplies. Supplies spond in a coordinated way. Through the from this stockpile can be delivered wher- Homeland Security Advisory System, we ever they are needed, anywhere in this have created a unified process for alerting country, within 12 hours. We’ve provided government officials and the public of cur- more than $900 million in support to help rent threats. We’re also providing more in- State and local responders and emergency formation about suspected terrorists to managers prepare for terrorist attacks. And State and local law enforcement agencies. we’ve supported the training of more than And with this new Department, State and 100,000 first-responders since September local officials will now have a single point the 11th, 2001. of contact to help them address the needs I proposed record funding for the first- of the local area. responders, $3.5 billion in the current The Department of Homeland Security budget. I’ve also requested another 3.5 bil- is charged with safeguarding our border lion in the 2004 budget. Unfortunately, the and transportation systems. September the Congress was late in passing the appropria- 11th taught us that terrorists will try to tions bill of 2003. They reduced my total use the openness of our country against request for State and local enforcement and us. We must understand and correct our emergency personnel by $1 billion and des- vulnerabilities. And we need to know who’s ignated part of the funding to go to other coming in and who’s going out of our coun- priorities. I signed the appropriations bill try. We’re working with our good friends, to make sure that we can finally begin to Canada and Mexico, to strengthen our law distribute funding to the States. The lead- enforcement at the borders. ers in the House and Senate are aware The Transportation Security Administra- of my concerns, and they share them. tion has assigned thousands of air marshals These leaders know that I will continue to commercial flights and deployed more to do everything in my power to direct than 50,000 newly trained airport screeners. as much of this funding as possible toward TSA is also screening all checked luggage training and equipping police, firefighters, at our airports, up from 5 percent before and EMTs to prepare and respond to po- September the 11th, 2001. tential terrorist attacks. Starting tomorrow, four different organi- Beginning tomorrow, the Department of zations that patrol and enforce laws at our Homeland Security will be responsible for borders will be integrated into a new Bu- coordinating our national response to ter- reau of Customs and Border Protection. rorist attacks. Secretary Ridge has already This bureau will unify border inspection created 24/7 Homeland Security Center, and enforcement functions, so that legiti- ready to act at the first sign of any emer- mate visitors and goods can enter the gency. And I’ll be issuing a directive order- United States, while giving us better tools ing the establishment of a unified National to help deny entry to terrorists, drug traf- Incident Management System. The system fickers, and dangerous materials. Inspectors will provide Government agencies with will be posted at more than 20 ports common procedures and standards for pre- around the world to examine high-risk paring and responding to emergencies. cargo before it sets sail to our country. Our Nation has great challenges in secur- The new Department is charged with re- ing our homeland, but we’ve got even sponding to any terror attack that may greater advantages. We’ve got people like come. We are moving forward on essential you all who serve with skill and, frankly, preparations here in America. Over the past don’t get enough credit for the work you 18 months, we have significantly enhanced do. Of course, you’re not here to get the our national stockpile of critical drugs, vac- credit; you’re here to do your job. We’ve

228 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 28 got brave and honorable men and women prevail in this war against terror, because serving in our military, including the Coast we’re the greatest nation, full of the finest Guard, ready to accomplish any mission people, on the face of this Earth. they are given. And they will do so with May God bless your work, and may God courage and skill and honor. Above all, we continue to bless America. have the courage and character of the American people, who are resolved to prevent further attacks on our homeland. NOTE: The President spoke at 10:46 a.m. at March 1st marks an important day for the Ronald Reagan Building and Inter- our Government and for our country. The national Trade Center. In his remarks, he re- work ahead won’t always be easy. You’ve ferred to Janet Hale, nominee to be Under accepted a difficult mission. But I’m con- Secretary for Management, Michael D. fident in the success of our efforts, because Brown, nominee to be Under Secretary for I’m confident in you. Emergency Preparedness and Response, and I want to thank each of you for your Charles E. McQueary, nominee to be Under service in freedom’s cause. There is no Secretary for Science and Technology, De- doubt in my mind that this Nation will partment of Homeland Security.

Homeland Security Presidential Directive/HSPD–5—Management of Domestic Incidents February 28, 2003

Subject: Management of Domestic a geographical sense, have the same Incidents meanings as used in the Homeland Security Act of 2002, Public Law 107– Purpose 296. (1) To enhance the ability of the United States to manage domestic incidents by establishing a single, comprehensive national Policy incident management system. (3) To prevent, prepare for, respond to, and recover from terrorist attacks, major Definitions disasters, and other emergencies, the (2) In this directive: United States Government shall establish (a) the term ‘‘Secretary’’ means the Sec- a single, comprehensive approach to do- retary of Homeland Security. mestic incident management. The objective (b) the term ‘‘Federal departments and of the United States Government is to en- agencies’’ means those executive de- sure that all levels of government across partments enumerated in 5 U.S.C. the Nation have the capability to work effi- 101, together with the Department of ciently and effectively together, using a na- Homeland Security; independent es- tional approach to domestic incident man- tablishments as defined by 5 U.S.C. agement. In these efforts, with regard to 104(1); government corporations as domestic incidents, the United States Gov- defined by 5 U.S.C. 103(1); and the ernment treats crisis management and con- United States Postal Service. sequence management as a single, inte- (c) the terms ‘‘State,’’ ‘‘local,’’ and the grated function, rather than as two separate ‘‘United States’’ when it is used in functions.

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(4) The Secretary of Homeland Security including those of greatest importance to is the principal Federal official for domestic the security of the United States, and will incident management. Pursuant to the ensure that State, local, and Federal plans Homeland Security Act of 2002, the Sec- are compatible. retary is responsible for coordinating Fed- (7) The Federal Government recognizes eral operations within the United States to the role that the private and nongovern- prepare for, respond to, and recover from mental sectors play in preventing, preparing terrorist attacks, major disasters, and other for, responding to, and recovering from ter- emergencies. The Secretary shall coordinate rorist attacks, major disasters, and other the Federal Government’s resources uti- emergencies. The Secretary will coordinate lized in response to or recovery from ter- with the private and nongovernmental sec- rorist attacks, major disasters, or other tors to ensure adequate planning, equip- emergencies if and when any one of the ment, training, and exercise activities and following four conditions applies: (1) a Fed- to promote partnerships to address incident eral department or agency acting under its management capabilities. own authority has requested the assistance (8) The Attorney General has lead re- of the Secretary; (2) the resources of State sponsibility for criminal investigations of and local authorities are overwhelmed and terrorist acts or terrorist threats by individ- Federal assistance has been requested by uals or groups inside the United States, the appropriate State and local authorities; or directed at United States citizens or in- (3) more than one Federal department or stitutions abroad, where such acts are with- agency has become substantially involved in the Federal criminal jurisdiction of the in responding to the incident; or (4) the United States, as well as for related intel- Secretary has been directed to assume re- ligence collection activities within the sponsibility for managing the domestic inci- United States, subject to the National Secu- dent by the President. rity Act of 1947 and other applicable law, (5) Nothing in this directive alters, or Executive Order 12333, and Attorney Gen- impedes the ability to carry out, the au- eral-approved procedures pursuant to that thorities of Federal departments and agen- Executive Order. Generally acting through cies to perform their responsibilities under the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the law. All Federal departments and agencies Attorney General, in cooperation with other shall cooperate with the Secretary in the Federal departments and agencies engaged Secretary’s domestic incident management in activities to protect our national security, role. shall also coordinate the activities of the (6) The Federal Government recognizes other members of the law enforcement the roles and responsibilities of State and community to detect, prevent, preempt, local authorities in domestic incident man- and disrupt terrorist attacks against the agement. Initial responsibility for managing United States. Following a terrorist threat domestic incidents generally falls on State or an actual incident that falls within the and local authorities. The Federal Govern- criminal jurisdiction of the United States, ment will assist State and local authorities the full capabilities of the United States when their resources are overwhelmed, or shall be dedicated, consistent with United when Federal interests are involved. The States law and with activities of other Fed- Secretary will coordinate with State and eral departments and agencies to protect local governments to ensure adequate plan- our national security, to assisting the Attor- ning, equipment, training, and exercise ac- ney General to identify the perpetrators tivities. The Secretary will also provide as- and bring them to justice. The Attorney sistance to State and local governments to General and the Secretary shall establish develop all-hazards plans and capabilities, appropriate relationships and mechanisms

230 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 28 for cooperation and coordination between (12) The Secretary shall ensure that, as their two departments. appropriate, information related to domes- (9) Nothing in this directive impairs or tic incidents is gathered and provided to otherwise affects the authority of the Sec- the public, the private sector, State and retary of Defense over the Department of local authorities, Federal departments and Defense, including the chain of command agencies, and, generally through the Assist- for military forces from the President as ant to the President for Homeland Security, Commander in Chief, to the Secretary of to the President. The Secretary shall pro- Defense, to the commander of military vide standardized, quantitative reports to forces, or military command and control the Assistant to the President for Homeland procedures. The Secretary of Defense shall Security on the readiness and preparedness provide military support to civil authorities of the Nation—at all levels of govern- for domestic incidents as directed by the ment—to prevent, prepare for, respond to, President or when consistent with military and recover from domestic incidents. readiness and appropriate under the cir- (13) Nothing in this directive shall be cumstances and the law. The Secretary of construed to grant to any Assistant to the Defense shall retain command of military President any authority to issue orders to forces providing civil support. The Sec- Federal departments and agencies, their of- retary of Defense and the Secretary shall ficers, or their employees. establish appropriate relationships and Tasking mechanisms for cooperation and coordina- (14) The heads of all Federal depart- tion between their two departments. ments and agencies are directed to provide (10) The Secretary of State has the re- their full and prompt cooperation, responsibility, consistent with other United sources, and support, as appropriate and States Government activities to protect our consistent with their own responsibilities national security, to coordinate international for protecting our national security, to the activities related to the prevention, prepara- Secretary, the Attorney General, the Sec- tion, response, and recovery from a domes- retary of Defense, and the Secretary of tic incident, and for the protection of State in the exercise of the individual lead- United States citizens and United States ership responsibilities and missions assigned interests overseas. The Secretary of State in paragraphs (4), (8), (9), and (10), respec- and the Secretary shall establish appro- tively, above. priate relationships and mechanisms for co- (15) The Secretary shall develop, submit operation and coordination between their for review to the Homeland Security Coun- two departments. cil, and administer a National Incident (11) The Assistant to the President for Management System (NIMS). This system Homeland Security and the Assistant to the will provide a consistent nationwide ap- President for National Security Affairs shall proach for Federal, State, and local govern- be responsible for interagency policy co- ments to work effectively and efficiently to- ordination on domestic and international in- gether to prepare for, respond to, and re- cident management, respectively, as di- cover from domestic incidents, regardless rected by the President. The Assistant to of cause, size, or complexity. To provide the President for Homeland Security and for interoperability and compatibility among the Assistant to the President for National Federal, State, and local capabilities, the Security Affairs shall work together to en- NIMS will include a core set of concepts, sure that the United States domestic and principles, terminology, and technologies international incident management efforts covering the incident command system; are seamlessly united. multi-agency coordination systems; unified

231 Feb. 28 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 command; training; identification and man- ommendations to the President, the agement of resources (including systems for Secretary, and the Homeland Security classifying types of resources); qualifications Council. and certification; and the collection, track- (d) The NRP will include rigorous re- ing, and reporting of incident information quirements for continuous improve- and incident resources. ments from testing, exercising, experi- (16) The Secretary shall develop, submit ence with incidents, and new informa- for review to the Homeland Security Coun- tion and technologies. cil, and administer a National Response (17) The Secretary shall: Plan (NRP). The Secretary shall consult (a) By April 1, 2003, (1) develop and with appropriate Assistants to the President publish an initial version of the NRP, (including the Assistant to the President for in consultation with other Federal de- Economic Policy) and the Director of the partments and agencies; and (2) pro- Office of Science and Technology Policy, vide the Assistant to the President for and other such Federal officials as may be Homeland Security with a plan for appropriate, in developing and imple- full development and implementation menting the NRP. This plan shall integrate of the NRP. Federal Government domestic prevention, (b) By June 1, 2003, (1) in consultation with Federal departments and agen- preparedness, response, and recovery plans cies and with State and local govern- into one all-discipline, all-hazards plan. The ments, develop a national system of NRP shall be unclassified. If certain oper- standards, guidelines, and protocols to ational aspects require classification, they implement the NIMS; and (2) estab- shall be included in classified annexes to lish a mechanism for ensuring ongoing the NRP. management and maintenance of the (a) The NRP, using the NIMS, shall, with NIMS, including regular consultation regard to response to domestic inci- with other Federal departments and dents, provide the structure and agencies and with State and local gov- mechanisms for national level policy ernments. and operational direction for Federal (c) By September 1, 2003, in consultation support to State and local incident with Federal departments and agen- managers and for exercising direct cies and the Assistant to the President Federal authorities and responsibil- for Homeland Security, review exist- ities, as appropriate. ing authorities and regulations and (b) The NRP will include protocols for prepare recommendations for the operating under different threats or President on revisions necessary to threat levels; incorporation of existing implement fully the NRP. Federal emergency and incident man- (18) The heads of Federal departments agement plans (with appropriate modifications and revisions) as either and agencies shall adopt the NIMS within integrated components of the NRP or their departments and agencies and shall as supporting operational plans; and provide support and assistance to the Sec- additional operational plans or an- retary in the development and maintenance nexes, as appropriate, including public of the NIMS. All Federal departments and affairs and intergovernmental commu- agencies will use the NIMS in their domes- nications. tic incident management and emergency (c) The NRP will include a consistent ap- prevention, preparedness, response, recov- proach to reporting incidents, pro- ery, and mitigation activities, as well as viding assessments, and making rec- those actions taken in support of State or

232 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Feb. 28 local entities. The heads of Federal depart- ‘‘and the Office of Homeland Security,’’ on ments and agencies shall participate in the page 4, and inserting ‘‘the Department of NRP, shall assist and support the Secretary Homeland Security, and the Homeland Se- in the development and maintenance of the curity Council’’ in lieu thereof. NRP, and shall participate in and use domestic incident reporting systems and pro- Technical and Conforming Amendments to tocols established by the Secretary. Homeland Security Presidential Directive– (19) The head of each Federal depart- 2 (HSPD–2) ment and agency shall: (a) By June 1, 2003, make initial revisions (23) HSPD–2 (‘‘Combating Terrorism to existing plans in accordance with Through Immigration Policies’’) is amended the initial version of the NRP. as follows: (b) By August 1, 2003, submit a plan to (a) striking ‘‘the Commissioner of the Im- adopt and implement the NIMS to migration and Naturalization Service the Secretary and the Assistant to the (INS)’’ in the second sentence of the President for Homeland Security. The second paragraph in section 1, and Assistant to the President for Home- inserting ‘‘the Secretary of Homeland land Security shall advise the Presi- Security’’ in lieu thereof; dent on whether such plans effectively (b) striking ‘‘the INS,’’ in the third para- implement the NIMS. graph in section 1, and inserting ‘‘the (20) Beginning in Fiscal Year 2005, Fed- Department of Homeland Security’’ in eral departments and agencies shall make lieu thereof; adoption of the NIMS a requirement, to (c) inserting ‘‘, the Secretary of Home- the extent permitted by law, for providing land Security,’’ after ‘‘The Attorney Federal preparedness assistance through General’’ in the fourth paragraph in grants, contracts, or other activities. The section 1; Secretary shall develop standards and (d) inserting ‘‘, the Secretary of Home- guidelines for determining whether a State land Security,’’ after ‘‘the Attorney or local entity has adopted the NIMS. General’’ in the fifth paragraph in section 1; Technical and Conforming Amendments to (e) striking ‘‘the INS and the Customs National Security Presidential Directive–1 Service’’ in the first sentence of the (NSPD–1) first paragraph of section 2, and in- (21) NSPD–1 (‘‘Organization of the Na- serting ‘‘the Department of Homeland tional Security Council System’’) is amend- Security’’ in lieu thereof; ed by replacing the fifth sentence of the (f) striking ‘‘Customs and INS’’ in the third paragraph on the first page with the first sentence of the second paragraph following: ‘‘The Attorney General, the Sec- of section 2, and inserting ‘‘the De- retary of Homeland Security, and the Di- partment of Homeland Security’’ in rector of the Office of Management and lieu thereof; Budget shall be invited to attend meetings (g) striking ‘‘the two agencies’’ in the sec- pertaining to their responsibilities.’’. ond sentence of the second paragraph of section 2, and inserting ‘‘the De- Technical and Conforming Amendments to partment of Homeland Security’’ in National Security Presidential Directive–8 lieu thereof; (NSPD–8) (h) striking ‘‘the Secretary of the Treas- (22) NSPD–8 (‘‘National Director and ury’’ wherever it appears in section Deputy National Security Advisor for Com- 2, and inserting ‘‘the Secretary of bating Terrorism’’) is amended by striking Homeland Security’’ in lieu thereof;

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(i) inserting ‘‘, the Secretary of Home- Security Advisory System’’ with ‘‘Ex- land Security,’’ after ‘‘The Secretary cept in exigent circumstances, the of State’’ wherever the latter appears Secretary of Homeland Security shall in section 3; seek the views of the Attorney Gen- (j) inserting ‘‘, the Department of Home- eral, and any other federal agency land Security,’’ after ‘‘the Department heads the Secretary deems appro- of State,’’ in the second sentence in priate, including other members of the third paragraph in section 3; the Homeland Security Council, on (k) inserting ‘‘the Secretary of Homeland the Threat Condition to be assigned.’’ Security,’’ after ‘‘the Secretary of (b) inserting ‘‘At the request of the Sec- State,’’ in the first sentence of the retary of Homeland Security, the De- fifth paragraph of section 3; partment of Justice shall permit and (l) striking ‘‘INS’’ in the first sentence facilitate the use of delivery systems of the sixth paragraph of section 3, administered or managed by the De- and inserting ‘‘Department of Home- partment of Justice for the purposes land Security’’ in lieu thereof; of delivering threat information pursu- (m) striking ‘‘the Treasury’’ wherever it ant to the Homeland Security Advi- appears in section 4 and inserting sory System.’’ as a new paragraph ‘‘Homeland Security’’ in lieu thereof; after the fifth paragraph of the section (n) inserting ‘‘, the Secretary of Home- entitled ‘‘Homeland Security Advisory land Security,’’ after ‘‘the Attorney System.’’ General’’ in the first sentence in sec- (c) inserting ‘‘, the Secretary of Home- tion 5; and land Security’’ after ‘‘The Director of (o) inserting ‘‘, Homeland Security’’ after Central Intelligence’’ in the first sen- ‘‘State’’ in the first sentence of section tence of the seventh paragraph of the 6. section entitled ‘‘Homeland Security Advisory System’’. Technical and Conforming Amendments to (d) striking ‘‘Attorney General’’ wherever Homeland Security Presidential Directive– it appears (except in the sentences re- 3 (HSPD–3) ferred to in subsections (a) and (c) (24) The Homeland Security Act of 2002 above), and inserting ‘‘the Secretary assigned the responsibility for administering of Homeland Security’’ in lieu thereof; the Homeland Security Advisory System to and the Secretary of Homeland Security. Ac- (e) striking the section entitled ‘‘Com- cordingly, HSPD–3 of March 11, 2002 ment and Review Periods.’’ (‘‘Homeland Security Advisory System’’) is GEORGE W. BUSH amended as follows: (a) replacing the third sentence of the NOTE: An original was not available for second paragraph entitled ‘‘Homeland verification of the content of this directive.

The President’s Radio Address March 1, 2003

Good morning. America is determined to Security Council by confronting the grave enforce the demands of the United Nations and growing danger of Saddam Hussein

234 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Mar. 1 and his weapons of mass destruction. This The United States has no intention of dictator will not be allowed to intimidate determining the precise form of Iraq’s new and blackmail the civilized world or to sup- Government. That choice belongs to the ply his terrible weapons to terrorist groups Iraqi people. Yet we will ensure that one who would not hesitate to use them against brutal dictator is not replaced by another. us. The safety of the American people de- All Iraqis must have a voice in the new pends on ending this threat. Government, and all citizens must have But America’s cause is always larger than their rights protected. America’s security. We also stand for the Rebuilding Iraq will require a sustained advance of freedom and opportunity and commitment from many nations, including hope. The lives and freedom of the Iraqi our own. We will remain in Iraq as long people matter little to Saddam Hussein, but as necessary and not a day more. America they matter greatly to us. has made and kept this kind of commit- Saddam Hussein has a long history of ment before, in the peace that followed brutal crimes, especially in time of war— World War II. After defeating enemies, we even against his own citizens. If conflict did not leave behind occupying armies; we comes, he could target civilians or place left constitutions and parliaments. We did them inside military facilities. He could en- not leave behind permanent foes; we found courage ethnic violence. He could destroy new friends and allies. natural resources, or worst of all, he could There was a time when many said that use his weapons of mass destruction. the cultures of Japan and Germany were In order to minimize the suffering of incapable of sustaining democratic values. Iraq’s people, the United States and our They were wrong. Some say the same of coalition partners stand ready to provide Iraq today. They too are mistaken. The na- vital help. We will deliver medicine to the tion of Iraq, with its proud heritage, abun- sick and make sure that Iraq’s 55,000 food dant resources, and skilled and educated distribution sites, operating with supplies people, is fully capable of moving toward from the oil-for-food program, are stocked democracy and living in freedom. and open as soon a possible. We are stock- It will be difficult to help freedom take piling relief supplies, such as blankets and hold in a country that has known three water containers, for 1 million people. We decades of dictatorship, secret police, inter- are moving into place nearly 3 million nal divisions, and war. Yet the security of emergency rations to feed the hungry. The our Nation and the hopes of millions de- United States and Great Britain are pro- pends on us, and Americans do not turn viding tens of millions of dollars to the away from duties because they are hard. U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees and We have met great tests in other times, to such groups as the World Food Program and we will meet the tests of our time. and UNICEF, so they will be ready to pro- Thank you for listening. vide emergency aid to the Iraqi people. We will also lead in carrying out the urgent and dangerous work of destroying chemical and biological weapons. We will provide security against those who try to NOTE: The address was recorded at 10:04 spread chaos or settle scores or threaten a.m. on February 28 in the Cabinet Room the territorial integrity of Iraq. And we will at the White House for broadcast at 10:06 seek to protect Iraq’s natural resources a.m. on March 1. The transcript was made from sabotage by a dying regime and en- available by the Office of the Press Secretary sure they are used for the benefit of Iraq’s on February 28 but was embargoed for re- own people. lease until the broadcast. In his remarks, the

235 Mar. 1 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

President referred to President Saddam Hus- retary also released a Spanish language tran- sein of Iraq. The Office of the Press Sec- script of this address.

Letter to Congressional Leaders Transmitting a Report on International Agreements March 3, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. Chairman:) NOTE: Letters were sent to J. Dennis Pursuant to subsection (b) of the Case- Hastert, Speaker of the House of Represent- Zablocki Act, (1 U.S.C. 112b), I hereby atives, and Richard G. Lugar, chairman, Sen- transmit a report prepared by the Depart- ate Committee on Foreign Relations. An ment of State concerning international original was not available for verification of agreements. the content of this letter. Sincerely, GEORGE W. BUSH

Remarks to the American Medical Association National Conference March 4, 2003

Thanks for such a warm welcome. I ap- patience and focus. It’s a war in which we preciate the invitation. I’m honored to be will hunt down those who hate America, with so many of our Nation’s fine physi- one person at a time. The terrorists are cians and their loved ones. learning there is no place safe for them You’ve come to our Capital when this in this world. They’re discovering that jus- Government faces many critical issues. tice can arrive by different means, at any You’re here at an historic time. We have hour of the day or night. They’re discov- got a lot of responsibilities here in Wash- ering the meaning of American resolve, our ington. We have the responsibility to de- deep desire to defend our freedom and fend the American people against the to keep the peace. threats of a new era. We have a responsi- It is important for our fellow citizens to bility to win the first war of the 21st cen- recognize life changed on September the tury, and we’re working hard to win that 11th, 2001. Obviously, it changed in a trag- war. ic way for those who lost loved ones as Over the weekend, American and Paki- a result of the coldblooded attacks on our stani authorities struck a serious blow to people. But we learned a harsh lesson, and Al Qaida by arresting Khalid Sheikh Mo- that is, oceans can no longer protect us hammed, the top operational planner, the from those who hate America and what top killer of the Al Qaida network. The we stand for. And therefore, it’s important man who masterminded the September the for the United States to take every threat 11th attacks is no longer a problem to the United States of America. which may gather overseas seriously, that we can no longer pick or choose whether It’s a different kind of war than we’re used to in America. It’s a war that requires a threat requires our involvement. If we

236 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Mar. 4 see gathering threats which can harm the And today I’ve come to discuss another American people, we must deal with them. responsibility, which is to improve the We’re dealing with Iraq because the dic- health care in America. Our vision, our goal tator of Iraq has got weapons of mass de- is a system in which all Americans have struction. He’s used weapons of mass de- got a good insurance policy, in which all struction on his own people. He can’t stand Americans can choose their own doctor, in America. He can’t stand our friends. He which seniors and low-income citizens re- can’t stand our allies. He’s got connections ceive the help they need, in which—the to terrorist networks. The first war of the system is one in which the patient-doctor 21st century requires the United States to relationship is the center of good medical work with international bodies to deal with care. these threats, and we will continue to do This vision stands in stark contrast to the so. Government-run health care ideas, the I went to the United Nations to remind ideas in which the Federal Government de- them that that body has a responsibility cides care, the Federal Government rations to make sure its words means something. care, the Federal Government dictates cov- I reminded them that for 12 long years erage, a vision which, in my judgment, will the United Nations has asked Saddam to stifle innovation, stifle quality, and run up disarm because he’s dangerous. We went the costs on the patients of America. and got another resolution almost 4 months We have a lot of work to do on this ago, unanimously approved by the Security important issue, but I believe the job can Council, which said clearly, ‘‘Saddam, you get done. That’s why I’ve advanced this must disarm.’’ The choice is Saddam Hussein’s to make. agenda. Speaker of the House Denny It is his choice to determine whether Hastert is committed to working toward there’s war or peace. It is his choice to positive reforms. In the United States Sen- decide whether to listen to the demands ate, there’s a new majority leader. He of the free world. But no matter what his knows a few things about doctors and pa- choice may be, for the sake of peace, for tients and their relationships. the sake of freedom, for the sake of secu- I’m here to ask for your help and let rity of our people, Saddam Hussein will you know that we’re going to seize the mo- be disarmed. ment and work with people in both parties We have a responsibility to create jobs to achieve meaningful reform that meets and increase the momentum of our econ- the vision that will make health care posi- omy. The role of Government is not to tive and optimistic and hopeful for all our create wealth but an environment in which citizens. the entrepreneurial spirit of America can And so, I want to thank you for letting flourish. That’s why I’m working with Con- me come. I appreciate Yank Coble. They gress to accelerate tax relief which they’ve told me a guy from Jacksonville, Florida, already passed, to get rid of the double named Yank was going to introduce me. taxation of dividends, to encourage invest- [Laughter] I asked him, ‘‘Why Yank?’’ He ment. The more money people have in said he didn’t have enough time to explain their pockets, the more likely it is they’ll it. [Laughter] demand a good or a service. And when I’m honored that Tommy Thompson is they demand a good or a service, in the here. Tommy’s doing a fine job. marketplace somebody will provide that Today we’ve got a Member of Congress good or a service. And when they do, some- with us from the State of Pennsylvania, and body in America is more likely to find that’s Congressman Jim Greenwood. I’m work. honored you’re here, Jim. I appreciate your

237 Mar. 4 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 dogged determination to pass medical li- The cost of health care is rising at the ability reform. fastest rate in more than a decade. There I want to thank Mike Maves and Ed are reasons why there are rising costs. Re- Hill, all the members of the American search is costly. New technologies are ex- Medical Association Board of Trustees, and pensive, and they’re worth the expense. thank you all for coming. When you save lives with technologies, it’s Americans are proud of their doctors and worth the expense. But other rising costs proud of their nurses, proud of the medical are unnecessary. And the problem doesn’t professionals in our country. Our Nation start in the waiting room or in the oper- has the finest medical professionals in the ating room. It starts in the courtroom. We world. You are more than members of a have a problem in America. There are too profession; you are each living out a great many frivolous lawsuits against good doc- calling. You show your concern for patients tors, and the patients are paying the price. through years of training and lifetimes of Even the most frivolous of lawsuits can commitment to the well-being of others. be expensive. A doctor and his or her insur- I appreciate the work you do. And I want ance company must spend money to fight to thank you for your skill, your talent, and the frivolous lawsuit or, in many cases, set- your compassion. tle it to get rid of it. Either way, premiums America has the best health care system go up. Either way, the patient pays. When in the world. We have outstanding medical liability premiums get too expensive, some schools, great hospitals, brilliant research- docs stop seeing patients. ers. We’re on the leading edge of new technologies. We’re closing in on cures to some If one of the goals of a good health care of the most feared diseases of mankind. system is for it to be affordable and acces- I’m optimistic about our future. That’s why sible, and if lawsuits are running up the I worked with Congress to make sure that cost of medicine and/or driving docs out the National Institutes of Health received of business because the practicing of medi- record-level amounts of funding, so that we cine is too expensive, we’ve got to do some- can be on the leading edge of change, so thing about it. We’ve got to make sure that that we can deal with problems that years the stories I hear about are remedied with ago seemed insurmountable, so that people good law. can live better lives. Yet amidst the opti- I was in Scranton, Pennsylvania, and met mism, it’s important for us to recognize Debra DeAngelo, a fine lady. She’s got a there are serious challenges that we have great safety record in her pain management in health care, and we must confront them clinic. She loved living in Scranton because now and not wait. that’s where she was raised. She wanted Too many of our citizens go without to practice her talents with the people with health care. I propose refundable tax cred- whom she was raised. Her liability insur- its to help low-income people purchase ance became so expensive that she couldn’t their own health insurance. Too many of practice medicine in Scranton, Pennsyl- our citizens use expensive emergency vania, anymore, and she shut down her rooms as their main source of health care clinic, which employed 10 and served 2,000 because they have no other options. We patients. need to make sure those folks have pre- In describing her story, she was heart- ventative care and treatment before they broken that she couldn’t practice where she go to the emergency room. And that’s why wanted to practice. She wasn’t heartbroken I proposed and Congress passed increased for herself; she was heartbroken for the funding for community and migrant health patients for whom she had great concern centers all across the country. and great care. She and her family moved

238 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Mar. 4 to Hershey, where she’s working for a hos- of four refer patients to specialists more pital which is covering her insurance needs. often than they believe is medically nec- Scranton, Pennsylvania, lost a fine person essary. Four out of ten prescribe antibiotics because liability insurance drove her out more often then they think is needed. All of town. No good doctor should be forced of this defensive medicine is rising costs to leave a community they know and serve for patients, for States, and for the Federal simply because of the costs of insurance. Government. Many doctors serve their fellow humans The direct cost of liability insurance and in some of the most compassionate ways. the indirect cost from defensive medicine I went down to Mississippi, met a man raise the Federal Government’s health care who had moved to Mississippi to provide costs by more than $28 billion a year. health care for some of our most neediest When the Federal Government gets hit by citizens, health care in the Delta region higher medical costs, the taxpayers foot the of Mississippi, part of our country where bill. This is a national problem; something we need docs—people need help. And he which affects our budget so significantly re- told me about what it was like to try to quires a national solution. practice medicine in a compassionate way. We want our legal system to work for He had heard a calling, and he went to our patients. We want people to have a serve his fellow humans. But liability insur- day in court. Anyone who is harmed at ance drove this Good Samaritan out of the the hands of a doctor should have a hear- State. He’s now, I think, practicing up in ing. That’s what we want for the justice North Dakota or Minnesota. There are system. They should be able to recover the some people who hurt who are lucky to full cost of their care and other economic have this good doctor in their midst. losses. If harmed by a doc, they ought to There’s a story about the lady—and this be able to recover their economic costs, happens all the time—in Nevada named economic losses. They should be able to Ruth Valentine. She’s pregnant. She called recover noneconomic damages as well. But more than 50 local doctors, and she for the sake of the system, noneconomic couldn’t find anybody in Nevada to serve damages should be capped at $250,000. her. So she went to Utah, where she’s stay- If harm is caused by serious misconduct, ing with friends until she has her baby. patients should also be able to seek reason- No family in America should face this kind able punitive damages. Without fair and of stress or worry during one of life’s most reasonable limits, the legal system looks vulnerable moments. more and more like a lottery. And with These are just a handful of the stories, the trial lawyers getting as much as 40 per- which are true and real and happening all cent of the awards and settlements, it’s across our country. Twenty percent of the pretty clear who’s holding the winning tick- hospitals in America have had to cut down et. American courts should not be serving on certain services, delivering babies or the self-interest of personal injury lawyers; neurosurgery or orthopedic surgery, be- they should be serving the cause of justice cause a handful of lawyers have targeted and the needs of Americans’ patients. these procedures for frivolous lawsuits. Last year, thanks to Jim Greenwood and At the same time, doctors in hospitals other Members of Congress, the House of are overusing certain tests and treatments Representatives passed good medical liabil- as defensive measures to avoid litigation. ity reforms, but the Senate failed to act. A recent survey of doctors showed the ex- Since then, the problem has only gotten tent of defensive medicine in America. worse. We need to pass medical liability Eight out of ten doctors say they have or- reform through both Houses. You need to dered more tests then they need to. Three contact your Senators. It doesn’t matter

239 Mar. 4 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

what political party they’re in; you need net. It’s a good way to speak directly to to contact them. You need to explain the the consumers of America. Families are problem in clear terms. I want to sign good now able to compare nursing homes to one medical liability reform this year. another. That makes sense. There’s nothing Our legal system must address medical like enhancing quality by holding people errors as well. One of the best ways to to account. They’re able to compare on serve patients is to avoid errors and prevent measures such as infection rates or how complications before they become injuries. well patients are progressing in getting on Doctors and hospitals are constantly looking their feet. It’s the practical way to use the for ways to improve patient safety. information technology. Patient safety is improved when doctors And that’s important, particularly for and nurses exchange information about nursing homes, because our Nation has ac- problems and solutions. Yet, in the litigious cepted a special responsibility for the health society in which we live, many doctors are of senior citizens, to make sure that the afraid to discuss these efforts openly be- years of retirement are not years of hard- cause they’re afraid of getting sued. Doc- ship, needless hardship. Our Medicare sys- tors don’t want to put anything on paper tem is a binding commitment of a caring to improve health care quality because it society. We must renew that commitment might be given to a lawyer who is fishing by providing the seniors of today and to- around for a lawsuit. I’m going to ask Con- morrow with preventative care and the new gress to pass a law to make sure that infor- medicines that are transforming health care mation developed for the safety and care in our country. of patients is not used by lawyers against When President Lyndon Johnson signed doctors and hospitals. Medicare into law 38 years ago, he prom- Patient safety also improves when doctors ised a system that would bring the healing can have access to health records without miracle of modern medicine to senior citi- delay. When a patient has a medical emer- zens. In 1965, modern medicine almost al- gency far from home, the attending physi- ways meant physician care inside a hospital. cian should have quick access to that per- Now modern medicine offers much more: son’s medical records. Yet the health care drug therapies, new medical devices, dis- industry, while progressing in many areas, ease screening, and preventative care. All has lagged in information technology. seniors and disabled citizens on Medicare Right now, as you all know better than should have access to these advantages. most, health care records are kept in dif- They do not. ferent formats—believe it or not, a lot of Compared to people with private health times on paper—[laughter]—in files— plans, Medicare patients have limited [laughter]—that can get lost. [Laughter] In choices. Medicare will pay a doctor to per- the budget for next year I propose an inform a heart bypass operation but will not crease of 53 percent for funding to help pay for drugs that could prevent the need hospitals use information technology to for surgery. Medicare will pay for an ampu- keep better records, to share that informa- tation but not for the insulin that could tion with doctors so we can continue to help diabetes patients avoid losing their improve patient safety. limbs. Medicare will pay for chemotherapy Tommy Thompson and his Department and cancer surgery, but after private insur- are leading the way, and they’re making ers made annual mammograms a standard good use of information technology. For benefit, it took 10 years for Medicare to example, they’re using information tech- do the same and then only because the nology for an online comparative guide to United States Congress passed a law. Sen- nursing homes. It’s a good use of the Inter- iors should not have to wait for an act

240 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Mar. 4 of Congress to get effective, modern health senior—all seniors. All seniors should have care. help in buying prescription drugs. Those Medicare does not protect our seniors who can least afford them should have from overwhelming hospital bills. If you extra help. Seniors should be protected have to go to a hospital, Medicare charges from out-of-control premium increases. you an $840 deductible. After 2 months, And all seniors should be able to chose you are charged $210 a day. After 3 the health care plan that best fits their months, Medicare charges $420 a day. And needs without being forced into an HMO. after 5 months, Medicare leaves you with The element of choice is essential. When the whole bill. a bureaucracy is in charge of granting bene- By comparison, a standard plan for fits, new benefits usually come slowly and Members of the United States Congress grudgingly, if at all. When insurance pro- and other Federal employees charges a co- viders compete for a patient’s business, payment of $100 when you enter the hos- they offer new treatments and services pital and not a dollar more, no matter how quickly. If they don’t, the patient—the cus- long you have to stay. Medicare is supposed tomer—will look for better services else- to protect the savings of our seniors. In where. Because it is in the best interests many cases, it doesn’t. of providers to have healthy customers, pa- I recently went out to Grand Rapids, tients will get the quality care they need. Michigan, and met Pat Wahl. She suffers The framework for Medicare reform I’m from rheumatoid arthritis. That requires ex- releasing today would give seniors the free- pensive medicine. She lost her husband in dom to select one of three broad opportu- the year 2000. She lost his health coverage. nities. First, seniors who are happy with She had to depend entirely on Medicare. the current Medicare system should be able Soon her medical bills began to exceed her to stay in the system and receive help for income, and she was forced to sell her prescription drugs. To reform the current house. system, I propose we issue a discount card This is an incredibly sad story, when you that will reduce the cost of prescription think about it; certainly sad listening to Pat drugs for every senior by 10 to 25 percent. in Grand Rapids. They’re unnecessary sto- We will provide an annual $600 subsidy ries. We can and we must improve Medi- to low-income seniors to pay for prescrip- care and protect our seniors from runaway tion drugs. And we will set annual limits health care costs. on the amount seniors will have to spend Medicare reform is a large and com- out of pocket on drugs at no additional plicated task. People have strong opinions premium. on this matter, and we will need broad Second, seniors who want more coverage cooperation to move forward. We’re work- will be able to choose an enhanced form ing closely—I say ‘‘we’’—my administration of Medicare. This option will include full and Tommy and members of my staff and coverage for preventative care, a com- members of his staff are working closely prehensive prescription drug benefit, pro- with good and serious-minded leaders in tection against high out-of-pocket costs, and both Houses, leaders such as Senators Frist extra help for low-income seniors to be able and Grassley and Breaux, Speaker Hastert, to get the drug benefit. Seniors will be and Congressmen Thomas and Tauzin. We able to choose their specialists, their hos- share a basic commitment to get something pitals, and their primary doctors. The fee- done, and we share a commitment to these for-service arrangement would offer seniors goals of reform. similar kinds of choices now enjoyed by A modern Medicare system must offer the Members of Congress, who are given more choices and better benefits to every a broad choice among competing health

241 Mar. 4 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 care plans. What is good for the public this past Saturday, instead of a 4.4-percent servants, including Members of the House reduction in Medicare payments, docs will and Senate, is good for America’s seniors. receive a 1.6-percent increase. This in- Third, seniors who want the kind of ben- crease is a sign of confidence in our doc- efits available in managed care plans, in- tors, and I hope that all of you will show cluding prescription drug coverage, will your confidence in Medicare by staying in have that choice as well. This option would the system. Medicare needs you. Our sen- place seniors in an affordable network of iors need you. doctors, provide drug coverage, and allow Whether the issue is reforming Medi- seniors to keep their out-of-pocket costs to care, enhancing patient safety, or correcting a minimum. abuses in the legal system, the stakes are Moving toward this system will take time, high. We must make sure that the choices and as we make these changes, all Amer- of patients and the judgment of doctors ican seniors will receive a prescription drug are at the center of American health care. discount card to use right away. And low- We must preserve the great innovation and income seniors will be eligible immediately quality of private medicine. We must keep for the annual $600 Medicare prescription our commitments to the elderly, and help benefit. bring the healing miracle of modern medi- Leaders of both political parties have cine to the people who need it in our time. talked for years about this issue, about add- All of you as members of the medical ing a prescription drug benefit to Medicare. profession exercise that healing power and And the time for action is now. The budget uphold a great trust. I appreciate the work I submitted will commit an additional $400 you do. You have my respect. And in the billion over that which we have already days ahead, I look forward to working with committed to, over the next decade to im- you on these needed reforms. May God plement this vision of a stronger Medicare bless your work. And may God continue system. We are committed to reform; we to bless America. are committed to funding the reforms. We have a responsibility—the docs, those of us in elected office, America’s seniors— NOTE: The President spoke at 10 a.m. in the to work together to make sure Medicare International Ballroom at the Washington fulfills its promise for this generation and Hilton Hotel. In his remarks, he referred to for generations to come. President Saddam Hussein of Iraq; and Dr. Our Medicare system depends on the Yank Coble, Jr., president, Dr. Michael D. skill and dedication of physicians. You know Maves, executive vice president, and Dr. J. that. And that dedication should be fairly Edward Hill, chair of the board of trustees, compensated. As Yank mentioned, we work American Medical Association. The Office of with Congress to protect doctors from deep the Press Secretary also released a Spanish cuts in Medicare disbursements. Effective language transcript of these remarks.

Statement on the Release of Low Income Home Energy Assistance Funding March 4, 2003

I am pleased to announce today that the Human Services Tommy Thompson is re- Secretary of the Department of Health and leasing $150 million in Low Income Home

242 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Mar. 6

Energy Assistance funding. This additional gency funds released in January, will help funding will provide much needed help for keep many Americans warm during this families struggling with rising heating costs. cold winter. This new money, combined with emer-

Letter to the Speaker of the House of Representatives Transmitting a Budget Request for the Corporation for National and Community Service March 4, 2003

Mr. Speaker: more than 50,000 AmeriCorps members in I ask the Congress to consider the en- FY 2003. This request will not increase my closed request for the Corporation for Na- FY 2004 request. tional and Community Service (CNCS). The details of this request are set forth The request is needed to liquidate legiti- in the enclosed letter from the Director mate prior-year obligations for eligible par- of the Office of Management and Budget. ticipants in the AmeriCorps program, to I concur with his comments and observa- complete the implementation of a com- tions. prehensive corrective action plan developed Sincerely, by CNCS to strengthen financial management, and to provide flexibility to support GEORGE W. BUSH

Message to the Congress Transmitting a Report on Telecommunications Payments to Cuba March 5, 2003

To the Congress of the United States: made to Cuba by United States persons As required by section 1705(e)(6) of the as a result of the provision of telecommuni- Cuban Democracy Act of 1992, as amend- cations services pursuant to Department of ed by section 102(g) of the Cuban Liberty the Treasury specific licenses. and Democratic Solidarity (LIBERTAD) GEORGE W. BUSH Act of 1996, 22 U.S.C. 6004(e)(6), I transmit herewith a semiannual report prepared The White House, by my Administration detailing payments March 5, 2003.

Statement on Senate Action To Block a Vote on the Nomination of Miguel A. Estrada To Be a United States Court of Appeals Circuit Judge March 6, 2003

Miguel Estrada is a well-qualified nomi- down vote in the United States Senate. The nee to the U.S. Court of Appeals who has decision today by 44 Senators to continue been waiting nearly 2 years for an up-or-

243 Mar. 6 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

to filibuster and block a vote on this nomi- I have nominated and unfaithful to the nation is a disgrace. Senate’s own obligations. The Senate has a responsibility to exer- These Senators are holding Miguel cise its constitutional advice and consent Estrada to a double standard. I will stand function and hold an up-or-down vote on by Miguel Estrada’s side until he is sworn a judicial nominee within a reasonable in as a judge. I call on the Senate Demo- time. Some Senators who once insisted that cratic leadership to stop playing politics and every appeals court nominee deserves a permit a vote on Miguel Estrada’s nomina- timely vote have now abandoned that prin- tion. Let each Senator vote as he or she ciple for partisan politics. Their tactics are thinks best, but give the man a vote. an injustice and unfair to the good man

The President’s News Conference March 6, 2003

The President. Good evening. I’m intelligence shows that, even as he is de- pleased to take your questions tonight and stroying these few missiles, he has ordered to discuss with the American people the the continued production of the very same serious matters facing our country and the type of missiles. world. Iraqi operatives continue to hide biologi- This has been an important week on two cal and chemical agents to avoid detection fronts on our war against terror. First, by inspectors. In some cases, these mate- thanks to the hard work of American and rials have been moved to different locations Pakistani officials, we captured the master- every 12 to 24 hours or placed in vehicles mind of the September the 11th attacks that are in residential neighborhoods. against our Nation. Khalid Sheikh We know from multiple intelligence Mohammed conceived and planned the hi- sources that Iraqi weapons scientists con- jackings and directed the actions of the hi- tinue to be threatened with harm should jackers. We believe his capture will further they cooperate with U.N. inspectors. Sci- disrupt the terror network and their plan- entists are required by Iraqi intelligence to ning for additional attacks. wear concealed recording devices during Second, we have arrived at an important interviews, and hotels where interviews take moment in confronting the threat posed to place are bugged by the regime. our Nation and to peace by Saddam Hus- These are not the actions of a regime sein and his weapons of terror. In New that is disarming. These are the actions of York tomorrow, the United Nations Secu- a regime engaged in a willful charade. rity Council will receive an update from These are the actions of a regime that sys- the chief weapons inspector. The world tematically and deliberately is defying the needs him to answer a single question: Has world. If the Iraqi regime were disarming, the Iraqi regime fully and unconditionally we would know it because we would see disarmed, as required by Resolution 1441, it. Iraq’s weapons would be presented to or has it not? inspectors, and the world would witness Iraq’s dictator has made a public show their destruction. Instead, with the world of producing and destroying a few mis- demanding disarmament and more than siles—missiles that violate the restrictions 200,000 troops positioned near his country, set out more than 10 years ago. Yet our Saddam Hussein’s response is to produce

244 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Mar. 6 a few weapons for show, while he hides the misery and torture and murder they the rest and builds even more. have known under Saddam Hussein. Inspection teams do not need more time Across the world and in every part of or more personnel. All they need is what America, people of good will are hoping they have never received, the full coopera- and praying for peace. Our goal is peace tion of the Iraqi regime. Token gestures for our Nation, for our friends and allies, are not acceptable. The only acceptable for the people of the Middle East. People outcome is the one already defined by a of good will must also recognize that allow- unanimous vote of the Security Council— ing a dangerous dictator to defy the world total disarmament. and harbor weapons of mass murder and Great Britain, Spain, and the United terror is not peace at all. It is pretense. States have introduced a new resolution The cause of peace will be advanced only stating that Iraq has failed to meet the re- when the terrorists lose a wealthy patron quirements of Resolution 1441. Saddam and protector and when the dictator is fully Hussein is not disarming. This is a fact. and finally disarmed. It cannot be denied. Tonight I thank the men and women Saddam Hussein has a long history of of our armed services and their families. reckless aggression and terrible crimes. He I know their deployment so far from home possesses weapons of terror. He provides is causing hardship for many military fami- funding and training and safe haven to ter- lies. Our Nation is deeply grateful to all rorists—terrorists who would willingly use who serve in uniform. We appreciate your weapons of mass destruction against Amer- commitment, your idealism, and your sac- ica and other peace-loving countries. Sad- rifice. We support you, and we know that dam Hussein and his weapons are a direct if peace must be defended, you are ready. Ron Fournier [Associated Press]. threat to this country, to our people, and to all free people. United Nations and Iraqi Disarmament If the world fails to confront the threat Q. Let me see if I can further—if you posed by the Iraqi regime, refusing to use could further define what you just called force even as a last resort, free nations this important moment we’re in, since would assume immense and unacceptable you’ve made it clear just now that you don’t risks. The attacks of September the 11th, think Saddam has disarmed, and we have 2001, showed what the enemies of America a quarter million troops in the Persian Gulf, did with four airplanes. We will not wait and now that you’ve called on the world to see what terrorists or terrorist states to be ready to use force as a last resort. could do with weapons of mass destruction. Are we just days away from the point of We are determined to confront threats which you decide whether or not we go wherever they arise. I will not leave the to war? And what harm would it do to American people at the mercy of the Iraqi give Saddam a final ultimatum, a 2- or 3- dictator and his weapons. day deadline to disarm or face force? In the event of conflict, America also The President. Well, we’re still in the accepts our responsibility to protect inno- final stages of diplomacy. I’m spending a cent lives in every way possible. We’ll bring lot of time on the phone, talking to fellow food and medicine to the Iraqi people. leaders about the need for the United Na- We’ll help that nation to build a just gov- tions Security Council to state the facts, ernment, after decades of brutal dictator- which is Saddam Hussein hasn’t disarmed. ship. The form and leadership of that gov- Fourteen forty-one, the Security Council ernment is for the Iraqi people to choose. resolution passed unanimously last fall, said Anything they choose will be better than clearly that Saddam Hussein has one last

245 Mar. 6 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 chance to disarm. He hasn’t disarmed, and The President. This is a regional issue. so we’re working with Security Council I say a regional issue because there’s a lot members to resolve this issue at the Secu- of countries that have got a direct stake rity Council. into whether or not North Korea has nu- This is not only an important moment clear weapons. We’ve got a stake as to for the security of our Nation; I believe whether North Korea has a nuclear weap- it’s an important moment for the Security on. China clearly has a stake as to whether Council, itself. And the reason I say that or not North Korea has a nuclear weapon. is because this issue has been before the South Korea, of course, has a stake. Japan Security Council—the issue of disarmament has got a significant stake as to whether of Iraq—for 12 long years. And the funda- or not North Korea has a nuclear weapon. mental question facing the Security Council Russia has a stake. is, will its words mean anything? When the So therefore, I think the best way to Security Council speaks, will the words deal with this is in multilateral fashion, by have merit and weight? convincing those nations that they must I think it’s important for those words to stand up to their responsibility, along with have merit and weight, because I under- the United States, to convince Kim Chong- stand that in order to win the war against il that the development of a nuclear arsenal terror there must be a united effort to do is not in his nation’s interest and that so. We must work together to defeat terror. should he want help in easing the suffering Iraq is a part of the war on terror. Iraq of the North Korean people, the best way is a country that has got terrorist ties. It’s to achieve that help is to not proceed for- a country with wealth. It’s a country that ward. trains terrorists, a country that could arm We’ve tried bilateral negotiations with terrorists. And our fellow Americans must North Korea. My predecessor, in a good- understand, in this new war against terror, faith effort, entered into a framework that we not only must chase down Al Qaida agreement. The United States honored its terrorists, we must deal with weapons of side of the agreement; North Korea didn’t. mass destruction as well. While we felt the agreement was in force, That’s what the United Nations Security North Korea was enriching uranium. Council has been talking about for 12 long In my judgment, the best way to deal years. It’s now time for this issue to come with North Korea is to convince parties to a head at the Security Council, and it to assume their responsibility. I was heart- will. As far as ultimatums and all the specu- ened by the fact that Jiang Zemin, when lation about what may or may not happen, he came to Crawford, Texas, made it very after next week, we’ll just wait and see. clear to me, and publicly as well, that a Steve [Steve Holland, Reuters]. nuclear-weapons-free peninsula was in Chi- Q. Are we days away? na’s interest. And so we’re working with The President. Well, we’re days away China and the other nations I mentioned from resolving this issue at the Security to bring a multilateral pressure and to con- Council. vince Kim Chong-il that the development North Korea of a nuclear arsenal is not in his interests. Dick [Richard Keil, Bloomberg News]. Q. Thank you. Another hot spot is North Korea. If North Korea restarts their pluto- Iraqi Disarmament/War on Terror nium plant, will that change your thinking Q. Mr. President, you have, and your about how to handle this crisis, or are you top advisers, notably Secretary of State resigned to North Korea becoming a nu- Powell, have repeatedly said that we have clear power? shared with our allies all the current, up-

246 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Mar. 6 to-date intelligence information that proves organization could be deployed here at the imminence of the threat we face from home. Saddam Hussein and that they have been So therefore, I think the threat is real, sharing their intelligence with us as well. and so do a lot of other people in my If all these nations, all of them our normal Government. And since I believe the threat allies, have access to the same intelligence is real, and since my most important job information, why is it that they are reluc- is to protect the security of the American tant to think that the threat is so real, so people, that’s precisely what we’ll do. imminent that we need to move to the Our demands are that Saddam Hussein brink of war now? disarm. We hope he does. We have worked And in relation to that, today, the British with the international community to con- Foreign Minister, Jack Straw, suggested at vince him to disarm. If he doesn’t disarm, the U.N. that it might be time to look we’ll disarm him. at amending the resolution, perhaps with You asked about sharing of intelligence, an eye towards a timetable like that pro- and I appreciate that, because we do share posed by the Canadians some 2 weeks ago, a lot of intelligence with nations which may that would set a firm deadline to give Sad- or may not agree with us in the Security dam Hussein a little bit of time to come Council as to how to deal with Saddam clean. And also, obviously, that would give Hussein and his threats. We have got you a little bit of a chance to build more roughly 90 countries engaged in Operation support within the members of the Security Enduring Freedom, chasing down the ter- Council. Is that something that the govern- rorists. We do communicate a lot, and we ments should be pursuing at the U.N. right will continue to communicate a lot. We now? must communicate. We must share intel- The President. We, of course, are con- ligence. We must share—we must cut off sulting with our allies at the United Na- money together. We must smoke these Al tions. But I meant what I said: This is Qaida types out one at a time. the last phase of diplomacy. A little bit It’s in our national interest as well that more time? Saddam Hussein has had 12 we deal with Saddam Hussein. But America years to disarm. He is deceiving people. is not alone in this sentiment. There are That’s what’s important for our fellow citi- a lot of countries who fully understand the zens to realize, that if he really intended threat of Saddam Hussein, a lot of coun- to disarm, like the world has asked him tries realize that the credibility of the Secu- to do, we would know whether he was dis- rity Council is at stake, a lot of countries, arming. He’s trying to buy time. I can unlike America, who hope that he would have derstand why. He’s been successful with disarmed, and a lot of countries which real- these tactics for 12 years. ize that it may require force—may require Saddam Hussein is a threat to our Na- force—to disarm him. tion. September the 11th changed the stra- Jim Angle [FOX News]. tegic thinking, at least as far as I was concerned, for how to protect our country. My Antiwar Demonstrations/Iraqi Disarmament job is to protect the American people. It Q. Thank you, Mr. President. Sir, if you used to be that we could think that you haven’t already made the choice to go to could contain a person like Saddam Hus- war, can you tell us what you are waiting sein, that oceans would protect us from to hear or see before you do make that his type of terror. September the 11th decision? And if I may, during the recent should say to the American people that demonstrations, many of the protesters sug- we’re now a battlefield, that weapons of gested that the U.S. was a threat to peace, mass destruction in the hands of a terrorist which prompted you to wonder out loud

247 Mar. 6 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 why they didn’t see Saddam Hussein as mind and becomes a gentle soul, the risk a threat to peace. I wonder why you think that somehow—that inaction will make the so many people around the world take a world safer, is a risk I’m not willing to different view of the threat that Saddam take for the American people. Hussein poses than you and your allies? We’ll be there in a minute. King, John The President. Well, first, I—I appreciate King [Cable News Network]. This is a societies in which people can express their scripted—[laughter]—— opinion. That society—free speech stands Q. Thank you, Mr. President. How in stark contrast to Iraq. would—sir, how would you answer your Secondly, I’ve seen all kinds of protests critics who say that they think this is some- since I’ve been the President. I remember how personal? As Senator Kennedy put it the protests against trade. A lot of people tonight, he said your fixation with Saddam didn’t feel like free trade was good for the Hussein is making the world a more dan- world. I completely disagree. I think free gerous place. And as you prepare the trade is good for both wealthy and impover- American people for the possibility of mili- ished nations. But that didn’t change my tary conflict, could you share with us any opinion about trade. As a matter of fact, of the scenarios your advisers have shared I went to the Congress to get trade pro- with you about worst-case scenarios, in motion authority out. terms of the potential cost of American I recognize there are people who don’t lives, the potential cost to the American like war. I don’t like war. I wish that Sad- economy, and the potential risks of retalia- dam Hussein had listened to the demands tory terrorist strikes here at home? of the world and disarmed. That was my The President. My job is to protect hope. That’s why I first went to the United America, and that’s exactly what I’m going Nations to begin with, on September the to do. People can ascribe all kinds of inten- 12th, 2002, to address this issue as forth- tions. I swore to protect and defend the rightly as I knew how. That’s why, months Constitution. That’s what I swore to do. later, we went to the Security Council to I put my hand on the Bible and took that get another resolution, called 1441, which oath, and that’s exactly what I am going was unanimously approved by the Security to do. Council, demanding that Saddam Hussein I believe Saddam Hussein is a threat to disarm. the American people. I believe he’s a threat I’m hopeful that he does disarm. But to the neighborhood in which he lives, and in the name of peace and the security of I’ve got a good evidence to believe that. our people, if he won’t do so voluntarily, He has weapons of mass destruction, and we will disarm him. And other nations will he has used weapons of mass destruction join him—join us in disarming him. in his neighborhood and on his own people. And that creates a certain sense of anx- He’s invaded countries in his neighborhood. iety. I understand that. Nobody likes war. He tortures his own people. He’s a mur- The only thing I can do is assure the loved derer. He has trained and financed Al ones of those who wear our uniform that Qaida-type organizations before, Al Qaida if we have to go to war, if war is upon and other terrorist organizations. I take the us because Saddam Hussein has made that threat seriously, and I’ll deal with the choice, we will have the best equipment threat. I hope it can be done peacefully. available for our troops, the best plan avail- The rest of your six-point question? able for victory, and we will respect innocent life in Iraq. Price of Inaction The risk of doing nothing, the risk of Q. The potential price in terms of lives hoping that Saddam Hussein changes his and the economy, terrorism.

248 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Mar. 6

The President. Oh, yes. The price of we deal with Saddam Hussein and his doing nothing exceeds the price of taking weapons of mass destruction, there’s no dis- action if we have to. We’ll do everything agreement when it came time to vote on we can to minimize the loss of life. The 1441, at least as far as France was con- price of the attacks on America, the cost cerned. They joined us. They said Saddam of the attacks on America on September Hussein has one last chance of disarming. the 11th were enormous. They were signifi- If they think more time will cause him cant, and I am not willing to take that to disarm, I disagree with that. chance again, John. He’s a master at deception. He has no Terry Moran [ABC News]. intention of disarming. Otherwise, we International Reaction/Stakes of Iraq Policy would have known. There’s a lot of talk about inspectors. It really would have taken Q. Thank you, sir. May I follow up on a handful of inspectors to determine wheth- Jim Angle’s question? In the past several er he was disarming. They could have weeks, your policy on Iraq has generated showed up at a parking lot and he could opposition from the governments of have brought his weapons and destroyed France, Russia, China, Germany, Turkey, them. That’s not what he chose to do. the Arab League, and many other countries; opened a rift at NATO and at the Secondly, I make my decisions based U.N.; and drawn millions of ordinary citi- upon the oath I took, the one I just de- zens around the world into the streets in scribed to you. I believe Saddam Hussein antiwar protests. May I ask, what went is a threat—is a threat to the American wrong that so many governments and peo- people. He’s a threat to people in his ples around the world now not only dis- neighborhood. He’s also a threat to the agree with you very strongly but see the Iraqi people. U.S. under your leadership as an arrogant One of the things we love in America power? is freedom. If I may, I’d like to remind The President. I think if you remember you what I said at the State of the Union: back prior to the resolution coming out of Liberty is not America’s gift to the world; the United Nations last fall, I suspect you it is God’s gift to each and every person. might have asked a question along those And that’s what I believe. I believe that lines: How come you can’t get anybody to when we see totalitarianism, that we must support your resolution? If I remember deal with it. We don’t have to do it always correctly, there was a lot of doubt as to militarily, but this is a unique circumstance, whether or not we were even going to get because of 12 years of denial and defiance, any votes, much—well, we’d get our own, because of terrorist connections, because of of course. The vote came out 15 to nothing, past history. Terry. And I think you’ll see when it’s all I’m convinced that a liberated Iraq will said and done, if we have to use force, be important for that troubled part of the a lot of nations will be with us. world. The Iraqi people are plenty capable You clearly named some that—France of governing themselves. Iraq is a sophisti- and Germany expressed their opinions. We cated society. Iraq’s got money. Iraq will have a disagreement over how best to deal provide a place where people can see that with Saddam Hussein. I understand that. the Shi’a and the Sunni and the Kurds can Having said that, they’re still our friends, get along in a federation. Iraq will serve and we will deal with them as friends. as a catalyst for change, positive change. We’ve got a lot of common interests. Our So there’s a lot more at stake than just transatlantic relationships are very impor- American security and the security of peo- tant. While they may disagree with how ple close by Saddam Hussein. Freedom is

249 Mar. 6 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 at stake as well, and I take that very seri- the evidence but who feel they haven’t seen ously. it, and who still wonder why blood has Gregory [David Gregory, NBC News]. to be shed if he hasn’t attacked us. Regime Change in Iraq The President. Well, Bill, if they believe he should be disarmed, and he’s not going Q. Mr. President, good evening. If you to disarm, there’s only one way to disarm order war, can any military operation be him. And that happens to be my last considered a success if the United States choice, the use of force. does not capture Saddam Hussein, as you Secondly, the American people know that once said, dead or alive? Saddam Hussein has weapons of mass de- The President. Well, I hope we don’t struction. By the way, he declared he didn’t have to go to war, but if we go to war, have any; 1441 insisted that he have a com- we will disarm Iraq. And if we go to war, plete declaration of his weapons; he said there will be a regime change. And replac- he didn’t have any weapons. Secondly, he’s ing this cancer inside of Iraq will be a used these weapons before. I mean, this Government that represents the rights of is—we’re not speculating about the nature all the people, a Government which rep- of the man. We know the nature of the resents the voices of the Shi’a and Sunni man. and the Kurds. Colin Powell, in an eloquent address to We care about the suffering of the Iraqi the United Nations, described some of the people. I mentioned in my opening comments that there’s a lot of food ready to information we were at liberty of talking go in. There’s something like 55,000 oil- about. He mentioned a man named Al for-food distribution points in Iraq. We Zarqawi, who was in charge of the poison know where they are. We fully intend to network. He’s a man who was wounded make sure that they’re—got ample food. in Afghanistan, received aid in Baghdad, We know where their hospitals are; we ordered the killing of a U.S. citizen, want to make sure they’ve got ample med- USAID employee, was harbored in Iraq. ical supplies. The life of the Iraqi citizen There is a poison plant in northeast Iraq. is going to dramatically improve. To assume that Saddam Hussein knew Q. Sir, I’m sorry, is success contingent none of this was going on is not to really upon capturing or killing Saddam Hussein, understand the nature of the Iraqi society. in your mind? There’s a lot of facts which make it clear The President. We will be changing the to me and many others that Saddam is regime of Iraq, for the good of the Iraqi a threat. And we’re not going to wait until people. he does attack. We’re not going to hope Bill Plante [CBS News]. that he changes his attitude. We’re not going to assume that he’s a different kind Public Support/Nature of Iraqi Threat of person than he has been. Q. Mr. President, to a lot of people, it So, in the name of security and peace, seems that war is probably inevitable, be- if we have to—if we have to—we’ll disarm cause many people doubt—most people, I him. I hope he disarms. Or perhaps, I hope would guess—that Saddam Hussein will he leaves the country. I hear a lot of talk ever do what we are demanding that he from different nations around where Sad- do, which is disarm. And if war is inevi- dam Hussein might be exiled. That would table, there are a lot of people in this coun- be fine with me, just so long as Iraq dis- try—as much as half, by polling stand- arms after he’s exiled. ards—who agree that he should be dis- Let’s see here. Elisabeth [Elisabeth armed, who listen to you say that you have Bumiller, New York Times].

250 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Mar. 6

U.N. Security Council Resolution on Iraq 21st century, Mark, when it comes to our Q. Thank you, Mr. President. As you security, we really don’t need anybody’s said, the Security Council faces a vote next permission. week on a resolution implicitly authorizing Bill [Bill Sammon, Washington Times]. an attack on Iraq. Will you call for a vote Turkey-U.S. Relations on that resolution, even if you aren’t sure you have the vote? Q. Thank you, Mr. President. Even The President. Yes. Well, first, I don’t though our military can certainly prevail think—it basically says that he’s in defiance without a northern front, isn’t Turkey mak- of 1441. That’s what the resolution says, ing it at least slightly more challenging for and it’s hard to believe anybody is saying us and, therefore, at least slightly more he isn’t in defiance of 1441, because 1441 likely that American lives will be lost? And said he must disarm. And yes, we’ll call if they don’t reverse course, would you stop for a vote. backing their entry into the European Q. No matter what? Union? The President. No matter what the whip The President. The answer to your sec- count is, we’re calling for the vote. We ond question is, I support Turkey going want to see people stand up and say what into the E.U. Turkey’s a friend. They’re their opinion is about Saddam Hussein and a NATO Ally. We will continue to work the utility of the United Nations Security with Turkey. We’ve got contingencies in Council. And so, you bet. It’s time for peo- place that, should our troops not come ple to show their cards, to let the world through Turkey—not be allowed to come know where they stand when it comes to through Turkey. And no, that won’t cause Saddam. any more hardship for our troops. I’m con- Mark Knoller [CBS Radio]. fident of that. April [April Ryan, American Urban Radio United Nations/Military Action Against Iraq Networks]. Did you have a question, or Q. Mr. President, are you worried that did I call upon you cold? the United States might be viewed as defi- Q. I have a question. [Laughter] ant of the United Nations if you went The President. Okay. I’m sure you do ahead with military action without specific have a question. and explicit authorization from the U.N.? The President. No, I’m not worried about Lessons of September 11/President’s Faith that. As a matter of fact, it’s hard to say Q. Mr. President, as the Nation is at the United States is defiant about the odds over war, with many organizations like United Nations, when I was the person that the Congressional Black Caucus pushing for took the issue to the United Nations, Sep- continued diplomacy through the U.N., tember the 12th, 2002. We’ve been working how is your faith guiding you? And what with the United Nations. We’ve been work- should you tell America—well, what should ing through the United Nations. America do, collectively, as you instructed Secondly, I’m confident the American before 9/11? Should it be ‘‘pray,’’ because people understand that when it comes to you’re saying, let’s continue the war on ter- our security, if we need to act, we will ror. act, and we really don’t need United Na- The President. I appreciate that question tions approval to do so. I want to work— a lot. First, for those who urge more diplo- I want the United Nations to be effective. macy, I would simply say that diplomacy It’s important for it to be a robust, capable hasn’t worked. We’ve tried diplomacy for body. It’s important for its words to mean 12 years. Saddam Hussein hasn’t disarmed; what they say. And as we head into the he’s armed.

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And we live in a dangerous world. We we’re not changing. And therefore, so long live in new circumstances in our country. as there’s a terrorist network like Al Qaida And I hope people remember the—I know and others willing to fund them, finance they remember the tragedy of September them, equip them, we’re at war. the 11th, but I hope they understand the And so I—you know, obviously, I’ve lesson of September the 11th. The lesson thought long and hard about the use of is, is that we’re vulnerable to attack, wher- troops. I think about it all the time. It ever it may occur, and we must take threats is my responsibility to commit the troops. which gather overseas very seriously. We I believe we’ll prevail. I know we’ll prevail. don’t have to deal with them all militarily. And out of that disarmament of Saddam But we must deal with them, and in the will come a better world, particularly for case of Iraq, it is now time for him to the people who live in Iraq. disarm. For the sake of peace, if we have This is a society, Ron, who—which has to use our troops, we will. been decimated by his murderous ways, his My faith sustains me because I pray torture. He doesn’t allow dissent. He daily. I pray for guidance and wisdom and doesn’t believe in the values we believe strength. If we were to commit our in. I believe this society, the Iraqi society, troops—if we were to commit our troops— can develop in a much better way. I think I would pray for their safety, and I would of the risks, calculated the cost of inaction pray for the safety of innocent Iraqi lives versus the cost of action. And I’m firmly as well. convinced, if we have to, we will act, in One thing that’s really great about our the name of peace and in the name of country, April, is there are thousands of freedom. people who pray for me who I’ll never see Ann [Ann Compton, ABC News]. and be able to thank. But it’s a humbling Q. Mr. President, if you decide to go experience to think that people I will never ahead with military action, there are inspec- have met have lifted me and my family tors on the ground in Baghdad. Will you up in prayer. And for that I’m grateful. give them time to leave the country, or That’s—it’s been—it’s been a comforting the humanitarian workers on the ground feeling to know that it’s true. I pray for or the journalists? Will you be able to do peace, April. I pray for peace. that and still mount an effective attack on Hutch [Ron Hutcheson, Knight Ridder]. Iraq? The President. Of course. We will give Military Action Against Iraq people a chance to leave. And we don’t Q. Thank you, Mr. President. As you want anybody in harm’s way who shouldn’t know, not everyone shares your optimistic be in harm’s way. The journalists who are vision of how this might play out. Do you there should leave. If you’re going, and we ever worry, maybe in the wee, small hours, start action, leave. The inspectors—we that you might be wrong, and they might don’t want people in harm’s way. And our be right in thinking that this could lead intention—we have no quarrel with any- to more terrorism, more anti-American sen- body other than Saddam and his group of timent, more instability in the Middle East? killers who have destroyed a society. And The President. Hutch, I think, first of we will do everything we can, as I men- all, it’s hard to envision more terror on tioned—and I mean this—to protect inno- America than September the 11th, 2001. cent life. We did nothing to provoke that terrorist I’ve not made up our mind about military attack. It came upon us because there’s action. Hopefully, this can be done peace- an enemy which hates America. They hate fully. Hopefully, that as a result of the pres- what we stand for. We love freedom, and sure that we have placed—and others have

252 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Mar. 6 placed—that Saddam will disarm and/or it by being able to express your mind and leave the country. vote. How do you measure the con- Ed [Ed Chen, Los Angeles Times]. sequence of taking a dictator out of power Q. Mr. President, good evening. Sir, who has tried to invade Kuwait or some- you’ve talked a lot about trusting the Amer- body who may some day decide to lob a ican people when it comes to making deci- weapon of mass destruction on Israel? How sions about their own lives, about how to would you weigh the cost of that? Those spend their own money. When it comes are immeasurable costs. And I weigh those to the financial costs of the war, sir, it very seriously, Ed. In terms of the dollar would seem that the administration, surely, amount, well, we’ll let you know here pret- has costed out various scenarios. If that’s ty soon. the case, why not present some of them George Condon [Copley News Service]. to the American people so they know what to expect, sir? North Korea The President. Ed, we will. We’ll present Q. Thank you, Mr. President. If I can it in the form of a supplemental to the follow on Steve’s question on North Korea. spenders. We don’t get to spend the Do you believe it is essential for the secu- money, as you know. We have to request rity of the United States and its allies that the expenditure of money from the Con- North Korea be prevented from developing gress, and at the appropriate time, we’ll nuclear weapons? And are you in any way request a supplemental. We’re obviously growing frustrated with the pace of the di- analyzing all aspects. We hope we don’t plomacy there? go to war, but if we should, we will present The President. Well, I think it’s—yes, I a supplemental. think it’s an issue. Obviously, I’m con- But I want to remind you what I said cerned about North Korea developing nu- before. There is a huge cost when we get clear weapons, not only for their own use attacked. There was a significant cost to but for—perhaps they might choose to pro- our society. First of all, there was the cost liferate them, sell them. They may end up of lives. It’s an immeasurable cost. Three in the hands of dictators, people who are thousand people died. A significant cost to not afraid of using weapons of mass de- our economy—opportunity loss is an im- struction, people who try to impose their measurable cost, besides the cost of repair- will on the world or blackmail free nations. ing buildings and costs to our airlines. And I’m concerned about it. so the cost of an attack is significant. We are working hard to bring a diplo- If I thought we were safe from attack, matic solution. And we’ve made some I would be thinking differently. But I see progress. After all, the IAEA* asked that a gathering threat. I mean, this is a true, the Security Council take up the North Ko- real threat to America. And therefore, we rean issue. It’s now in the Security Coun- will deal with it. And at the appropriate cil—constantly talking with the Chinese and time, Ed, we will ask for a supplemental. the Russians and the Japanese and the And that will be the moment where you South Koreans. Colin Powell just went and others will be able to recognize what overseas and spent some time in China, we think the dollar cost of a conflict will went to the inauguration of President Roh be. in South Korea, spent time in China. We’re You know, the benefits of such a effort, working the issue hard, and I’m optimistic if, in fact, we go forward and are successful, that we’ll come up with a diplomatic solu- are also immeasurable. How do you meas- tion. I certainly hope so. ure the benefit of freedom in Iraq? I guess if you’re an Iraqi citizen, you can measure * White House correction.

253 Mar. 6 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Bob [Bob Deans, Cox Newspapers]. The President. Thank you for—thank you. Anything that’s debated must have res- Military Action Against Iraq olution to this issue. It makes no sense Q. Thank you, sir. Mr. President, millions to allow this issue to continue on and on of Americans can recall a time when lead- in the hopes that Saddam Hussein disarms. ers from both parties set this country on The whole purpose of the debate is for a mission of regime change in Vietnam. Saddam to disarm. We gave him a chance. Fifty thousand Americans died. The regime As a matter of fact, we gave him 12 years is still there in Hanoi, and it hasn’t harmed of chances. But recently we gave him a or threatened a single American in the 30 chance, starting last fall. And it said, last years since the war ended. What can you chance to disarm. The resolution said that. say tonight, sir, to the sons and the daugh- And had he chosen to do so, it’d would ters of the Americans who served in Viet- be evident that he’s disarmed. nam to assure them that you will not lead So more time, more inspectors, more this country down a similar path in Iraq? process, in our judgment, is not going to The President. That’s a great question. affect the peace of the world. So whatever Our mission is clear in Iraq. Should we is resolved is going to have some finality have to go in, our mission is very clear: to it, so that Saddam Hussein will take disarmament. In order to disarm, it will us seriously. mean regime change. I’m confident we’ll I want to remind you that it’s his choice be able to achieve that objective in a way to make as to whether or not we go to that minimizes the loss of life. No doubt war. It’s Saddam’s choice. He’s the person there’s risks in any military operation; I that can make the choice of war and peace. know that. But it’s very clear what we in- Thus far, he’s made the wrong choice. If tend to do. And our mission won’t change. we have to, for the sake of the security Our mission is precisely what I just stated. of the American people, for the sake of We have got a plan that will achieve that peace in the world, and for freedom to mission, should we need to send forces in. the Iraqi people, we will disarm Saddam Last question. Let’s see who needs one. Hussein. And by ‘‘we,’’ it’s more than Jeanne [Jeanne Cummings, Wall Street America. A lot of nations will join us. Journal]. Thank you for your questions. Good night. U.N. Security Council Resolution on Iraq Q. Thank you, Mr. President. In the coming days, the American people are going to hear a lot of debate about this British proposal of a possible deadline NOTE: The President’s news conference being added to the resolution, or not. And began at 8:02 p.m. in the East Room at the I know you don’t want to tip your hand— White House. In his remarks, he referred to this is a great diplomatic moment—but Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, senior Al Qaida from the administration’s perspective and leader responsible for planning the Sep- your own perspective, can you share for tember 11, 2001, terrorist attack, who was the American public what you view as the captured in Pakistan on March 1, 2003; pros and cons associated with that pro- President Saddam Hussein of Iraq; Chair- posal? man Kim Chong-il of North Korea; President The President. You’re right, I’m not going Jiang Zemin of China; senior Al Qaida asso- to tip my hand. [Laughter] ciate Abu Musab Al Zarqawi; and President Q. But can you help us sort out the—— Roh Moo-hyun of South Korea.

254 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Mar. 7

Message to the Congress on the National Emergency With Respect to Zimbabwe March 6, 2003

To the Congress of the United States: region, I have exercised my statutory au- Pursuant to section 204(b) of the Inter- thority and issued an Executive Order national Emergency Economic Powers Act, which, except to the extent provided for 50 U.S.C. 1703(b) and section 301 of the in regulations, orders, directives, or licenses National Emergencies Act, 50 U.S.C. 1631, that may be issued pursuant to this order, I hereby report that I have exercised my and notwithstanding any contract entered statutory authority to declare a national into or any license or permit granted prior emergency with respect to the unusual and to the effective date: extraordinary threat to the foreign policy • blocks all property and interests in interests of the United States posed by the property of the individuals listed in the actions and policies of certain individuals Annex to the order; who have formulated, implemented, or sup- • prohibits any transaction or dealing by ported policies that have undermined United States persons or within the Zimbabwe’s democratic institutions. United States in property or interests Over the course of more than 2 years, in property blocked pursuant to the the Government of Zimbabwe has system- order, including the making or receiv- atically undermined that nation’s demo- ing of any contribution of funds, cratic institutions, employing violence, intimidation, and repressive means including goods, or services to or for the benefit legislation to stifle opposition to its rule. of the persons designated pursuant to This campaign to ensure the continued rule the order. of Robert Mugabe and his associates was The Secretary of the Treasury is further clearly revealed in the badly flawed presi- authorized to designate any person deter- dential election held in March 2002. Subse- mined, in consultation with the Secretary quent to the election, the Mugabe govern- of State, to be owned or controlled by, ment intensified its repression of opposition or acting or purporting to act directly or political parties and those voices in civil indirectly for or on behalf of, any persons society and the independent press calling designated in or pursuant to the order. The on the government to respect the nation’s Secretary of the Treasury is also authorized democratic values and the basic human in the exercise of my authorities under the rights of its citizens. To add to the despera- International Emergency Economic Powers tion of the besieged Zimbabwean people, Act to implement these measures in con- the current government has engaged in a sultation with the Secretary of State. All violent assault on the rule of law that has Federal agencies are directed to take ac- thrown the economy into chaos, devastated tions within their authority to carry out the the nation’s agricultural economy, and trig- provisions of the Executive Order. gered a potentially catastrophic food crisis. This Executive Order further dem- As a result of the unusual and extraor- onstrates the U.S. commitment to sup- dinary threat posed to the foreign policy porting Zimbabwe’s democratic evolution, of the United States by the deterioration and strengthens our cooperation with the of Zimbabwe’s democracy and the resulting European Union in efforts to promote that breakdown in the rule of law, politically evolution. The European Union has acted motivated violence, and the political and to freeze the assets of 79 individuals re- economic instability in the southern African sponsible for the political, economic, and

255 Mar. 7 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 social deterioration of Zimbabwe. With the The White House, exception of two individuals no longer associated with the Government of Zimbabwe, March 6, 2003. this order encompasses all those identified by the European Union. NOTE: This message was released by the Of- I have enclosed a copy of the Executive fice of the Press Secretary on March 7. The Order I have issued. Executive order of March 6 is listed in Ap- GEORGE W. BUSH pendix D at the end of this volume.

Statement on Senate Ratification of the Moscow Treaty on Strategic Offensive Reductions March 7, 2003

I commend the Senate’s action to give Shortly after assuming office, I pledged its consent to ratification of the Moscow to the American people my commitment Treaty on Strategic Offensive Reductions to achieve a credible strategic deterrent that President Putin and I signed on May with the lowest-possible number of nuclear 24, 2002, in Moscow, Russia. I also thank weapons consistent with our national secu- Senator Lugar and Senator Biden for their rity needs, including our obligations to our leadership in successfully negotiating a allies. Under the Moscow Treaty, the unanimous, bipartisan vote in support of United States and Russia will both reduce the Moscow Treaty. their operationally deployed strategic nu- This historic agreement will reduce the clear warheads to a level of 1700–2200 by nuclear arsenals of the United States and December 31, 2012—nearly two-thirds Russia to their lowest levels in decades. below current levels. At my direction, the United States has already embarked upon The treaty will benefit both our peoples its reductions by starting to deactivate the and contribute to a more secure world. Peacekeeper missiles located at Francis E. The Moscow Treaty helps lay to rest the Warren Air Force Base in Wyoming, and legacies of cold war competition and sus- by taking the first steps to remove four picion and marks a fundamentally new era sea-launched ballistic missile submarines in relations between the United States and from strategic service. Russia. The strategic offensive reductions I am hopeful that the Russian Duma and codified and made binding under inter- Federation Council will soon give their ap- national law in this Treaty are essential proval to ratification, so that President steps toward achieving greater political, Putin and I can exchange instruments of economic, and security cooperation be- ratification and the Moscow Treaty can tween our two countries. enter into force.

256 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Mar. 8

The President’s Radio Address March 8, 2003

Good morning. This has been an impor- and destroyed. Inspection teams do not tant week on two fronts of our war against need more time or more personnel. All terror. First, American and Pakistani au- they need is what they have never received, thorities captured the mastermind of the the full cooperation of the Iraqi regime. September the 11th attacks against our The only acceptable outcome is the out- country, Khalid Sheikh Mohammed. This come already demanded by a unanimous is a landmark achievement in disrupting the vote of the Security Council, total disar- Al Qaida network, and we believe it will mament. help us prevent future acts of terror. We Saddam Hussein has a long history of are currently working with over 90 coun- reckless aggression and terrible crimes. He tries and have dealt with over 3,000 terror- possesses weapons of terror. He provides ists who have been detained, arrested, or funding and training and safe haven to ter- otherwise will not be a problem for the rorists who would willingly deliver weapons United States. of mass destruction against America and Second, the chief United Nations weap- other peace-loving countries. ons inspector reported yesterday to the Se- The attacks of September the 11th, 2001, curity Council on his efforts to verify Sad- showed what the enemies of America did dam Hussein’s compliance with Resolution with four airplanes. We will not wait to 1441. This resolution requires Iraq to fully see what terrorists or terror states could and unconditionally disarm itself of nuclear, do with weapons of mass destruction. We chemical, and biological weapons materials, are determined to confront threats wher- as well as the prohibited missiles that could ever they arise. And as a last resort, we be used to deliver them. Unfortunately, it must be willing to use military force. We is clear that Saddam Hussein is still vio- are doing everything we can to avoid war lating the demands of the United Nations in Iraq. But if Saddam Hussein does not by refusing to disarm. disarm peacefully, he will be disarmed by Iraqi’s dictator has made a public show force. of producing and destroying a few prohib- Across the world and in every part of ited missiles. Yet, our intelligence shows America, people of good will are hoping that even as he is destroying these few mis- and praying for peace. Our goal is peace siles, he has ordered the continued produc- for our own Nation, for our friends, for tion of the very same type of missiles. Iraqi our allies, and for all the peoples of the operatives continue to play a shell game Middle East. People of good will must also with inspectors, moving suspected prohib- recognize that allowing a dangerous dictator ited materials to different locations every to defy the world and build an arsenal for 12 to 24 hours. And Iraqi weapons sci- conquest and mass murder is not peace entists continue to be threatened with harm at all; it is pretense. The cause of peace should they cooperate in interviews with will be advanced only when the terrorists U.N. inspectors. lose a wealthy patron and protector and These are not the actions of a regime when the dictator is fully and finally dis- that is disarming. These are the actions of armed. a regime engaged in a willful charade. If Thank you for listening. the Iraqi regime were disarming, we would know it because we would see it. Iraq’s NOTE: The address was recorded at 10:47 weapons would be presented to inspectors a.m. on March 7 in the Cabinet Room at

257 Mar. 8 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 the White House for broadcast at 10:06 a.m. was captured in Pakistan on March 1, 2003; on March 8. The transcript was made avail- Hans Blix, Executive Chairman, United Na- able by the Office of the Press Secretary on tions Monitoring, Verification and Inspection March 7 but was embargoed for release until Commission; and President Saddam Hussein the broadcast. In his remarks, the President of Iraq. The Office of the Press Secretary referred to Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, sen- also released a Spanish language transcript ior Al Qaida leader responsible for planning of this address. the September 11, 2001, terrorist attack, who

Letter to Senate Leaders on the Nomination of Miguel A. Estrada To Be a United States Court of Appeals Circuit Judge March 11, 2003

Dear lllll : forth tactics that have marred the judicial The Senate is debating the nomination confirmation process for years, as many ju- of Miguel A. Estrada to be a Judge of dicial nominees have never received up or the United States Court of Appeals for the down Senate votes. And now, a minority District of Columbia Circuit. Miguel of Senators are threatening for the first Estrada’s life is an example of the American time to use ideological filibusters as a Dream. He came to this country from Hon- standard tool to indefinitely block confirma- duras as a teenager barely speaking English tion of well-qualified nominees with strong and went on to graduate with honors from bipartisan support. This has to end. Harvard Law School. He has argued 15 The judicial confirmation process is bro- cases before the Supreme Court of the ken, and the consequences for the Amer- United States and served in the United ican people are real. Because of the Sen- States Department of Justice under Presi- ate’s failure to hold timely votes, the num- dents of both political parties. The Amer- ber of judicial vacancies has been unaccept- ican Bar Association has given him its high- ably high during my Presidency and those est rating. When appointed, he will be the first Hispanic ever to serve on the D.C. of President Bill Clinton and President Circuit. George H.W. Bush. The Chief Justice has I submitted Mr. Estrada’s nomination to warned that the high number of judicial the Senate on May 9, 2001. But his nomi- vacancies, when combined with the ever- nation has been stalled for partisan reasons increasing caseloads, leads to crowded for nearly 2 years in which the Senate has courts and threatens the administration of not held a vote either to confirm or to justice. When understaffed, the Federal reject the nomination. courts cannot act in a timely manner to The Senate has a solemn responsibility resolve disputes that affect the lives and to exercise its constitutional advice and con- liberties of all Americans. The courts can- sent function and hold up or down votes not decide constitutional cases promptly, on judicial nominees within a reasonable which harms people seeking to vindicate time after nomination. Senators who are and protect their rights, and the courts can- filibustering a vote on Miguel Estrada are not rule on commercial cases efficiently, flouting the intention of the United States which hurts the economy, businesses, and Constitution and the tradition of the United workers. Our system of equal justice under States Senate. The filibuster is the culmina- law administered fairly and efficiently is at tion of an escalating series of back-and- risk. The American Bar Association in 2002

258 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Mar. 11 accurately described the situation as an no matter who is President or which party ‘‘emergency.’’ controls the Senate. This is the only way My concern about the state of the judi- to ensure that our Judiciary works and that cial confirmation process is not new. In good people remain willing to be nomi- June 2000, I proposed timely votes for all nated to the Federal bench. nominees, stating that the confirmation All Senators should have a chance to process ‘‘does not empower anyone to turn have their voices heard and their votes the process into a protracted ordeal of un- counted. All Presidents should have their reasonable delay and unrelenting investiga- judicial nominees considered and voted tion.’’ In May 2001, when I announced my upon in a reasonable time. All nominees first judicial nominations, I urged the Sen- should have the certainty of an up or down ate to rise above the bitterness of the past Senate vote within a reasonable time. All and again asked that every judicial nominee Judges should have the assurance that va- receive a timely up or down vote. In Octo- cancies on their courts will not persist for ber 2002, after nearly two additional years years. And all Americans should have the in which too many nominees did not re- assurance that the Federal courts will receive votes, I proposed a specific, common- main open and fully staffed to resolve their sense plan involving all three Branches that, disputes and protect their rights and lib- among other steps, would ensure that all erties. judicial nominees receive an up or down As I stated last October, the current state Senate vote within 180 days of nomination. of affairs in the United States Senate is Over the years, many Senators of both not merely another round of political wran- political parties have publicly agreed with gling. It is a disturbing failure to meet a the principle that every judicial nominee responsibility under the Constitution. Our should receive a timely up or down Senate country deserves better, the process can vote. Similarly, the Federal Judiciary, work better, and we can make it better. speaking through the Chief Justice in his The Constitution has given us a shared 2001 Year-End Report, has stated that the duty, and we must meet that duty together. Senate should ‘‘schedule up or down votes Thank you for your attention to this impor- on judicial nominees within a reasonable tant matter. time after receiving the nomination.’’ Sincerely, I ask Senators of both parties to come together to end the escalating cycle of GEORGE W. BUSH blame and bitterness and to restore fairness, predictability, and dignity to the proc- NOTE: Letters were sent to Bill Frist, Senate ess. I ask that the Senate take action, in- majority leader, and Thomas A. Daschle, cluding adoption of a permanent rule, to Senate minority leader. An original was not ensure timely up or down votes on judicial available for verification of the content of this nominations both now and in the future, letter.

259 Mar. 11 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Letter to Congressional Leaders Reporting a Certification Required by the Ratification Resolution of the Chemical Weapons Convention March 11, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. Chairman:) ceutical firms in the United States were Consistent with the resolution of advice not harmed significantly by the limitations and consent to ratification of the Conven- of the Convention on access to, and pro- tion on the Prohibition of the Develop- duction of, those chemicals and toxins listed ment, Production, Stockpiling and Use of in Schedule 1 of the Annex on Chemicals. Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruc- Sincerely, tion, adopted by the United States Senate GEORGE W. BUSH on April 24, 1997, I certify that for calendar year 2002: NOTE: Identical letters were sent to J. Den- In connection with Condition 9, Protec- nis Hastert, Speaker of the House of Rep- tion of Advanced Biotechnology, the legiti- resentatives, and Richard G. Lugar, chair- mate commercial activities and interests of man, Senate Committee on Foreign Rela- chemical, biotechnology, and pharma- tions.

Message to the Congress Transmitting a Report on the Plan for Securing Nuclear Weapons, Material, and Expertise of the States of the Former Soviet Union March 11, 2003

To the Congress of the United States: rial, and expertise of the states of the As required by section 1205 of the Na- Former Soviet Union and reports on imple- tional Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal mentation of that plan during Fiscal Year Year 2002 (Public Law 107–107) and sec- 2002. tion 1205 of the National Defense Author- ization Act for Fiscal Year 2003 (Public GEORGE W. BUSH Law 107–314), I am providing a report prepared by my Administration which presents The White House, a plan for securing nuclear weapons, mate- March 11, 2003.

Statement on the Assassination of Serbian Prime Minister Zoran Djindjic March 12, 2003

On behalf of the United States, I extend History will remember Prime Minister my condolences to the people of Serbia Djindjic for his strong leadership during and to the family of Serbian Prime Minister Serbia’s successful struggle to end the dic- Zoran Djindjic, who was shot and killed tatorship of Slobodan Milosevic. Following this morning. the peaceful transition to a new, democratic Government, Djindjic acted with strength

260 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Mar. 13 and courage to transfer Milosevic to The crime and reforming Serbia’s economy and Hague, where today he stands on trial for political institutions. war crimes. At the helm of the new Gov- The United States will continue to sup- ernment, Prime Minister Djindjic was com- port Serbia’s pursuit of reforms that will mitted to building a prosperous, democratic open the way to a brighter future and full future for Serbia, and he fought to hasten integration with Europe. that future’s arrival by fighting organized

Message to the Congress on Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to Iran March 12, 2003

To the Congress of the United States: and the means to deliver them, that led Section 202(d) of the National Emer- to the declaration of a national emergency gencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)) provides on March 15, 1995, has not been resolved. for the automatic termination of a national These actions and policies are contrary to emergency unless, prior to the anniversary the interests of the United States in the date of its declaration, the President pub- region and pose a continuing unusual and lishes in the Federal Register and transmits extraordinary threat to the national security, to the Congress a notice stating that the foreign policy, and economy of the United emergency is to continue in effect beyond States. For these reasons, I have deter- the anniversary date. In accordance with mined that it is necessary to continue the this provision, I have sent the enclosed no- national emergency declared with respect tice, stating that the Iran emergency is to to Iran and maintain in force comprehen- continue in effect beyond March 15, 2003, sive sanctions against Iran to respond to to the Federal Register for publication. The this threat. most recent notice continuing this emergency was published in the Federal Register GEORGE W. BUSH on March 14, 2002 (67 FR 11553). The White House, The crisis between the United States and March 12, 2003. Iran constituted by the actions and policies of the Government of Iran, including its NOTE: This message was released by the Of- support for international terrorism, efforts fice of the Press Secretary on March 13. The to undermine Middle East peace, and ac- notice of March 12 is listed in Appendix D quisition of weapons of mass destruction at the end of this volume.

Message to the Congress Transmitting a Report on the National Emergency With Respect to Iran March 12, 2003

To the Congress of the United States: section 204(c) of the International Emer- As required by section 401(c) of the Na- gency Economic Powers Act, 50 U.S.C. tional Emergencies Act, 50 U.S.C. 1641(c),

261 Mar. 13 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

1703(c), and section 505(c) of the Inter- that was declared in Executive Order 12957 national Security and Development Co- of March 15, 1995. operation Act of 1985, 22 U.S.C. 2349aa– GEORGE W. BUSH 9(c), I am transmitting a 6-month periodic report prepared by my Administration on The White House, the national emergency with respect to Iran March 12, 2003.

NOTE: This message was released by the Of- fice of the Press Secretary on March 13.

Remarks at a Saint Patrick’s Day Shamrock Presentation Ceremony With Prime Minister Bertie Ahern of Ireland March 13, 2003

Thank you very much, Taoiseach, and ber of the coalition against global terror. welcome back to the White House. Laura And we thank you, sir. and I are honored you came and really The American people appreciate Ire- glad you’re here. land’s work on U.N. Security Council to On behalf of the American people, I help secure passage of the Resolution 1441. thank you for the bowl of shamrocks and That resolution demanded that Iraq disarm the good fortune they promise. This annual itself of all weapons of mass destruction. gift symbolizes the deep and enduring We appreciate Ireland’s support for ensur- friendship between our two countries. The ing that the just demands of the world are strong ties between Ireland and the United enforced. The responsibilities of freedom States reach back centuries. are not always easy to bear, but Ireland These strong ties have been affirmed at and America are joined by a common com- critical moments in our country’s history. mitment to freedom’s defense against tyr- It is said that during the Revolutionary anny and terror. War, an Irish American woman, Lydia Our two countries also stand together in Darragh, provided valuable intelligence to another cause, working to achieve lasting peace in Northern Ireland. Recent years George Washington’s troops, helping pre- have seen historic progress thanks to the vent a planned British offensive. During the tireless efforts of Prime Minister Ahern and Civil War, the famed Irish Brigade fought Blair and many other people who long for valiantly on the Union side in terrible bat- peace. Now all parties can and must build tles, some not far from where we stand. on this progress so that the people of And throughout America’s history, we Northern Ireland can replace old have benefited from the industry and the resentments with new cooperation and new talents and the ideals of millions of Ire- hope. America has long supported this vital land’s sons and daughters. Today, our two work, and today that support endures and countries share a deep commitment to continues. We will help where we can. building a world of peace and security and Saint Patrick’s Day reminds us of the prosperity and freedom. We’ve stood to- close ties of family and friendship between gether in Afghanistan, in Kosovo, in Bosnia, our countries, but everyday—every day of and beyond, to stop aggression and to al- the year, America is proud to call Ireland leviate suffering. Ireland is a valued mem- a friend.

262 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Mar. 13

Taoiseach, may good fortune be yours, NOTE: The President spoke at 9:38 a.m. in may your joys never end, may good luck the Roosevelt Room at the White House. In be with you wherever you go, and your his remarks, he referred to Prime Minister blessings outnumber the shamrocks that Bertie Ahern of Ireland, who presented the grow. Welcome. shamrocks; and Prime Minister Tony Blair of the United Kingdom.

Statement on Senate Action on Legislation To Ban Partial-Birth Abortion March 13, 2003

Partial-birth abortion is an abhorrent pro- America. I look forward to the House pass- cedure that offends human dignity, and I ing legislation and working with the Senate commend the Senate for passing legislation to resolve any differences so that I can to ban it. Today’s action is an important sign legislation banning partial-birth abor- step toward building a culture of life in tion into law.

Statement on Senate Action To Block a Vote on the Nomination of Miguel Estrada To Be a United States Circuit Judge March 13, 2003

Today, 42 Senate Democrats have de- cannot act in a timely manner to resolve cided to continue their filibuster to block disputes that affect the lives and liberties a vote on the nomination of Miguel of all Americans. Estrada. The Senate has a constitutional re- In order to protect the rights of Ameri- sponsibility to hold an up-or-down vote on cans and the sanctity of the Constitution, all judicial nominees within a reasonable this obstruction must end. Miguel Estrada time, but some Senate Democrats have was nominated nearly 2 years ago, yet he abandoned that responsibility in favor of still has not received a fair vote. I call on partisan obstructionist tactics. The judicial the Senate to end the delays, stop holding confirmation process is broken, and the Miguel Estrada to a double standard, and consequences for the American people are live up to its responsibility to hold an up- real. Because of the Senate’s failure to hold or-down vote on this highly qualified nomi- timely votes, the number of judicial vacan- nee. As I said before, let each Senator vote cies has become unacceptably high. When as he or she thinks best, but give the man the Federal courts are understaffed, they a vote.

Statement on House of Representatives Action on Health Care Legislation March 13, 2003

America’s medical liability system is suits are driving up costs for patients, badly broken. Frivolous and abusive law- threatening access to quality health care,

263 Mar. 13 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 and forcing good doctors to shut down clin- driving good doctors out of medicine, and ics in communities across the Nation. improves access to quality, affordable We need a medical liability system that health care by reducing health care costs. provides compensation for patients, not I also commend the House for passing windfalls for trial lawyers. The direct and legislation that improves patient safety by indirect costs of the liability crisis to the providing for better sharing of valuable Federal Government is more than $28 bil- medical expertise between health care pro- lion a year, adding to the costs of Medicare fessionals. Together, these two pieces of and Medicaid and hurting our efforts to legislation will make the system work for help people get access to the medical care patients. they need. I urge the Senate to move quickly on Today’s House vote is an important step legislation that will reform our medical li- toward creating a liability system that fairly ability system and reduce medical errors compensates those who are truly harmed, so that I can sign these important measures punishes egregious misconduct without into law this year.

Remarks on the Roadmap for Peace in the Middle East March 14, 2003

Good morning. We have reached a hope- Government. And the Palestinian Authority ful moment for progress toward the vision has created the new position of Prime Min- of Middle Eastern peace that I outlined ister. Israeli and Palestinian leaders and last June. I spoke of a day when two states, other governments in the region now have Israel and Palestine, will live side by side a chance to move forward with determina- in peace and security. I called upon all tion and with good faith. parties in the Middle East to abandon old To be a credible and responsible partner, hatreds and to meet their responsibilities the new Palestinian Prime Minister must for peace. hold a position of real authority. We expect The Palestinian state must be a reformed that such a Palestinian Prime Minister will and peaceful and democratic state that be confirmed soon. Immediately upon con- abandons forever the use of terror. The firmation, the roadmap for peace will be Government of Israel, as the terror threat given to the Palestinians and the Israelis. is removed and security improves, must This roadmap will set forth a sequence of take concrete steps to support the emer- steps toward the goals I set out on June gence of a viable and credible Palestinian 24th, 2002, goals shared by all the parties. state and to work as quickly as possible The United States has developed this toward a final status agreement. As progress plan over the last several months in close is made toward peace, settlement activity cooperation with Russia, the European in the occupied territories must end. And the Arab states must oppose terrorism, sup- Union, and the United Nations. Once this port the emergence of a peaceful and roadmap is delivered, we will expect and democratic Palestine, and state clearly that welcome contributions from Israel and the they will live in peace with Israel. Palestinians to this document that will ad- This moment offers a new opportunity vance true peace. We will urge them to to meet these objectives. After its recent discuss the roadmap with one another. The elections, the nation of Israel has a new time has come to move beyond entrenched

264 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Mar. 14 positions and to take concrete actions to There can be no peace for either side achieve peace. in the Middle East unless there is freedom America is committed, and I am person- for both. Reaching that destination will not ally committed, to implementing our road- be easy, but we can see the way forward. map toward peace. Our efforts are guided Now the parties must take that way, step by clear principles: We believe that all peo- by step, and America will be the active ple in the Middle East, Arab and Israeli partner of every party that seeks true alike, deserve to live in dignity under free peace. and honest governments. We believe that Thank you very much. people who live in freedom are more likely to reject bitterness, blind hatred, and terror, and are far more likely to turn their energy toward reconciliation, reform, and NOTE: The President spoke at 10 a.m. in the development. Rose Garden at the White House.

Statement on the Centennial Anniversary of the National Wildlife Refuge System March 14, 2003

One hundred years ago, President Theo- Our wildlife refuges have played a vital dore Roosevelt signed an Executive order role in conserving and recovering our coun- that established America’s first wildlife ref- try’s wildlife and vibrant natural resources. uge in Pelican Island, Florida. His foresight To maintain and improve our wildlife ref- and leadership have resulted in the world’s uges, more than 34,000 volunteers gener- largest network of dedicated lands to pro- ously donate more than 1.3 million service tect and manage a vast array of wildlife. hours every year. These volunteers carry America’s National Wildlife Refuge Sys- on the service inspired by Paul Kroegel, tem spans 95 million acres of conservation the volunteer who encouraged President lands and waters. With more than 540 ref- Roosevelt’s Executive order in 1903. uges, there is a wildlife refuge within an I have requested a $26 million increase hour’s drive of every major city across in the wildlife refuge system’s budget for America. More than 400 national wildlife FY 2004. This request is on top of the refuges are open to the public, offering a historic $56.5 million budget increase re- variety of outdoor activities—including fish- quested for this year. Congress also recog- ing, hunting, environmental education, nized the importance of the refuge system wildlife observation, and photography—and by including $51 million of the request for making them special places for Americans 2003 in the recently enacted Omnibus Ap- to discover the wonders of nature. Many propriations Act. Americans are proud of refuges offer additional opportunities for their wildlife refuge system, and we remain nature hikes, bird tours, wildlife drives, and committed to continuing President Roo- other activities. sevelt’s legacy.

265 Mar. 15 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

The President’s Radio Address March 15, 2003

Good morning. This weekend marks a the regime of Baghdad. We know from re- bitter anniversary for the people of Iraq. cent history that Saddam Hussein is a reck- Fifteen years ago, Saddam Hussein’s re- less dictator who has twice invaded his gime ordered a chemical weapons attack neighbors without provocation, wars that on a village in Iraq called Halabja. With led to death and suffering on a massive that single order, the regime killed thou- scale. We know from human rights groups sands of Iraq’s Kurdish citizens. Whole that dissidents in Iraq are tortured, impris- families died while trying to flee clouds of oned, and sometimes just disappear; their nerve and mustard agents descending from hands, feet, and tongues are cut off; their the sky. Many who managed to survive still eyes are gouged out; and female relatives suffer from cancer, blindness, respiratory are raped in their presence. diseases, miscarriages, and severe birth de- As the Nobel laureate and Holocaust sur- fects among their children. vivor Elie Wiesel said this week, ‘‘We have The chemical attack on Halabja, just one a moral obligation to intervene where evil of 40 targeted at Iraq’s own people, pro- is in control. Today, that place is Iraq.’’ vided a glimpse of the crimes Saddam We know from prior weapons inspections Hussein is willing to commit and the kind that Saddam has failed to account for vast of threat he now presents to the entire quantities of biological and chemical agents, world. He is among history’s cruelest dic- including mustard agent, botulinum toxin, tators, and he is arming himself with the and sarin, capable of killing millions of peo- world’s most terrible weapons. ple. We know the Iraqi regime finances Recognizing this threat, the United Na- and sponsors terror. And we know the re- tions Security Council demanded that Sad- gime has plans to place innocent people dam Hussein give up all his weapons of around military installations to act as mass destruction as a condition for ending human shields. the Gulf war 12 years ago. The Security There is little reason to hope that Sad- Council has repeated this demand numer- dam Hussein will disarm. If force is re- ous times and warned that Iraq faces seri- quired to disarm him, the American people ous consequences if it fails to comply. Iraq can know that our Armed Forces have been has responded with defiance, delay, and de- given every tool and every resource to ception. achieve victory. The people of Iraq can The United States, Great Britain, and know that every effort will be made to Spain continue to work with fellow mem- spare innocent life and to help Iraq recover bers of the U.N. Security Council to con- from three decades of totalitarian rule. And front this common danger. We have seen plans are in place to provide Iraqis with far too many instances in the past decade, massive amounts of food, as well as medi- from Bosnia to Rwanda to Kosovo, where cine and other essential supplies, in the the failure of the Security Council to act event of hostilities. decisively has led to tragedy. And we must Crucial days lie ahead for the free na- recognize that some threats are so grave tions of the world. Governments are now and their potential consequences so terrible showing whether their stated commitments that they must be removed, even if it re- to liberty and security are words alone or quires military force. convictions they’re prepared to act upon. As diplomatic efforts continue, we must And for the Government of the United never lose sight of the basic facts about States and the coalition we lead, there is

266 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Mar. 16 no doubt: We will confront a growing dan- on March 15. The transcript was made avail- ger, to protect ourselves, to remove a pa- able by the Office of the Press Secretary on tron and protector of terror, and to keep March 14 but was embargoed for release the peace of the world. until the broadcast. In his remarks, the Presi- Thank you for listening. dent referred to President Saddam Hussein of Iraq. The Office of the Press Secretary NOTE: The address was recorded at 10:21 also released a Spanish language transcript a.m. on March 14 in the Cabinet Room at of this address. the White House for broadcast at 10:06 a.m.

The President’s News Conference With Prime Minister Jose Manuel Durao Barroso of Portugal, President Jose Maria Aznar of Spain, and Prime Minister Tony Blair of the United Kingdom in the Azores, Portugal March 16, 2003

Prime Minister Durao Barroso. Good way between the continent of Europe and afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. I am very the continent of America. I think it’s not pleased to welcome here in the Azores the only logistically convenient; it has a special leaders of three friends and allied coun- political meaning, the political meaning of tries, the United States, Spain, and United our friendship and our commitment to our Kingdom; President Bush, Prime Minister shared values. Aznar, and Prime Minister Tony Blair. So welcome to all of you. Welcome to This meeting in the Azores also shows you. And I now give the floor to President the importance of transatlantic relations George Bush. and also shows the solidarity among our President Bush. Jose, thank you very countries. Actually, these agreements have much for your hospitality. You’ve done a approved two statements, one statement on great job on such short notice. And I’m transatlantic relations and a statement on honored to be standing here with you and Iraq. two other friends as we work toward a We have joined this initiative and we or- great cause, and that is peace and security ganized it here in the Azores because we in this world. thought this was the last opportunity for a political solution. And this is how we see We’ve had a really good discussion. it: This is the last possibility for a political We’ve been doing a lot of phone talking, solution to the problem. Maybe it’s a small and it was good to get together and to chance, a small possibility, but even if it’s visit and to talk. And we concluded that one in one million, it’s always worthwhile tomorrow is a moment of truth for the fighting for a political solution. And I think world. Many nations have voiced a commit- this is the message that we can get from ment to peace and security. And now they this Atlantic summit. must demonstrate that commitment to As I was saying, for my English-speaking peace and security in the only effective guests, I’ll speak English now. First of all, way, by supporting the immediate and un- let me say, welcome, George Bush, to Eu- conditional disarmament of Saddam Hus- rope. I think it’s important that we meet sein. here, in a European country, in Portugal, The dictator of Iraq and his weapons of but in this territory of Azores that is half- mass destruction are a threat to the security

267 Mar. 16 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 of free nations. He is a danger to his neigh- which members of all ethnic and religious bors. He’s a sponsor of terrorism. He’s an groups are treated with dignity and respect. obstacle to progress in the Middle East. To achieve this vision, we will work For decades, he has been the cruel, cruel closely with the international community, oppressor of the Iraq people. including the United Nations and our coali- On this very day 15 years ago, Saddam tion partners. If military force is required, Hussein launched a chemical weapons at- we’ll quickly seek new Security Council res- tack on the Iraqi village of Halabja. With olutions to encourage broad participation a single order, the Iraqi regime killed thou- in the process of helping the Iraqi people sands of men and women and children, to build a free Iraq. without mercy or without shame. Saddam Crucial days lie ahead for the world. I Hussein has proven he is capable of any want to thank the leaders here today and crime. We must not permit his crimes to many others for stepping forward and tak- reach across the world. ing leadership and showing their resolve Saddam Hussein has a history of mass in the cause of peace and the cause of murder. He possesses the weapons of mass security. murder. He agrees—he agreed to disarm Jose Maria. President Aznar. Good evening, every- Iraq of these weapons as a condition for one. I would firstly like to thank the Prime ending the Gulf war over a decade ago. Minister, Jose Manuel Durao, for his hospi- The United Nations Security Council in tality and welcome, which I particularly am Resolution 1441 has declared Iraq in mate- grateful for. And I’m very pleased to be rial breach of its longstanding obligations, in the Azores once again. demanded once again Iraq’s full and imme- I have short remarks on our debates on diate disarmament, and promised serious this situation and on the documents we’ve consequences if the regime refused to com- agreed on during today’s meeting. I’d first ply. That resolution was passed unani- like to refer to our document on Atlantic mously, and its logic is inescapable: The solidarity. We have renewed Atlantic com- Iraqi regime will disarm itself, or the Iraqi mitment on our common values and prin- regime will be disarmed by force. And the ciples, in favor of democracy, freedom, and regime has not disarmed itself. the rule of law. Action to remove the threat from Iraq We understand that the expression of would also allow the Iraqi people to build this commitment is essential, by way of a better future for their society. And Iraq’s guarantee of peace, security, and inter- liberation would be the beginning, not the national freedom. And I honestly believe end, of our commitment to its people. We that there is no other alternative to the will supply humanitarian relief, bring eco- expression of the Atlantic commitment in nomic sanctions to a swift close, and work terms of security. We are committed on for the long-term recovery of Iraq’s econ- a day-to-day fight against new threats, such omy. We’ll make sure that Iraq’s natural as terrorism, weapons of mass destruction, resources are used for the benefit of their and tyrannic regimes that do not comply owners, the Iraqi people. with international law. They threaten all of Iraq has the potential to be a great na- us, and we must all act, consequently. tion. Iraq’s people are skilled and educated. This transatlantic link, this transatlantic We’ll push as quickly as possible for an solidarity, has always been, is, and should Iraqi interim authority to draw upon the continue to be, in my opinion, a great Eu- talents of Iraq’s people to rebuild their na- ropean commitment, and as such, amongst tion. We’re committed to the goal of a uni- other things, we express it this way: With- fied Iraq, with democratic institutions of out this commitment, today’s Europe could

268 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Mar. 16 not be understood; and without that com- so if he wants to. So his is the sole respon- mitment, it would be very difficult to pic- sibility. ture the Europe of tomorrow. Tony. So I would like to invite our friends, Prime Minister Blair. Thank you, Jose our allies, to leave aside any circumstantial Maria. Thank you, Jose, for hosting us differences and to work together seriously today. And I think it’s worth just returning for that commitment of democracy, free- to the key point, which is our responsibility dom, and peace, so that this becomes a to uphold the will of the United Nations commitment of us all. set out in Resolution 1441 last November. 1 We’ve agreed on launching—on boosting And for 4 ⁄2 months now, we’ve worked the Middle East peace process and on our hard to get Saddam to cooperate fully, un- vision that that peace process has to accom- conditionally, as that resolution demanded. modate with all necessary security guaran- Even some days ago we were prepared tees and putting an end to terrorism. And to set out clear tests that allowed us to this should end with the peaceful coexist- conclude whether he was cooperating fully ence of two states, an independent Pales- or not, with a clear ultimatum to him if tinian state and the Israeli state. he refused to do so. And the reason we approached it in that way is that that is In view of the situation created by Iraq, what we agreed in Resolution 1441. This with their continued noncompliance of was his final opportunity. He had to disarm international law, I would like to remind unconditionally. Serious consequences you that we all said before we came here would follow if he failed to do so. that we were not coming to the Azores And this is really the impasse that we to make a declaration of war, that we were have, because some say there should be coming after having made every possible no ultimatum, no authorization of force in effort, after having made this effort, con- any new U.N. resolution; instead, more dis- tinuing to make this effort, to working to cussion in the event of noncompliance. But achieve the greatest possible agreement, the truth is that without a credible ulti- and for international law to be respected matum authorizing force in the event of and for U.N. resolutions to be respected. noncompliance, then more discussion is just And we would like to say that we are more delay, with Saddam remaining armed aware of the fact that this is the last oppor- with weapons of mass destruction and con- tunity—the last opportunity expressed in tinuing a brutal, murderous regime in Iraq. Resolution 1441, adopted unanimously by And this game that he is playing is, the Security Council, and that, being aware frankly, a game that he has played over that this is the last opportunity, we are the last 12 years. Disarmament never hap- also making the last effort. And we are pens. But instead, the international commu- ready to make this last effort of the very nity is drawn into some perpetual negotia- many efforts we’ve been making throughout tion, gestures designed to divide the inter- these last weeks and months. national community but never real and con- We are well aware of the international crete cooperation leading to disarmament. world public opinion, of its concern. And And there’s not a single person on the we are also very well aware of our respon- Security Council that doubts the fact he sibilities and obligations. If Saddam Hus- is not fully cooperating today. Nobody, sein wants to disarm and avoid the serious even those who disagree with the position consequences which he has been warned that we have outlined, is prepared to say about by the United Nations, he can do there is full cooperation as 1441 demanded. so. And nothing in our document nor in Not a single interview has taken place our statement can prevent him from doing outside of Iraq, even though 1441 provided

269 Mar. 16 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 for it. Still, no proper production or evi- potentially prosperous reduced to poverty; dence of the destruction, or for example— 60 percent of the population reliant on food just to take one example, the 10,000 liters aid. of anthrax that the inspectors just a week And what we say is that we will protect ago said was unaccounted for. And that is Iraq’s territorial integrity; we will support why it is so important that the international representative government that unites Iraq community at this time gives a strong and on the democratic basis of human rights unified message. And I have to say that and the rule of law; that we will help Iraq I really believe that hadn’t we given that rebuild—and not rebuild because of the strong message some time ago, Saddam problems of conflict, where if it comes to might have realized that the games had to that, we will do everything we can to mini- stop. mize the suffering of the Iraqi people, but So now we have reached the point of rebuild Iraq because of the appalling legacy decision, and we make a final appeal for that the rule of Saddam has left the Iraqi there to be that strong, unified message people; and then in particular, Iraq’s nat- on behalf of the international community ural resources remain the property of the that lays down a clear ultimatum to Sad- people of Iraq. And that wealth should be dam, that authorizes force if he continues used for the Iraqi people. It is theirs and to defy the will of the whole of the inter- will remain so, administered by the U.N. national community set out in 1441. in the way we set out. We will do all we can in the short time Finally, on the Middle East peace proc- that remains to make a final round of con- ess, I welcome very much the statement tacts, to see whether there is a way through that President Bush made the other day. this impasse. But we are in the final stages, I think it’s important now. He said he because after 12 years of failing to disarm wanted a partner on the Palestinian side. him, now is the time when we have to I think the coming appointment of Abu decide. Mazen is so important there. It allows us Two other points, briefly, on the docu- to take this process forward. The roadmap ments that we’ve put before you. The first, gives us the way forward. The appointment as President Aznar was just saying to you of Abu Mazen gives us the right partner a moment or two ago, on the transatlantic to take this forward. And I believe that alliance is, I think, very important. Some that will demonstrate—and it’s important of you will have heard me say this before, to demonstrate, in particular at this time— but let me just repeat it. I believe that that our approach to people in the Middle Europe and America should stand together East, in that troubled region, is indeed on the big issues of the day. I think it evenhanded. And all of us will work to is a tragedy when we don’t. And that trans- make sure that that vision of a Middle atlantic alliance is strong, and we need to East—two states, Israel confident of its se- strengthen it still further. curity, a Palestinian state that is viable— And secondly, we’ve set out for you that comes about and is made reality. should it come to conflict, we make a Thank you. pledge to the people of Iraq. As President Bush was just saying to you a moment or Summit Results/Portugal’s Role in the two ago, it is the people of Iraq who are Coalition the primary victims of Saddam: the thou- Q. [Inaudible] sands of children that die needlessly every President Bush. They couldn’t hear the year; the people locked up in his prisons question. or executed simply for showing disagree- Q. I was asking the Portuguese Prime ment with the regime; a country that is Minister, how does he see the result of

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this summit? Does the Prime Minister Last Effort at Diplomacy think that starting now, Portugal has more Q. Thank you, Mr. President. Before I responsibilities with this war that seems to ask my question I just want to nail down be inevitable? one thing so there’s no confusion. When Prime Minister Durao Barroso. The re- you talk about tomorrow being the moment sults of this summit, as I described them of truth, are you saying that is the—— and as all the other heads of state and President Bush. Just a question, or are government said it, too, this summit is— you trying to work in two questions? this is the last opportunity for a political Q. Yes, sir. [Laughter] Because there’s solution to this very serious problem for one thing we need to make clear. When the international community. This has been you say tomorrow is the moment of truth, said here. It’s been said here that tomorrow does that mean tomorrow is the last day we’ll start with these last initiatives towards that the resolution can be voted up or a political solution. And for that reason I down, and at the end of the day tomorrow, am very, very happy with the results of one way or another the diplomatic window this summit. has closed? Now, coming to our responsibility in case President Bush. That’s what I’m saying. there is a conflict, I must say that the re- Q. Thank you, sir. And now for the ques- sponsibility falls entirely on the dictator tion—— Saddam Hussein. He bears the entire re- President Bush. And now for your ques- sponsibility because he has not respected tion? for all of these years international law and Q. That being the case, regardless—— consistently violated the U.N. resolutions. President Bush. That being my an- And in that case, if there is a conflict, I swer—— want to repeat it once more, Portugal will Q. Regardless of whether the resolution be next—side by side with his allies. And goes up or down or gets withdrawn, it the fact that we are here today in the seems to me you’re going to be facing a moment of truth. And given that you’ve Azores with the United States, with Spain, already said you don’t think there’s very and with the UK, this is very significant. much chance Saddam Hussein is going to As it’s been said here before, the trans- disarm, and given that you say you don’t atlantic relationship is very, very important, think there’s very much chance he’s going not only for Europe and for the U.S., but to go into exile, aren’t we going to war it’s very important for the whole world. I here? remember a few days ago, Kofi Annan in President Bush. Tomorrow is the day that the European conference in Brussels said we will determine whether or not diplo- the same thing. He said this is very impor- macy can work. And we sat and visited tant. It’s very important for Europe and about this issue, about how best to spend the U.S. to remain united and not separate, our time between now and tomorrow. And because the world needs the U.S. and Eu- as Prime Minister Blair said, we’ll be work- rope working together towards the same ing the phones and talking to our partners direction, in the same sense—not only and talking to those who may not clearly about the security but also fighting under- understand the objective, and we’ll see how development and all the other tasks that it goes tomorrow. fall to the international community. Saddam Hussein can leave the country, President Bush. Ron Fournier [Associ- if he’s interested in peace. You see, the ated Press]. decision is his to make. And it’s been his to make all along as to whether or not

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there’s the use of the military. He got to operate or face disarmament by force. And decide whether he was going to disarm, that is entirely within the logic, the letter, and he didn’t. He can decide whether he the spirit of 1441. And that is why—you wants to leave the country. These are his know, all the way through we have tried decisions to make, and thus far he has to provide a diplomatic solution. After over made bad decisions. 41⁄2 months since we passed Resolution Role of the United Nations 1441, we’re now, what, 3 months on from the declaration that Saddam made on the Q. I understand that if tomorrow is the 8th of December that not a single person day for taking the final decision, that means in the international community—not one— that you consider that there’s no possible believes was an honest declaration of what way out through the United Nations be- he had. And yet, 1441 said the first step cause a majority does not support a war of cooperation was to make an honest dec- action. I would like to know, Mr. Blair, laration. Mr. Bush, whether in that military offensive So when people say haven’t we exhausted you count on many countries, whether it’s all the diplomatic avenues, we’ve tried ex- going to be the UK and the U.S. carrying hausting them. But understand from our out the military offensive? I understand perspective and from the perspective of the from what Mr. Blair has said that you’re security of the world, we cannot simply go counting on the U.N. for the reconstruc- back to the Security Council for this discus- tion. Are you going to look for other countries through the United Nations? sion to be superseded by that discussion, And for Mr. Aznar, what is Spain’s par- to be superseded by another discussion. ticipation in that military offensive, in addi- That’s what’s happened for 12 years. That’s tion to your political support? why he’s still got the weapons of mass de- President Bush. [Inaudible]—Resolution struction. We have to come to the point 1441, which was unanimously approved, of decision. And that really is what the next that says Saddam Hussein would uncondi- period of time is going to be about. tionally disarm, and if he didn’t, there President Aznar. Well, I would like to would be serious consequences. The United say that this statement we’re making today, Nations Security Council looked at the as we’ve all said, it’s a last chance, one issue 41⁄2 months ago and voted unani- last attempt to reach the greatest possible mously to say: Disarm immediately and un- consensus amongst ourselves. And I can as- conditionally, and if you don’t, there are sure all of you that we’ve made—we have going to be serious consequences. The all made—enormous efforts, and we’re world has spoken. And it did in a unified going to continue making these efforts in voice. order to try to reach an agreement, to Sorry. reach a solution. Prime Minister Blair. The issue is very We have our own worry, our own re- simply this, that we cannot have a situation sponsibility to make U.N. resolutions be where what happens through the United abided by. If the Security Council unani- Nations, having agreed 1441, having said mously adopts a resolution—Resolution there would be serious consequences if he 1441—giving one last opportunity to disarm doesn’t cooperate fully and unconditionally, to someone who has weapons of mass de- what we cannot have is a situation where struction, and we know he has used them, we simply go back for endless discussion. the Security Council cannot, one year after Now, we have provided the right diplo- the other, wait for its resolutions to be im- matic way through this, which is to lay plemented. That would be the best way down a clear ultimatum to Saddam: Co- to do away with it altogether. And it could

272 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Mar. 16 do away with all the United Nations’ credi- decide whether we meant it and it was bility, and we honestly don’t want that to his final opportunity to disarm or face seri- happen. ous consequences, or whether, alternatively, To me, there is no—you cannot have we’re simply going to drag out the diplo- the same distance between illegality and matic process forever. And that’s why I say impunity. And neither Saddam Hussein nor it’s the point of decision. any other tyrant with weapons of mass de- Q. Vote or not? struction can set the rules for international President Bush. I was the guy that said law and the international community. they ought to vote. And one country voted. Q. Andrew Marr, from the BBC. Can They showed their cards, I believe. It’s an I ask, first of all, Prime Minister Blair— old Texas expression, ‘‘Show your cards,’’ you said that you want a second resolution when you’re playing poker. France showed to be put down and voted on. Could we their cards. After I said what I said, they be clear? Is that what’s going to happen said they were going to veto anything that tomorrow, under all circumstances? held Saddam to account. So cards have And either way—also, if I may, for Presi- been played, and we’ll just have to take dent Bush—if you don’t get that second an assessment after tomorrow to determine resolution, what is the future for the United what that card meant. Nations? You’ve talked about Saddam Hus- Let me say something about the U.N. sein dividing world community. Surely, he It’s a very important organization. That’s succeeded. why I went there on September the 12th, Prime Minister Blair. Well, on your last 2002, to give the speech, the speech that point, I think this is one of the things that called the U.N. into account, that said if is tragic about this situation, that Saddam you’re going to pass resolutions, let’s make plays these games, and we carry on allow- sure your words mean something. Because ing him to play them. Now, we will do, I understand the wars of the 21st century in the next period of time, in respect to are going to require incredible international the resolution, what we believe to be in cooperation. We’re going to have to cooper- the interest of the U.N. ate to cut off the money of the terrorists But I want to say why I think it is so and the ability for nations, dictators who important that even now, at this late stage, have weapons of mass destruction, to pro- we try to get the United Nations to be vide training and perhaps weapons to ter- the route of resolving this, because the rorist organizations. We need to cooperate, threat is there and everyone accepts it, the and we are. Our countries up here are co- threat of weapons of mass destruction, the operating incredibly well. threat of weapons of mass destruction in And the U.N. must mean something. Re- the hands of terrorists who will cause max- member Rwanda, or Kosovo. The U.N. imum damage to our people. Everybody didn’t do its job. And we hope tomorrow accepts the disarmament of Saddam has to the U.N. will do its job. If not, all of us happen. Everybody accepts that he was need to step back and try to figure out supposed to cooperate fully with the in- how to make the U.N. work better as we spectors. Everybody accepts that he is not head into the 21st century. Perhaps one doing so. way will be, if we use military force, in So, whatever the tactics within the the post-Saddam Iraq the U.N. will defi- U.N.—and that’s something we can de- nitely need to have a role. And that way cide—whatever those tactics, the key point it can begin to get its legs—legs of respon- of principle is this, that when we came sibility back. together last November and laid down Res- But it’s important for the U.N. to be olution 1441, now is the moment when we able to function well if we’re going to keep

273 Mar. 16 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 the peace. And I will work hard to see NOTE: The President’s news conference to it that, at least from our perspective, began at 5:30 p.m. in the community activity that the U.N. is able to be a responsible center ballroom at Lajes Field Air Force body, and when it says something, it means Base, Terceira Island. Prime Minister Durao it, for the sake of peace and for the sake Barroso spoke in Portuguese, and President of the security, for the capacity to win the Aznar spoke in Spanish, and their remarks war of—the first war of the 21st century, were translated by interpreters. In his re- which is the war against terrorism and marks, President Bush referred to President weapons of mass destruction in the hands Saddam Hussein of Iraq. Prime Minister of dictators. Blair referred to Mahmoud Abbas (Abu Thank you all. Mazen), who accepted the post of Prime Prime Minister Durao Barroso. Thank Minister of the Palestinian Authority on you very much, ladies and gentlemen. This March 19. Prime Minister Durao Barroso re- is the end of the conference. Have a good ferred to Secretary-General Kofi Annan of trip. the United Nations.

Statement of the Atlantic Summit: Commitment to Transatlantic Solidarity March 16, 2003

We, the leaders of four democracies with and to root out the terrorists who remain strong Transatlantic affiliation, meet at a there. We affirm a vision of a Middle East time of great challenge. We face painful peace in which two states, Israel and Pal- choices. estine, will live side by side in peace, secu- We uphold a vision of international security, and freedom. We welcome the fact rity we share with other nations. Our na- that the roadmap designed to implement tions and people know the horror of war, this vision will soon be delivered to Pal- whether visited upon us, or whether we estinians and Israelis, upon the confirma- are called to confront a great danger. tion of an empowered Palestinian Prime At this difficult moment, we reaffirm our Minister. We would welcome the appoint- commitment to our core values and the ment of a Palestinian Prime Minister with Transatlantic Alliance that has embodied sufficient authority to put an end to ter- them for two generations. Our alliance rests rorism and consolidate necessary reforms. on a common commitment to democracy, We shall look to the parties to work con- freedom, and the rule of law. We are structively together. We have today issued bound by solemn commitment to defend a statement outlining the challenge that one another. We will face and overcome Saddam Hussein poses for the world, and together the twin threats of the 21st cen- our vision of a better future for the Iraqi tury: terrorism and the spread of weapons people. of mass destruction. All nations must unite We urge our friends and allies to put to defeat these dangers. We will not allow aside differences, and work together for differences of the moment to be exploited peace, freedom and security. The friend- in ways that bring no solutions. ship and solidarity between Europe and the Our security is tied to peace and security United States is strong and will continue throughout the world. Together, we are to grow in years to come. working to bring security to Afghanistan,

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NOTE: An original was not available for verification of the content of this joint statement.

Statement of the Atlantic Summit: A Vision for Iraq and the Iraqi People March 16, 2003

Iraq’s talented people, rich culture, and human rights and the rule of law as corner- tremendous potential have been hijacked stones of democracy. by Saddam Hussein. His brutal regime has We will work to prevent and repair dam- reduced a country with a long and proud age by Saddam Hussein’s regime to the history to an international pariah that op- natural resources of Iraq and pledge to pro- presses its citizens, started two wars of ag- tect them as a national asset of and for gression against its neighbors, and still the Iraqi people. All Iraqis should share poses a grave threat to the security of its the wealth generated by their national region and the world. economy. We will seek a swift end to inter- Saddam’s defiance of United Nations Se- national sanctions, and support an inter- curity Council resolutions demanding the national reconstruction program to help disarmament of his nuclear, chemical, bio- Iraq achieve real prosperity and reintegrate logical, and long-range missile capacity has into the global community. led to sanctions on Iraq and has under- We will fight terrorism in all its forms. mined the authority of the U.N. For 12 Iraq must never again be a haven for ter- years, the international community has tried rorists of any kind. to persuade him to disarm and thereby In achieving this vision, we plan to work avoid military conflict, most recently in close partnership with international insti- through the unanimous adoption of tutions, including the United Nations; our UNSCR 1441. The responsibility is his. If Allies and partners; and bilateral donors. Saddam refuses even now to cooperate fully with the United Nations, he brings on him- If conflict occurs, we plan to seek the adop- self the serious consequences foreseen in tion, on an urgent basis, of new United UNSCR 1441 and previous resolutions. Nations Security Council resolutions that In these circumstances, we would under- would affirm Iraq’s territorial integrity, en- take a solemn obligation to help the Iraqi sure rapid delivery of humanitarian relief, people build a new Iraq at peace with itself and endorse an appropriate post-conflict and its neighbors. The Iraqi people deserve administration for Iraq. We will also pro- to be lifted from insecurity and tyranny, pose that the Secretary General be given and freed to determine for themselves the authority, on an interim basis, to ensure future of their country. We envisage a uni- that the humanitarian needs of the Iraqi fied Iraq with its territorial integrity re- people continue to be met through the Oil spected. All the Iraqi people—its rich mix for Food program. of Sunni and Shiite Arabs, Kurds, Any military presence, should it be nec- Turkomen, Assyrians, Chaldeans, and all essary, will be temporary and intended to others—should enjoy freedom, prosperity, promote security and elimination of weap- and equality in a united country. We will ons of mass destruction; the delivery of hu- support the Iraqi people’s aspirations for manitarian aid; and the conditions for the a representative government that upholds reconstruction of Iraq. Our commitment to

275 Mar. 16 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 support the people of Iraq will be for the NOTE: An original was not available for long term. verification of the content of this joint state- We call upon the international commu- ment. The Office of the Press Secretary also nity to join with us in helping to realize released a Spanish language version of this a better future for the Iraqi people. joint statement.

Statement on the 2003 Report of the Social Security Trustees March 17, 2003

I commend the Social Security Board of curity will be able to offer higher benefits Trustees for their hard work on their an- than would otherwise be the case. nual report. To repeat what I told Congress in the As in last year’s report, the Trustees con- State of the Union Address this year: ‘‘As firmed that benefits for today’s seniors are we continue to work together to keep So- safe and secure. Promises made can and cial Security strong and reliable, we must will be kept. The Trustees also once again offer younger workers a chance to invest have delivered a sobering message—Social in retirement accounts that they will control Security, in its present form, is and they will own.’’ unsustainable for the long term. I share Social Security protects beneficiaries with the Trustees’ view that we need to explore disabilities, retirees, widows, and widowers. new ways to ensure that Social Security It also affects the lives of millions of tax- paying workers, the beneficiaries of tomor- remains strong and financially secure for row. As the report makes clear, Social Se- America’s children and grandchildren. curity faces long-term problems that de- I am encouraged by the unprecedented mand bipartisan solutions. level of bipartisan interest in Social Security I hope that Members of Congress will modernization. Many comprehensive pro- join with the Social Security Administration posals have been put forward to strengthen and other interested parties in a national Social Security for the long term. Although dialog about how best to strengthen and these proposals differ in details, they are protect Social Security. I look forward to consistent in showing that if we give work- working with Congress to see that Social ers the opportunity to invest a portion of Security remains sound and strong for to- their wages in personal accounts, Social Se- day’s and tomorrow’s retirees.

Message on the Observance of Saint Patrick’s Day, 2003 March 17, 2003

I send greetings to those celebrating St. to helping others through his words and Patrick’s Day. actions. His example of courage, determina- On this day, we honor the life of Patrick, tion, and faith captured the hearts of the patron saint of Ireland, and celebrate the Irish and continues to inspire countless rich history of the Emerald Isle. St. Patrick people around the world. escaped from slavery and dedicated his life

276 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Mar. 17

In the United States, this day gives us land’s green shores. We are proud of our an opportunity to recognize the vital con- deep and lasting ties to Ireland and are tributions of Irish Americans. Throughout grateful for the many Irish Americans who our history, America has welcomed millions continue to enrich our Nation. of Irish immigrants to our country. These Laura joins me in sending our best wish- individuals have transformed our national es for a happy St. Patrick’s Day. identity and strengthened our families, our GEORGE W. BUSH communities, and our national character. Today, approximately one in four Ameri- NOTE: An original was not available for cans can trace their ancestry in part to Ire- verification of the content of this message.

Address to the Nation on Iraq March 17, 2003

My fellow citizens, events in Iraq have ons of mass destruction against Iraq’s now reached the final days of decision. For neighbors and against Iraq’s people. more than a decade, the United States and The regime has a history of reckless ag- other nations have pursued patient and gression in the Middle East. It has a deep honorable efforts to disarm the Iraqi re- hatred of America and our friends. And gime without war. That regime pledged to it has aided, trained, and harbored terror- reveal and destroy all its weapons of mass ists, including operatives of Al Qaida. destruction as a condition for ending the The danger is clear: Using chemical, bio- Persian Gulf war in 1991. logical or, one day, nuclear weapons ob- Since then, the world has engaged in tained with the help of Iraq, the terrorists 12 years of diplomacy. We have passed could fulfill their stated ambitions and kill more than a dozen resolutions in the thousands or hundreds of thousands of in- United Nations Security Council. We have nocent people in our country or any other. sent hundreds of weapons inspectors to The United States and other nations did nothing to deserve or invite this threat. But oversee the disarmament of Iraq. Our good we will do everything to defeat it. Instead faith has not been returned. of drifting along toward tragedy, we will The Iraqi regime has used diplomacy as set a course toward safety. Before the day a ploy to gain time and advantage. It has of horror can come, before it is too late uniformly defied Security Council resolu- to act, this danger will be removed. tions demanding full disarmament. Over The United States of America has the the years, U.N. weapon inspectors have sovereign authority to use force in assuring been threatened by Iraqi officials, electroni- its own national security. That duty falls cally bugged, and systematically deceived. to me as Commander in Chief, by the oath Peaceful efforts to disarm the Iraqi regime I have sworn, by the oath I will keep. have failed again and again because we are Recognizing the threat to our country, not dealing with peaceful men. the United States Congress voted over- Intelligence gathered by this and other whelmingly last year to support the use of governments leaves no doubt that the Iraq force against Iraq. America tried to work regime continues to possess and conceal with the United Nations to address this some of the most lethal weapons ever de- threat because we wanted to resolve the vised. This regime has already used weap- issue peacefully. We believe in the mission

277 Mar. 17 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 of the United Nations. One reason the and his sons must leave Iraq within 48 U.N. was founded after the Second World hours. Their refusal to do so will result War was to confront aggressive dictators in military conflict, commenced at a time actively and early, before they can attack of our choosing. For their own safety, all the innocent and destroy the peace. foreign nationals, including journalists and In the case of Iraq, the Security Council inspectors, should leave Iraq immediately. did act in the early 1990s. Under Resolu- Many Iraqis can hear me tonight in a tions 678 and 687, both still in effect, the translated radio broadcast, and I have a United States and our allies are authorized message for them: If we must begin a mili- to use force in ridding Iraq of weapons tary campaign, it will be directed against of mass destruction. This is not a question the lawless men who rule your country and of authority. It is a question of will. not against you. As our coalition takes away Last September, I went to the U.N. Gen- their power, we will deliver the food and eral Assembly and urged the nations of the medicine you need. We will tear down the world to unite and bring an end to this apparatus of terror, and we will help you danger. On November 8th, the Security to build a new Iraq that is prosperous and Council unanimously passed Resolution free. In a free Iraq, there will be no more 1441, finding Iraq in material breach of wars of aggression against your neighbors, its obligations and vowing serious con- no more poison factories, no more execu- sequences if Iraq did not fully and imme- tions of dissidents, no more torture cham- diately disarm. bers and rape rooms. The tyrant will soon Today, no nation can possibly claim that be gone. The day of your liberation is near. Iraq has disarmed, and it will not disarm It is too late for Saddam Hussein to reso long as Saddam Hussein holds power. main in power. It is not too late for the For the last 41⁄2 months, the United States Iraqi military to act with honor and protect and our allies have worked within the Secu- your country by permitting the peaceful rity Council to enforce that Council’s long- entry of coalition forces to eliminate weap- standing demands. Yet, some permanent ons of mass destruction. Our forces will members of the Security Council have pub- give Iraqi military units clear instructions licly announced they will veto any resolu- on actions they can take to avoid being tion that compels the disarmament of Iraq. attacked and destroyed. I urge every mem- These governments share our assessment ber of the Iraqi military and intelligence of the danger but not our resolve to meet services: If war comes, do not fight for it. a dying regime that is not worth your own Many nations, however, do have the re- life. solve and fortitude to act against this threat And all Iraqi military and civilian per- to peace, and a broad coalition is now gath- sonnel should listen carefully to this warn- ering to enforce the just demands of the ing: In any conflict, your fate will depend world. The United Nations Security Coun- on your actions. Do not destroy oil wells, cil has not lived up to its responsibilities, a source of wealth that belongs to the Iraqi so we will rise to ours. people. Do not obey any command to use In recent days, some governments in the weapons of mass destruction against any- Middle East have been doing their part. one, including the Iraqi people. War crimes They have delivered public and private will be prosecuted. War criminals will be messages urging the dictator to leave Iraq, punished. And it will be no defense to say, so that disarmament can proceed peace- ‘‘I was just following orders.’’ fully. He has thus far refused. Should Saddam Hussein choose con- All the decades of deceit and cruelty frontation, the American people can know have now reached an end. Saddam Hussein that every measure has been taken to avoid

278 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Mar. 17 war and every measure will be taken to plied many times over. With these capabili- win it. Americans understand the costs of ties, Saddam Hussein and his terrorist allies conflict because we have paid them in the could choose the moment of deadly conflict past. War has no certainty, except the cer- when they are strongest. We choose to tainty of sacrifice. Yet, the only way to re- meet that threat now, where it arises, be- duce the harm and duration of war is to fore it can appear suddenly in our skies apply the full force and might of our mili- and cities. tary, and we are prepared to do so. The cause of peace requires all free na- If Saddam Hussein attempts to cling to tions to recognize new and undeniable re- power, he will remain a deadly foe until alities. In the 20th century, some chose to the end. In desperation, he and terrorists appease murderous dictators, whose threats groups might try to conduct terrorist oper- were allowed to grow into genocide and ations against the American people and our global war. In this century, when evil men friends. These attacks are not inevitable. plot chemical, biological, and nuclear ter- They are, however, possible. And this very ror, a policy of appeasement could bring fact underscores the reason we cannot live destruction of a kind never before seen on under the threat of blackmail. The terrorist this Earth. threat to America and the world will be Terrorists and terror states do not reveal diminished the moment that Saddam Hus- these threats with fair notice, in formal dec- sein is disarmed. larations. And responding to such enemies Our Government is on heightened watch only after they have struck first is not self- against these dangers. Just as we are pre- defense; it is suicide. The security of the paring to ensure victory in Iraq, we are world requires disarming Saddam Hussein taking further actions to protect our home- now. land. In recent days, American authorities As we enforce the just demands of the have expelled from the country certain indi- world, we will also honor the deepest com- viduals with ties to Iraqi intelligence serv- mitments of our country. Unlike Saddam ices. Among other measures, I have di- Hussein, we believe the Iraqi people are rected additional security of our airports deserving and capable of human liberty. and increased Coast Guard patrols of major And when the dictator has departed, they seaports. The Department of Homeland Se- can set an example to all the Middle East curity is working closely with the Nation’s of a vital and peaceful and self-governing Governors to increase armed security at nation. critical facilities across America. The United States, with other countries, Should enemies strike our country, they will work to advance liberty and peace in would be attempting to shift our attention that region. Our goal will not be achieved with panic and weaken our morale with overnight, but it can come over time. The fear. In this, they would fail. No act of power and appeal of human liberty is felt theirs can alter the course or shake the in every life and every land. And the great- resolve of this country. We are a peaceful est power of freedom is to overcome hatred people. Yet we’re not a fragile people, and and violence and turn the creative gifts of we will not be intimidated by thugs and men and women to the pursuits of peace. killers. If our enemies dare to strike us, That is the future we choose. Free na- they and all who have aided them will face tions have a duty to defend our people fearful consequences. by uniting against the violent. And tonight, We are now acting because the risks of as we have done before, America and our inaction would be far greater. In 1 year, allies accept that responsibility. or 5 years, the power of Iraq to inflict Good night, and may God continue to harm on all free nations would be multi- bless America.

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NOTE: The President spoke at 8:01 p.m. in Hussein of Iraq. The Office of the Press Sec- the Cross Hall at the White House. In his retary also released a Spanish language tran- remarks, he referred to President Saddam script of this address.

Letter to Congressional Leaders on the Conclusion of Diplomatic Efforts With Regard to Iraq March 18, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. President:) with the United States and other Consistent with section 3(b) of the Au- countries continuing to take the nec- thorization for Use of Military Force essary actions against international ter- Against Iraq Resolution of 2002 (Public rorists and terrorist organizations, in- Law 107–243), and based on information cluding those nations, organizations, available to me, including that in the en- or persons who planned, authorized, closed document, I determine that: committed, or aided the terrorist at- (1) reliance by the United States on fur- tacks that occurred on September 11, ther diplomatic and other peaceful 2001. means alone will neither (A) ade- Sincerely, quately protect the national security GEORGE W. BUSH of the United States against the continuing threat posed by Iraq nor (B) NOTE: Identical letters were sent to J. Den- likely lead to enforcement of all rel- nis Hastert, Speaker of the House of Rep- evant United Nations Security Council resentatives, and Ted Stevens, President pro resolutions regarding Iraq; and tempore of the Senate. This letter was re- (2) acting pursuant to the Constitution leased by the Office of the Press Secretary and Public Law 107–243 is consistent on March 19.

Message to the Congress Transmitting the Federal Ocean and Coastal Activities Report March 19, 2003

To the Congress of the United States: eral Ocean and Coastal Activities Report In accordance with section 5 of the as prepared by my Administration. Oceans Act of 2000 (33 U.S.C. 857–19), GEORGE W. BUSH I transmit herewith the first biennial Fed- The White House, March 19, 2003.

280 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Mar. 19

Message to the Congress Transmitting a Report on United States Participation in the United Nations and Its Affiliated Agencies March 19, 2003

To the Congress of the United States: is required by the United Nations Participa- I am pleased to transmit herewith a re- tion Act (Public Law 264, 79th Congress). port prepared by my Administration on the GEORGE W. BUSH participation of the United States in the United Nations and its affiliated agencies The White House, during the calendar year 2001. The report March 19, 2003.

Message to the Congress Transmitting a Report on the National Emergency With Respect to UNITA March 19, 2003

To the Congress of the United States: National Union for the Total Independence As required by section 401(c) of the Na- of Angola (UNITA) that was declared in tional Emergencies Act, 50 U.S.C. 1641(c), Executive Order 12865 of September 26, and section 204(c) of the International 1993. Emergency Economic Powers Act, 50 GEORGE W. BUSH U.S.C. 1703(c), I am providing a 6-month report prepared by my Administration on The White House, the national emergency with respect to the March 19, 2003.

Address to the Nation on Iraq March 19, 2003

My fellow citizens, at this hour, Amer- tion has chosen to bear the duty and share ican and coalition forces are in the early the honor of serving in our common de- stages of military operations to disarm Iraq, fense. to free its people, and to defend the world To all the men and women of the United from grave danger. States Armed Forces now in the Middle On my orders, coalition forces have East, the peace of a troubled world and begun striking selected targets of military the hopes of an oppressed people now de- importance to undermine Saddam pend on you. That trust is well-placed. The Hussein’s ability to wage war. These are enemies you confront will come to know opening stages of what will be a broad and your skill and bravery. The people you lib- concerted campaign. More than 35 coun- erate will witness the honorable and decent tries are giving crucial support, from the spirit of the American military. use of naval and air bases, to help with In this conflict, America faces an enemy intelligence and logistics, to the deployment who has no regard for conventions of war of combat units. Every nation in this coali- or rules of morality. Saddam Hussein has

281 Mar. 19 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 placed Iraqi troops and equipment in civil- of the United States and our friends and ian areas, attempting to use innocent men, allies will not live at the mercy of an outlaw women, and children as shields for his own regime that threatens the peace with weap- military, a final atrocity against his people. ons of mass murder. We will meet that I want Americans and all the world to know threat now with our Army, Air Force, Navy, that coalition forces will make every effort Coast Guard, and Marines, so that we do to spare innocent civilians from harm. not have to meet it later with armies of A campaign on the harsh terrain of a firefighters and police and doctors on the nation as large as California could be longer streets of our cities. and more difficult than some predict. And Now that conflict has come, the only way helping Iraqis achieve a united, stable, and to limit its duration is to apply decisive free country will require our sustained force. And I assure you, this will not be commitment. We come to Iraq with respect a campaign of half measures, and we will for its citizens, for their great civilization, accept no outcome but victory. and for the religious faiths they practice. My fellow citizens, the dangers to our We have no ambition in Iraq except to country and the world will be overcome. remove a threat and restore control of that We will pass through this time of peril and country to its own people. carry on the work of peace. We will defend I know that the families of our military our freedom. We will bring freedom to oth- are praying that all those who serve will ers, and we will prevail. return safely and soon. Millions of Ameri- May God bless our country and all who cans are praying with you for the safety defend her. of your loved ones and for the protection of the innocent. For your sacrifice, you have the gratitude and respect of the Amer- NOTE: The President spoke at 10:16 p.m. ican people. And you can know that our from the Oval Office at the White House. forces will be coming home as soon as their In his remarks, he referred to President Sad- work is done. dam Hussein of Iraq. The Office of the Press Our Nation enters this conflict reluc- Secretary also released a Spanish language tantly. Yet our purpose is sure. The people transcript of this address.

Remarks Following a Cabinet Meeting March 20, 2003

I called my Cabinet together to review We heard from Secretary Powell, who our strategies to make the world more briefed us on the ever-growing coalition of peaceful, to make our country more secure, the willing, nations who support our deep to make the lives of our citizens as healthy desire for peace and freedom. Over 40 na- and as prosperous as possible. tions now support our efforts. We are We heard from Secretary Rumsfeld, who grateful for their determination. We appre- briefed us on the early stages of the war. ciate their vision, and we welcome their There’s no question we’ve sent the finest support. of our citizens into harm’s way. They per- As well, we discussed the need to make form with great skill and great bravery. We sure we have plans in place to encourage thank them. We thank their loved ones. economic vitality and growth. We will con- We appreciate their sacrifice. tinue to push for a Medicare system that

282 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Mar. 20 is compassionate for our seniors. We care can achieve our objectives. I’m grateful for deeply about the fact that some children their service to their country. in our society can’t read. We want the best Thank you all. of education for every citizen in America. This Cabinet is confident about the fu- NOTE: The President spoke at 2:53 p.m. in ture of our country. We’re confident we the Cabinet Room at the White House.

Message on the Observance of Nowruz March 20, 2003

I send greetings to Iranian Americans ob- committed to peace, justice, and oppor- serving Nowruz. tunity for all people. Throughout this time During Nowruz, people of Iranian de- of renewal, we remain dedicated to bring- scent celebrate the arrival of spring, a sea- ing hope and freedom to troubled regions son of rebirth. This joyous occasion pro- around the world. vides an opportunity for Persians to cherish Laura joins me in sending our best wish- their rich heritage and enjoy the company es for a joyous celebration to you, your of family and friends in anticipation of hap- families, and your relatives and friends in piness and blessings in the year ahead. Iran. This year’s observance comes during a challenging time for our Nation and the GEORGE W. BUSH world. As the international community works to face great challenges and embrace NOTE: An original was not available for important opportunities, America remains verification of the content of this message.

Message to the Congress Reporting on Confiscation and Vesting of Certain Iraqi Property March 20, 2003

To the Congress of the United States: Consistent with section 203(a)(1)(C) of Pursuant to section 204(b) of the Inter- IEEPA, 50 U.S.C. 1702(a)(1)(C), as added national Emergency Economic Powers Act, by section 106 of the USA PATRIOT ACT, 50 U.S.C. 1703(b) (IEEPA), and section Public Law 107–56, I have ordered that 301 of the National Emergencies Act, 50 certain blocked funds held in the United U.S.C. 1631, I hereby report that I have States in accounts in the name of the Gov- taken additional steps with respect to the ernment of Iraq, the Central Bank of Iraq, national emergency declared in Executive Rafidain Bank, Rasheed Bank, or the State Order 12722 of August 2, 1990, by exer- Organization for Marketing Oil are hereby cising my statutory authority to confiscate confiscated and vested in the Department and vest certain property of the Govern- of the Treasury. I have made exceptions ment of Iraq and its agencies, instrumental- for any such funds that are subject to the ities, or controlled entities. Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations

283 Mar. 20 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 or the Vienna Convention on Consular Re- 12724 with respect to the unusual and ex- lations, or that enjoy equivalent privileges traordinary threat to our national security and immunities under the laws of the and foreign policy posed by the policies United States, and are or have been used and actions of the Government of Iraq. I for diplomatic or consular purposes. In ad- intend that such vested property should be dition, such amounts that, as of the date used to assist the Iraqi people and to assist of the order, are subject to post-judgment in the reconstruction of Iraq, and have de- writs of execution or attachment in aid of termined that such use would be in the execution of judgments pursuant to section interest of and for the benefit of the United 201 of the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act States. of 2002 (Public Law 107–297) are not The power to vest assets of a foreign being vested, provided that, upon satisfac- government with which the United States tion of the judgments on which such writs is engaged in armed hostilities is one that are based, any remainder of such excepted has been recognized for many decades. amounts shall, without further action, be This power is being used here because it confiscated and vested. is clearly in the interests of the United I have delegated to the Secretary of the States to have these funds available for use Treasury authority to undertake all other in rebuilding Iraq and launching that coun- action of the President and all functions try on the path to speedy economic recov- of the President set forth in section ery. In addition, this authority is being in- 203(a)(1)(C) of IEEPA with respect to any voked in a limited way, designed to mini- and all property of the Government of Iraq, mize harm to third parties and to respect including its agencies, instrumentalities, or existing court orders as much as possible. controlled entities, and to take additional steps, including the promulgation of rules GEORGE W. BUSH and regulations as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this order. The White House, I am enclosing a copy of the Executive Order I have issued, which is effective im- March 20, 2003. mediately. I have exercised these authorities in fur- NOTE: The Executive order is listed in Ap- therance of Executive Orders 12722 and pendix D at the end of this volume.

Letter to Congressional Leaders Reporting on United States Efforts in the Global War on Terrorism March 20, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. President:) the Congress of March 20 and September On September 24, 2001, I reported the 20, 2002, I provided supplemental informa- deployment of various combat-equipped tion on the deployment of combat- and combat support forces to a number equipped and combat support forces to a of locations in the Central and Pacific number of foreign nations in the Central Command areas of operation. On October and Pacific Command areas of operations 9, 2001, I reported the beginning of combat and other areas. As a part of my efforts action in Afghanistan against terrorists and to keep the Congress informed, I am their Taliban supporters. In my reports to

284 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Mar. 20 reporting further on United States efforts throughout 2002. Last year’s actions from in the global war on terrorism. February to July 2002 on Basilan Island, Our efforts in Afghanistan have met with with AFP in command and with U.S. forces success, but as I have stated in my previous in a support role, helped to drive hundreds reports, the U.S. campaign against ter- of Abu Sayyaf Group terrorists from the rorism will be lengthy. To date, U.S. Armed island, restoring order and reestablishing Forces, with the assistance of numerous co- government services. To ensure that the alition partners, have executed a superb AFP has the skills to fight terrorism over campaign to eliminate the primary source the long term, we have a robust security of support to the terrorists who viciously assistance training program and a variety attacked our Nation on September 11, of exercises that will provide the AFP much 2001. The heart of al-Qaida’s training capa- needed counter-terrorism training and bility has been seriously degraded. The equipment. There are approximately 300 Taliban’s ability to brutalize the Afghan combat-equipped and combat support U.S. people and to harbor and support terrorists military personnel working with the AFP has been virtually eliminated. Pockets of and U.S. forces continue to plan with the al-Qaida and Taliban forces remain a threat AFP for possible future activities. Contin- to U.S. and coalition forces and to the Af- ued U.S. support is warranted as the Gov- ghan government. What is left of both the ernment of the Philippines has provided Taliban and the al-Qaida fighters is being unwavering support in the global war on pursued actively and engaged by U.S. and terrorism. coalition forces. Additionally, training mis- Additionally, we continue to conduct sions and combat operations with Pakistani maritime interception operations on the special forces are ongoing near the Afghan/ high seas in the Central and European Pakistan border. Command areas of responsibility to prevent Due to our success in Afghanistan, we the movement, arming, or financing of have detained hundreds of al-Qaida and international terrorists who pose a con- Taliban fighters who are believed to pose tinuing threat to the United States. a continuing threat to the United States Combat-equipped and combat support and its interests. The combat-equipped and forces also have been deployed to Georgia combat support forces deployed to Naval and Yemen to assist the armed forces of Base, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, in the those countries in enhancing their counter- Southern Command area of operations terrorism capabilities, including by training since January 2002, continue to conduct se- and equipping their armed forces. Similar cure detention operations. We currently U.S. forces have deployed to Djibouti to hold more than 600 enemy combatants at command and control operations and other Guantanamo Bay. All are being treated hu- activities as necessary against al-Qaida and manely and, to the extent appropriate and other international terrorists in the Horn consistent with military necessity, in a man- of Africa region. These activities include ner consistent with the principles of the providing oversight for urban and maritime Geneva Conventions of 1949. counter-terrorism training with the Yemen In furtherance of our worldwide efforts special operations forces. We continue to against terrorists who pose a continuing and assess options for working with other na- imminent threat to the United States, our tions to assist them in this respect. friends and allies, and our forces abroad, I have taken these actions pursuant to we continue operations in other areas my constitutional authority to conduct U.S. around the globe. Our relationship with the foreign relations and as Commander in Government and Armed Forces of the Phil- Chief and Chief Executive. In addition, ippines (AFP) developed and matured these actions are consistent with Public

285 Mar. 20 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Law 107–40. As I stated in my previous Public Law 107–40. Officials of my Admin- reports, it is not possible to know at this istration and I have been communicating time either the duration of combat oper- regularly with the leadership and other ations or the scope and duration of the Members of Congress, and we will continue deployment of U.S. Armed Forces nec- to do so. I appreciate the continuing sup- essary to counter the terrorist threat to the port of the Congress in our efforts to pro- United States. I will direct additional meas- tect the security of the United States of ures as necessary to exercise our right to America and its citizens, civilian and mili- self-defense and to protect U.S. citizens tary, here and abroad. and interests. Such measures may include Sincerely, short notice deployments of special operations and other forces for sensitive oper- GEORGE W. BUSH ations in various locations throughout the world. NOTE: Identical letters were sent to J. Den- I am providing this report as part of my nis Hastert, Speaker of the House of Rep- efforts to keep the Congress informed, con- resentatives, and Ted Stevens, President pro sistent with the War Powers Resolution and tempore of the Senate.

Remarks Following a Meeting With Congressional Leaders and an Exchange With Reporters March 21, 2003

The President. I’ve asked the Members rid Iraq of weapons of mass destruction of Congress to come up so that members and free the Iraqi people so they can live of my administration can keep the leader- in a society that is hopeful and democratic ship up to date as the war to liberate Iraq and at peace in its neighborhood. and to remove weapons of mass destruction All of us involved here in Washington out of Iraq proceeds. The military briefings, are extremely proud of the skill and bravery of course, will continue to be given out of our young Americans who are willing of the Pentagon. Secretary Rumsfeld will to sacrifice for something greater than be briefing this afternoon. themselves. I also really want to thank Members of So it’s my honor to welcome the Mem- Congress, both House Members, Senate bers here. We will continue to keep them Members, members of both political par- briefed as this war progresses. And I want ties, for the strong resolutions that came to thank them for the unity, the message off the floor of their respective bodies, res- of unity. olutions which said loud and clear: Our Thank you all for coming. country supports the men and women in uniform; not only do we support those brave souls who are sacrificing on our be- Secretary Rumsfeld’s Briefing half, but we want to thank their parents Q. Is Saddam dead or alive, sir? and their families for their dedication as The President. Secretary Rumsfeld will well. be briefing today. As Secretary Rumsfeld said, we’re mak- Q. Do you want to give us any details, ing progress. We will stay on task until as the Commander in Chief, of how things we’ve achieved our objective, which is to are going?

286 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Mar. 21

The President. Secretary Rumsfeld will NOTE: The President spoke at 10:17 a.m. in be briefing today. the Oval Office at the White House. A reporter referred to President Saddam Hussein of Iraq.

Statement on House of Representatives Action on the Budget Resolution March 21, 2003

As we engage in action to ensure free- growth and job creation requires passing dom and security, it is imperative that we the bold plan that I proposed. I commend stay focused on important domestic prior- the House for its timely action and look ities, including creating jobs and strength- forward to working with Congress to ensure ening economic growth at home. With pas- that we fund our priorities, enact policies sage of the budget resolution, the House to spur growth, and restrain spending. has spoken clearly that future economic

Letter to Congressional Leaders Reporting on the Commencement of Military Operations Against Iraq March 21, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. President:) and terrorist organizations, including those On March 18, 2003, I made available nations, organizations, or persons who to you, consistent with section 3(b) of the planned, authorized, committed, or aided Authorization for Use of Military Force the terrorist attacks that occurred on Sep- Against Iraq Resolution of 2002 (Public tember 11, 2001. United States objectives Law 107–243), my determination that fur- also support a transition to democracy in ther diplomatic and other peaceful means Iraq, as contemplated by the Iraq Libera- alone will neither adequately protect the tion Act of 1998 (Public Law 105–338). national security of the United States Consistent with the War Powers Resolu- against the continuing threat posed by Iraq, tion (Public Law 93–148), I now inform nor lead to enforcement of all relevant you that pursuant to my authority as Com- United Nations Security Council resolutions mander in Chief and consistent with the regarding Iraq. Authorization for Use of Military Force I have reluctantly concluded, along with Against Iraq Resolution (Public Law 102– other coalition leaders, that only the use 1) and the Authorization for Use of Military of armed force will accomplish these objec- Force Against Iraq Resolution of 2002 tives and restore international peace and (Public Law 107–243), I directed U.S. security in the area. I have also determined Armed Forces, operating with other coali- that the use of armed force against Iraq tion forces, to commence combat oper- is consistent with the United States and ations on March 19, 2003, against Iraq. other countries continuing to take the nec- These military operations have been essary actions against international terrorists carefully planned to accomplish our goals

287 Mar. 21 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 with the minimum loss of life among coali- the United States, I look forward to our tion military forces and to innocent civil- continued consultation and cooperation. ians. It is not possible to know at this time Sincerely, either the duration of active combat operations or the scope or duration of the de- GEORGE W. BUSH ployment of U.S. Armed Forces necessary to accomplish our goals fully. NOTE: Identical letters were sent to J. Den- As we continue our united efforts to dis- nis Hastert, Speaker of the House of Rep- arm Iraq in pursuit of peace, stability, and resentatives, and Ted Stevens, President pro security both in the Gulf region and in tempore of the Senate.

Message to the Congress Transmitting a Report on the National Emergency With Respect to Persons Who Commit, Threaten To Commit, or Support Terrorism March 21, 2003

To the Congress of the United States: with respect to persons who commit, As required by section 401(c) of the Na- threaten to commit, or support terrorism tional Emergencies Act, 50 U.S.C. 1641(c), that was declared in Executive Order 13224 and section 204(c) of the International of September 23, 2001. Emergency Economic Powers Act, 50 GEORGE W. BUSH U.S.C. 1703(c), I transmit herewith the 6- month periodic report prepared by my Ad- The White House, ministration on the national emergency March 21, 2003.

The President’s Radio Address March 22, 2003

Good morning. American and coalition tions of the American military. They are forces have begun a concerted campaign doing their job with skill and bravery and against the regime of Saddam Hussein. In with the finest of allies beside them. At this war, our coalition is broad, more than every stage of this conflict, the world will 40 countries from across the globe. Our see both the power of our military and cause is just: The security of the nations the honorable and decent spirit of the men we serve and the peace of the world. And and women who serve. our mission is clear: To disarm Iraq of In this conflict, American and coalition weapons of mass destruction; to end Sad- forces face enemies who have no regard dam Hussein’s support for terrorism; and for the conventions of war or rules of mo- to free the Iraqi people. rality. Iraqi officials have placed troops and The future of peace and the hopes of equipment in civilian areas, attempting to the Iraqi people now depend on our fight- use innocent men, women, and children as ing forces in the Middle East. They are shields for the dictator’s army. I want conducting themselves in the highest tradi- Americans and all the world to know that

288 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Mar. 23

coalition forces will make every effort to Our Nation entered this conflict reluc- spare innocent civilians from harm. tantly, yet with a clear and firm purpose. A campaign on harsh terrain in a vast The people of the United States and our country could be longer and more difficult friends and allies will not live at the mercy than some have predicted. And helping of an outlaw regime that threatens the Iraqis achieve a united, stable, and free peace with weapons of mass murder. Now country will require our sustained commit- that conflict has come, the only way to ment. Yet, whatever is required of us, we limit its duration is to apply decisive force. will carry out all the duties we have accept- This will not be a campaign of half-meas- ed. ures. It is a fight for the security of our Across America this weekend, the fami- Nation and the peace of the world, and lies of our military are praying that our we will accept no outcome but victory. men and women will return safely and Thank you for listening. soon. Millions of Americans are praying with them for the safety of their loved ones NOTE: The address was recorded at 11:10 and for the protection of all the innocent. a.m. on March 21 in the Cabinet Room at Our entire Nation appreciates the sacrifices the White House for broadcast at 10:06 a.m. made by military families, and many citi- on March 22. The transcript was made avail- zens who live near military families are able by the Office of the Press Secretary on showing their support in practical ways, March 21 but was embargoed for release such as by helping with child care or home until the broadcast. In his remarks, the Presi- repairs. All families with loved ones serving dent referred to President Saddam Hussein in this war can know this: Our forces will of Iraq. The Office of the Press Secretary be coming home as soon as their work is also released a Spanish language transcript done. of this address.

Remarks on Operation Iraqi Freedom and an Exchange With Reporters March 23, 2003

The President. I am pleased with the on course, we’re determined, and we’re progress that we’re making in the early making good progress. stages of a—of the war to rid Iraq of its I’ll answer a few questions. weapons of mass destruction and to free Q. Sir, have you seen the tape—— the Iraqi people from the clutches of a Q. Mr. President—— brutal dictatorship. The President. One at a time, please. Today in our church service, Laura and Scott [Scott Lindlaw, Associated Press]. I prayed for the coalition forces, those in Thank you. the coalition forces who lost their lives. We pray for their families. We ask God’s comfort for those who mourn today. And we Prisoners of War thank all the coalition forces for their brav- Q. What do you know about the pris- ery and courage in Operation Iraqi Free- oners—anything, sir? dom. The President. I’ve been briefed, I’m It is evident that it’s going to take a constantly briefed by the Pentagon and while to achieve our objective, but we’re through the National Security Office. I would—I don’t know all the details yet.

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I do know that we expect them to be treat- that Saddam Hussein wouldn’t destroy ed humanely, just like we’ll treat any pris- them. As a matter of fact, I had frequently oners of theirs that we capture humanely. talked about the southern oilfields or oil- I think it’s an interesting contrast that fields in general in my declaratory policy. a lot of their soldiers welcome American Tommy Franks put a plan in place that troops. They’re surrendering gleefully, hap- moved on those oilfields quickly, and at pily. And they’ll be treated well. And I least in the south, they are secure. And ask you to ask the Defense Department that is positive news for all of us. for further details. Most of the south is now in coalition Patsy [Patricia Wilson, Reuters]. hands. Obviously, there’s pockets of resist- Saddam Hussein/Operation Iraqi Freedom ance in a place like Basra. We’re making great progress—in the west, we’re making Q. Sir, what do you know about Saddam great progress. The area, the launch sites Hussein and his fate, if anything? for the scuds, while certainly not 100 per- The President. I know that Saddam cent secure, but we’ve made good progress. Hussein is losing control of his country, And so I can assure the American people that we’re slowly but surely achieving our we’re making good progress, and I also can objective. assure them that this is just the beginning It’s important for the American people of a tough fight. to realize that this war has just begun, that it may seem like a long time because of Prisoners of War all the action on TV, but in terms of the overall strategy, we’re just in the beginning Q. Sir, have you specifically been told phases, and that we’re executing a plan that American POWs have been executed? which will make it easier to achieve objec- And even—— tive and, at the same time, spare innocent The President. I have not been told that. life. I have been told that we have a problem And I’m most proud of our troops and with potential capture. I’m waiting to— coalition troops for showing their bravery when I get back upstairs, I’ll talk back to and skill. the Pentagon again. I was told early this Larry [Larry McQuillan, USA Today]. morning that perhaps our troops were cap- Q. Mr. President, you know—at this tured. Maybe between the time I left point, can you tell Americans, I mean, is Camp David and here I’ll learn more. But the war progressing the way you expected I am concerned about our troops. Obvi- it to? ously, anytime one of our soldiers loses a The President. Yes, Larry, it is. It is, and life, I grieve with their parents and their I—the air campaign is achieving its objec- loved ones. And if there is somebody captive, and the ground campaign is also tured—and it looks like there may be— achieving objective. We’re slowly but surely I expect those people to be treated hu- taking control of that country so that we manely. can free the people of Iraq and eventually clear that country of weapons of mass de- Regime Change struction. We’ve made good progress. Q. What is your level of confidence that One of the big concerns early on was the Iraqi regime will surrender or collapse the southern oilfields. As you all remember, before U.S. forces need to be engaged in we had discussions about that. There was a fight in Baghdad? a lot of speculation about whether or not The President. I—all I know is we’ve got coalition forces would be able to get to a game plan, a strategy to free the Iraqi the southern oilfields in time, before—so people from Saddam Hussein and rid his

290 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Mar. 23 country of weapons of mass destruction, Prisoners of War/Casualties and we’re on plan. Q. Mr. President, what are you saying Bill [Bill Plante, CBS News], and then to the families of those U.S. soldiers who Mike [Mike Allen, Washington Post]. appear to be killed or captured and are paraded on television—— Prisoners of War The President. I say to the families, Q. Iraqi TV has shown what appear to thank—I thank them for the sacrifice they be American POWs and also what appear make, and we pray with them. I pray for to be American dead. Your reaction? God’s comfort and God’s healing powers The President. I expect them to be treat- to anybody, coalition force, American, Brit, ed—the POWs I expect to be treated hu- anybody who loses a life in this—in our manely. And—just like we’re treating the efforts to make the world more peaceful prisoners that we have captured humanely. and more free. If not, the people who mistreat the pris- Ed [Ed Chen, Los Angeles Times]. oners will be treated as war criminals. Weapons of Mass Destruction Mike. Q. Mr. President, are you surprised the enemy has not used any weapons of mass Saddam Hussein destruction? Q. Mr. President, do you retain hope The President. I am thankful the enemy that Saddam Hussein will go into exile, and has not used any weapons of mass destruc- are there any active negotiations about tion. And we will continue employing a that? strategy to make it difficult for the enemy The President. You know, Mike, I—he to use weapons of mass destruction. had his chance to go into exile. I gave A couple more; then I’ve got to go. him a 48-hour ultimatum to leave the country so that we could disarm Iraq peacefully. Funding for Operation Iraqi Freedom He chose not to go into exile. Q. Mr. President, what will you be telling the congressional leaders tomorrow about Turkey the cost—— The President. Wait until I talk to them. Q. Mr. President, how concerned are you It’s probably best they hear it directly from about the situation in the north and Tur- me. key’s statement that they will send troops in there and that Americans might get Prisoners of War caught in some kind of crossfire up there? Q. Mr. President, to your knowledge, is The President. We have got more troops there any hope of getting these soldiers up north, and we’re making it very clear back? to the Turks that we expect them not to The President. What? come into northern Iraq. We’re in constant Q. To your knowledge, is there any touch with the Turkish military as well as chance of getting these soldiers back? Turkish politicians. They know our policy, The President. Of course. and it’s a firm policy. And we’ve made it very clear to them we expect them not Humanitarian Aid for Iraq to go into northern Iraq as well as—and Q. Mr. President, how swiftly do you ex- they know we’re working with the Kurds pect to get humanitarian aid—— to make sure there’s not an incident that The President. Good question. I appre- would cause there to be an excuse to go ciate you asking that question. The question into northern Iraq. is on humanitarian aid. In the south of

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Iraq, coalition forces have worked hard to free from that dictatorship, life will be a make the port area secure, to make the lot better. transit of humanitarian aid as safe as pos- But we also understand we have an obli- sible. As—I was told this morning in my gation—and this is just not America; it’s briefings that humanitarian aid should coalition forces—have an obligation to put begin moving—massive amounts of human- food and medicine in places so the Iraqi itarian aid should begin moving within the people can live a normal life and have next 36 hours. And that’s going to be very hope. And that’s exactly what’s going to positive news for a lot of people who have happen shortly when the area is com- suffered a long time under Saddam Hus- pletely—safe enough to move the equip- sein. ment forward. We’ve got a massive ground assault going Listen, thank you all. on, and right behind it will be a massive movement of humanitarian aid to help the President’s Stamina people of Iraq. We have made that promise Q. How are you holding up, sir? to the people of this country that we will The President. I feel just fine. Thank you do everything we can to protect innocent all. life. And we’re doing that. And we’ll do everything we can to help the Iraqi people. NOTE: The President spoke at 1 p.m. on the First thing, of course, that will help the South Lawn at the White House upon his Iraqi people is to rid them from a brutal return from Camp David, MD. In his re- dictator, somebody who has stayed in marks, he referred to President Saddam Hus- power through mutilation and rape and tor- sein of Iraq. The Office of the Press Sec- ture, somebody who has starved his own retary also released a Spanish language tran- people so he could build palaces. When script of these remarks.

Remarks at the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia March 25, 2003

Thank you all. Please be seated. Well, Iraqi regime will be ended. The Iraqi peo- good morning. Thanks for coming. I’ve just ple will be free, and our world will be met with our leaders here at the Pentagon, more secure and peaceful. who are monitoring the course of our battle The people of our military and their fam- to free Iraq and rid that country of weap- ilies are showing great courage, and some ons of mass destruction. Our coalition is have suffered great loss. America is grateful on a steady advance. We’re making good to all those who have sacrificed in our progress. cause. We’re fighting an enemy that knows no Our coalition is strong. It’s bound to- rules of law, that will wear civilian uni- gether by the principle of protecting not forms, that is willing to kill in order to only this Nation but all nations from a bru- continue the reign of fear of Saddam Hus- tal regime that is armed with weapons that sein. But we’re fighting with bravery and could kill thousands of innocent people. courage. America has more than 200,000 men and We cannot know the duration of this war. women engaged in Operation Iraqi Free- Yet we know its outcome: We will prevail. dom. The Iraqi regime will be disarmed. The

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Our troops also continue to fight bravely the world who care deeply about the in other fronts of this war on terror. In human condition inside that country. Afghanistan last week, coalition forces Our campaign in Iraq involves assistance launched Operation Valiant Strike against of coalition partners and friends in the terrorists and their allies in the southern Middle East. The funding request to Con- mountains of Afghanistan. Of course, we gress will help reduce the economic bur- have troops standing watch in other parts dens these countries have experienced in of the world to protect and maintain the supporting our efforts. Also included are peace. All the members of the military, funds essential to waging and helping our abroad, at home, or here in this important partners wage the broader war on terror, building, are bound together by a great which continues in Afghanistan, in the Phil- cause, to defend the American people and ippines, and elsewhere. advance the universal hope of freedom. We continue to fight the war on terror America has accepted this responsibility. by protecting our homeland. At the Federal We also accept the cost of supporting our level, I’m requesting more resources for the military and the missions we give it. Today Departments of Justice and Homeland Se- I’m sending the Congress a wartime sup- curity, to deal with this period of uncer- plemental appropriations request of $74.7 tainty. We’ll provide resources for patrolling billion, to fund needs directly arising from and safeguarding our borders, funds to help the Iraqi conflict and our global war against the FBI investigate domestic threats in this terror. time of war, additional funding for the My request to Congress will pay for the Coast Guard for port security in the United massive task of transporting a fully States and in the Middle East. equipped military force, both active duty In this time of heightened security, we and reserve, to a region halfway around are expecting States and communities to the world. This money will cover the cur- take on greater responsibilities to protect rent cost of fueling our ships and aircraft critical infrastructure. And so I’m seeking and tanks and of airlifting tons of supplies additional resources to help States and cit- into the theater of operations. The supple- ies make these preparations for the protec- mental will also allow us to replace the tion of our citizens. high-tech munitions we are now directing Yesterday I informed the leaders of Con- against Saddam Hussein’s regime. gress of these spending requests. The situa- My request includes funds for relief and tion in any war is fluid. I reminded them reconstruction in a free Iraq. This Nation of that fact, and so I’m asking Congress and our coalition partners are committed for flexibility in how these funds can be to making sure that the Iraqi citizens who allocated. They heard that message. They have suffered under a brutal tyrant have also heard the message that the need is got the food and medicine needed as soon urgent. The wartime supplemental is dias possible. rectly related to winning this war and to Tommy Franks briefed us this morning securing the peace that will follow this war. about coalition efforts to demine the har- I ask Congress to act quickly and respon- bors—the harbor—to make sure that our sibly. humanitarian relief can be delivered safely One thing is for certain: Business as to the Iraqi people. Coalition forces are usual on Capitol Hill can’t go on during working hard to make sure that when the this time of war. And by that I mean the food and medicine begins to move, it does supplemental should not be viewed as an so in a safe way. And soon, the Iraqi people opportunity to add spending that is unre- will see the great compassion of not only lated, unwise, and unnecessary. Every dol- the United States but other nations around lar we spend must serve the interest of

293 Mar. 25 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 our Nation, and the interest of our Nation May God continue to look out after those in this supplemental is to win this war and who defend the peace and freedom. And to be able to keep the peace. may God continue to bless America. Thank Eighteen months ago, this building came you. under attack. From that day to this, we have been engaged in a new kind of war, and we are winning. We will not leave our NOTE: The President spoke at 10:30 a.m. in future to be decided by terrorist groups the Eisenhower Dining Room. In his re- or terrorist regimes. At every turn in this marks, he referred to President Saddam Hus- conflict, Americans can be confident in the sein of Iraq and Gen. Tommy R. Franks, people who wear our Nation’s uniform. We USA, combatant commander, U.S. Central support them. We are thankful for their Command. The Office of the Press Secretary service in places of great danger, in this also released a Spanish language transcript hour of great need. of these remarks.

Letter to the Speaker of the House of Representatives Transmitting a Supplemental Budget Request To Support Military and Humanitarian Operations in Iraq and To Ensure Domestic Safety March 25, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker: liberate the Iraqi people, and we will pre- On October 16, 2002, I signed into law vail. the ‘‘Authorization for Use of Military Today, I submit a request for 2003 sup- Force Against Iraq Resolution of 2002’’ plemental appropriations to support De- (Public Law 107–243). After condemning partment of Defense operations in Iraq and Saddam Hussein’s continued possession of to strengthen the capabilities of our friends chemical and biological weapons, obstruc- and allies who will share the burden of tion of inspections, and brutal repression military and stabilization activities. Dis- of the Iraqi people, the Congress affirmed, arming and liberating Iraq is a first step. ‘‘Iraq poses a continuing threat to the na- This request also provides immediate hu- tional security of the United States and manitarian relief, support for reconstruction, and the development of a free-market international peace and security of the Per- democracy in Iraq. Finally, the request will sian Gulf region and remains in material enhance the safety and well-being of Amer- and unacceptable breach of its international icans at home and abroad with investments obligations.’’ managed by the Department of State, the Subsequent to enactment of Public Law Department of Homeland Security, and 107–243, the United Nations Security other agencies. Council unanimously agreed to Resolution This request reflects urgent and essential 1441 offering Iraq one final chance to dis- requirements. Much of the funding has arm. After more than a decade of deceit been requested with flexible authorities. and defiance, the regime, yet again, failed This flexibility will ensure requirements can to ‘‘fully and unconditionally’’ comply. Iraq be immediately addressed as they arise de- continues to pose a grave danger to global spite the unpredictable scope, duration, and peace and security. The United States and intensity of operations. I ask the Congress our allies must seek to disarm Iraq and to appropriate the funds as requested, and

294 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Mar. 26 promptly send the bill to me for signature. in uniform, to help enhance the security I urge the Congress to refrain from attach- of America and her citizens, and to estab- ing items not directly related to the emer- lish an Iraqi nation, free, prospering and gency at hand. at peace with its neighbors. This supplemental request provides es- Sincerely, sential support to help guarantee the success and safety of our men and women GEORGE W. BUSH

Letter to Congressional Leaders Transmitting a Report Required by the Enhanced Border Security and Visa Entry Reform Act of 2002 March 25, 2003

Dear lllll : der Inspection System (IBIS) and the Con- Enclosed is the report to the Congress, sular Lookout and Support System prepared by my Administration, identifying (CLASS). Since September 11, more than Federal law enforcement and intelligence seven million names of persons with Fed- community information identified as nec- eral Bureau of Investigation (FBI) records essary by the Department of State (DOS) were added to CLASS so that now it con- to screen visa applicants and the Depart- tains approximately 13 million name ment of Homeland Security (DHS) to records from DOS, DHS, the Drug En- screen applicants for admission to the forcement Administration, and intelligence United States, and to identify those aliens resources. The U.S. Customs Service has inadmissible or deportable under the Immi- also provided 20,000 name records of seri- gration and Nationality Act. I am for- ous violators to CLASS. The CLASS now warding this report to fulfill the require- has over 78,000 records of suspected terror- ment under section 201(b) of the Enhanced ists, up 40 percent in the past year. Since Border Security and Visa Entry Reform Act September 11, 2001, approximately 20,000 of 2002 (Public Law 107–173). new terrorist lookouts have been entered The Federal Government is working to into the DOS’s TIPOFF system. improve data-sharing capabilities between Furthermore, an Entry-Exit System agencies. To support this effort, the De- (EES) project team is building an inte- partment of Homeland Security will create grated, automated information EES to en- an inventory of essential information need- able existing/ emerging entry exit processes. ed to secure our Nation; determine hori- This core EES will integrate electronic ar- zontal and vertical integration require- rival and departure manifests, electronic ments; define target architecture for infor- visa data, Federal agency lookouts, traveler mation integration; and, determine the re- information, Student and Exchange Visitor sources necessary to integrate information. Information System (SEVIS) data, Immi- In the short term, DHS will work to vir- gration Benefit information, overstay infor- tually consolidate or link watch lists from mation as well as perform risk assessment multiple agencies and create a homeland analysis and lookout queries, and incor- security portal for users at all levels of gov- porate biometric technology. ernment. Additionally, consular officers and Additionally, the newly established Ter- immigration inspectors have access to more rorist Threat Integration Center (TTIC) complete intelligence and criminal history will analyze terrorist-related information information through the Interagency Bor- collected domestically and abroad in order

295 Mar. 26 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 to form the most comprehensive picture tribute to securing our borders and proof the terrorist threats we face. The TTIC tecting our Nation. will also play a lead role in overseeing a Sincerely, national counter-terrorism tasking and requirements system and in maintaining an GEORGE W. BUSH up-to-date database of known and suspected terrorists that will be accessible to NOTE: Identical letters were sent to Richard appropriate officials at all levels of govern- G. Lugar, chairman, Senate Committee on ment. The TTIC represents an important Foreign Relations; Orrin G. Hatch, chair- milestone in our effort to improve collabo- man, Senate Committee on the Judiciary; Pat ration between and among the intelligence Roberts, chairman, Senate Committee on In- and law enforcement communities. telligence; Henry J. Hyde, chairman, House These efforts and others are improving Committee on International Relations; F. available information and systems while James Sensenbrenner, Jr., chairman, House planning for the development of compatible Committee on the Judiciary; and Porter J. information systems. This will allow Fed- Goss, chairman, House Committee on Intel- eral, State, and local entities to share infor- ligence. This letter was released by the Office mation nationwide that will ultimately con- of the Press Secretary on March 26.

Letter to Congressional Leaders Transmitting a Report on North Atlantic Treaty Organization Enlargement March 25, 2003

Dear Mr. Chairman: to the North Atlantic Treaty on the acces- On August 26, 2002, I submitted a report sion of any country, the President shall sub- ‘‘regarding each country being actively con- mit to the appropriate congressional com- sidered for NATO membership.’’ That re- mittees a report, in classified and unclassi- port was prepared pursuant to section fied forms: 3(2)(E)(i) of the Resolution of Ratification (I) updating the information contained in to the Protocols to the North Atlantic Trea- the report required under clause (i) ty of 1949 on the Accession of Poland, with respect to that country; and Hungary, and the Czech Republic, adopted (II) including an analysis of that country’s on April 30, 1998. ability to meet the full range of the As you know, on November 22, 2002, financial burdens of NATO member- I joined the other leaders of NATO in in- ship, and the likely impact upon the viting Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, military effectiveness of NATO of the Romania, Slovakia, and Slovenia to become country invited for accession talks, if members of NATO. I am firmly convinced the country were to be admitted to that the membership of these nations will NATO.’’ advance the cause of freedom, and make I am hereby providing this updated re- NATO stronger for the future. port, as prepared by my Administration. In Section 3(2)(E)(ii) of the 1998 Resolution doing so, I note with appreciation the con- of Ratification requires classified and un- tinued and strong bipartisan support that classified updates to the report submitted the Congress has shown on the issue of on August 26, 2002. As stated in that Reso- NATO enlargement. lution, ‘‘Prior to the signing of any protocol

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Sincerely, on Appropriations; Henry J. Hyde, chairman, House Committee on International Rela- GEORGE W. BUSH tions; Duncan Hunter, chairman, House NOTE: Identical letters were sent to Richard Committee on Armed Services; and C.W. G. Lugar, chairman, Senate Committee on Bill Young, chairman, House Committee on Foreign Relations; John W. Warner, chair- Appropriations. This letter was released by man, Senate Committee on Armed Services; the Office of the Press Secretary on March Ted Stevens, chairman, Senate Committee 26.

Remarks at MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa, Florida March 26, 2003

The President. Thank you all. Thank you resenting the Marine Corps so well, and all. Thank you all very much. General all the fighting men and women. DeLong, thanks for such a kind introduc- I’m proud, also, to be here with Charles tion. Laura and I are really proud to be Holland, commander of SOCOM; the wing here with the good men and women of commander of MacDill Air Force Base, CENTCOM and MacDill Air Force Base, Colonel Tanker Snyder. He told me that Florida. was his given name, Tanker. [Laughter] We are pleased to see so many family That’s a heck of a name, Tanker. [Laugh- members who are here. We want to—we ter] thank you for coming. And I want you to Of course, I’m really proud of your Gov- know your Nation appreciates your commit- ernor. ment and your sacrifice in the cause of Audience members. God bless you, sir! peace and freedom. [Laughter] We’re also proud to be here today with The President. I want to thank members our friends and allies, representative of the of the Florida congressional delegation who 48 nations across the world who have flew down with us today on Air Force One, joined America in Operation Iraqi Free- starting with the chairman of the Appro- dom. Over the last week, the world has priations Committee, a Floridian committed witnessed the skill and honor and resolve to making sure our military has what it of our military in the course of battle. We takes to win war and, therefore, be able have seen the character of this new genera- to keep the peace—the chairman, Bill tion of American Armed Forces. We’ve Young. As well, Congressman Jim Davis, seen their daring against ruthless enemies Mike Bilirakis, Adam Putnam, and Kath- and their decency to an oppressed people. erine Harris came down today. I know Millions of Americans are proud of our we’ve got some of the mayors from the military, and so am I. I am honored to local area here: Rick Baker, Brian Aungst, be the Commander in Chief. and my old buddy Dick Greco, the mayor I appreciate very much General Peter of Tampa, Florida—for being here. Pace, Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs I want to thank everybody in uniform of Staff, who has joined us from Wash- who is here today. Thank you for your serv- ington, DC, today. He is representative of ice, your sacrifice, and your love of Amer- the caliber of our generals. He’s one of ica. I appreciate the members of the the finest people I know. I’m proud you’re United States Coast Guard who are here here, General Pace. Thank you for rep- today. Our Coast Guard is deployed in the

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Middle East; at the same time, it protects is disarming a dangerous enemy and freeing this homeland of ours. And you’re doing a proud people. a fine job on behalf of the American peo- Every nation in our coalition understands ple, all up and down the coastlines of this the terrible threat we face from weapons great country. of mass destruction. Every nation rep- I want to thank members of the Florida resented here refuses to live in a future Army National Guard who are here. And of fear, at the mercy of terrorists and ty- I suspect we might have a few veterans rants. And every nation here today shares as well as retired members of our military. the same resolve: We will be relentless in I want to thank you all for your service, our pursuit of victory. for setting such a clear example for future Our military is making good progress in generations of those who wear our uniform. Iraq; yet this war is far from over. As they I think you’ll agree that our military is not approach Baghdad, our fighting units are letting you down when it comes to uphold- facing the most desperate elements of a ing the great tradition of peace through doomed regime. We cannot know the dura- strength. tion of this war, but we are prepared for One of the problems with being the the battle ahead. We cannot predict the President is you always end up being the final day of the Iraqi regime, but I can last guy here. [Laughter] So I’m sorry I assure you, and I assure the long-suffering didn’t get to hear Toby Keith and Darryl people of Iraq, there will be a day of reck- Worley. But I want to thank you all for oning for the Iraqi regime, and that day coming and providing your talents today in is drawing near. support of our efforts to make the world Many of you here today were also in- a more peaceful place. I also want to thank volved in the liberation of Afghanistan. The Chaplain Stone. I appreciate your words military demands are very different in Iraq. of prayer for our men and women in uni- Yet our coalition is showing the same spirit, form, especially for your prayers for the the same resolve—that spirit and resolve loved ones of American and British troops that destroyed the Al Qaida terror camps, whose lives were lost. that routed the Taliban and freed the peo- People across this country are praying. ple of Afghanistan. They are praying that they hope those fami- In Iraq today, our military is focused and lies and loved ones will find comfort and unwavering. We have an effective plan of grace in their sorrow. We pray that God battle and the flexibility to meet every chal- will bless and receive each of the fallen, lenge. Nothing—nothing—will divert us and we thank God that liberty found such from our clear mission. We will press on brave defenders. through every hardship. We will overcome At MacDill Air Force Base, I know every danger, and we will prevail. you’re proud of a certain Army general who It has been 6 days since the major couldn’t be with us today on the account ground war began. It’s been 5 days since of some pressing business. [Laughter] the major air war began. And every day Tommy Franks has my respect, the respect has brought us closer to our objective. At of our military, and the thanks of the the opening of Operation Iraqi Freedom, United States of America. Special Forces helped to secure airfields MacDill is the command center of our and bridges and oilfields, to clear the way Special Operations Forces, the silent war- for our forces and to prevent sabotage and riors who were first on the ground there environmental catastrophe. Our pilots and in Iraq. And here at CENTCOM, you co- cruise missiles have struck vital military tar- ordinate the work of a grand coalition that gets with lethal precision.

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We’ve destroyed the base of a terrorist tion forces are skilled and courageous, and group in northern Iraq that sought to attack we are honored to have them by our side. America and Europe with deadly poisons. In the early stages of this war, the world We have moved over 200 miles to the is getting a clearer view of the Iraqi regime north, toward Iraq’s capital, in the last 3 and the evil at its heart. In the ranks of days. And the dictator’s major Republican that regime are men whose idea of courage Guard units are now under direct and in- is to brutalize unarmed prisoners. They tense attack. Day by day, Saddam Hussein wage attacks while posing as civilians. They is losing his grip on Iraq. Day by day, the use real civilians as human shields. They Iraqi people are closer to freedom. pretend to surrender, then fire upon those We are also taking every action we can who show them mercy. This band of war to prevent the Iraqi regime from using its criminals has been put on notice: The day hidden weapons of mass destruction. We of Iraq’s liberation will also be a day of are attacking the command structure that justice. could order the use of those weapons. Coa- And in the early stages of this war, we lition troops have taken control of hundreds have also seen the honor of the American of square miles of territory to prevent the military and our coalition. Protecting inno- launch of missiles and chemical or biologi- cent civilians is a central commitment of cal weapons. our war plan. Our enemy in this war is Every victory in this campaign and every the Iraqi regime, not the people who have sacrifice serves the purpose of defending suffered under it. As we bring justice to innocent lives, in America and across the a dictator, today we started bringing hu- world, from the weapons of terror. We will manitarian aid in large amounts to an op- not wait to meet this danger with fire- pressed land. fighters and police and doctors on the We are treating Iraqi prisoners of war streets of our own cities. Instead, we are according to the highest standards of law meeting the danger today with our Army, and decency. Coalition doctors are working Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, and Ma- to save the lives of the wounded, including rines. Iraqi soldiers. One of our servicemen said All the nations in our coalition are con- this about the injured Iraqis he treated: tributing to our steady progress. British ‘‘We can’t blame them for the mistreatment ground forces have seized strategic towns that their Government is doing to our sol- and ports. The Royal Air Force is striking diers. I’m all for treating them. That’s what targets throughout Iraq. The Royal Navy we do. That’s our job.’’ is taking command of coastal waters. The Our entire coalition has a job to do, and Australian military is providing naval gun- it will not end with the liberation of Iraq. fire support and Special Forces and fighter We will help the Iraqi people to find the aircraft on missions deep in Iraq. Polish benefits and assume the duties of self-gov- military forces have secured an Iraqi oil ernment. The form of those institutions will platform in the Persian Gulf. A Danish sub- arise from Iraq’s own culture and its own marine is monitoring Iraqi intelligence, pro- choices. Yet, this much is certain: The 24 viding early warning. Czech, Slovak, Polish, million people of Iraq have lived too long and Romanian forces, soon to be joined under a violent criminal gang calling itself by Ukrainian and Bulgarian forces, are for- a government. ward-deployed in the region, prepared to Iraqis are a good and gifted people. They respond in the event of an attack of weap- deserve better than a life spent bowing be- ons of mass destruction anywhere in the fore a dictator. The people of Iraq deserve region. Spain is providing important to stand on their feet as free men and logistical and humanitarian support. Coali- women, the citizens of a free country.

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This goal of a free and peaceful Iraq mile, all the way to Baghdad and all the unites our coalition. And this goal comes way to victory. from the deepest convictions of America. Thank you all. And may God bless Amer- The freedom you defend is the right of ica. every person and the future of every nation. The liberty we prize is not American’s NOTE: The President spoke at 10:42 a.m. in gift to the world; it is God’s gift to human- Hangar 3. In his remarks, he referred to Gen. ity. Tommy R. Franks, USA, combatant com- The Army Special Forces define their mander, Lt. Gen. Michael P. DeLong, mission in a motto: ‘‘To Liberate the Op- USMC, deputy commander, and Maj. Ken- pressed.’’ Generations of men and women neth Stone, USAF, chaplain, U.S. Central in uniform have served and sacrificed in Command; Gen. Charles R. Holland, USAF, this cause. Now the call of history has come commander, U.S. Special Operations Com- once again to all in our military and to mand; Col. David ‘‘Tanker’’ Snyder, USAF, all in our coalition. We are answering that commander, 6th Air Mobility Wing; Gov. Jeb call. We have no ambition in Iraq except Bush of Florida; Mayor Richard M. Baker the liberation of its people. We ask no re- of St. Petersburg, FL; Mayor Brian Aungst ward except a durable peace. And we will of Clearwater, FL; Mayor Dick A. Greco of accept no outcome short of complete and Tampa, FL; country music entertainers Toby final success. Keith and Darryl Worley; and President Sad- The path we are taking is not easy, and dam Hussein of Iraq. The Office of the Press it may be long. Yet we know our destina- Secretary also released a Spanish language tion. We will stay on the path, mile by transcript of these remarks.

Statement on Congressional Action on the Budget Resolution March 26, 2003

I commend the Senate Republican lead- provides for my entire economic growth- ership for its commitment to jobs and and-job creation plan. The House budget growth and for acting quickly to pass a took the bold steps necessary to boost our budget resolution, in sharp contrast to last economy, and we will work to ensure that year when the Senate did not even pass the final House-Senate budget provides the such a resolution. It is unfortunate that the growth measures American workers de- full Senate has failed to pass a budget that serve.

Statement on the Death of Senator Daniel Patrick Moynihan March 26, 2003

Laura and I are saddened by the death ministration as Co-Chairman of my Com- of Senator Daniel Patrick Moynihan. Sen- mission to Strengthen Social Security. Rep- ator Moynihan was an intellectual pioneer resenting the people of New York for 24 and a trusted adviser to Presidents of both years, Senator Moynihan was a leader in parties. I appreciated his service to my ad-

300 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Mar. 27 the Senate and was recognized for his com- committed his life to service and will be mitment to free trade, Social Security, free- sorely missed. We express our deepest sym- dom for people around the world, and pathies to Senator Moynihan’s family. equal opportunity for all Americans. He

The President’s News Conference With Prime Minister Tony Blair of the United Kingdom at Camp David, Maryland March 27, 2003

President Bush. Thank you all. It’s my the Iraqi regime will be ended; and the honor to welcome my friend and Prime long-suffering Iraqi people will be free. Minister of Great Britain Tony Blair back In decades of oppression, the Iraqi re- to Camp David. America has learned a lot gime has sought to instill the habits of fear about Tony Blair over the last weeks. We’ve in the daily lives of millions. Yet, soon, learned that he’s a man of his word. We’ve the Iraqis will have the confidence of a learned that he’s a man of courage, that free people. Our coalition will stand with he’s a man of vision. And we’re proud to the citizens of Iraq in the challenges ahead. have him as a friend. We are prepared to deliver humanitarian The United States and United Kingdom aid on a large scale and, as a matter of are acting together in a noble purpose. fact, are beginning to do so as we speak. We’re working together to make the world Today the Prime Minister and I also urge more peaceful. We’re working together to the United Nations to immediately resume make our respective nations and all the free the oil-for-food program. More than half nations of the world more secure, and the Iraqi people depend on this program we’re working to free the Iraqi people. as their sole source of food. This urgent humanitarian issue must not be politicized, British, American, Australian, Polish, and and the Security Council should give Sec- other coalition troops are sharing the duties retary-General Annan the authority to start of this war, and we’re sharing the sacrifices getting food supplies to those most in need of this war. Together, coalition forces are of assistance. advancing day by day, in steady progress, As we address the immediate suffering against the enemy. Slowly but surely, the of the Iraqi people, we’re also committed grip of terror around the throats of the to helping them over the long term. Iraq’s Iraqi people is being loosened. greatest long-term need is a representative We appreciate the bravery, the profes- government that protects the rights of all sionalism of the British troops and all coali- Iraqis. The form of this government will tion troops. Together we have lost people, be chosen by the Iraqi people, not imposed and the American people offer their prayers by outsiders. And the Prime Minister and to the loved ones of the British fallen, just I are confident that a free Iraq will be as we offer our prayers to the loved ones a successful nation. of our own troops who have fallen. History requires more of our coalition We’re now engaging the dictator’s most than the defeat of a terrible danger. I see hardened and most desperate units. The an opportunity, as does Prime Minister campaign ahead will demand further cour- Blair, to bring renewed hope and progress age and require further sacrifice. Yet we to the entire Middle East. Last June 24th, know the outcome: Iraq will be disarmed; I outlined a vision of two states, Israel and

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Palestine, living side by side in peace and disaster. We’ve disabled Iraq’s ability to security. Soon, we’ll release the roadmap launch external aggression from the west. that is designed to help turn that vision Our forces are now within 50 miles of into reality, and both America and Great Baghdad. They’ve surrounded Basra. Britain are strongly committed to imple- They’ve secured the key port of Umm menting that roadmap. Qasr. They’ve paved the way for humani- For nearly a century, the United States tarian aid to flow into the country. And and Great Britain have been allies in the they brought real damage on Iraq’s com- defense of liberty. We’ve opposed all the mand and control. So we can be confident great threats to peace and security in the that the goals that we have set ourselves world. We shared in the costly and heroic will be met. struggle against Nazism. We shared the re- I would like to pay tribute to the profes- solve and moral purpose of the cold war. sionalism and integrity of our forces and In every challenge, we’ve applied the com- those of the United States of America, our bined power of our nations to the cause other coalition allies, and to say how their of justice, and we’re doing the same today. professionalism, as well as their skill and Our alliance is strong; our resolve is firm; their bravery, stands in sharp contrast to and our mission will be achieved. the brutality of Saddam’s regime. Mr. Prime Minister. Day by day, we have seen the reality Prime Minister Blair. Thank you, Mr. of Saddam’s regime: His thugs prepared to President, and thank you for your welcome. kill their own people; the parading of pris- Thank you for your strength and for your leadership at this time. And I believe the oners of war; and now, the release of those alliance between the United States and pictures of executed British soldiers. If any- Great Britain has never been in better or one needed any further evidence of the stronger shape. depravity of Saddam’s regime, this atrocity Can I also offer the American people, provides it. It is yet one more flagrant on behalf of the British people, our condo- breach of all the proper conventions of war. lences, our sympathy, our prayers for the More than that, to the families of the sol- lives of those who have fallen in this con- diers involved, it is an act of cruelty beyond flict, just as we have offered the condo- comprehension. Indeed, it is beyond the lence, the sympathy, and the prayers to the comprehension of anyone with an ounce families of our own British servicemen. of humanity in their souls. Just under a week into this conflict, let On behalf of the British Government, I me restate our complete and total resolve. would like to offer my condolences particu- Saddam Hussein and his hateful regime will larly to the family and the friends of those be removed from power. Iraq will be dis- two brave young men who died in the serv- armed of weapons of mass destruction, and ice of their country and to the ordinary the Iraqi people will be free. That is our Iraqi people, to whom we are determined commitment; that is our determination; and to bring a better future. we will see it done. The future of the Iraqi people is one We had this morning a presentation of reason why much of our discussion has fo- the latest military situation, which shows cused on humanitarian issues. Again, here already the progress that has been made. we have the ship, the Sir Galahad, loaded It’s worth just recapping it, I think, for with tons of supplies destined for the peo- a moment. In less than a week, we have ple of Iraq. The other immediate humani- secured the southern oilfields and facilities tarian priority is to restart the U.N. oil- and so protected that resource and wealth for-food program, which the President and for the Iraqi people and avoided ecological I discussed and which I will be discussing

302 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Mar. 27 with Kofi Annan later this evening, and this And that is why, though of course our is urgent. aim is to rid Iraq of weapons of mass de- We also discussed the postconflict issues. struction and make our world more secure, Contrary to a lot of the comment on this, the justice of our cause lies in the liberation the position is exactly as the President and of the Iraqi people. And to them we say, I set out in the Azores, namely, that we we will liberate you. The day of your free- will work with the U.N., our allies and part- dom draws near. ners and bilateral donors. We will seek new President Bush. We’ll take two questions U.N. Security Council resolutions to affirm a side. We would hope that you would re- Iraq’s territorial integrity, to ensure rapid spect asking one question per question. delivery of humanitarian relief, and endorse Fournier [Ron Fournier, Associated an appropriate postconflict administration Press]. for Iraq. Q. That, of course, means I can ask each But let me emphasize once again that leader one question. our primary focus now is and must be the President Bush. No, it does not mean military victory, which we will prosecute that. Of course, you will anyway, but—— with the utmost vigor. And the immediate priority for the United Nations is, as the Duration of Operation Iraqi Freedom/U.N. President was indicating a moment or two ago, the oil-for-food program. Role in Postwar Iraq In addition, as has just been said to you, Q. Yes, sir. we had an excellent discussion of the Mid- First you, Mr. Prime Minister. Briefly, dle East, and we both share a complete Secretary Powell said yesterday that the determination to move this forward. It is, U.N. should have a role in postwar Iraq indeed, often overlooked that President but that the United States should have a Bush is the first U.S. President publicly significant, dominating control of post-Sad- to commit himself to a two-state solution, dam Iraq. How will that kind of talk play an Israel confident of its security and a in Europe? viable Palestinian state. And I welcome the And Mr. President, can you help me un- decision announced recently to publish the derstand the timing of this war? You talked roadmap as soon as the confirmation of the yesterday that it will be—we’re far from new Palestinian Prime Minister is properly over. Today you said it’s going slowly but administered. surely; we’re working our way to our end Finally, I would just like to say this: I goal. Given that the resistance is as strong think it is important that we recognize at as it’s been in the south and that we have this time that the goals that we are fighting what you call the most hardened, most des- for are just goals. Whatever the difficulty perate forces still around Baghdad, are we of war, let us just remember this is a re- to assume that this is going to last—could gime that has brutalized its people for well last months and not weeks—and not days? over two decades. Of course, there will be President Bush. I’ll answer that question people fiercely loyal to that regime who very quickly and then get to his. However will fight all the way; they have no option. long it takes to win. That’s—— But I have no doubt at all that the vast Q. ——take months? majority of ordinary Iraqi people are des- President Bush. However long it takes perate for a better and different future, to achieve our objective. And that’s impor- for Iraq to be free, for its government to tant for you to know, the American people be representative of its people, for the to know, our allies to know, and the Iraqi human rights of the people to be cared people to know. for. Q. It could be months?

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President Bush. However long it takes. last few days from a hope that this could That’s the answer to your question, and be over very, very quickly, to the military that’s what you’ve got to know. It isn’t a in both countries briefing about months. matter of timetable; it’s a matter of victory. My question is really, why do you think And the Iraqi people have got to know that shift has taken place? Did we under- that, see. They’ve got to know that they estimate the scale of Iraqi resistance? Has will be liberated and Saddam Hussein will it been the weather? Has it been poor ad- be removed, no matter how long it takes. vice at the beginning of the campaign, or Go ahead. is it a military question? Prime Minister Blair. In relation to the Prime Minister Blair. Well, you know, United Nations, there’s no doubt at all that in the previous two campaigns in which the United Nations has got to be closely I’ve been involved, Kosovo and Afghani- involved in this process. That’s not just stan, you reach this particular point where right; it’s in everyone’s interest that it hap- people start asking—ask us to speculate on pens. All I’m saying to people is, the exactly how much time it takes to get the focus—the immediate focus has got to be job done. The important thing is the job on the oil-for-food program, because that will be done. There is no point in entering is the thing we need to get sorted out with into a speculation of how long it takes ex- the United Nations literally in the next few cept to say we have been, I think, just days. under a week into this conflict. Now, be- Now, after that is the issue of the cause of the way it’s reported—you’ve got postconflict administration, where, as we this constant 24-hours-a-day media—it may said in our Azores statement, it’s important seem to people that it’s a lot longer than there, again, that the U.N. is involved and just under a week. But actually, it’s just that any postconflict administration in Iraq under a week. And in just under a week, is endorsed by it. there is a massive amount that has already But there are huge numbers of details been achieved. I mean, after all, coalition to be discussed with our allies as to exactly forces are within 50 miles of Baghdad; the how that is going to work. And also, the southern oilfields are secured; the west is conflict is not yet over; we are still in the protected from external aggression; we’ve conflict. So we will carry on discussing that got forces going into the north. with the U.N., with other allies. But I think Now, we will carry on until the job is that is best done in those discussions with- done. But there is absolutely no point, in out trying to do it by discussion through my view, of trying to set a time limit or the press conference or through mega- speculate on it, because it’s not set by time; phone diplomacy. it’s set by the nature of the job. All I would But about the role of the U.N. and the do, though, is point out to you that within basis of the principles we set out in the those 6 or 7 days, actually an enormous Azores Summit, there is simply no dif- amount has already been achieved. ference at all there. But there are a huge I think it’s also important just to make amount of details as to exactly how that one other point, which is we have very is to be implemented that have to be a deliberately wanted to do this in a way matter of discussion, and also, a matter of that protects the future of the Iraqi people a reflection of the reality that we will face too. And that’s one reason why we went when we get to the point of postconflict. immediately in to secure the oil installations Andy. in the south. If we weren’t able to do that, Q. Andrew Marr from the BBC. For then the prospects of the Iraqi people for both leaders, if I may. We’ve, all of us, the future would be blighted. That’s why noted quite a shift in emphasis over the the air campaign has targeted very, very

304 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Mar. 27 specifically, as specifically as we possibly mind. That’s victory, and we’ll achieve vic- can, military command and control, the as- tory. pects of Saddam’s regime, not the civilian Q. [Inaudible]. population. President Bush. Well, they’ve been sent So we’re doing this in the way that we a message in this war, too, in that if you set it out to achieve our objectives. We launch a weapon of mass destruction, you’ll will achieve our objectives. be tried as a war criminal. And I urge President Bush. I have nothing more to those Iraqi generals who have any doubt add to that. of our word to be careful, because we’ll Randy [Randall Mikkelsen, Reuters]. keep our word. We’re going to keep our word to the Iraqi people, and we’ll keep War Crimes/Weapons of Mass Destruction our word to those war criminals in Iraq. Prime Minister Blair. Adam [Adam Q. Mr. President, you’ve raised the possi- Boulton, Sky News]. bility of holding Iraqis accountable for war crimes. I’m wondering if now if you could Nature of the Coalition/Execution of British describe what war crimes you think they’ve Soldiers committed to date. And secondly, sir, Q. I’d like to break the rule, because should the Iraqis be prepared for U.S. re- I don’t think we know the details of why taliation with nuclear weapons if they were you’re using this word ‘‘executed’’ about the to attack coalition forces with weapons of British servicemen. I would like if you mass destruction? could explain that. President Bush. You heard the Prime But could I ask you both—you both went Minister eloquently talk about the loss of into the history, the justness of the cause British life. They were murdered, unarmed that you believe that this war is. Why is soldiers executed. I mean, that’s a war it then, that if you go back to that history, crime. But you know, I’m not surprised. if you go back over the last century or, This man Saddam Hussein has tortured and indeed, recent conflicts in your political ca- brutalized his people for a long, long time. reers, you have not got the support of peo- We had reports the other day of a dis- ple who have been firm allies, like the sident who had his tongue cut out and was French, like the Germans, like the Turkish? tied to the stake in the town square, and Why haven’t you got their support? he bled to death. That’s how Saddam President Bush. We’ve got a huge coali- Hussein retains power. tion. As a matter of fact, the coalition that His sons are brutal, brutal people. we’ve assembled today is larger than one They’re barbaric in nature. So I’m not sur- assembled in 1991 in terms of the number prised he’s committing crimes against our of nations participating. I’m very pleased soldiers. I’m not surprised to hear stories with the size of our coalition. about his thugs killing their own citizens I was down yesterday at CENTCOM and and trying to blame it on coalition forces. met with many of the generals from the I’m not surprised to know that regular army countries represented in our coalition, and forces are trying to desert but get blown they’re proud to be side by side with our away by fellow Iraqi citizens. I’m not sur- allies. This is a vast coalition that believes prised, because the nature of the man who in our cause, and I’m proud of their partici- has run the country for a long period of pation. time. Q. They’re not Western allies. Why not? If he uses weapons of mass destruction, President Bush. We have plenty of West- that will just prove our case. And we will ern allies. We’ve got—I mean, we can give deal with it. We’ve got one objective in you the list. Ally after ally after ally has

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stood with us and continues to stand with the diplomatic process. We tried to make us, and we are extremely proud of their the diplomatic process work, but we participation. weren’t able to do so. Prime Minister Blair. Can I—in relation And the other reason why I think it is to our soldiers, the reason I used the lan- important that we act and why, indeed, we guage I did was because of the cir- have many, many allies, is because people cumstances that we know. do know that this is a brutal regime. That And the reason why I think it is impor- is not the reason for us initiating this ac- tant to recognize the strength of our alli- tion—that is in relation to weapons of mass ance—yes, there are countries that disagree destruction. But it is a reason why, if we with what we are doing. I mean, there’s do so, as we are doing, we do so in the no point in hiding it. There’s been a divi- full knowledge that we are, indeed, going sion. And you obviously have to take and to bring a better future for the Iraqi peo- go and ask those other countries why ple. they’re not with us, and they will give you And if you just want one statistic—al- the reasons why they disagree. But I think though statistics, I’m afraid, never have the what is important is to bear in mind two same emotional appeal as pictures, but we things. First of all, there are an immense don’t see these pictures of what has hap- number of countries that do agree with us. pened in Iraq in the past—but just one I mean, I hear people constantly say to statistic: Over the past 5 years, 400,000 me, ‘‘Europe is against what you’re doing.’’ Iraqi children under the age of 5 died of That is not true. There is a part of Europe malnutrition and disease, preventively, but that is against what we are doing. There died because of the nature of the regime are many existing members of the Euro- under which they are living. Now, that is pean Union and virtually all the new mem- why we’re acting. bers of the European Union that strongly And yes, there are divisions in the inter- support what we are doing. So there is national community. There are many peo- a division, but we have many allies. ple on our side; there are those that oppose And the second point I’d make is this, us. But that is for us, I’m afraid—— that I understand why people hesitate be- Q. ——why do they—— fore committing to conflict and to war. War Prime Minister Blair. Well, I’m afraid, is a brutal and a bloody business. But we Adam, that is a question to ask to other are faced with the situation where Saddam people as well as to us. All I can tell you Hussein has been given 12 years to disarm is why we are acting and why we believe voluntarily of weapons of mass destruction our cause to be just. And yes, at the end that the whole of the international commu- of this whole process, we need to go back nity accepts is a threat, and he has not over it and ask why this has happened. done so. Instead, what we have had is 12 But I simply say to you that if the world years in which he has remained in power walks away from the security threat facing with these weapons intact and brutalized us and if we back down and take no action his own people. against Saddam, think of the signal that Now, we felt we had come to the point would have sent right across the world to where if we wanted to take a stand against every brutal dictator, to every terrorist what I believe to be the dominant security group. threat of our time, which is the combina- Now, we believe that we had to act. Oth- tion of weapons of mass destruction in the ers have disagreed. As I say, at some point, hands of unstable, repressive states and ter- we will have to come back, and we’ll have rorist groups, if we wanted to take a stand, to discuss how the disagreement arose. But then we had to act. And we went through I have no doubt that we’re doing the right

306 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Mar. 28 thing. I have no doubt that our cause is NOTE: The President’s news conference just, and I have no doubt that were we began at 11 a.m. in the hangar. In his re- to walk away from this conflict at this time, marks, he referred to President Saddam Hus- we would be doing a huge disservice to sein of Iraq and Secretary-General Kofi future generations. Annan of the United Nations. President Bush. Thank you all.

Statement on House of Representatives Action on Amber Alert System Legislation March 27, 2003

As we take steps abroad to make the pand and improve the Amber Alert system, world a safer place for all, there are impor- including allocating existing Federal re- tant steps we can take at home to make sources to this effort and appointing a Fed- America a safer place for children. eral coordinator within the Department of I commend the House for acting today Justice. on legislation that will help expand, en- Protecting our children is a shared pri- hance, and coordinate the successful Amber ority for the American people and Federal, Alert system across our Nation. I look for- State, and local authorities. We must use ward to legislation reaching my desk as every resource possible to find and safely quickly as possible so that I may sign it return missing children to their families and into law. their homes, just as we will continue to The prevention and investigation of child use every tool within the law to vigorously abductions will always be a top priority in my administration. That is why my adminis- prosecute and severely punish those who tration began taking steps last year to ex- would do our children harm.

Remarks to National Veterans Organizations March 28, 2003

Good afternoon. Thanks for coming, and finest traditions of our country and of our welcome to the people’s house. It is my military. They are making great progress honor to welcome distinguished veterans to in the war in Iraq. They are showing great the White House. I’m especially pleased courage, and they are making this country to have met with leaders from the veterans proud. organizations at this crucial time for our I’m honored that Tony Principi intro- country. duced me. I’m proud of his service to our The men and women who have worn country, not only as a Vietnam vet but now the Nation’s uniform set an example of as the head of the Veterans Affairs—De- service and an example of sacrifice for fu- partment of Veterans Affairs. He’s doing ture generations. And the current genera- a really good job. tion of our military is not letting us down. I want to thank the national commanders Today’s Armed Forces are upholding the and presidents of our national veterans

307 Mar. 28 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 service organizations for coming. I want to opened fire on coalition forces that were thank you all for your service to your fellow willing to show them mercy. Americans. I appreciate your members Given the nature of this regime, we ex- being here with us. I’m particularly pleased pect such war crimes, but we will not ex- that Brian Thacker, a Medal of Honor re- cuse them. War criminals will be hunted cipient, is with us as well. I want to thank relentlessly and judged severely. all our vets; I want to thank all the vets In the last week, we have also seen the who are here. nature of the young men and women who You’re here at a time when our coalition, fight on our behalf. Coalition forces have the United States and our partners, are act- begun delivering food and water to liber- ing together in a noble purpose. We’re out ated parts of Iraq. I was pleased to hear to keep the peace, to make the world more today that the United Nations Security peaceful, to make our Nation and other Council acted to resume food and medical nations more secure, and we’re going to supplies under the existing U.N. program, free the people of Iraq from the clutches which will bring urgent relief to millions of Saddam Hussein and his murderous al- of Iraqis. lies. We care about the human condition of We are sending a clear signal to the the people who have suffered under Sad- world that we will not submit to a future in which dictators and terrorists can arm dam Hussein. We provided $60 million to and threaten the peace without con- the World Food Program to help get this sequence. We are enforcing the demands humanitarian effort up and running. We’re of the United Nations, and we refuse to shipping hundreds of thousands of metric leave the Iraqi people in slavery under Sad- tons of food to Iraq. In every possible way, dam Hussein. When the war in Iraq is won, coalition forces are showing kindness and all who have joined this cause will be able respect to the Iraqi people. They’re going to say to the Iraqi people, ‘‘We were proud to extraordinary lengths to spare the lives to fight for your freedom.’’ of the innocent. We treat wounded Iraqi The regime that once terrorized all of soldiers. Iraq now controls a small portion of that The contrast could not be greater be- country. Coalition troops continue their tween the honorable conduct of our forces steady advance and are drawing nearer to and the criminal acts of the enemy. Every Baghdad. We’re inflicting severe damage on Iraqi atrocity has confirmed the justice and enemy forces. We are now fighting the the urgency of our cause. Against this most desperate units of the dictator’s army. enemy we will accept no outcome except The fierce fighting currently underway will complete victory. demand further courage and further sac- To meet this outcome, we must give our rifice. Yet we know the outcome of this armed services the support and the re- battle: The Iraqi regime will be disarmed; sources they require. As veterans, all of you the Iraqi regime will be removed from understand the importance of a well-sup- power; Iraq will be free. plied and well-trained fighting force. I’ve In the last week, we have seen the brutal asked Congress for a nearly $75 billion war- and cruel nature of a dying regime. In time supplemental appropriations bill. This areas still under its control, the regime con- funding would provide fuel for ships and tinues its rule by terror. Prisoners of war aircraft and tanks, supplies for our troops have been brutalized and executed. Iraqis in the theater of operations, new high-tech who refuse to fight for the regime are munitions to replace the ones we have used being murdered. Some in the Iraqi military in this war. The supplemental would also have pretended to surrender and then provide funds to assist in the reconstruction

308 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Mar. 28 of Iraq and to help protect the American serving overseas will know that their loved homeland in this time of high alert. ones are not facing this time alone. I want to thank the veterans groups for I want to thank the veterans groups for their strong support, unwavering support, understanding the compassion needed to for this wartime supplemental, and I call help those who are here, wondering and upon the United States Congress to pass worrying about their loved ones overseas. the supplemental as quickly as possible. The people who serve in the military are I also appreciate all the veterans are giving their best to this country, and we doing for America’s military families in time have the responsibility to give them our of hardship. I appreciate your compassion. full support, our full support not only here Across our country, local chapters of the in Washington, DC, but our support all American Legion, for example, are stepping across the country. I want to thank each veteran here today forward to help those families in practical and across our land for the lifetime of serv- ways, from making household repairs to ice you have given our Nation. I thank you helping with child care. Members of the for standing behind the men and women VFW and Auxiliary are sending care pack- of today’s Armed Forces as they fight for ages with baby supplies to military families. the liberty of an oppressed people, for the Operation Uplink program is helping thou- security of the United States and our sands of service members keep in touch friends and allies, and for the peace of the with their loved ones. world. May God bless our troops. Both the American Legion and the VFW are working with the USA Freedom Corps NOTE: The President spoke at 2:44 p.m. in on a project called ‘‘On The Home Front.’’ the East Room at the White House. In his This effort will match Americans who want remarks, he referred to President Saddam to volunteer their times and skills with the Hussein of Iraq. The Office of the Press Sec- military families who need help. Because retary also released a Spanish language tran- of all this generosity, our men and women script of these remarks.

Letter to Congressional Leaders Transmitting a Report on Assistance to Azerbaijan March 28, 2003

Dear lllll : concerns assistance provided pursuant to On January 17, 2003, I exercised my au- this waiver. As required, the report de- thority to extend the waiver of section 907 scribes the status of: of the FREEDOM Support Act, con- • All training and assistance provided to cerning assistance to Azerbaijan. In accord- the Government of Azerbaijan pursu- ance with paragraph (g)(6) of the heading ant to the extension of the waiver of ‘‘Assistance for the Independent States of section 907 of the FREEDOM Sup- the Former Soviet Union’’ in title II of port Act; the Kenneth M. Ludden Foreign Oper- • The military balance between Azer- ations, Export Financing, and Related Pro- baijan and Armenia, and the impact grams Appropriations Act, Fiscal Year 2002 of U.S. assistance on that balance; and (Public Law 107–115), I am providing a report prepared by my Administration that

309 Mar. 28 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

• Negotiations for a settlement of the Sincerely, Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and the im- GEORGE W. BUSH pact of U.S. assistance on those negotiations. NOTE: Identical letters were sent to Ted Ste- My Administration remains fully com- vens, chairman, and Robert C. Byrd, ranking mitted to continue working with the Con- member, Senate Committee on Appropria- gress and all concerned parties to bolster tions; and C.W. Bill Young, chairman, and peace, prosperity, and freedom in the David R. Obey, ranking member, House South Caucasus. Committee on Appropriations.

Letter to Congressional Leaders Transmitting a Report on Chemical Weapons Convention Inspections During Fiscal Year 2001 March 28, 2003

Dear lllll : NOTE: Identical letters were sent to Richard Enclosed is a report prepared by my Ad- G. Lugar, chairman, and Joseph R. Biden, ministration covering Chemical Weapons Jr., ranking member, Senate Committee on Convention inspections performed within Foreign Relations; Orrin G. Hatch, chair- the United States, from October 1, 2000, man, and Patrick J. Leahy, ranking member, to September 30, 2001. The report, which Senate Committee on the Judiciary; Pat Rob- includes a classified addendum covering erts, chairman, and John D. Rockefeller IV, any delays or disruptions to inspections car- ranking member, Senate Select Committee ried on outside the United States, is sub- on Intelligence; Henry J. Hyde, chairman, mitted pursuant to section 309 of the and Tom Lantos, ranking member, House Chemical Weapons Convention Implemen- Committee on International Relations; F. tation Act of 1998. James Sensenbrenner, Jr., chairman, and Sincerely, John Conyers, Jr., ranking member, House Committee on the Judiciary; and Porter J. Goss, chairman, and Jane Harman, ranking member, House Permanent Select Com- GEORGE W. BUSH mittee on Intelligence.

Letter to Congressional Leaders Transmitting a Report on Chemical Weapons Convention Inspections During Fiscal Year 2002 March 28, 2003

Dear lllll : any delays or disruptions to inspections car- Enclosed is a report prepared by my Ad- ried on outside the United States, is sub- ministration covering Chemical Weapons mitted pursuant to section 309 of the Convention inspections performed within Chemical Weapons Convention Implemen- the United States, from October 1, 2001, tation Act of 1998. to September 30, 2002. The report, which includes a classified addendum covering

310 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Mar. 29

Sincerely, ranking member, Senate Select Committee on Intelligence; Henry J. Hyde, chairman, GEORGE W. BUSH and Tom Lantos, ranking member, House NOTE: Identical letters were sent to Richard Committee on International Relations; F. G. Lugar, chairman, and Joseph R. Biden, James Sensenbrenner, Jr., chairman, and Jr., ranking member, Senate Committee on John Conyers, Jr., ranking member, House Foreign Relations; Orrin G. Hatch, chair- Committee on the Judiciary; and Porter J. man, and Patrick J. Leahy, ranking member, Goss, chairman, and Jane Harman, ranking Senate Committee on the Judiciary; Pat Rob- member, House Permanent Select Com- erts, chairman, and John D. Rockefeller IV, mittee on Intelligence.

The President’s Radio Address March 29, 2003

Good morning. This week I welcomed war have been brutalized and executed. Prime Minister Tony Blair to Camp David, Iraqis who refuse to fight for the regime where we discussed the progress being are being murdered. An Iraqi woman was made in the war to disarm Iraq, end the hanged for waving at coalition troops. Some dictatorship, and liberate the Iraqi people. in the Iraqi military have pretended to sur- Thanks to our fighting forces, the regime render, then opened fire on coalition forces that once terrorized all of Iraq now controls that showed them mercy. a small portion of that country. American Given the nature of this regime, we ex- and coalition troops have continued a pect such war crimes, but we will not ex- steady advance and are now less than 50 cuse them. War criminals will be hunted miles from Baghdad. relentlessly and judged severely. In recent days, we have cleared mines In the last week, the world has also seen from the water and taken control of a key the nature of the young men and women port city, to allow humanitarian aid to begin who fight on our behalf. They are showing flowing into the country. We have secured kindness and respect to the Iraqi people. more than 600 oil wells and have begun They are going to extraordinary lengths to putting out the few oil-well fires set by spare the lives of the innocent. Our forces the enemy. Our efforts to protect the are delivering food and water to grateful wealth that belongs to the Iraqi people are Iraqi citizens in Safwan and Umm Qasr. paying off. The contrast could not be greater between And we have prevented the dictator from the honorable conduct of our liberating launching missiles from key sites in western force and the criminal acts of the enemy. Iraq. We are now fighting the most des- Every atrocity has confirmed the justice perate units of the dictator’s army. The and urgency of our cause. Against this fighting is fierce, and we do not know its enemy, we will accept no outcome but duration. Yet we know the outcome of this complete and final victory. To meet this battle: The Iraqi regime will be disarmed objective, we must give our armed services and removed from power; Iraq will be free. the support and resources they require. I In the last week, the world has seen first- have asked Congress for a nearly $75 bil- hand the cruel nature of a dying regime. lion wartime supplemental appropriations In areas still under its control, the regime bill. This funding would provide fuel for continues its rule by terror. Prisoners of ships, aircraft, and tanks, supplies for our

311 Mar. 29 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 troops in the theater of operations, and new Thank you for listening. high-tech munitions to replace the ones we have used in the war. The supplemental would also provide funds to assist in the reconstruction of Iraq and to help protect NOTE: The address was recorded at 10:31 the American homeland in this time of high a.m. on March 28 in the Cabinet Room at alert. I hope the Congress will act quickly the White House for broadcast at 10:06 a.m. to pass this essential measure. on March 29. The transcript was made avail- The people who serve in the military are able by the Office of the Press Secretary on giving their best to this country. We have March 28 but was embargoed for release the responsibility to give them our full sup- until the broadcast. In his remarks, the Presi- port as they fight for the liberty of an op- dent referred to President Saddam Hussein pressed people, for the security of the of Iraq. The Office of the Press Secretary United States, and for the peace of the also released a Spanish language transcript world. of this address.

Letter to the Speaker of the House of Representatives Transmitting a Subsidy Budget Authority Request for US Airways, Inc. March 28, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker: et and Emergency Deficit Control Act of In accordance with provisions of Public 1985. Law 107–42, the Air Transportation Safety The details of this request are set forth and System Stabilization Act, I hereby sub- in the enclosed letter from the Director mit a request pursuant to section 101(b) of the Office of Management and Budget. of that Act, for support of a $1 billion Fed- Sincerely, eral credit instrument for US Airways, Inc. I hereby designate this subsidy budget GEORGE W. BUSH authority, currently estimated at $137.6 million, as an emergency requirement pursu- NOTE: This letter was released by the Office ant to section 252(e) of the Balanced Budg- of the Press Secretary on March 31.

Remarks at the Port of Philadelphia in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania March 31, 2003

Thank you very much for that warm wel- After all, it was in this place that we first come. It is an honor to be here at one declared our dedication to liberty. We still of our Nation’s busiest ports and one of believe that all men are created equal and our country’s greatest cities. have the right to be free. And that is true Philadelphia and its port shows the hard- for Americans, and that is true for men working spirit of this country. It speaks to and women in Iraq. our economic might. Most importantly, We know that liberty must be defended Philadelphia talks about a proud history. by every generation. Today, in the Middle

312 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Mar. 31

East and on other fronts in the war on Today I had the honor of meeting John terror, this generation of Americans is fight- Susanin. John is a volunteer for the Amer- ing bravely in the cause of freedom. And ican Red Cross. He, like thousands of our that includes the good people of the United fellow citizens all across the country, are States Coast Guard. willing to dedicate time to help in this The men and women of our Coast Guard cause of making sure our homeland is se- are showing once again that you are ‘‘always cure. The Red Cross, American Red Cross, ready.’’ You’re always ready to serve with plays a vital role. And I want to thank John courage and excellence. You are always for his service to our community. ready to place your country’s safety above There’s a lot of room for opportunity your own. You shield your fellow Americans for our fellow citizens, people who want from the danger of this world, and America to do something for America. You can vol- is grateful. unteer. You can volunteer to help watch It’s my honor to be here with Tom neighborhoods. You can volunteer to help Ridge, the first Secretary of the Depart- neighborhoods become better prepared. ment of Homeland Security. People of You can volunteer for the Red Cross. You Pennsylvania trained him well. [Laughter] could love a neighbor just like you’d like He’s doing a fabulous job, and I appreciate to be loved yourself. It’s happening all across America. And John, thank you for his service. coming. I’m honored to be with the leadership And I also want to thank Manny of the United States Coast Guard: Admiral Greenwald for being here as well. Manny Tom Collins; Vice Admiral Jim Hull. Most is of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. I was importantly, I’m glad to be with the men briefed today by Admiral Hull, who told and women who proudly wear the uniform me there’s auxiliarists all across the country of the United States Coast Guard. who are helping the Coast Guard achieve I appreciate the Members of the United their vital mission. I want to thank all the States Congress who have joined us here: Mannys across America who are helping Senator Arlen Specter—thank you for com- our Coast Guard do its job. Manny’s only ing, Senator Specter; Members of Congress 92 years old—[laughter]—and he’s still Robert Brady and Jim Gerlach, Jim Green- working hard. wood, Don Sherwood, and Joe Hoeffel. This is a time of great consequence for Thank you all very much for being here. our country. Right now, men and women I appreciate you coming. from every part of America, supported by Members from the statehouse, the State a strong coalition, are fighting to disarm government, are here: the Lieutenant a dangerous regime and to liberate an op- Governor Knoll, Attorney General Fisher pressed people. are with us today. Thank you both for com- It has been 11 days since the major ing. And the mayor came, Mayor Street. ground war began. In this short time, our Thank you, I’m honored you’re here, Mr. troops have performed brilliantly, with skill Mayor. I appreciate you coming. and with bravery. They make us proud. In I also want to thank employees of the 11 days, coalition forces have taken control Bureau of Customs and Border Protection of most of western and southern Iraq. In for being here, as well as my Federal em- 11 days, we’ve seized key bridges, opened ployees, Federal workers of the Bureau of a northern front, achieved—nearly achieved Immigration and Customs. I’m honored to complete air superiority, and are delivering have you here. I want to thank you for tons of humanitarian aid. By quick and de- your dedication and hard work for our Gov- cisive action, our troops are preventing Sad- ernment. dam Hussein from destroying the Iraqi

313 Mar. 31 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 people’s oilfields. Our forces moved into Members of the Coast Guard are per- Iraqi missile launch areas that threatened forming their duties with bravery and excel- neighboring countries. Many dangers lie lence, and America appreciates your fine ahead, but day by day, we are moving clos- service. er to Baghdad. Day by day, we are moving In this time of war, the Coast Guard’s closer to victory. service in America’s waters is more impor- Our victory will mean the end of a tyrant tant than ever. We still count on you to who rules by fear and torture. Our victory rescue fishermen and others at sea. We will remove a sponsor of terror armed with still count on you to enforce maritime law weapons of terror. Our victory will uphold and to fight drug smuggling. Yet now, as the just demands of the United Nations part of the Department of Homeland Secu- and the civilized world. And when victory comes, it will be shared by the long-suf- rity, you have taken on a new and vital fering people of Iraq, who deserve freedom mission, a mission as important as any in and dignity. your 213-year history, the mission of de- The dictator’s regime has ruled by fear fending our country against terrorist attack. and continues to use fear as a tool of domi- In the finest traditions of the Coast Guard, nation to the end. Many Iraqis have been you are rising to the challenge. ordered to fight or die by Saddam’s death This is a vital task and a massive under- squads. Others are pressed into service by taking. More than 90 percent of our com- threats against their children. Iraqi civilians bat materials and our trade moves by sea. attempting to flee to liberated areas have At this port alone, thousands of cargo con- been shot and shelled from behind by tainers arrive every day. Your job of pro- Saddam’s thugs. Schools and hospitals have tecting our Nation’s port is essential to our been used to store military equipment. economic security and to our national secu- They serve as bases for military operations. rity. Iraqis who show friendship toward coalition The appropriations bill I signed into law troops are murdered in cold blood by the earlier this year increased Coast Guard regime’s enforcers. funding to over $6 billion, the highest level The people of Iraq have lived in this ever. We’re directing new resources to pay nightmare world for more than two dec- for better intelligence capabilities, new ades. It is understandable that fear and dis- technologies to monitor and safeguard our trust run deep. Yet, here in the city where ports, a more modern fleet of Coast Guard America itself gained freedom, I give this pledge to the citizens of Iraq: We’re com- cutters and aircraft, and up to 700 new ing with a mighty force to end the reign smaller, faster response boats that will fur- of your oppressors. We are coming to bring ther protect America’s shorelines. By giving you food and medicine and a better life. the Coast Guard new resources, we are And we are coming, and we will not stop. supporting the men and women who de- We will not relent until your country is fend us all. free. All Americans understand that we face In Operation Iraqi Freedom, our Coast a continuing threat of terrorism. We know Guard is playing a critical role. We have that our enemies are desperate. We know sent many Coast Guard cutters and over that they’re dangerous. The dying regime 1,000 of our finest active duty and reserve in Iraq may try to bring terror to our members to the Persian Gulf and sur- shores. Other parts of the global terror net- rounding waters. Coast Guard personnel work may view this as a moment to strike, are protecting key ports and Iraqi oil plat- thinking that we’re distracted. They’re forms. They’re detaining prisoners of war. wrong.

314 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Mar. 31

We are meeting threats and acting to mined: Iraqi Americans will be protected, prevent dangers. The United States and al- and enemy agents will be stopped. lied troops are shattering the Al Qaida net- Fourth, under Operation Liberty Shield, work. We’re hunting them down, one at we are guarding our Nation’s most impor- a time. We’re finding them. We’re interro- tant infrastructure with greater vigilance. gating them, and we’re bringing them to Under the direction of our Governors, justice. We will end the Iraqi regime, an thousands of National Guardsmen and ally of terrorist groups and a producer of State police officers are protecting chemical weapons of mass destruction. facilities and nuclear power sites, key elec- And here at home, we’re acting. Shortly trical grids, and other potential targets. This before we began the liberation of Iraq, we country is determined: We will keep up launched Operation Liberty Shield to im- our guard and do all we can to protect plement additional measures to defend the our fellow citizens. American homeland against terrorist at- And finally, we’re strengthening the pre- tacks. paredness of our public health system. The This nationwide effort is focused on five Departments of Agriculture and Health and specific areas. First, we are taking even Human Services have increased field in- greater security measures at our borders spections of livestock and crops. Public and ports. We have relocated hundreds of health officials have increased medical sur- security personnel on our borders. We’ve veillance in major cities. This Nation is de- added additional reconnaissance aircraft pa- termined: We will stand watch against the trols at our borders. And the Coast Guard dangers of the new era. is monitoring ports for suspicious activity. After our Nation was attacked on Sep- This Nation is determined: Friends and im- tember the 11th, 2001, America made a migrants will always be welcome in this decision: We will not wait for our enemies land. Yet we will use all our power to keep out the terrorists and the criminals so they to strike before we act against them. We’re can’t hurt our citizens. not going to permit terrorists and terror states to plot and plan and grow in strength Second, we are strengthening protections throughout our national transportation sys- while we do nothing. tem. We’re enforcing temporary flight re- The actions we’re taking in Operation strictions over some of our major cities. Liberty Shield are making this Nation more We’ve stepped up surveillance of hazardous secure. And the actions we’re taking abroad material shipments within our country and against a terror network and against the taken measures to keep them away from regime in Iraq are removing a grave danger places where large numbers of people gath- to all free nations. In every case, by acting er. This Nation is determined: We will do today, we are saving countless lives in the all in our power to make sure our skies future. and rails and roads are safe from terror. America has many advantages in this war Third, we’ve increased surveillance of on terror. We have resolute citizens. We’re suspected terrorists. Certain individuals vigilant and know that freedom must be with ties to Iraqi intelligence services have defended. We have a just cause to guide been ordered out of this country. We’re us, and we have the strength and character interviewing Iraqi-born individuals on a vol- of the men and women who serve our untary basis for two reasons, to gain infor- country. mation on possible terrorist plans and to You in the Coast Guard take rightful make sure they’ve not experienced discrimi- pride in the uniform you wear and the mis- nation or hate crimes. This Nation is deter- sion you have accepted. You and all who

315 Mar. 31 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 serve in our military are ready for any chal- H. Collins, commandant, and Vice Adm. lenge. And by your skill and by your cour- James D. Hull, Atlantic Area commander, age, we will prevail. U.S. Coast Guard; Lt. Gov. Catherine Baker May God bless you, and may God bless Knoll and State Attorney General D. Michael America. Fisher of Pennsylvania; Mayor John F. Street of Philadelphia; and President Saddam Hus- NOTE: The President spoke at 2:50 p.m. at sein of Iraq. The Office of the Press Sec- the U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Office. retary also released a Spanish language tran- In his remarks, he referred to Adm. Thomas script of these remarks.

Letter to Congressional Leaders Transmitting a Report on Implementation of the Inter-American Convention Against Corruption April 1, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. Chairman:) which is intended to link U.S. foreign de- Pursuant to the resolution of advice and velopment assistance to, among other fac- consent to ratification of the Inter-Amer- tors, the recipient’s commitments to good ican Convention Against Corruption adopt- governance and anticorruption efforts. The ed by the Senate on July 27, 2000, I submit Convention recognizes that the problem of the enclosed report, prepared by my Ad- corruption is a major obstacle to develop- ministration, on implementation of the ment in the Americas. As such, it has ener- Convention. gized the work of the United States and This third report to the Congress indi- its hemispheric partners to find common cates that 28 of the 34 members of the solutions to common anticorruption chal- Organization of American States have for- lenges. mally ratified the Convention (Brazil and I look forward to working with you to Suriname ratified the Convention in 2002) ensure that we continue to combat corrup- and that 27 have adopted the evaluation tion in our hemisphere and across the mechanism established by the Organization globe. of American States to oversee implementa- Sincerely, tion. The United States Government continues GEORGE W. BUSH to reinforce the implementation and enforcement of the Convention in the hemi- NOTE: Identical letters were sent to J. Den- sphere through numerous initiatives and nis Hastert, Speaker of the House of Rep- programs that are described in the report. resentatives, and Richard G. Lugar, chair- Moreover, since the last report, my Admin- man, Senate Committee on Foreign Rela- istration has moved forward with our pro- tions. This letter was released by the Office posed Millennium Challenge Account, of the Press Secretary on April 2.

316 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Apr. 3

Letter to Congressional Leaders Transmitting a Report on Chemical Weapons Convention Compliance April 2, 2003

Dear lllll : Sincerely, Enclosed is a report prepared by my Ad- ministration covering Chemical Weapons GEORGE W. BUSH Convention compliance. This report is prepared pursuant to Condition 10(C) of the resolution of advice and consent to ratifica- NOTE: Identical letters were sent to Richard tion of the Convention on the Prohibition G. Lugar, chairman, and Joseph R. Biden, of the Development, Production, Stock- Jr., ranking member, Senate Committee on piling and Use of Chemical Weapons and Foreign Relations; and Henry J. Hyde, chair- on Their Destruction. The report is pro- man, and Tom Lantos, ranking member, vided in both a classified and unclassified House Committee on International Rela- version. tions.

Remarks at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina April 3, 2003

The President. Thank you all very much. Audience member. We love you, Presi- Thank you all so very much for that warm dent Bush! welcome. It’s such an honor to be here— The President. When freedom needs de- especially pleased to be traveling today with fending, America turns to our military. And a great First Lady, Laura Bush. We really as they do their job, our men and women appreciate your welcome, and we’re proud in uniform count on their families, like you to be with the marines and sailors and fam- all here today. This is a time of hardship ilies of Camp Lejeune. There’s no finer for many military families. Some of you sight—no finer sight—than to see 12,000 have been separated from your loved ones United States marines and corpsmen, unfor quite a while because of long deploy- less you happen to be a member of the ments. All of America is grateful for your Iraqi Republican Guard. sacrifice, and Laura and I are here to thank For more than 60 years, marines have each one of you. gone forth from Camp Lejeune to fight We’re here to thank the Marines. I also our country’s battles. Now America has en- want to thank the men and women of the tered a fierce struggle to protect the world Marine Forces Reserve who are serving from a grave danger and to bring freedom here and abroad. Hundreds of reserve units to an oppressed people. As the forces of across America have been activated in this our coalition advance, we learn more about time of war, and our country thanks these the atrocities of the Iraqi regime and the fine citizens and their employers for putting deep fear that Saddam Hussein has instilled duty first. in the Iraqi people. Yet, no scheme of this I want to thank Major General David enemy, no crime of a dying regime will Mize for his hospitality and his leadership. divert us from our mission. We will not I want to thank Major General John stop until Iraq is free. Castellaw, commanding general of the 2d

317 Apr. 3 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Marine Expeditionary Force, for his leader- the major ground war began, the Marine ship and strength. Corps has added new achievements to its I appreciate so very much Members of great story. the North Carolina congressional delegation On the first day of the campaign, marine who traveled with Laura and me today. units were ordered to secure 600 Iraqi oil Senators Edwards and Dole, from the great wells and prevent environmental disaster, State of North Carolina, thank you for com- and that mission was accomplished. U.S. ing. I appreciate Members of the United marines and our Royal Marine allies were States House of Representatives, Congress- sent in to take the Al Faw Peninsula and men Ballance, Jones, and McIntyre, for clear a path for humanitarian aid, and that traveling with us. These five are five Mem- job was done. In the tough fighting at Al bers of the Congress are strong supporters Nasiriyah, marines continue to push back of the marines and the United States mili- the enemy and are showing the unrelenting tary. courage worthy of the name Task Force I met the mayor, and I want to thank Tarawa. Two nights ago, marines and spe- Madam Mayor and members of the county cial operations forces set out on a daring commission for being so supportive of the rescue mission, and thanks to their skill families and the personnel here at Camp and courage, a brave young soldier is now Lejeune, North Carolina. I want to thank free. very much those veterans who are here, These missions are difficult and they are and retired military members. I want to dangerous, but no one becomes a marine thank Lonestar. We kind of like that name. because it’s easy. Now our coalition moves [Laughter] forward. Marines are in the thick of the I very much want to say a little some- battle. And what we have begun, we will thing about a person that Laura and I met finish. at Marine One when it landed, Laura Kay The United States and our allies pledged Brett. to act if the dictator did not disarm. The Audience member. Yeah! regime in Iraq is now learning that we keep The President. You may know Laura— our word. By our actions, we serve a great somebody knows Laura Kay out there. and just cause: We will remove weapons [Laughter] But you need to know her story. of mass destruction from the hands of mass You see, Laura Kay is director of Volunteer murderers. Free nations will not sit and Services at the YMCA Camp Lejeune. She wait, leaving enemies free to plot another represents hundreds, thousands of people September the 11th, this time perhaps with who volunteer to make somebody’s life bet- chemical or biological or nuclear terror. ter. She runs a mom-to-mom program to And by defending our own security, we are help people who may need help. Laura Kay freeing the people of Iraq from one of the represents the best of America, somebody cruelest regimes on Earth. who is willing to love a neighbor just like At this hour, coalition forces are clearing she’d like to be loved herself. southern cities and towns of the dictator’s I want to thank Laura Kay. I want to death squads and enforcers. Our special thank the thousands of you who are here forces and Army paratroopers, working with who understand we can save somebody’s Kurdish militia, have opened a northern life by showing them love. We can help front against the enemy. Army and Marine somebody who hurts by hugging a neighbor divisions are engaging the enemy and ad- in need. vancing to the outskirts of Baghdad. From All around Camp Lejeune are monu- the skies above, coalition aircraft and cruise ments to the heroic achievements of the missiles are removing hundreds of military United States Marines. In the 14 days since targets from Iraq. A vise is closing, and

318 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Apr. 3 the days of a brutal regime are coming my freedom.’’ America hears that man. We to an end. hear all Iraqis who yearn for liberty. And Some servants of the regime have chosen the people of Iraq have my pledge: Our to fill their final days with acts of cowardice fighting forces will press on until your en- and murder. In combat, Saddam’s thugs tire country is free. shield themselves with women and chil- The Iraqi people deserve to live in peace dren. They have killed Iraqi citizens who under leaders they have chosen. They de- welcome coalition troops. They force other serve a government that respects the rights Iraqis into battle by threatening to torture of every citizen and ethnic group. They de- or kill their families. They’ve executed pris- serve a country that is united, that’s inde- oners of war. They’ve waged attacks under pendent, and that is released from years the white flag of truce. They concealed of sanctions and sorrow. Our coalition has combat forces in civilian neighborhoods and one goal for the future of Iraq, to return schools and hospitals and mosques. that great country to its own people. In this war, the Iraqi regime is doing— Building a free and prosperous Iraq after is terrorizing its own citizens, doing every- the regime is gone will require—will be thing possible to maximize Iraqi civilian the work of the Iraqi people for years to casualties and then to exploit the deaths come. And they will have our help. Today they’ve caused for propaganda. These are the goal is to remove the Iraqi regime and war criminals, and they will be treated like to rid Iraq of weapons of mass destruction, war criminals. and that is the task of the United States In stark contrast, the citizens of Iraq are military and our coalition. coming to know what kind of people we have sent to liberate them. American forces All who serve in this mission can know and our allies are treating innocent civilians this: Your fellow citizens are behind you, with kindness and showing proper respect and our Government will give you every to soldiers who surrender. Many Americans tool you need for victory. have seen the picture of Marine Lance People of this country take pride in your Corporal Marcco Ware carrying a wounded victories, and we share in your losses. Iraqi soldier on his shoulders to safety for Camp Lejeune has lost some good marines. medical treatment. That’s the picture of the Every person who dies in the line of duty strength and goodness of the U.S. Marines. leaves a family that lives in grief. Every That is a picture of America. People in marine who dies in the line of duty leaves the United States are proud of the honor- comrades who mourn their loss. able conduct of our military, and I’m proud There is a tradition in the corps that to lead such brave and decent Americans. no one who falls will be left behind on I’m also proud that coalition victories are the battlefield. Our country has a tradition bringing food and water and medicine to as well. No one who falls will be forgotten the Iraqi people. Our coalition partners by this grateful Nation. We honor their have constructed a pipeline to bring clean service to America, and we pray their fami- water to Umm Qasr. We’re delivering lies will receive God’s comfort and God’s emergency rations to the hungry. Right grace. now, ships carrying enough American grain These are sacrifices in a high calling, the to feed millions are bound for Iraq. We’re defense of our Nation and the peace of bringing aid, and we’re bringing something the world. Overcoming evil is the noblest more. We’re bringing hope. cause and the hardest work. And the libera- A man in one Iraqi village said this to tion of millions is the fulfillment of Amer- one of our soldiers: ‘‘I want my freedom. ica’s founding promise. The objectives I don’t want food or water. I just want we’ve set in this war are worthy of America,

319 Apr. 3 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 worthy of all the acts of heroism and gen- is Baghdad, and we will accept nothing less erosity that have come before. than complete and final victory. Once again, we are applying the power May God bless our country and all who of our country to ensure our security and defend her. Semper fi. to serve the cause of justice. And we will prevail. NOTE: The President spoke at 10:40 a.m. at Our armed services have performed bril- W.P.T. Hill Field. In his remarks, he referred liantly in Operation Iraqi Freedom. Moving to Maj. Gen. David Mize, USMC, com- a massive force over 200 miles of enemy manding general, Marine Corps Base Camp territory in a matter of days is a superb Lejeune; Maj. Gen. John Castellaw, USMC, achievement. Yet there is work ahead for commanding general, 2d Marine Aircraft our coalition, for the American Armed Wing; Mayor Elsie P. Smith of Jacksonville, Forces, and for the United States Marines. NC; country music group Lonestar; and Having traveled hundreds of miles, we will President Saddam Hussein of Iraq. The Of- now go the last 200 yards. The course is fice of the Press Secretary also released a set. We’re on the advance. Our destination Spanish language transcript of these remarks.

Letter to the Speaker of the House of Representatives on Reallocation of Emergency Response Funds April 3, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker: pose and mission of the Commission and In order to continue the investigation will continue to cooperate with the Com- into the September 11, 2001, terrorist at- mission in accordance with applicable law tacks on the United States, I am notifying to help ensure that it succeeds. I expect the Congress of my intent to reallocate that the Commission’s final report will con- funds previously transferred from the tain important recommendations. Emergency Response Fund (ERF). The details of this action are set forth At this time, $9 million of ERF funds in the enclosed letter from the Director will be transferred to the National Commis- of the Office of Management and Budget. sion on Terrorist Attacks upon the United I concur with his comments and rec- States to ensure that it has the necessary ommendations. resources to investigate fully the terrible Sincerely, tragedy of September 11, 2001. My Admin- istration is strongly committed to the pur- GEORGE W. BUSH

Statement on Congressional Action on Emergency Wartime Supplemental Appropriations Legislation April 4, 2003

I commend the Congress for responding The House and Senate took strong and de- with bipartisan cooperation and speed to cisive action to provide our troops with the my request for supplemental war funding. resources necessary to fight and win the

320 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Apr. 5 war in Iraq, to respond to increased home- to help ensure that the final legislation inland security needs, and to strengthen the cludes both the funding and flexibility nec- capabilities of our allies. As the bills go essary to respond quickly and effectively to conference, we will seek to combine the to any changing needs at home and abroad. best elements of the House and Senate bills

The President’s Radio Address April 5, 2003

Good morning. American and coalition doing everything possible to maximize Iraqi forces are steadily advancing against the re- civilian casualties and then to exploit the gime of Saddam Hussein. With each new deaths they have caused for propaganda. village they liberate, our forces are learning These are war criminals, and they’ll be more about the atrocities of that regime treated as war criminals. and the deep fear the dictator has instilled In stark contrast, the citizens of Iraq are in the Iraqi people. Yet no crime of this coming to know what kind of people we dying regime will divert us from our mis- have sent to liberate them. American forces sion. We will not stop until Iraq is free. and our allies are treating innocent civilians This week, coalition forces have been with kindness and showing proper respect clearing southern cities and towns of to the soldiers who surrender. The people Saddam’s death squads and enforcers. Our of the United States are proud of the hon- special forces and Army paratroopers, work- orable conduct of our military. And I am ing with Kurdish militia, have opened a proud to lead such brave and decent Amer- northern front against the enemy. In the icans. town of An Najaf, members of our 101st In recent days, we have also brought Airborne Division have been welcomed as food and water and medicine to the Iraqi liberators. At An Nasiriyah, marines con- people. We’re delivering emergency rations tinue to eliminate the enemy while other to the hungry. Right now, cargo ships are Army and Marine units have closed in on bound for Iraq, carrying wheat from Okla- Baghdad. From the skies above, coalition homa, Kansas, and Texas—enough to feed aircraft and cruise missiles are removing 4.5 million Iraqis for 1 month. Additional hundreds of military targets from the map. food, supplied by the World Food Program, As the vise tightens on the Iraqi regime, is moving by truck convoy across the Turk- some of our enemies have chosen to fill ish border into northern Iraq. their final days with acts of cowardice and We are bringing aid to the long-suffering murder. In combat, Saddam’s thugs shield people of Iraq, and we are bringing some- themselves with women and children. They thing more. We are bringing hope. One have killed Iraqi citizens who welcome coa- Iraqi, when the coalition troops arrived, de- lition troops, and they have forced other scribed the emotions of his village. ‘‘They Iraqis into battle by threatening to torture were waiting for you,’’ he said, ‘‘and all or kill their families. They have executed the people believe that America and Britain prisoners of war, waged attacks under the have come to liberate them, not to con- white flag of truce, and concealed combat quer.’’ forces in civilian neighborhoods, schools, Village by village, city by city, liberation hospitals, and mosques. In this war, the is coming. The people of Iraq have my Iraqi regime is terrorizing its own citizens, pledge: Our fighting forces will press on

321 Apr. 5 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 until their oppressors are gone and their in Iraq is now learning that we keep our whole country is free. word. By our actions in this war, we serve a Thank you for listening. great and just cause. Free nations will not sit and wait, leaving enemies free to plot NOTE: The address was recorded at 1 p.m. another September the 11th—this time on April 4 in the Cabinet Room at the White perhaps with chemical, biological, or nu- House for broadcast at 10:06 a.m. on April clear terror. We’ll remove weapons of mass 5. The transcript was made available by the destruction from the hands of mass mur- Office of the Press Secretary on April 4 but derers. And by defending our own security, was embargoed for release until the broad- we are ridding the people of Iraq from cast. In his remarks, the President referred one of the cruelest regimes on Earth. The to President Saddam Hussein of Iraq. The United States and our allies pledged to act Office of the Press Secretary also released if the dictator did not disarm. The regime a Spanish language transcript of this address.

The President’s News Conference With Prime Minister Tony Blair of the United Kingdom in Hillsborough, Northern Ireland April 8, 2003

Prime Minister Blair. Good morning, ev- progress because of patience and persever- eryone. First of all, I would like to extend ance and because friends like those in the a very warm welcome to President Bush United States of America have helped us to Northern Ireland. America has long been get there. a friend of Northern Ireland and a friend So to those who can sometimes say that to us in this important period for the peace the process in the Middle East is hopeless, process. So it’s both significant and wel- I say we can look at Northern Ireland and come that the President is here in person take some hope from that. to give once more his support and to join I want to thank the President also for with me and, later today, with the Irish the impetus he has given to the two-state Taoiseach in urging the parties to take the solution in the Middle East that he outlined final steps towards a lasting peace here in last June, a secure Israel and a viable Pales- Northern Ireland. tinian state, and for his decision that the It’s also perhaps fitting that here in roadmap be published, which as you know, Northern Ireland a good part of our discus- depends upon the foundation of Abu sion focused on the Middle East. It’s not Mazen’s cabinet. so many years ago that it would have been Of course, our discussions have naturally said that the peace process here was in continued to focus upon Iraq, upon the far worse shape than the process out in continuing military campaign, where, once the Middle East. Yet, here we are, for all again, our forces have performed superbly. the difficulties in Northern Ireland, able And I want to pay tribute to the U.S., to point back to real improvements in the UK, and other coalition forces. In all parts security and the standard of living of people of the country, our power is strengthening; here and to point forward to turning the regime is weakening; the Iraqi people progress into lasting change, lasting secu- are turning towards us. rity, and lasting peace, which is what peo- I’d like to pay tribute to the profes- ple want to see here. And we’ve made that sionalism and the compassion that they

322 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Apr. 8 continue to show and to express my condo- the U.N. That is a false choice. It will be lences to the families of those that have run by the Iraqi people. All of us will do lost their lives in this conflict, most re- what we can to help in that process of cently, the three brave soldiers who lost transition. We are, of course, agreed, as their lives fighting to liberate Basra. I think we say in our joint statement, that there anyone who has seen the joy on the faces will be a vital role for the United Nations of people in Basra as they realize that the in the reconstruction of Iraq. But the key regime that they detest is finally collapsing is that Iraq, in the end, should be governed knows very well that this was, indeed, a by the Iraqi people. war of liberation and not of conquest. Once again, let me thank President Bush On weapons of mass destruction, we for coming here. Let me say, as well as know that the regime has them. We know our own pride in our own forces during that as the regime collapses, we will be the course of this conflict, we have watched led to them. We pledged to disarm Iraq with immense admiration the skill and te- of weapons of mass destruction, and we nacity and professionalism of the American will keep that commitment. forces. This is a strong alliance. We’re On Saddam, his grip on power has been strong allies. And I think, day by day, the prized away. He has ruled by fear. But proof of the wisdom of that alliance grows. as the knowledge sinks in that we will get Thank you. the job done, the people realize there’s not President Bush. Thank you very much, going to be a repeat of 1991; there’s not Tony. It’s an honor to be with you again. going to be a repeat of the past. The power It’s—I’m really pleased to be here in of Saddam is ending. Northern Ireland. And our enemy in this conflict has always The Prime Minister is a man of his word. been Saddam and his regime, not the Iraqi He is a man of great ability, deep convic- people. We are the friends of the Iraqi tion, and steady courage. He has my admi- people. So much of our discussion today ration, and he has the admiration of the has focused on how we continue to get American people. vital supplies of food, water, and medicines Our two countries are joined in large to them and how we help the process of tasks because we share fundamental convic- transition to the day when Iraq is governed tions. We believe that free nations have by the Iraqi people for the Iraqi people. the responsibility to confront terrorism. We As we said, our forces will not stay in believe free nations must oppose the spread Iraq a day longer than is necessary. We of weapons of mass destruction. And we will take on the legal and moral obligations believe that free nations must advance that will fall to us as the forces on the human rights and dignity across the world. ground to stabilize the country, to keep We believe that the just demands of the basic services going, to protect civilian life. international community must be enforced, Then we will help Iraq move as swiftly not ignored. We believe this so strongly as possible to an Interim Authority run by that we are acting on our convictions. Iraqis. And that, in turn, is designed to America and Britain have been partners pave the way for a truly representative gov- in Afghanistan, where a terrorist regime has ernment which respects human rights and been replaced by a government committed the rule of law, which spends Iraq’s wealth to justice and to peace. At this moment, not on palaces and weapons of mass de- our military forces are fighting side by side struction but on the well-being, prosperity in Iraq to defend our security and to free of the people of Iraq. that nation from oppression. Our Govern- And this new Iraq that will emerge is ments are working to help bring about a not to be run either by us or, indeed, by settlement in the Middle East that protects

323 Apr. 8 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 the rights of Israelis and Palestinians, that responsibilities under the control of an In- promotes the peace, that promotes security, terim Authority composed of Iraqis from that promotes human dignity. both inside and outside the country. The In Northern Ireland, the Prime Minister Interim Authority will serve until a perma- and I are committed to helping the parties nent government can be chosen by the take the final steps toward a lasting peace. Iraqi people. Later this week, Prime Minister Blair and The rebuilding of Iraq will require the the Taoiseach will release a plan setting support and expertise of the international out the remaining actions that must be community. We’re committed to working taken to realize the promise of the Good with international institutions, including the Friday agreement. I support and my Gov- United Nations, which will have a vital role ernment strongly supports their efforts. At to play in this task. the meeting this afternoon, I will urge This work when the war is finished will Northern Ireland’s political leaders to adopt not be easy, but we’re going to see it this plan as their own. through. A free Iraq will be ruled by laws, This is an historic moment, and I ask not by a dictator. A free Iraq will be peace- all the communities of Northern Ireland ful and not a friend to terrorists or a men- to seize this opportunity for peace. ace to its neighbors. A free Iraq will give Prime Minister Blair and I are also re- up all its weapons of mass destruction. A viewing the course of the battle in Iraq. free Iraq will set itself on the path to de- We’re spending a lot of time talking about mocracy. The end of Saddam’s regime will that country’s future beyond war and be- also remove a source of violence and insta- yond tyranny. As the Prime Minister men- bility in the Middle East. tioned, our armed services are conducting Prime Minister Blair and I are deter- themselves with great courage and, at the mined to move toward our vision of broad- same time, great humanity. I’m proud of er peace in that region. We’re committed our forces. I’m proud of the British forces. to implementing the roadmap toward We’re both proud of the Australian forces. peace, to bring closer the day when two We share sacrifices. We share grief. We states, Israel and Palestine, live side by side pray for those families who mourn the loss in peace and stability. of life, American families, British families. Peace in the Middle East will require And as this war has progressed, the world overcoming deep divisions of history and has witnessed the brutal desperation, the religion. Yet we know this is possible; it true character of the Iraqi regime. The is happening in Northern Ireland. We are world is also witnessing the liberation and proving that old patterns of bitterness and humanitarian aid our coalition is bringing violence, the habits of hatred and retribu- to that country as a new day begins in tion, can be broken when one generation Iraq. makes the choice to break those habits. In fighting this war, we’re taking every And now this process of healing must be precaution to protect innocent life. We’re carried forward. showing respect for the Iraqi people, re- The United States and the United King- spect for their culture. There will be dif- dom accept our responsibilities—accept our ficult fighting ahead, yet the outcome is responsibilities for peace. We accept our not in doubt: Iraq will be free. responsibilities for security. Across the After the current regime is removed, our world, we are meeting these responsibilities coalition will work to restore electricity and together. America has no finer ally than water supplies, medical care, and other es- the United Kingdom and no finer friend sential services in Iraq. We’ll move as than the Prime Minister. And I’m grateful quickly as possible to place governmental for his leadership in these crucial days.

324 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Apr. 8

Prime Minister Blair. Right. Adam It’s the same vision we need to have [Adam Boulton, Sky News]. in the Middle East. It’s a hopeful time in the Middle East, as far as I’m con- Northern Ireland Peace Process cerned. I believe we can make substantial progress. I’m pleased with the new leader Q. Mr. President, welcome to Northern of the Palestinian Authority. I look forward Ireland. I wonder if I could ask you how to him finally putting his cabinet in place you feel about meeting the leaders of the so we can release the roadmap. Republican movement, bearing in mind I believe peace is possible. Being here that unlike Saddam Hussein, they have di- in Northern Ireland even makes me even rectly targeted British civilians, British poli- more firm in my belief that peace is pos- ticians, members of the British military and sible. I’ve talked at length with the Prime the police, and also, of course, that they Minister about how hard he had to work oppose the war. So you’re welcoming Gerry to bring the process this far. I’m willing Adams, apparently, and yet, you’re not to expend the same amount of energy in going to see someone like the Democratic the Middle East. And so I hope these lead- Unionists who are a constitutional party op- ers hear me when I say that—achieve the posed to terrorism. agreement, because it will have an effect President Bush. Right. This isn’t my first beyond Northern Ireland. And I think it time I’ve met Mr. Adams or any of the will. other parties who have committed to the Yes, Ron [Ron Fournier, Associated Good Friday agreement—as a matter of Press]. fact, I welcomed to the Oval Office, around Saint Patrick’s Day of this year and last year and the year before. Regime Change in Iraq/Postwar Plans I am honored to have been asked to Q. Mr. President, how reliable was the be here to help move the process along. intelligence that put Saddam Hussein at the These are men who have committed to an site of last night’s attack? Did he survive? agreement that the Prime Minister and the And given the incursions in Baghdad re- Taoiseach worked a long time to achieve. cently, is the war nearly over? They’ve signed on to a process that will President Bush. You know, I don’t know yield peace. They have agreed to put whether he survived. The only thing I know hatreds in the past. They have agreed to is he’s losing power. I know that because say the history is just that—history—and the Royal Marines in Basra worked so hard they look forward to a future in which that the people of Basra are beginning to young generations of Northern Irelanders understand that—a couple of things: One, can grow up in peace. That’s what they’ve when we said we would come and stay committed themselves to. And as a result to achieve their liberty, we meant it; that of making that commitment, I am perfectly in Basra, for example, the Royal Marine— comfortable about urging them to see the the presence of the Royal Marines is pro- process through. viding enough comfort for people to begin There is such hope here in Northern Ire- to express their own opinions. They’re be- land that the past can be broken. And the ginning to realize freedom is real. Prime Minister is right when he says that These are people in the south of Iraq when the peace process is successful here, that had been betrayed, tortured, had been it will send a really important signal to told they were going to be free, took a other parts of the world. It’ll confirm the risk in the past, and then were absolutely fact that people who have a vision for peace hammered by the Iraqi regime. They were can see that vision become a reality. skeptical. They were cynical. They were

325 Apr. 8 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 doubtful. Now they believe. They’re begin- conditions are right for the people to elect ning to understand we’re real and true, and their own leadership. And the United Na- it’s happening elsewhere. Freedom is tions will have a vital role. spreading south to north. When we say ‘‘vital role,’’ that’s precisely So the only thing I can tell you is, is what we mean, that they will be involved, that that grip I used to describe that along with the coalition, in helping to stand Saddam had around the throats of the Iraqi up an Interim Authority. But the Iraqi peo- people are loosening. I can’t tell you if ple are responsible for who’s on that Au- all 10 fingers are off the throat, but finger thority. And Tony can describe what’s hap- by finger, it’s coming off. And the people pening in Basra. He might describe some are beginning to realize that. It’s important of the meetings that are taking place as for the Iraqi people to continue to hear leadership begins to emerge. this message: We will not stop until they It is a cynical world that says it’s impos- are free; Saddam Hussein will be gone. It sible for the Iraqis to run themselves. It might have been yesterday. I don’t know. is a cynical world which condemns Iraq But he’ll be gone, and they just need to to failure. We refuse to accept that. We know that, because we’re not leaving. And believe that the Iraqi people are capable, not only that, they need to hear the mes- talented, and will be successful in running sage that we’re not leaving after he’s gone their own Government. until they are ready to run their own gov- Prime Minister Blair. I agree with all ernment. that, as you would expect. And can I just I hear a lot of talk here about how we’re make this further point to you, the one going to impose this leader or that leader. thing that is interesting is that as people Forget it. From day one, we have said the in Iraq realize that Saddam and his regime Iraqi people are capable of running their are going, as they realize that, they are own country. That’s what we believe. The coming out. And it’s not that they’re wel- position of the United States of America coming us because they’re welcoming for- is, the Iraqis are plenty capable of running eign troops. They’re welcoming the fact of Iraq, and that’s precisely what is going to their liberation from a regime—the more happen. we know about it, the more brutal, repres- Prime Minister Blair. Andy. sive, tyrannical we see its character. And therefore, these people, given a chance, al- United Nations Role in Postwar Iraq ready now they’re in discussion with our Q. Andrew Marr, BBC News. Picking up people inside Basra—people coming for- if I could, just on that last point for both ward, people talking about those who have of you, have you agreed whether the got support within the local community. United Nations will have any role in select- Iraq—it’s not just that it’s right that Iraq ing the Interim Iraqi Authority? Or will is run by Iraqi people; they want the that be entirely for the coalition? chance to run their own country. They President Bush. Yes. I mean, when we haven’t wanted to be under the yoke of say ‘‘vital role for the United Nations,’’ we tyranny for all these decades. The reason mean vital role for the United Nations in you have this incredibly tyrannical, repres- all aspects of the issue, whether it be hu- sive security apparatus was in order to sup- manitarian aid or whether it be helping to press the proper feelings of the people stand up a Interim Authority. The Iraqi there. people will decide who’s on the Iraqi— Now, of course, we’re going to work with the Interim Authority. The Interim Author- everyone. We’ll work with the U.N. We’ll ity is a transition quasi-government until work with everyone in order to bring this the real Government shows up, until the about. But if I can just make this point

326 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Apr. 8 to your point, the important thing is not Annan for naming a personal representative to get into some battle about words of the to the process yesterday. It is a positive precise role here or there, but let’s all work step. together internationally—the coalition We have said all along there needs to forces, the international community to- be a role for the United Nations. We said gether—to do what we really should be so in the Azores. We will keep repeating doing, which is making sure that that will it. And evidently there’s some skepticism of the Iraqi people is properly expressed here in Europe about whether or not I in institutions that in the end they own, mean what I say. Saddam Hussein clearly not any outside power or authority. now knows I mean what I say. And when, And I think if we keep that vision in you know, we—and people in Iraq will our minds, then we’ll get this right. And know we mean what we say when we talk rather than having a sort of, you know, about freedom. And a vital role for the endless diplomatic wrangles over it, let’s all United Nations means a vital role for the just agree that the basic things that the United Nations. Iraqi people want is they want to have a Prime Minister Blair. Absolutely. And country where they are able to exploit their there is no reason whatever why we need own wealth for their own prosperity, where to go back into the wrangles we had over, they have basic protection of human rights, you know, the so-called second resolution. and where they have a Government genu- If people keep in mind the key objective, inely representative of Iraqi people—of the which is the well-being of the Iraqi peo- full diversity of Iraqi people. ple—whatever is—the past is the past. But And I think what the President’s just said this country is in the process of being liber- there is so true, that—I can’t tell you how ated. If they keep in mind the well-being many times people have said to me in these of the Iraqi people, then I think we all situations, ‘‘Well, the outside world doesn’t then share a responsibility to make that really understand. Somehow these people objective be fulfilled in terms of what the who are living under these types of tyr- Iraqi people want, in terms of their demo- annies, really, that’s the way they live.’’ It’s cratic rights, in terms of their prosperity, not the way they want to live. It’s the way in terms of their freedom. And with good they’re forced to live. Give them a chance will and common sense, I’m sure it can to live freely, and they will live freely. be done. President Bush. Steve [Steve Holland, President Bush. Thank you. I appreciate Reuters]. you. Q. Mr. President, what is—what exactly is the vital role for the U.N. that you both mentioned? How do you explain what is a vital role? And are we going to see the same U.N. debate over postwar Iraq that we saw before the war? NOTE: The President’s news conference President Bush. Well, I view a vital role began at 11:08 a.m. in the Throne Room at as a agent to help people live freely. That’s Hillsborough Castle. In his remarks, he re- a vital role. That means food; that means ferred to Prime Minister Bertie Ahern of Ire- medicine; that means aid; that means a land; President Saddam Hussein of Iraq; place where people can give their contribu- Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams; Prime Min- tions; that means suggesting people for the ister Mahmoud Abbas (Abu Mazen) of the IIA; that means being a party to the Palestinian Authority; and Secretary-General progress being made in Iraq. That’s what Kofi Annan and Special Adviser for Iraq that means. And I want to thank Kofi Rafeeuddin Ahmed of the United Nations.

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Joint Statement by President George W. Bush and Prime Minister Tony Blair of the United Kingdom on Iraq April 8, 2003

The future of Iraq belongs to the Iraqi deliberately endangering such sites and people. After years of dictatorship, Iraq will using them for military purposes. soon be liberated. For the first time in The Coalition is delivering food, medi- decades, Iraqis will soon choose their own cine, and other humanitarian assistance to representative government. the Iraqi people. This flow will increase Coalition military operations are pro- as more of Iraq’s territory is liberated and gressing and will succeed. We will eliminate United Nations specialized agencies and the threat posed by Iraq’s weapons of mass non-governmental organizations are better destruction, deliver humanitarian aid, and able to operate. We welcome the adoption secure the freedom of the Iraqi people. by the United Nations Security Council of We will create an environment where Iraqis Resolution 1472, which will allow ship- can determine their own fate democrat- ments of humanitarian items to Iraq to re- ically and peacefully. sume under the Oil for Food program. As we said at our March 16 meeting We are grateful to our men and women in the Azores, we will uphold our responsi- in uniform, as well as to the brave troops bility to help the people of Iraq build a of Australia and Poland, and to forces con- nation that is whole, free and at peace with tributed by other members of the Coalition. itself and its neighbors. We support the They have demonstrated enormous bravery aspirations of all of Iraq’s people for a and professionalism in the face of great united, representative government that up- danger. We mourn for the members of the holds human rights and the rule of law Armed Forces who have sacrificed their as cornerstones of democracy. We reaffirm lives, and extend our deepest sympathies our commitment to protect Iraq’s natural to their families. resources, as the patrimony of the people We also grieve for the loss of civilian of Iraq, which should be used only for their life in Iraq. Coalition forces take great care benefit. to avoid civilian casualties. The Iraqi regime As the Coalition proceeds with the re- has done the opposite. It has deliberately construction of Iraq, it will work with its put Iraqi civilians in harm’s way, and used allies, other bilateral donors, and with the women and children as human shields. It United Nations and other international in- has sent execution squads to kill Iraqis who stitutions. The United Nations has a vital choose freedom over fighting for a brutal role to play in the reconstruction of Iraq. regime. We condemn Iraqi regime forces’ We welcome the efforts of U.N. agencies attacks in civilian clothing, false surrender, and non-governmental organizations in pro- and mistreatment of prisoners of war. viding immediate assistance to the people These acts are an affront to all standards of Iraq. As we stated in the Azores, we of human decency and international law. plan to seek the adoption of new United We are taking every step possible to safe- Nations Security Council resolutions that guard Muslim holy sites and other pro- would affirm Iraq’s territorial integrity, en- tected places in Iraq that are important to sure rapid delivery of humanitarian relief, the religious and cultural heritage of Islam and endorse an appropriate post-conflict and of Iraq. We have no confidence that administration for Iraq. We welcome the the Iraqi regime has done the same, and appointment by the United Nations Sec- are deeply concerned by reports that it is retary General of a Special Adviser for Iraq

328 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Apr. 8 to work with the people of Iraq and coali- thority will progressively assume more of tion representatives. the functions of government. It will provide The day when Iraqis govern themselves a means for Iraqis to participate in the must come quickly. As early as possible, economic and political reconstruction of we support the formation of an Iraqi In- their country from the outset. terim Authority, a transitional administra- Coalition forces will remain in Iraq as tion, run by Iraqis, until a permanent gov- long as necessary to help the Iraqi people ernment is established by the people of to build their own political institutions and Iraq. The Interim Authority will be broad- reconstruct their country, but no longer. based and fully representative, with mem- We look forward to welcoming a liberated bers from all of Iraq’s ethnic groups, re- Iraq to the international community of na- gions and diaspora. The Interim Authority tions. We call upon our partners in the will be established first and foremost by international community to join with us in the Iraqi people, with the help of the mem- ensuring a democratic and secure future bers of the Coalition, and working with the for the Iraqi people. Secretary General of the United Nations. As coalition forces advance, civilian Iraqi NOTE: An original was not available for leaders will emerge who can be part of verification of the content of this joint state- such an Interim Authority. The Interim Au- ment.

Joint Statement by President George W. Bush and Prime Minister Tony Blair of the United Kingdom and Prime Minister Bertie Ahern of Ireland on Northern Ireland April 8, 2003

We affirm our individual and collective break with paramilitarism in all its past commitment to the Good Friday Agree- forms must be complete and irrevocable. ment and to its full and complete imple- The proposals will encompass a wide range mentation. The people of Northern Ireland of additional issues, including normaliza- and their leaders have a momentous oppor- tion, the devolution of justice and policing, tunity to ensure that peace is strengthened sustainable political institutions, and human and political stability secured. rights. The participation of all parties in The opportunity to cement the peace is effective community policing, a necessary historic. The case is compelling; the cause key to long term stability in Northern Ire- just; the outcome must be fair, balanced, land, would constitute a significant step for- and comprehensive. The acceptance and ward. There will be a need for a mecha- implementation of the Governments’ forth- nism, one designed to safeguard the inter- coming proposals would promote the rec- ests and rights of all, to verify compliance onciliation that the people of Northern Ire- land desire and deserve. with the key undertakings. All three Gov- These proposals, built on the firm ernments are committed to supporting ef- ground of the Good Friday Agreement, fective monitoring arrangements. Acts of hold out the prospect of enormous completion, and a reaffirmation that polit- progress. They reflect our shared view that ical change is to come through exclusively there can be no place in Northern Ireland peaceful and democratic means, will renew for paramilitary activity and capability. The and expand trust and confidence.

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Peace is its own dividend. At the same ment. They have an unprecedented chance time, peace fosters an environment where to continue their bold march from a trou- entrepreneurship and business creativity bled past to a future of promise and hope can thrive, where jobs will be created, and for generations to come. In seizing this op- where prosperity will follow. Our govern- portunity, Northern Ireland will serve as ments have agreed to work together to ex- a model to the world for dialogue and ne- plore ways to encourage the flow of invest- gotiation, demonstrating to all that what ment to Northern Ireland. was once divided can be drawn together We call upon Northern Ireland’s political in a spirit of reconciliation and respect. representatives, community and business leaders, and citizens from all walks of life to respond positively to the forthcoming NOTE: An original was not available for statements. We see no better way to fulfill verification of the content of this joint state- the promise of the Good Friday Agree- ment.

Statement on Senate Action on Faith-Based Initiative Legislation April 9, 2003

I commend the Senate for acting in a America’s charities face tough times, and bipartisan way to pass legislation that will we can do more to support their efforts. help us meet our shared goal of better serv- I look forward to continuing to work with ing Americans in need. This legislation con- Congress to improve the CARE Act legisla- tains key elements of the Faith-Based Ini- tion, and I continue to urge Congress to tiative that I proposed more than 2 years take additional steps to end discrimination ago to encourage more charitable giving against faith-based organizations that have and rally the armies of compassion that a proven record of helping people in need exist in communities all across America. realize a better life.

Videotaped Remarks to the Iraqi People April 10, 2003

This is George W. Bush, the President make it a unique threat to the world. Coali- of the United States. At this moment, the tion forces will help maintain law and order regime of Saddam Hussein is being reso that Iraqis can live in security. We will moved from power, and a long era of fear respect your great religious traditions, and cruelty is ending. American and coali- whose principles of equality and compas- tion forces are now operating inside Bagh- sion are essential to Iraq’s future. We will dad, and we will not stop until Saddam’s help you build a peaceful and representa- corrupt gang is gone. The Government of tive government that protects the rights of Iraq and the future of your country will all citizens. And then our military forces soon belong to you. will leave. Iraq will go forward as a unified, The goals of our coalition are clear and independent, and sovereign nation that has limited. We will end a brutal regime, whose regained a respected place in the world. aggression and weapons of mass destruction

330 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Apr. 10

The United States and its coalition part- rible persecution that so many have en- ners respect the people of Iraq. We are dured. taking unprecedented measures to spare The nightmare that Saddam Hussein has the lives of innocent Iraqi citizens. We are brought to your nation will soon be over. beginning to deliver food and water and You are a good and gifted people, the heirs medicine to those in need. Our only enemy of a great civilization that contributes to is Saddam and his brutal regime, and that all humanity. You deserve better than tyr- regime is your enemy as well. anny and corruption and torture chambers. In the new era that is coming to Iraq, You deserve to live as free people. And your country will no longer be held captive I assure every citizen of Iraq: Your nation to the will of a cruel dictator. You will will soon be free. be free—free to build a better life instead Thank you. of building more palaces for Saddam and his sons, free to pursue economic pros- NOTE: The President’s remarks were perity without the hardship of economic videotaped at 11:30 a.m. on April 8 in the sanctions, free to travel and free to speak small dining room at Hillsborough Castle in your mind, free to join in the political af- Northern Ireland for later broadcast. The Of- fairs of Iraq. And all the people who make fice of the Press Secretary released the re- up your country—Kurds, Shi’a, Turkomans, marks on April 10 and also released an Arabic Sunnis, and others—will be free of the ter- language transcript of these remarks.

Statement on Congressional Action on Amber Alert System Legislation April 10, 2003

I applaud the House and Senate for pass- The safety and well-being of our children ing bipartisan legislation that provides us is a shared priority for all Americans and with additional tools to prevent, investigate, Federal, State, and local authorities. We and prosecute violent crimes against our must use every available resource to find children. This legislation builds upon the and safely return missing children to their steps my administration took last year to families and their homes, and we must use expand, enhance, and coordinate the suc- every available tool to vigorously prosecute cessful Amber Alert system across the Na- and severely punish those who would do tion. The bill also strengthens child pornog- our children harm. I look forward to sign- raphy laws. ing this important legislation into law as soon as possible.

Message to Participants in National Youth Service Day April 10, 2003

I send greetings to those participating ican experience. Service to others is an ex- in National Youth Service Day. pression of responsible citizenship, and now Since our Nation’s founding, volunteer more than ever is a time for our Nation’s service has been a vital part of the Amer-

331 Apr. 10 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 young people to be active contributors, not in need. By using their time, talents, and spectators. compassion to make a difference in the I created the USA Freedom Corps and lives of others, these young people are the Students in Service to America initia- learning to become responsible and en- tives to mobilize our citizens and provide gaged citizens in our democratic society. opportunities for young people to give back I commend participants for your energy, to their communities. As part of these ini- idealism, and willingness to serve. I also tiatives, I asked all Americans to dedicate applaud the more than 60 national partner at least 4,000 hours over the rest of their organizations working with schools, houses lives to serving our Nation through volun- of worship, local governments, and commu- teering. Since then, our citizens, and par- nity and civic organizations in all 50 states ticularly our young people, have responded to make this day a success. Your efforts to my call with an outpouring of kindness strengthen our Nation and contribute to a that is transforming our Nation one heart future of hope and promise for all. and one soul at a time. Laura joins me in sending our best wish- National Youth Service Day is a great es for a productive and memorable day. example of what can happen when dedicated individuals come together to serve GEORGE W. BUSH a cause greater than self. Across our Na- tion, millions of young people are partici- NOTE: An original was not available for pating in projects that help their neighbors verification of the content of this message.

Message to the Senate Transmitting North Atlantic Treaty Protocols on the Accession of Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, Slovakia, and Slovenia April 10, 2003

To the Senate of the United States: NATO played a vital role in defending free- I transmit herewith Protocols to the dom and promoting this peaceful change North Atlantic Treaty of 1949 on the acces- for over 50 years. I am pleased that, with sion of Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, the advice and consent of the Senate, these Romania, Slovakia, and Slovenia. These new democracies can soon join us as mem- protocols were opened for signature at bers of this great Alliance. Brussels on March 26, 2003, and signed As the threats to the Alliance have that day on behalf of the United States changed, NATO itself has adapted to face and the other parties to the North Atlantic them. At the Prague Summit in November Treaty. I request the advice and consent 2002, I joined the leaders of NATO not of the Senate to the ratification of these only in inviting these nations to join us documents. I also transmit for the informa- as members, but also in calling for a trans- tion of the Senate a report submitted to formation of NATO’s military capabilities me by the Secretary of State regarding this and structures to meet the threats of the matter. 21st century. NATO is proceeding with that The end of communism and the consoli- agenda. Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lith- dation of freedom and democracy in Cen- uania, Romania, Slovakia, and Slovenia are tral and Eastern Europe have been among the great developments of human history. already making real contributions to the

332 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Apr. 11 common security of the NATO Allies, in- Administration stands ready to assist you cluding the United States, and I am firmly as best we can in your deliberations. convinced that their full membership in GEORGE W. BUSH NATO will strengthen our Alliance further. I ask the Senate to join me in advancing The White House, the cause of freedom and strengthening April 10, 2003. NATO by providing its prompt advice and NOTE: This message was released by the Of- consent to these Protocols of Accession. My fice of the Press Secretary on April 11.

Remarks Following a Visit With Troops Wounded in Operation Iraqi Freedom and an Exchange With Reporters in Bethesda, Maryland April 11, 2003

The President. Laura and I just had an thesda, at Walter Reed, our troops get the extraordinary experience here at Bethesda very best there is. and at—initially at Walter Reed, to thank So Laura and I were here not only to our troops who’ve been overseas in Iraq thank our soldiers but also to thank those for their dedication and courage and their in the medical profession who dedicate service to the country. Because of troops their lives to healing the hurt and to help- like them, because of coalition troops, ing the families. And that’s exactly what’s we’ve had an historic week. happening for our soldiers here in these I don’t think I’ll ever forget—I’m sure two fine facilities. a lot of other people will never forget— I’ll be glad to answer a couple of ques- the statue of Saddam Hussein falling in tions. Yes. Baghdad, and then seeing the jubilation on POWs and MIAs/Saddam Hussein the faces of ordinary Iraqis as they realized that the grip of fear that had them by the Q. Mr. President, what progress are we throat had been released—the first signs making in determining the whereabouts of freedom. and well-being of American POWs and I came today to thank the troops and MIAs in Iraq? And the same goes for Sad- their families and their loved ones for their dam Hussein. And which do you see as the greater priority right now? sacrifice. I also want to thank the staffs The President. The priority of this cam- of these hospitals, the leadership, the doc- paign is to rid the Iraqi people of any tors and the nurses, the people who care vestiges of Saddam Hussein and his regime for those who have been hurt, for their so we can not only free the people but extraordinary service to their fellow Ameri- clear that country of weapons of mass de- cans. struction. I don’t know the whereabouts of Ours is an amazing country where a Saddam Hussein. I don’t know if he’s dead young soldier can be wounded on the bat- or alive. I do know he’s no longer in power. tlefield and 4 days later be receiving the In terms of POWs, we will use every best health care possible. This country is resource we have to find any POWs that dedicated to our military. We try to provide are alive. And we pray that they are alive, the very best we can. And here at Be- because if they are, we’ll find them. Steve [Steve Holland, Reuters].

333 Apr. 11 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Victory Declaration/Media Coverage that’s when we will say this is over. This Q. Why shouldn’t we say that the war is a campaign that has been run on the is over except for pockets of resistance, sir? frontlines by General Tommy Franks. And And do you feel any certain sense of vindi- that’s the way it’s going to continue to be, cation after all those people questioned the that Tommy gets the—Tommy tells us what war plan? is necessary to achieve the objective. We The President. I don’t take anything per- gave Tommy the tools necessary to win. sonally. I committed our troops because I We agreed with his strategy, and he’s run- believe that Saddam Hussein and his re- ning this war. And when Tommy says we’ve gime posed a threat to the American peo- achieved our objective, that’s when we’ve ple, posed a threat to anybody who loves achieved our objective. I’m here in Wash- freedom. We will achieve that objective. ington, DC. He’s there in Qatar, and he’s And at the same time, we will free the got commanders in Baghdad. He’s better Iraqi people. And that’s an important objec- to judge whether we’ve achieved the objective as well. We believe in freedom. We tive than I have. believe freedom is universal. We believe Go ahead. freedom is a gift from the Almighty God Q. Do you need to see the weapons of for every person, regardless of their race mass destruction found and secured? or their religion. The President. The war will end when This war will end when our commanders Tommy Franks says we’ve achieved our ob- in the field tell me that the objective has jective. been achieved. And Tommy Franks put to- Syria gether a great strategy. The wonderful Q. [Inaudible]—for Syria’s failure to thing about free speech and a lot of TV heed U.S. warnings? stations is you get a lot of opinions. Some The President. Syria just needs to know of them were right, and some of them were we expect full cooperation, and that we really wrong. But that’s okay. That’s what strongly urge them not to allow for Ba’ath we—that’s what we believe. We believe in Party members or Saddam’s families or free speech. We believe people ought to generals on the run to seek safe haven and be able to express their opinion. find safe haven there. We expect them to Q. Sir, can you tell us, though, what you do everything they can to prevent people think specifically needs to happen for you who should be held to account from escap- to feel comfortable with the recommenda- ing in their country. And if they are in tion from General Franks that the war is their country, we expect the Syrian authori- over and victory has been achieved? Does ties to turn them over to the proper folks. Tikrit need to fall, the weapons of mass destruction—— President’s Agenda The President. Hold on, I can’t hear you. Q. As the war does come to an end, There’s something beeping here. We’ve got what domestic or foreign priorities are you a major beeper violation right here at Be- going to turn your focus to quickly? thesda. [Laughter] Say it again, I’m—— The President. That’s a very speculative Q. What are some of the specific things question about foreign priority. My priority that you want to see? The weapons of mass right now is to win the war on terror. And destruction found and secured? Tikrit fall- that means we’ve got ongoing operations ing? Saddam found? in Afghanistan. The Iraqi theater was a part The President. The specific thing I want of the war on terror, and we continue to to hear is that our commanders say we’ve fight the war on terror. So that’s a major achieved the clear objective I set out. And priority.

334 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Apr. 11

Beyond that, obviously, is the promotion know. And a lot of the troops wanted to of the health and well-being of citizens get healed quickly so they could go back around the world. I’m very serious about with their units. It’s an amazing thing when the AIDS initiative for Africa. But we will you see a person wounded, sitting there continue to deal with it, and we will con- in a wheelchair or bound up in bandages tinue to deal with issues like proliferation. or these different looking metal things At home, obviously I’m spending a lot sticking out of them to hold them to- of time on economic growth and working gether—a young man look you in the eye with Members of the United States Con- and say, ‘‘I can’t wait to get back to my gress to encourage them to pass a stimulus unit. I hope I’m healed fast enough to get package that will affect the economy so back to Iraq.’’ people can find work. I want to make sure It’s a brave lot here in Bethesda, people Medicare gets done—that is, the reform who are willing to sacrifice for something of Medicare—so that seniors are able to greater than themselves. And I feel lucky receive the health care that they’ve been as an American to be a part of a country promised. I mean, there’s a lot on my agen- where citizens are willing to do that. da. I reminded them and their families that Visits With Wounded Troops the war in Iraq is—it’s really about peace, trying to make the world more peaceful. Q. Were there any conversations, either This victory in Iraq, when it happens, will here or at Walter Reed, that stood out to make the world more peaceful. I reminded you? And what was their effect on you and them that their sacrifices really had to do Mrs. Bush? with the security of our country, that Sad- The President. Conversations? dam Hussein and his terrorist allies are Q. Here or at Walter Reed that stood threats to America, threats to our people out. because of what we believe in. The President. Well, I think the thing I also reminded them that their coura- that stood out the most to me was seeing geous sacrifice will help young Iraqis grow two wounded soldiers swear in as citizens up in a free society, that out of the chaos of the United States, one man from Mex- that takes place there now and after the ico, one man from the Philippines—people fear of a Saddam Hussein and his thugs, who had gone overseas, people who had that the Iraqi people will run their own risked their lives for peace and security and country, make their own decisions, choose freedom—they wore the uniform of the their own leaders, and will become a coun- United States military. And Laura and I try at peace with others in the neighbor- got to see them sworn in as citizens. It hood. was a very profound moment. We were And so their sacrifices, as I told them, both honored to witness this. were worthwhile. And it’s an honor to have You know, we’ve got an amazing country, spoken to them and to have been with where—it’s so powerful, values we believe, them and their families today. that people would be willing to risk their Thank you all very much. own life and become a citizen after being wounded. It’s an amazing moment. I’m really proud of them. NOTE: The President spoke at 3:40 p.m. in Yes, ma’am. the lobby at the National Naval Medical Cen- Q. How was the morale of the marines ter. In his remarks, he referred to former and sailors? President Saddam Hussein of Iraq; and Gen. The President. It’s good. The Marines are Tommy R. Franks, USA, combatant com- a tough group—a tough group—as you mander, U.S. Central Command. The Office

335 Apr. 11 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 of the Press Secretary also released a Spanish language transcript of these remarks.

Statement on Congressional Action on the Budget Resolution April 11, 2003

I commend House and Senate nego- complishing agreement but in doing so tiators for their hard work and success in ahead of schedule. The compromise budget ensuring that the Congress has a budget resolution funds our priorities, restrains resolution in place that reflects my prior- spending, and provides opportunity for pas- ities of winning the war against terrorism, sage of a robust jobs-and-growth package. protecting Americans at home, and I commend the House for passing this strengthening economic growth. I particu- measure and look forward to prompt pas- larly congratulate Chairmen Nickles and sage in the Senate. Nussle for their leadership, not only in ac-

Statement on Senate Action on the Budget Resolution April 11, 2003

The Senate has now completed action budget resolution provides for a jobs-and- on the budget resolution that funds our growth package of up to $550 billion, and priorities and rigorously controls spending. we will work with the Congress to provide I look forward to working with the full the greatest amount of tax relief to stimu- Congress to provide the tax relief necessary late our economy for American workers. to grow our economy and create jobs. The

Statement on House of Representatives Action on Comprehensive Energy Legislation April 11, 2003

I commend the House for passing com- secure our Nation’s energy future, in keep- prehensive and balanced energy legislation. ing with my National Energy Policy. I look The House legislation will increase Amer- forward to prompt Senate action and to ica’s energy independence by diversifying working to ensure that fiscally responsible our sources of renewable energy, expanding legislation to reduce our reliance on foreign new technology, and increasing environ- sources of energy can be brought to my mentally responsible exploration. This bill desk. is a major step forward in the effort to

336 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Apr. 12

The President’s Radio Address April 12, 2003

Good morning. Over the last several brace us.’’ ‘‘Hundreds of kids,’’ he said, days, the world has watched as the regime ‘‘were swarming us and kissing us.’’ of Saddam Hussein began passing into his- As Saddam’s regime of fear is brought tory. We will always remember the first to an end, the people of Iraq are revealing images of a nation released from decades the true hopes they have always held. It of tyranny and fear. The conflict continues should surprise no one that Iraqis, like all in Iraq, and our military may still face hard people, resent oppression and welcome fighting. Yet the statues of the dictator and their own freedom. It should surprise no all the works of his terror regime are falling one that in every nation and every culture, away. the human heart desires the same good From the beginning and to this very things, dignity, liberty, and a chance to hour, members of the American and coali- build a better life. tion forces have conducted themselves with As people throughout Iraq celebrate the all the skill and honor we expect of them. arrival of freedom, America celebrates with Our enemies have seen their valor. The them. We know that freedom is the gift people of Iraq are seeing their compassion of God to all mankind, and we rejoice as our military provides food, water, and when others can share it. medical treatment to all in need, including On Wednesday in central Baghdad, one captured Iraqi soldiers. As Army Master of the Iraqi men who took a sledgehammer Sergeant Howard Kutcher of Delaware said to the pedestal of the giant statue of of his service in the Middle East, ‘‘I am Saddam had this to say: ‘‘I’m 49, but I not here to conquer. I am here to help.’’ never lived a single day. Only now will I In one city, American soldiers encoun- start living.’’ tered a crowd of Iraqi citizens who thought Millions of Iraqis feel the same as their our troops were about to storm a nearby country is finally returned to them. The mosque. Just then, Lieutenant Colonel nightmare of Saddam Hussein’s rule in Iraq Chris Hughes ordered his men to get down is ending. Soon, the good and gifted people on one knee and point their weapons to of Iraq will be free to choose their leaders the ground. This gesture of respect helped who respect their rights and reflect their defuse a dangerous situation and made our character. In all that is to come, they will peaceful intentions clear. have the good will of the entire world. And Coalition forces have also come upon they will have the friendship of the people scenes that explain why fear runs so deep of the United States. among the Iraqi people. In Baghdad on Thanks for listening. Tuesday, U.S. marines helped to free more than 100 children who, according to one report, had been jailed for refusing to join NOTE: The address was recorded at 10:12 the dictator’s Ba’ath Party youth organiza- a.m. on April 11 in the Cabinet Room at the tion. Malnourished and wearing rags, the White House for broadcast at 10:06 a.m. on children were overjoyed to see their parents April 12. The transcript was made available and our liberating forces. In the words of by the Office of the Press Secretary on April Lieutenant Colonel Fred Padilla, com- 11 but was embargoed for release until the mander of the 1st Battalion 5th Marines, broadcast. In his remarks, the President re- ‘‘The children just streamed out of the ferred to former President Saddam Hussein gates, and their parents just started to em- of Iraq. The Office of the Press Secretary

337 Apr. 12 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

also released a Spanish language transcript of this address.

Statement on Congressional Action on Emergency Wartime Supplemental Appropriations Legislation April 12, 2003

I am pleased that Congress moved quick- as a new day begins in their country. This ly and with strong bipartisan support to legislation includes the resources necessary pass my request for our military and to to win the war and help secure enduring bolster our homeland defenses during Op- freedom and democracy for the Iraqi peo- eration Iraqi Freedom. The world is wit- ple. I look forward to working with the nessing the liberation of Iraq and the deliv- Congress as we make progress in the war ery of humanitarian aid to the Iraqi people and in providing aid to the people of Iraq.

Remarks on the Rescue of U.S. Prisoners of War and an Exchange With Reporters April 13, 2003

The President. Today is a great day for needs to cooperate with the United States the families, comrades, loved ones of the and our coalition partners and not harbor seven missing in action who are free. I’m any Ba’athists, any military officials, any really pleased, for all those who have been people who need to be held to account praying for their safety, that they are safe. for their tenure during what we are learn- We still have missing in action in Iraq; ing more and more about. It was one of we will continue to look for them. We pray the most horrendous governments ever. that they too will be safe and free one Q. Could they face military action if they of these days. But it’s just a good way to don’t cooperate? start off the morning, to have been notified The President. They just need to cooper- that seven of our fellow Americans are ate. going to be home here pretty soon, in the Prayer arms of their loved ones. I’ll answer a few questions. Scott [Scott Q. You have been talking a lot about Lindlaw, Associated Press]. prayer, and today is Palm Sunday. What role do you think faith and prayer had in Syria this rescue? Q. Mr. President, Secretary Rumsfeld The President. I think it played—first of said today he thinks Syria is harboring some all, I know it helps sustain and comfort Iraqi leadership. Could Syria face military those who mourn, those who are worried, action if they harbor these people? those who are concerned about their loved The President. Well, Syria just needs to ones. You know, I went to the hospital on cooperate with us. We’ve made—I made Friday and met some of our brave troops that clear on Friday. I will, if need be, and their families. And a lot of them told reiterate it today. The Syrian Government me that they had been sustained by prayer,

338 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Apr. 13

been comforted by the Almighty during The President. You’re free, and freedom what had to have been incredibly difficult is beautiful. And you know, it’ll take time times for them—to get the phone call that to restore chaos and order—order out of a loved one had been wounded or hurt chaos. But we will. and then not knowing whether the person Yes, John [John Cochran, ABC News]. would live and then being able to be re- united with them here in Washington. North Korea They told me that they felt like prayers Q. Sir, given the success of American had been answered. Prayer is powerful. military forces, is this a message that peo- One of the great things about this country ple like Syrians and the North Koreans is a lot of people pray, and I know a lot should take to heart? Do you think the of people are praying for the families of North Koreans are taking it to heart? those who grieve and the families of those The President. Well, John, I think that who wonder whether or not their loved people have got to know that we are seri- ones will ever return. ous about stopping the spread of weapons of mass destruction and that each situation Conditions in Iraq requires a different response. But we are Q. Mr. President, some of our colleagues making good progress in North Korea. We in Iraq are saying while the Iraqis are have made it clear that we think that the grateful that the coalition forces freed them best way to deal with their proliferation from Saddam Hussein, they’re frustrated is through a multinational forum. It looks and even scared about the chaos, the like that might be coming to fruition. That’s looting going on. very good news for the people in the Far The President. Yes. You know, it’s amaz- East who are concerned about North Korea ing, the statue comes down on Wednesday and their willingness to develop nuclear and the headlines start to read, ‘‘Oh, there’s weapons. We’re making progress on all disorder.’’ Well, no kidding. It is a situation fronts. that is chaotic because Saddam Hussein Syria created the conditions for chaos. He cre- Q. Do you think there are weapons of ated conditions of fear and hatred, and it’s mass destruction in Syria? going to take a while to stabilize the coun- The President. I think that we believe try. there are chemical weapons in Syria, for But just like the military campaign was example. And we will—each situation will second-guessed—I’m sure the plan is being require a different response, and of course, second—but we will be successful. And we’re—first things first. We’re here in Iraq there will be—— now. And the second thing about Syria is, Q. [Inaudible]. is that we expect cooperation, and I’m The President. Let me finish, please. hopeful we’ll receive cooperation. There will be more stability. There will be All right. Have a beautiful day. more medicine. There will be more food delivered over time, and it’s happening as Iraq Victory Declaration I speak. Q. When do you think you’ll declare a Have you got a followup question? victory? And will you be the one to declare victory if it comes? President’s Message to the Iraqi People The President. That’s going to be—yes, Q. I just want to ask what your message Friday, I’m—did you watch my press con- is to the Iraqi people who are wondering ference on Friday? about—— Q. I did.

339 Apr. 13 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

The President. Do I need to say it again, Syria/North Korea then? Surely you watched it. [Laughter] Q. Yes, sir. Now that there’s a vacancy Q. Tommy Franks is going to call the on the axis of evil, is Syria a good can- shots? [Laughter] didate? The President. Tommy—no, listen, we set The President. We will deal with each clear objectives here in Washington. We situation as it arises. We’re making progress gave our military what they needed to on the Korean Peninsula. Everybody knows achieve the objectives. And when those ob- our position, which is that we expect there jectives are met, we will hear from our to be a nuclear-weapons-free Peninsula. commanders on the ground that they have The good news is it’s a position shared been met. And that’s when the so-called by the Chinese; it’s a position shared by ‘‘victory declaration’’ will come forth. the South Koreans; and it’s a position Q. Mr. President, will you go on national shared by the Japanese. So we’ve got com- television when the time is right? mon interests, and working together, I am The President. I’m on national television very hopeful we’ll be able to achieve those right this second. And it’s an honor to be interests diplomatically. here on national television. And it’s a great Have a great day. Thank you. day to be on national television—seven NOTE: The President spoke at 12:53 p.m. on Americans are alive. Seven people who the South Lawn at the White House upon were missing are now alive. And I am so returning from Camp David, MD. In his re- pleased for their families and loved ones. marks, he referred to former President Sad- It is—Patsy [Patricia Wilson, Reuters], have dam Hussein of Iraq; and Gen. Tommy R. you got anything? Franks, USA, combatant commander, U.S. Central Command. The Office of the Press Secretary also released a Spanish language transcript of these remarks.

Letter to the Speaker of the House of Representatives Transmitting a Supplemental Budget Request for the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission April 11, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker: The details of this request are set forth I ask the Congress to consider the en- in the enclosed letter from the Director closed request for the Equal Employment of the Office of Management and Budget. Opportunity Commission (EEOC). This re- I concur with his comments and observa- quest would provide an additional $18.3 tions. million to the EEOC in FY 2003. It is Sincerely, needed for the EEOC to avoid furloughing its entire workforce for as many as 19 days GEORGE W. BUSH in FY 2003, which would significantly disrupt its ability to conduct its enforcement responsibilities. NOTE: This letter was released by the Office of the Press Secretary on April 14.

340 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Apr. 14

Videotaped Remarks to America’s Military and Their Families April 14, 2003

My fellow citizens: All who wear this Nation’s uniform have When freedom needs defending, America chosen to serve in America’s defense and turns to our military. I want to thank those in freedom’s cause. You and your families who wear our uniform. Thank you for your deserve the gratitude of the Nation and sacrifice. And as our men and women in the full support of our Government. We uniform do their job, they count on their will give you the tools and training you families. This time of war has been a time need to win our Nation’s battles. And we of hardship for many military families. will keep our commitment to improving the Some of you have been separated from quality of life for our military families. your loved ones by long deployments. This Nation has made another pledge: You’re dealing with added burdens at home We will never forget the men and women while praying for your husband or wife, who have fallen in service to America. We son or daughter, father or mother far from owe them our freedom. And we pray that home. All of America is grateful for your their loved ones will receive God’s comfort sacrifice. and God’s grace. All of you know that great military suc- Over the last few weeks, the world has cesses comes from years of hard work, witnessed what you already know, that our training, and commitment. You stand tall Armed Forces act with great skill and great in times of conflict, and you stand ready courage and great humanity. Images of the in times of peace. For your daily effort, Iraqi people welcoming our troops in cities for your professionalism, and for your patri- across that country are a testament to the otism, I thank you on behalf of the people character of our men and women in uni- of the United States. form. May God bless our country and all who Our forces have been given a clear mis- defend her. sion, to end a regime that threatened its neighbors and the world with weapons of NOTE: The President’s remarks were mass destruction and to free a people that videotaped at approximately 10:20 a.m. on had suffered far too long. American and April 11 in the Map Room at the White coalition forces are treating innocent civil- House for later broadcast. The videotape was ians with kindness, delivering urgently played in the Press Secretary’s press gaggle needed food and medicine, and acting in on April 14, and copies were made available the highest traditions of the United States by the Office of the Press Secretary, but the military. Our whole Nation is proud of the transcript was not issued as a White House honorable conduct of our military, and I press release. A Spanish language transcript am proud to be your Commander in Chief. of these remarks was also made available.

341 Apr. 14 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Joint Proclamation by the Heads of Government of Six Countries Regarding the Completion of the Human Genome Sequence April 14, 2003

We, the Heads of Government of the We encourage the world to celebrate the United States of America, the United King- scientific achievement of completing the dom, Japan, France, Germany, and China, Human Genome Project, and we exhort the are proud to announce that scientists from scientific and medical communities to re- our six countries have completed the essen- dedicate themselves to the utilization of tial sequence of three billion base pairs of these new discoveries to reduce human suf- DNA of the human genome, the molecular fering. instruction book of human life. His Excellency Remarkable advances in genetic science Jacques Chirac, and technology have been made in the five President of the French Republic. decades since the landmark discovery of the double-helix structure of DNA in April The Honorable 1953. Now, in the very month and year George Bush, of the 50th anniversary of that important President of the United States of discovery by Watson and Crick, the Inter- America. national Human Genome Sequencing Con- The Right Honorable sortium has completed decoding all the Tony Blair, M.P., chapters of the instruction book of human Prime Minister of the United King- life. This information is now freely available dom. to the world without constraints via public databases on the World Wide Web. His Excellency This genetic sequence provides us with Gerhard Schroeder, the fundamental platform for understanding Chancellor of the Federal Republic of ourselves, from which revolutionary Germany. progress will be made in biomedical His Excellency sciences and in the health and welfare of Junichiro Koizumi, humankind. Thus, we take today an impor- Prime Minister of Japan. tant step toward establishing a healthier future for all the peoples of the globe, for His Excellency whom the human genome serves as a com- WEN Jiabao, mon inheritance. Premier of the State Council of the We congratulate all the people who par- People’s Republic of China. ticipated in this project on their creativity and dedication. Their outstanding work will be noted in the history of science and tech- NOTE: An original was not available for nology, and as well in the history of human- verification of the content of this joint procla- kind, as a landmark achievement. mation.

342 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Apr. 15

Letter to Congressional Leaders Transmitting a Report on Iraq April 14, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. President:) tion Iraq under section 7 of the Iraq Lib- Consistent with the Authorization for eration Act of 1998 (Public Law 105–338). Use of Military Force Against Iraq Resolu- Sincerely, tion of 2002 (Public Law 107–243), the Au- thorization for the Use of Force Against GEORGE W. BUSH Iraq Resolution (Public Law 102–1), and in order to keep the Congress fully in- NOTE: Identical letters were sent to J. Den- formed, I am providing a report prepared nis Hastert, Speaker of the House of Rep- by my Administration. This report includes resentatives, and Richard B. Cheney, Presi- matters relating to planning for post-libera- dent of the Senate.

Remarks Following a Discussion With Business Leaders April 15, 2003

Christine, thanks for the kind words. risk, the hard work required to move this Thank you for being a entrepreneur who economy forward. was encouraging to your fellow workers to Small-business owners and employees serve their country. You represent a lot of understand that this economy has a great bosses across this country who encouraged deal of unmet potential. The American peo- the reservist or the guard, who made sure ple have all the talent to meet that poten- there was a job available when they came tial, and that’s why I’m so optimistic about home and, at the same time, supported the future for our economy. their family. And I want to thank you very The Nation needs quick action by our much for that. Congress on a progrowth economic pack- I want to welcome you all to the Rose age. We need tax relief totaling at least Garden. It is a beautiful day. It’s a beautiful $550 billion to make sure our economy day for our country too. We’ve got troops grows. And American workers and Amer- still fighting in Iraq, and our Nation takes ican businesses need every bit of that relief great pride in the men and women who now so that people who want to find a wear our country’s uniform and who sac- job can find one, so that people looking rifice for security and peace. The world for work are able to put food on the table has seen their skill and their courage and for their families. their humanity. They bring security to our I want to thank Christine for coming. country and, at the same time, bring free- I appreciate the fact that she is the CEO dom to the Iraqi people. of her own business. We just had a round- I appreciate the chance to meet with table discussion in the Roosevelt Room, small-business leaders from around our and one of the things I love—told the folks country to discuss the challenges facing our there I loved about America was the fact economy. The small-business folks in Amer- that somebody can own their own business, ica, the entrepreneurs, represent one of the that ours is an ownership society. I think great strengths of this country, the spirit that’s one of the things that makes America of free enterprise, the willingness to take so unique, is the entrepreneurial spirit and

343 Apr. 15 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

the drive by people from all walks of life us there, and I appreciate everybody else to start their own business, succeed with coming today as well. their own business. And at the same time, On the first day of the new Congress it’s that drive that makes it likely somebody more than 3 months ago, I spoke to the is going to find work. business leaders in Chicago, Illinois. I de- I appreciate Karla Aaron, who’s with us scribed two great and immediate tasks fac- as well, Hialeah Metal Spinning from South ing our country: first, to meet the dangers Florida. And I want to thank Tim Barrett, to America wherever they gather; and sec- who is the owner of Wood World. Tim ondly, to achieve a vigorous and growing said he’s got—he’s about as small a busi- economy. Those remain the highest prior- ness unit as you can get. He’s got four ities of my administration, and there’s no employees. I said, ‘‘Well, it’s four times big- doubt we’re going to meet those priorities. ger than the smallest.’’ [Laughter] And I This Government is acting to protect the appreciate Frank Fillmore as the president American people from the threats of a new of The Fillmore Group. Thank you all for era. In Iraq, the regime of Saddam Hussein standing up here as well. is no more. A month ago—one month Steve Anderson was with us today, who ago—that country was a prison to its peo- is the head of the National Restaurant As- ple, a haven for terrorists, an arsenal of sociation. His association represents all weapons that endangered the world. Today, kinds of entrepreneurs. The restaurant in- the world is safer. The terrorists have lost dustry is a great place for people to get an ally. The Iraqi people are regaining con- their start in achieving the American trol of their own destiny. These are good Dream. Sal Gomez was here representing the days in the history of freedom. Denver Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Our victory in Iraq is certain, but it is The most interesting statistics about the en- not complete. Centralized power of the dic- trepreneurial spirit is the number of His- tator has ended. Yet, in parts of Iraq, des- panic small businesses that are flourishing perate and dangerous elements remain. in our country. It’s one of the great tributes Forces of our coalition will engage these to America and our open society. enemies until they surrender or until I appreciate so very much Tom they’re destroyed. We have waged this war Donohue, who is the head of the U.S. with determination and with clarity of pur- Chamber, for joining us today. Jerry pose, and we will see it through until the Jasinowski is the head of the National Asso- job is done. ciation of Manufacturers, is with us. Karen As we press on to liberate every corner Kerrigan is the Small Business Survival of Iraq, we are beginning the difficult work Committee—that’s a pretty good name. of helping Iraqis to build a free and stable [Laughter] Tom Musser is the National country. The immediate tasks involve estab- Federation of Independent Businesses, lishing order as well as delivering food and NFIB. And Terry Neese is Women Impact- water and medicines. We’ll help Iraqis to ing Public Policy, joined us at our discus- restore electrical power and other basic sion in the Roosevelt Room; Bill Parsley services. We’ll help destroy the former re- of Carswell Distributing Company; Dirk gime’s weapons of mass destruction. We’ll Van Dongen, who is my good buddy, who help the Iraqi people to establish a just represents the National Association of and representative government which re- Wholesaler-Distributors; and Melanie spects human rights and adheres to the rule Sabelhaus, who represents the Small Busi- of law. These tasks will take effort, and ness Administration. We had a great discus- these tasks will take time. But I have faith sion. I want to thank you all for joining in the Iraqi people, and I believe that a

344 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Apr. 15 free Iraq can be an example of reform and payers 3 or 5 or 7 years from now; they progress to all the Middle East. are even better today. Our victory in Iraq will be a crucial ad- Instead of lowering taxes little by little, vance in the war against terror. Yet, the the Congress should do it all at once and war on terror continues. Our Nation is still give our economy the boost it needs. In- threatened by determined and resourceful stead of gradually reducing the marriage enemies. The proliferation of weapons of penalty, we should do it now. Instead of mass destruction remains a danger to the slowly raising the child credit from $600 civilized world. Yet from the very day our to $1,000, we should do it now. And we country was attacked, we have sent a clear should send the extra $400 per child to message to all who would threaten us and American families this year, 2003. our friends and our allies: The United All together, these tax reductions will States of America and our coalition will de- help 92 million Americans. And a signifi- fend ourselves. When we make a pledge, cant part of the benefit to our economy we mean it. We keep our word, and what will come within the first 2 years of the we begin, we will finish. plan. A family of four with an income of Another great priority of the Government $40,000 would receive a 96-percent reduction in Federal income taxes. Instead of is to encourage prosperity and the creation paying $1,178 per year, the family would of jobs for all who seek them. Here in pay $45 a year. That means extra money Washington, we’re now determining the in the family budget, year after year. That size and the shape of a package to promote money can cover a lot of bills. That money growth in jobs. It’s not ‘‘if’’ we have a pack- can help families with purchases they have age; it’s, ‘‘How big will the package be?’’ been delaying. That money will be in cir- The ‘‘if’’ is over with. In this debate, the culation, which will be good for our econ- goal is not to set arbitrary numbers for omy. that package. The goal is to determine what And this plan will help our small-business our economy needs, what small businesses sector. The benefits of the growth plan will need, what workers need, and then to take come from increased consumer spending actions necessary to meet those needs. The and, as importantly, from lower income-tax proposals I announced 3 months ago were rates on the small businesses themselves. designed to address specific weaknesses It is important for our fellow citizens to slowing down our economy and keeping understand that most small businesses pay companies from hiring new workers. Those their business taxes at the individual rates. weaknesses remain today. Most small businesses are sole proprietor- All of you know that economic and job ships or limited partnerships or Subchapter growth will come when consumers buy S’s. more goods and services from businesses And therefore, when you reduce indi- such as your own. And the best and fairest vidual tax rates, you benefit small-business way to make sure Americans can do that formation. As a matter of fact, under this is to grant them immediate tax relief so plan, some 23 million small-business own- they have more of their own money to ers will see their taxes cut, which leaves spend or save. more money for investment, more money In 2001, the Congress passed broad tax for growth, more money for job creation. reductions in income taxes and promised A growing economy also needs small-busi- much of this tax relief for future years. ness investment, and our Tax Code should With the economy as it is, the American encourage investment. Today, a small busi- people need that relief right away. The tax ness can deduct a maximum of $25,000 in cuts are good enough for the American tax- the year in which they buy equipment. We

345 Apr. 15 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 need to triple the amount that can be de- to our Treasury and less spending in Wash- ducted in the year in which they buy equip- ington, DC. ment. I am pleased that both the House and So I proposed to Congress that they the Senate have passed budget resolutions ought to limit—the limit ought to be in- that show real spending restraint. And now creased to $75,000, and that limit ought the Congress must focus on a robust and to be indexed to inflation. By doing so, effective growth package. We need at least we promote greater investment in machin- $550 billion in that package because the ery, and when a small business buys a ma- more tax relief that goes to the American chine, it enhances their company’s produc- people, the more jobs we will create in tivity. As well, it means the machinery man- this economy. ufacturer is likely to have more work avail- The last few months have been a time able. More investment equals jobs, and of challenge for America. Our resolve has what we’re interested in in this administra- been tested. Yet, we have the great re- tion is helping people who look for work sources of national strength and national find a job. character to overcome every challenge we We can also promote economic growth face. Our confidence and our optimism have never wavered. We are defending the and job creation by removing the double peace of the world. We’re bringing freedom tax on dividends. Taxing corporate income to corners of the world that haven’t seen once is fair. It is not fair for the Federal freedom in years. We’re also building the Government to tax the same money twice. prosperity of our country. The burden of double taxation falls on the This is a unique moment in our history, millions of individuals who receive divi- and the American people are rising to meet dends. It falls especially hard on seniors, it. who receive half of all dividend income. I want to thank each of you for your The removal of double taxation would hard work. I want to thank each of you put more money into the hands of inves- for the faith you have shown in this coun- tors; it would encourage more investment try’s future. May God bless you, and may in American businesses. Economists say God continue to bless America. Thank you that this plan will help our stock markets. all. And since half of American families own stock, the reform will help them save and NOTE: The President spoke at 11:16 a.m. in help our economy grow. the Rose Garden at the White House. In his Now, these measures were presented to remarks, he referred to Christine J. Bierman, the Congress in the first week of this year. founder and chief executive officer, Colt The progrowth package was urgent in Janu- Safety, Fire & Rescue; Karla Aaron, owner, ary. It’s even more urgent today. It is im- Hialeah Metal Spinning, Inc.; Tim Barrett, portant for you all to understand and for owner, Wood World; Frank C. Fillmore, Jr., our fellow Americans to understand, the founder and president, The Fillmore Group; tax relief I have proposed and will push Steven C. Anderson, president and chief ex- for until enacted will create 1.4 million new ecutive officer, National Restaurant Associa- jobs by the end of 2004. tion; Salvador Gomez, chairman of the board In 2 years’ time, this Nation has experi- and chief executive officer, Denver Hispanic enced war, a recession, and a national Chamber of Commerce; Thomas J. emergency, which has caused our Govern- Donohue, president and chief executive offi- ment to run a deficit. The best way to cer, U.S. Chamber of Commerce; Jerry reduce the deficit is with more growth in Jasinowski, president, National Association of our economy, which means more revenues Manufacturers; Karen Kerrigan, chairman,

346 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Apr. 16

Small Business Survival Committee; Tom Van Dongen, president, National Association Musser, chairman of the board, National of Wholesaler-Distributors; and former Federation of Independent Business; Terry President Saddam Hussein of Iraq. The Of- Neese, president and cofounder, Women fice of the Press Secretary also released a Impacting Public Policy; William Parsley, Spanish language transcript of these remarks. president, Carswell Distributing Co.; Dirk

Letter to the Speaker of the House of Representatives on Emergency Funding for Disaster Relief April 15, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker: response to prior disasters and to ensure In accordance with provisions of Public that DHS has resources on hand to provide Law 107–73, the Departments of Veterans timely response to future disasters. Affairs and Housing and Urban Develop- I designate these funds made available ment, and Independent Agencies Appro- today as an emergency requirement pursu- priations Act, 2002, I hereby request and ant to section 251(b)(2)(A) of the Balanced make available $250 million for the disaster Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act relief program of the Department of of 1985, as amended. Homeland Security (DHS). The details of this action are set forth These funds would allow DHS to con- in the attached letter from the Director tinue providing assistance for disasters in of the Office of Management and Budget. several States, including the recovery of the I concur with his comments and observa- Columbia space shuttle and the damaging tions. winter storms on the East Coast. These Sincerely, funds also would be available for ongoing GEORGE W. BUSH

Letter to Congressional Leaders Transmitting a Report on the National Emergency With Respect to Significant Narcotics Traffickers Centered in Colombia April 15, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. President:) Sincerely, As required by section 401(c) of the Na- tional Emergencies Act, 50 U.S.C. 1641(c), GEORGE W. BUSH and 204(c) of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, 50 U.S.C. 1703(c), I transmit herewith a 6-month periodic re- NOTE: Identical letters were sent to J. Den- port prepared by my Administration on the nis Hastert, Speaker of the House of Rep- national emergency with respect to signifi- resentatives, and Richard B. Cheney, Presi- cant narcotics traffickers centered in Co- dent of the Senate. This letter was released lombia declared in Executive Order 12978 by the Office of the Press Secretary on April of October 21, 1995. 16.

347 Apr. 16 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Remarks to Employees at the Boeing F–18 Production Facility in St. Louis, Missouri April 16, 2003

Thank you all very much. Be seated, force with speed and incredible precision. please. So I’m on my way to Crawford— Our work is not done. The difficulties have [laughter]—part of the real world, I want not passed, but the regime of Saddam you to know—and I decided to stop here Hussein has passed into history. Thanks to in St. Louis, Missouri, to say thanks to the courage and the might of our military, some of the finest workers we have in the American people are more secure. America. And it’s a perfect time to do so. Thanks to the courage and might of our The successes of our military begin right military, the Iraqi people are now free. here on the factory floors. The quality of I want to thank management and worker the workmanship that goes into the aircrafts alike for inviting me here today. It’s truly that you build here is one of the main an honor to be here. I want to thank Phil reasons why we were successful in making Condit and Jim Albaugh and Rick Smith the world a more peaceful place. Our Na- for the invitation. It gives me a chance tion thanks you for your efforts and your to come and say firsthand how much we work. all appreciate what you do on behalf of Seeing all the good workers here reminds the security of this country. me of one of the big tasks we have in I appreciate Senator Bond and Senator America, and that is to make sure anybody Talent for their leadership. It’s good to who’s looking for a job can find one. Too work with these two men to make sure many of our fellow Americans are looking this Nation remains strong. I appreciate for work, and that bothers me. So I sent Matt Blunt, representing the State govern- some suggestions up to the United States ment, for being here. Congress about how to stimulate job Today I had the honor of meeting John growth, and it starts with letting you keep Sant. He was so anxious to see me at the more of your own money. foot of the stairs of Air Force One, he I have sent to the Congress a jobs-and- was standing in the rain. And I’m grateful growth package that will reduce the burden for that. But I’m grateful to share his story on our taxpayers, that will give you more with you. Here’s a man who decides to of your money in your pockets so you get take time out of his busy life to volunteer to decide how to save or invest and spend. to help children become more literate, vol- In order for all Americans who are looking unteers to help the AmeriCorps program for work to find work, the Congress must to make sure that the public education sys- pass this jobs package as soon as they come tem of St. Louis, Missouri, fulfills its prom- back from their recess. ise that no child should be left behind in And the other big task for this Nation any community in America. It is appro- is to overcome any threats to our country, priate that we talk about the compassion wherever they gather. Each of you has had of our fellow Americans at the same time a part of preparing this Nation to meet as we talk about the might of our great the dangers of our time. Today, half a country. world away, America is leading this great I asked John to come and to stand be- coalition of free nations to end a brutal cause one of my calls to our fellow Ameri- regime and to remove a threat to our soci- cans is to love your neighbor just like you’d ety. We’ve applied the new powers of tech- like to be loved yourself. When you see nology—like the F–18s—to strike an enemy somebody who hurts, put your arm around

348 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Apr. 16 them and tell them you love them and oceans, threats that can arrive in sudden make sure that—[applause]. tragedy. Since September the 11th, we’ve And also standing out there at the stairs been engaged in a global war against terror, was Adrian Fakes, private first class, United a war being waged on many fronts. That States Marine Corps, St. Louis native, war continues, and we are winning. wounded in An Nasiriyah, soon to recover, In Afghanistan, we and our allies ended anxious to get back to his unit. He rep- the rule of the Taliban and closed down resents the finest of the fine—those of our camps where terrorists plotted and trained country who wear the uniform. Thank you to attack us. In Iraq, our coalition has now for coming, Adrian. removed an ally of terrorists and a producer You and I and all the world are wit- of weapons of mass destruction. In other nessing historic days in the cause of free- nations, we’re hunting and capturing mem- dom. One month ago—just one month bers of Al Qaida, disrupting their plans be- ago—the forces of our coalition stood at fore they can strike. Across the world, ter- the borders of Iraq with orders to advance rorists and tyrants are learning this, that hundreds of miles through hostile territory America and our friends and our allies will against a ruthless enemy. Today, organized act in our own defense. Instead of drifting military resistance has virtually ended; the toward tragedy, we will protect our secu- major cities of Iraq have been liberated. rity, and we will promote the peace in the Two weeks ago, the Iraqi regime oper- world. ated a gulag for dissidents and, incredibly We are fighting terror with all the tools enough, a prison for young children. Now the gates to that prison have been thrown we have at our disposal, diplomacy and law wide open, and we are putting the dic- enforcement, intelligence and homeland se- tator’s political prisons and torture cham- curity. As a last resort, we have turned to bers out of business. our military. And the skill and the heroism One week ago, Baghdad was filled with of American Armed Forces are making this statues and giant pictures of the dictator. country proud. They’re kind of hard to find today. [Laugh- From Kabul to Baghdad, American ter] The fall of that statue in Baghdad forces and our fine allies have conducted marked the end of a nightmare for the some of the most successful military cam- Iraqi people, and it marked the start of paigns in history. By a combination of cre- a new day of freedom. ative strategies and advanced technologies, Four days ago, seven American soldiers, we are redefining war on our terms. Even six men and one woman, were held captive before the fighting began in Iraq, Special by forces still loyal to the fallen regime. Operations forces were inside the country, Today, those brave Americans are with moving in to protect key infrastructure, their fellow comrades and are headed home protect the oilfields owned by the Iraqi to their loved ones. people, to secure vital bridges. Overwhelm- American and coalition forces still face ingly yet carefully targeted airstrikes left serious risks in Iraq. Scattered enemy is entire enemy divisions without armor and still capable of doing harm to our forces without organization. Precision-guided and to the innocent. But we’ll stay focused. weapons fatally disrupted the regime’s sys- We will finish what we’ve begun. We will tem of command and control. press on until our mission is finished and Every armed conflict brings sacrifice and victory is complete. grief. That’s why the use of our military On September the 11th, 2001, America is our last option. Yet, more than ever be- found that we are not immune to the fore, the precision of our technology is pro- threats that gather for years across the tecting the lives of our soldiers and the

349 Apr. 16 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 lives of innocent civilians. The over- and women who our Nation will honor for- whelming majority of the munitions ever. dropped in the Iraqi campaign were preci- The character of our military reflects the sion-guided. In this new era of warfare, character of our country. America uses its we can target a regime, not a nation. Our might in the service of principle. As we aim is to track and strike the guilty. Terror- defend our security, we value the lives and ists and tyrants have now been put on no- the liberty of the Iraqi people. Having rid tice; they can no longer feel safe hiding Iraq of an oppressive regime, we are com- behind innocent lives. mitted to helping Iraq build a future of Our military is strong and our military freedom and dignity and peace. is ready, and we intend to keep it that By swift and effective military action, we way. Our Armed Forces must have every avoided the massive flow of refugees that resource they need to carry out and com- many had expected. By delivering food and plete the missions we give them. This water and medicine to the Iraqi people, morning at the White House, I signed a even as coalition units engaged the enemy, $79 billion wartime supplemental to cover we have helped to avert a humanitarian the needs directly arising from Operation crisis. Emergency supplies are now moving Iraqi Freedom and the reconstruction of freely to Iraq from many countries. Now Iraq. People who serve in the military are that Iraq is liberated, the United Nations giving their best to America, and I want should lift economic sanctions on that to thank the Members of Congress for act- country. ing quickly to give our men and women in arms the support they need. We’re also addressing Iraq’s urgent med- For the sake of the security of this coun- ical problems, problems left by a regime try and for the sake of peace in this world, that built palaces in a country that needed the United States must maintain every ad- hospitals. Right now, hundreds of Iraqis are vantage in weaponry and technology and being treated at U.S. and British military intelligence. Our edge in warfare comes, facilities. Governments from Europe and in part, because of the American spirit of the Middle East are moving field hospitals enterprise, great companies such as Boeing, to Iraq. Coalition members and the United great workers such as yourselves. Nations and other international organiza- In any conflict, however, this Nation’s tions are sending much-needed medical greatest single asset is the kind of men supplies. The Red Cross is working to keep and women who put on the uniform of water and electricity flowing to hospitals. the United States. The methods of war And very soon our coalition will be making have changed, but the need for courage direct emergency payments to Iraqi doctors has not. And we’ve seen once again the and nurses who will be providing des- courage of the men and women who wear perately needed care to their fellow citi- the uniform of the United States of Amer- zens. With all the hardships of this transi- ica. These are young Americans who en- tion, the lives of the Iraqi people will be gaged in furious battles, then carried better than anything they have known for wounded enemies to medical treatment. generations. These are young Americans willing to ac- The journey from a totalitarian, brutal cept any danger to rescue one of their own. dictatorship to a free society is not easy. These are the kind of people who, when It will take time to build the institutions they are wounded themselves, ask to rejoin of democracy and the habits of freedom. their comrades in battle. Some of our sol- Today, civil order is being restored in com- diers and marines will never be returning munities throughout Iraq, and Iraqis them- to their families, and these are the men selves are helping in the effort. Iraqis are

350 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Apr. 16

leading coalition forces to caches of weap- Our country and our good allies are ons and volunteering for citizen patrols to united by a great goal. We’re working to provide security. In Basra, British forces create the conditions for peace. We’re con- and Iraqis have formed joint patrols to fronting the threats to peace from terrorism maintain order. Just days after the fall of and weapons of mass destruction. And the dictator, just days after the people of we’re aiding the advance of peace by seek- Iraq realized they were free from the ing the advance of freedom. Free societies clutches of his terror, the Iraqi people are do not nurture bitterness or the ideologies reclaiming their own streets, their own of terror and murder. Free societies are country, and their own future. founded on the belief that every life has Yesterday an historic gathering occurred equal value. Free societies turn the creative in the city of An Nasiriyah, where Iraqis gifts of men and women toward progress met openly and freely to discuss the future and the betterment of their own lives. of the country. They even had some pro- American interests and American founding testers outside the meeting, a sure sign of beliefs lead in the same direction: We stand freedom. [Laughter] Many more of these for human liberty. meetings will take place in the weeks and This past month has been a time of test- months to come. In An Nasiriyah, the Iraqi ing and uncertainty for our country. The people have made a good start. And out American people have responded with re- of that meeting came this declaration: Iraq solve and with optimism. Whatever chal- must be democratic. And the nations of lenges may come, we can be confident. Our our coalition share that commitment. We Nation is strong; our purpose is firm; and also share this commitment: We will not our cause is just. impose any form of government on Iraq. God bless you all. We will help Iraq to build a government of, by, and for the Iraqi people. In Iraq, the world is witnessing something dramatic and something important. NOTE: The President spoke at 12:20 p.m. in We’re seeing the deep and universal desire the F/A–18 E/F aircraft assembly facility at of men and women to live in freedom. Boeing Integrated Defense Systems. In his As Americans, this shouldn’t surprise us. remarks, he referred to former President We believe that no force, no threat, can Saddam Hussein of Iraq; Philip M. Condit, make human beings love tyranny. We be- chairman and chief executive officer, and lieve that the appeal of liberty will, in time, James F. Albaugh, executive vice president, overcome any coercive power on Earth. We The Boeing Company; Rick Smith, presi- believe that people across the Middle East dent, International Association of Machinist and across the world are weary of poverty, and Aerospace Workers, District 837; and weary of oppression, and yearn to be free. Missouri Secretary of State Matt Blunt. The And all who know that hope, all who will Office of the Press Secretary also released work and sacrifice for freedom, have a a Spanish language transcript of these re- friend in the United States of America. marks.

351 Apr. 17 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Message on the Observance of Passover, 5763 April 17, 2003

I send greetings to those who are observ- of Abraham learned of our Creator’s love ing Passover this week, beginning at sun- and mercy as they reaffirmed man’s natural down on April 16. desire for liberty. Every year since then, For Jewish families across the United Jews remember the miracles that led their States and around the world, Passover is ancestors out of bondage and to the Prom- a time of joy and renewal. This holiday ised Land. celebrates the deliverance of the Jewish As the international community works to people from oppression and marks their face great challenges and embrace impor- birth as a nation. In remembering the tant opportunities, the United States re- Israelites’ liberation from enslavement and mains committed to peace, justice, and op- their Exodus from Egypt, Passover reminds portunity. During this time of great con- individuals of God’s faithfulness and of the sequence, we resolve to bring about a re- triumph of good over evil. It is also a time birth of freedom and promise in troubled for families and friends to follow in the regions around the world. footsteps of their forefathers and to gather Laura joins me in sending our best wish- at the Seder table to eat special foods, offer es for a Happy Passover. We also hope prayers, and sing songs that celebrate their the holy season will bring a renewal of rich heritage, the power of faith, and the faith, comfort, and hope for all. eternal blessings of liberty. GEORGE W. BUSH The story of the Exodus, as found in the Scriptures, is timeless and universal. NOTE: An original was not available for More than 3,000 years ago, the children verification of the content of this message.

Message on the Observance of Easter 2003 April 17, 2003

I send greetings to those observing freedom for the oppressed, healing for the Easter. Easter is the most important event brokenhearted, and salvation. of the Christian faith, when people around Though this year’s observance comes at the world join together with family and a time when our world faces many chal- friends to celebrate the Resurrection of lenges, the message of Easter remains un- Jesus Christ, the Son of God and the hope changed—though sorrow may last through of life to come. the night, joy comes in the morning. This For Christians, the life and death of holiday comforts us, as we remember that Jesus are the ultimate expressions of love, suffering will pass and goodness will pre- and the supreme demonstrations of God’s vail. mercy, faithfulness, and redemption. Since This Easter season, join me in praying Christ’s miraculous Resurrection on Easter, for peace, wisdom, and resolve. During this more than 2,000 years ago, Christians have holy time, may Christ’s example of love and expressed joy and gratitude for this won- sacrifice compel us towards justice and drous sacrifice and for God’s promise of compassion, and renew us with an assurance of hope and everlasting joy.

352 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Apr. 19

Laura joins me in sending our best wish- NOTE: An original was not available for es for a Happy Easter. verification of the content of this message. GEORGE W. BUSH

The President’s Radio Address April 19, 2003

Good morning. This weekend, families remain in harm’s way. We also pray for across America will come together to cele- those who have lost people they love in brate Easter and continue the observance this war. I have met with some of these of Passover. This holy season reminds us grieving families, and I have seen their sor- of the value of freedom and the power row and their strength. of a love stronger than death. Corporal Henry Brown, a 22-year-old sol- This year, Easter and Passover have spe- dier from Natchez, Mississippi, was lost in cial meaning for the families of our men battle earlier this month. After the news and women in uniform who feel so in- arrived, his best friend, Frank Woods, Jr., tensely the absence of their loved ones dur- said this about Henry: ‘‘He believed God ing these days. More than 250,000 Amer- was working through him, and he was part ican troops are serving in Operation Iraqi of the plan. I guess part of the plan now Freedom to protect our security and to free is God calling his soldier home.’’ an oppressed people. Their families await America mourns those who have been their safe return, and our grateful Nation called home, and we pray that their families remembers them in prayer. will find God’s comfort and God’s grace. Our whole Nation has also shared in the His purposes are not always clear to us, happiness of learning that seven American yet this season brings a promise that good prisoners of war were rescued in northern can come out of evil, that hope can arise Iraq earlier this week and are now safe. from despair, and that all our grief will Thanks to the courage of our marines and someday turn to joy, a joy that can never the help of Iraqis, their families have even be taken away. more reason to celebrate this weekend. Laura and I wish you all a happy Easter After hearing the good news, the parents and a blessed Passover. Thank you for lis- of rescued helicopter pilot Ronald Young, tening. Jr., of Georgia thanked people from across America and as far away as Australia and Japan for their cards and flowers and prayers. Kaye Young, Ronald’s mother, said, ‘‘You can’t believe the blessings that have NOTE: The address was recorded at 10:05 come out of this. Even as sad as we were, a.m. on April 16 in the Cabinet Room at the as upset as we were to think that he was White House for broadcast at 10:06 a.m. on being held, there have been so many bless- April 19. The transcript was made available ings.’’ Mrs. Young continued, ‘‘All over this by the Office of the Press Secretary on April country, people cared so much about us 18 but was embargoed for release until the and about our son.’’ broadcast. The Office of the Press Secretary As a nation, we continue to pray for all also released a Spanish language transcript who serve in our military and those who of this address.

353 Apr. 20 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Remarks and an Exchange With Reporters at Fort Hood, Texas April 20, 2003

The President. We just had a great came; now they can. I’ve always said de- church service. Like thousands of our fel- mocracy is going to be hard. It’s not easy low citizens, we celebrated Easter. We to go from being enslaved to being free. celebrated with our family, but we also But it’s going to happen, because the basic celebrated with members of the 4th Infan- instincts of mankind is to be free. They try Division military families. The 4th In- want to be free. And so, sure, there’s going fantry Division is in Iraq. to be people expressing their opinions, and We also were with two of—brave Ameri- we welcome that, just like here in America cans, two warrant officers, chopper pilots people can express their opinion. who were captured in Iraq and recently Stretch [Richard Keil, Bloomberg News]. returned to their families. They were celebrating Easter with their loved ones, moms, Former President Saddam Hussein of Iraq dads, wives, brothers, and sisters from Q. Mr. President, what is the latest that around our country. So it was a glorious you have on the status of Saddam Hussein? day. And if he is not killed or captured—— We prayed for peace and for strength, The President. That Saddam Hussein is for the many blessings. I am particularly no longer in power. That’s for certain. He grateful that these two men were with us was in power, and now he is not. And today. I thank God for their lives. I hope therefore, the Iraqi people’s lives will be all our fellow Americans realize that we much better off. But other than that, I live in a great country, full of great people. don’t—Stretch, we’ll just have to see. And today is a day to give blessings for Q. [Inaudible]—sir, any kind of a threat America as well as an almighty and gracious if he is not killed or captured? God. The President. If he is alive, I would I’d be glad to answer a few questions. suggest he not pop his head up. Ending Operation Iraqi Freedom President’s Agenda Q. Mr. President, you said you prayed Q. Sir, do you expect to return more for peace this morning. How soon can you to a domestic agenda now that the war tell the American people that this operation is winding down? will be complete? The President. I will continue to promote The President. When Tommy Franks says an international agenda of peace and free- it’s complete. I’ll tell you this, though, the dom, and I will continue doing what I have liberation of Iraq will make the world more been doing—is working on our economy peaceful. and working to modernize the Medicare system. I have always been involved with Democracy in Iraq the domestic policy. I somehow get some- Q. Mr. President, there have been some what taken aback when I hear stories that anti-U.S. demonstrations stirred up by reli- assume I can only do one thing. I am con- gious leaders in Iraq. Are you worried that’s cerned when people in our society can’t going to hurt the rebuilding effort? find work. The President. I’m not worried. Freedom And so I’ve been constantly promoting is beautiful, and when people are free, they an aggressive jobs-and-growth program. I express their opinions. You know, they believe our Medicare system needs to be couldn’t express their opinions before we modernized. I’ve consistently talked about

354 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Apr. 20 that. I look forward to working with Con- I think you can speak for yourselves. At gress to see that that’s done. least you did in my presence. Then I will continue to work to make President’s Visit to the Ranch the world a more peaceful place. The United States is a powerful country, and Q. Sir, what are you doing this weekend one of the things we ought to do is use around the ranch? our power to make the world more peace- The President. Yes. ful and more free. And I intend to continue Q. What have you been doing at the to do that. ranch this weekend? Yes. The President. Exactly. [Laughter] I’m enjoying myself. North Korea Q. Someone said home projects. The President. Yes, home projects, a little Q. Sir, will talks with North Korea go fishing. Nothing better than fishing with ahead? And do you expect any break- your dad and Barney. through? Q. What did Barney catch? The President. Well, the key thing on The President. Well, Barney only caught the North Korea agenda is that China is that which I caught. [Laughter] But worked assuming a very important responsibility, a little brush cutting, keeping that ranch— and that is that they will confirm that keeping those cedars away from those good which—work toward that which Jiang hardwoods, letting that—conserving my Zemin told me in Crawford, right around property; a little exercise, spent some time the corner here, that China’s policy is for with my family and am really glad I had a nuclear-weapons-free Peninsula. And now some time here in Crawford. that they’re engaged in the process, it makes it more likely that’s going to occur. Visit With Former Prisoners of War You’ve got the United States adhering to Q. Did you have a chance to visit with that posture. You’ve got China adhering to the two pilots in the church? that posture. South Korea believes that the The President. I did, yes. And you can Peninsula ought to be nuclear-weapons- visit with them too. free. Japan strongly believes that. And I Q. And their families as well? believe that all four of us, working together, The President. Well, we did. We visited have a good chance of convincing North with their families, and I had a good talk Korea to abandon her ambitions to develop with them. They’re good, strong men. It’s nuclear arsenals. an amazing experience, when you think How are you, sir? Good to see you again. about it. Here we are, Easter, the great— one of the great religious holidays, and Visit With Former Prisoners of War these guys arrived last night—might have Q. We’ve been wondering about your actually arrived Easter day. I don’t know words of encouragement to the returnees. if it was exactly midnight or a little after The President. Well, you know, they midnight. were—first of all, they were the encour- Chief Warrant Officer Young. It was a aging people. They were the ones who of- little before midnight. fered encouragement. I was, believe this The President. A little before midnight. or not, somewhat taken aback when I was Well, Easter eve. I was trying to make the in their presence. And these guys were so story a little more dramatic than it really uplifting and so positive and so obviously was. thrilled to be here. They got in last night Q. I wondered if either of the two pilots at midnight. They can speak for themselves. could tell, share their experience——

355 Apr. 20 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

The President. Yes, they can. Sure, they Q. How many are there, do you have can. That’s up to them. They don’t have any idea, Iraqi leaders? to. I have to speak to the press; they don’t The President. Well, obviously we felt have to. But it’s not that bad an experience. some were there; otherwise we wouldn’t This guy’s getting ready—I’ll tell you one have spoken out. But probably the best di- thing about this guy, Hillman [G. Robert plomacy is that not through the Associated Hillman, Dallas Morning News]. He is Press or Reuters or Dallas Morning News going to go see his children for the first or Houston Chronicle or any—let’s see, time since he was captured. He hasn’t even who else—Bloomberg. But the best diplo- seen his children. So if you ask him ques- macy is the diplomacy of having our tions, don’t make it long, because, see, friends, as well as ourselves, send clear we’re holding a dad up from hugging two messages. And we’re doing that. And I’m children. confident the Syrian Government has heard Q. Could you tell us a bit about your us, and I believe it when they say they meeting with the President inside the want to cooperate with us. church? Listen, have a wonderful day. Chief Warrant Officer Williams. It was Q. Thank you. an absolute honor, sir, an absolute honor. The President. Thank you all. Q. [Inaudible]—Officer Young? Chief The First Lady. Bye, happy Easter. Warrant Officer Young. President’s Schedule Chief Warrant Officer Young. We stand 100 percent behind whatever our President Q. Are you going to visit with the other decides to do. We’re honored to serve him, POWs? and this is definitely one of the highlights The President. Today? I don’t think so, of my life, absolutely. Bennett [Bennett Roth, Houston Chron- icle]. I think I’m going to head back over Syria to the ranch. Thank you all. Q. Mr. President, are you getting any signs of cooperation from Syria yet? NOTE: The President spoke at 11:06 a.m. at The President. There’s some positive the 4th Infantry Division Memorial Chapel. signs. They’re getting the message that they In his remarks, he referred to Gen. Tommy should not harbor Ba’ath Party officials, R. Franks, USA, combatant commander, high ranking Iraqi officials. A lot of other U.S. Central Command; and former Presi- countries have also sent that message. As dent Jiang Zemin of China. Chief Warrant you know, Secretary Powell will be going Officer Ronald D. Young, Jr., USA, and to visit with the Syrians. It seems like Chief Warrant Officer David S. Williams, they’re beginning to get the message. And USA, pilots of an Apache Longbow heli- when we think there is somebody there copter, were shot down and captured in cen- or know somebody is there, we of course tral Iraq on March 23. They were rescued will pass on the name and fully expect the by U.S. Marines on April 13. The Office of Syrian Government to hand the person the Press Secretary also released a Spanish over. language transcript of these remarks.

356 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Apr. 22

Excerpt From a Roundtable Interview With Personal Finance Columnists and Economic Journalists April 22, 2003

Federal Reserve Board Chairman Kiplinger’s Personal Finance; Lauren Young, Q. Greenspan done a good enough job Smart Money; John Parker, The Economist; to get another term? Patricia Guadalupe, Hispanic Business; John The President. Yes. I think Alan Green- Maggs, National Journal; Daniel Kadlec, span should get another term. Time; Matthew Benjamin, U.S. News & World Report; James Cramer, Kudlow & NOTE: The interview began at 10 a.m. in the Cramer, CNBC; Susie Gharib, Nightly Busi- Roosevelt Room at the White House. Partici- ness Report, PBS; and Michael Hirsh, News- pants in the interview were: Amy Feldman, week. A tape was not available for verification Money Magazine; Knight Kiplinger, of the content of these remarks.

Statement on the Peace Process in Sudan April 22, 2003

Today I informed Congress, consistent onstrate the leadership necessary to ensure with the Sudan Peace Act, that the Govern- that their respective sides: 1) refrain from ment of Sudan and the Sudan People’s Lib- any hostile or provocative action; 2) com- eration Movement (SPLM) are negotiating plete negotiations on outstanding issues; in good faith and that negotiations should and 3) sign and implement a comprehen- continue. sive agreement. Both sides have made significant progress The United States fully supports the in- negotiating a just and comprehensive peace valuable mediation efforts of the Govern- for the people of Sudan. There is still much ment of Kenya. We stand ready with other work remaining. Sporadic military activities, members of the international community to primarily but not exclusively by the Govern- support the implementation of a comment, have hindered these efforts and must prehensive agreement when it is finalized stop. Despite these challenges, negotiators this June. are advancing toward peace, and I believe that the current process presents the best NOTE: The statement referred to President prospects for peace. Umar Hasan Ahmad al-Bashir of Sudan; and It is now time to move the peace process John Garang de Mabior, chairman, Sudan to a new level where the actions of both People’s Liberation Movement. The Presi- parties replace promises as the measure of dential determination of April 21 under the their commitment to peace. President Sudan Peace Act is listed in Appendix D at Bashir and Chairman Garang must dem- the end of this volume.

357 Apr. 22 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Statement on Earth Day April 22, 2003

Earth Day encourages and celebrates life habitat, and the landscape. And we will countless acts of stewardship by individuals promote energy efficiency and security and that improve the quality of our commu- improve and protect water quality, while nities, parks, rivers, lakes, and private and encouraging economic growth. To help ac- public lands. The Government also has an complish these goals, I have proposed legis- important role to play in protecting our lation—Clear Skies, Healthy Forests, and environment. the Hydrogen Fuel Initiative—which I call Three decades after the first Earth Day, on Congress to pass this year. our air is cleaner; our water is purer; and Please join me in celebrating the 34th our lands and natural resources are better annual Earth Day by becoming a partner protected. in service. I invite you to visit the USA My administration is building on these Freedom Corps web site and EarthDay.gov accomplishments through new and innova- to find environmental stewardship opportu- tive policies. We will reduce powerplant nities in your community. America’s citizen pollution by 70 percent. We will restore conservation efforts play a vital role in pre- forest health, preventing catastrophic serving our Nation’s natural resources, on wildfires that devastate communities, wild- Earth Day and throughout the year.

Letter to Congressional Leaders Transmitting a Report on Cyprus April 22, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. Chairman:) the island. We hoped that the Secretary In accordance with section 620C(c) of General’s meetings with the two Cypriot the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, as leaders in The Hague on March 10–11, amended, I am providing a report prepared 2003, would lead to a breakthrough on the by my Administration on progress toward basis of the Secretary General’s fair and a negotiated solution of the Cyprus ques- balanced settlement plan. Unfortunately, tion covering the period February 1, 2003, that meeting did not result in an agree- through March 31, 2003. The previous sub- ment. Despite this setback, the United mission covered events from December 1, States remains committed to finding a just 2002, through January 31, 2003. and lasting settlement for Cyprus. As in the past, U.S. officials including Sincerely, Secretary of State Colin Powell, Under Sec- retary of State Marc Grossman, Special Cy- GEORGE W. BUSH prus Coordinator Thomas G. Weston, and Ambassador to Cyprus Michael Klosson NOTE: Identical letters were sent to J. Den- joined me in providing intensive diplomatic nis Hastert, Speaker of the House of Rep- support to the efforts of United Nations resentatives, and Richard G. Lugar, chair- Secretary General Kofi Annan to foster a man, Senate Committee on Foreign Rela- settlement to the longstanding division of tions.

358 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Apr. 23

Letter to Congressional Leaders Transmitting a Report on United States Individuals Involved in the Antinarcotics Campaign in Colombia April 22, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. President:) The report indicates that as of March Pursuant to section 3204(f), title III, 13, 2003, the end of this reporting period, chapter 2 of the Emergency Supplemental there were 347 temporary and permanent Act, 2000 (the ‘‘Act’’), as enacted in the U.S. military personnel and 324 U.S. civil- Military Construction Appropriations Act, ians retained as individual contractors in 2001, Public Law 106–246, I am providing Colombia involved in supporting Plan Co- a report prepared by my Administration lombia. This report further indicates that that provides ‘‘the aggregate number, loca- during January, February, and March 2003, tions, activities, and lengths of assignment these figures never exceeded the ceilings for all temporary and permanent U.S. mili- established in section 3204(b) of the Act, tary personnel and U.S. individual civilians as amended. retained as contractors involved in the Sincerely, antinarcotics campaign in Colombia.’’ GEORGE W. BUSH This report is classified because of force protection considerations and the high level NOTE: Identical letters were sent to J. Den- of terrorist threat in Colombia. However, nis Hastert, Speaker of the House of Rep- the aggregate numbers given below are un- resentatives, and Richard B. Cheney, Presi- classified. dent of the Senate.

Statement on Signing the Postal Civil Service Retirement System Funding Reform Act of 2003 April 23, 2003

Today I have signed into law S. 380, to reconsider, review, and make adjust- the Postal Civil Service Retirement System ments with finality in certain determina- Funding Reform Act of 2003. The Act re- tions, redeterminations, and computations forms the funding of benefits under the made by the Director of the Office of Per- Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) sonnel Management (OPM). Yet, Board for employees of the United States Postal members are not principal officers because Service. they have not been appointed by the Presi- Under the Appointments Clause of the dent, by and with the advice and consent Constitution, including as construed by the of the Senate, as the Appointments Clause U.S. Supreme Court in 1997 in Edmond requires. They have instead been appointed v. United States, statutory authority to make by the Director of OPM in accordance with decisions for the United States that are law. Moreover, the Board is not subject final must be exercised by, or subject to to the control of a principal officer in con- the control of, a principal officer of the ducting the review, reconsideration, and ad- United States. Sections 2(c) and 3(b) of justments for which sections 2(c) and 3(b) the Act vest in certain circumstances in the of the Act provide, because those sections CSRS Board of Actuaries (Board) authority make such Board action final. Accordingly,

359 Apr. 23 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 to the extent that sections 2(c) and 3(b) Sections 2(e)(1), 3(e)(1), and 3(f)(1)(B) make the actions of the Board under those of the Act purport to require officials in sections final, they are inconsistent with the the executive branch to submit rec- Appointments Clause. ommendations to the Congress or an agent The Director of OPM shall prepare of the Congress. The executive branch shall forthwith for submission to the Congress construe such provisions in a manner con- recommended legislation to conform stat- sistent with the constitutional authority of utes related to the CSRS Board of Actu- the President to submit for the consider- aries to the Appointments Clause. While ation of the Congress such measures as the awaiting enactment of corrective legislation, President judges necessary and expedient. I instruct the Director of OPM, who is a principal officer, to receive any results GEORGE W. BUSH of reconsideration, review, or adjustments by the Board under sections 2(c) and 3(b) The White House, of the Act as advice and opinion for the Director’s approval, modification, or dis- April 23, 2003. approval. This instruction gives the fullest effect to the Act that is consistent with NOTE: S. 380, approved April 23, was as- the Appointments Clause. signed Public Law No. 108–18.

Remarks to Employees at the Timken Company in Canton, Ohio April 24, 2003

Thanks for the warm welcome. I appre- ington, however, respond to some of the ciate you letting me come by to say hello. problems we face. [Laughter] I’m honored to be in Canton, One of the problems we face is not and I’m honored to be here at the Timken enough of our fellow Americans can find Company. work. There’s too much economic uncer- Tim was telling me that you all have tainty today. And so 3 months ago, I sent been in business since 1899. Turns out Congress a package that would promote job that’s when William McKinley of Canton growth and economic vitality. For the sake slept in the same room I’m sleeping in. of our country, for the sake of the workers [Laughter] Tim told me that this is a com- of America, Congress needs to pass this pany—they say, ‘‘We are a roll-up-your- jobs growth package soon. sleeves company,’’ a can—it is a can-do en- And that’s why I thank you for letting vironment, which is one of the reasons I’ve me come and talk to you about some of got so much optimism about the future of the problems that we face here in America. our economy—because of the roll-up-your- I appreciate the Timken family for their sleeves attitude by thousands of our fellow leadership, their concern about their fellow Americans, because of the business sense associates. They’re working hard to make of ‘‘we can do whatever it takes to over- sure the future of this company is bright, come the obstacles in our way.’’ I know and therefore, the future of employment you’re optimistic about the future of this is bright for the families that work here, company. I’m optimistic about the future that work to put food on the table for their of our country. It’s important that Wash- children.

360 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Apr. 24

I appreciate so very much Jim Griffith, Crawford—[laughter]—counting all the the CEO of the company, for setting up cows.’’ [Laughter] But Brenda is a—owns this wonderful setting for a speech. I want her own insurance company. She is a small- to thank you all for taking time out of your business owner. She is a representative of work to come and let me share some thousands and thousands of people who thoughts with you. I want to thank you own their own business, part of the small- for loving your country. business sector, which is an incredibly im- I appreciate Hector Barreto, who is the portant part of our economy. Administrator of the Small Business Asso- As well, Mike Kovach is here. He’s from ciation. He’s traveling with me today. And Youngstown, Ohio. Mike started his own I named a good man to run what they business. It grew from 2 people to 70 em- call the General Services Administration, a ployees. A small-business owner is an inte- fellow named Steve Perry, who learned gral part of the backbone of the U.S. econ- how to be a—he’s making sure that we omy. If you’re interested in jobs and job spend your money wisely. And he cut his creation, you better be worried about the teeth right here in the Timken Company, small-business sector of America, and the and he’s really a good man. He’s doing plan I’m about to talk about addresses the a fine job. needs of the small-business owner. I appreciate the Governor of the State We got Charles Parker and his wife here, of Ohio for joining us today. Governor Taft, Linda. Charles is a farmer; that’s a small- I’m honored you’re here with us. And business owner. Linda works right here for we’ve got Senator Mike DeWine with us the Timken Company, as does Pat Wil- as well. Mike, thank you for coming; liams. I’ll talk about Pat a little bit later Congressman LaTourette, Steve and what this plan means for her and her LaTourette, and Ralph Regula as well, from family. the Ohio delegation. We got members of Finally, Bryan Rice, of Rice’s Nursery, the State senate. We got members of the right here in Canton. If you’re interested State house. We got members of the city in buying a plant, as the weather gets bet- council. We got the mayor. We got a lot ter and you want to improve your garden, of people showing up today. [Laughter] Bryan said he’s got some for sale. [Laugh- And I’m glad they’re here. Thank you all ter] for taking time out of your schedules to Today I had the honor of meeting Anson come. Park. Anson, you need to step out here I’ve just come from an interesting discus- so people can see you. Come over here. sion with some of our fellow citizens who Anson is not hard to miss. [Laughter] I have joined me on the stage, the Freelands, want to tell you why I want to introduce who are retired citizens. They are anxious Anson. You know a lot of focus on America about their future. They want to make sure these days is on our military, how strong they got enough money to live out their we are, how mighty we are, how powerful final years. We talked about some of the we are. And that’s—it’s been helpful to be tax relief package and what it means to mighty and powerful. But in the midst of their lives. Extra money in their pocket the discussion of our military might, often- means that they’re likely to have retirement times we overlook the true strength of our security, which is something we’re all con- country. And the true strength of America cerned about. is the hearts of our fellow citizens. That’s I met with Brenda James from Stockport, the strength of America, the compassion Ohio. She told me Stockport had 500 peo- of neighbor loving neighbor. ple, counting all the cats. [Laughter] And Anson Park is an employee of Enterprise. I said, ‘‘Well, that’s 200 less than He’s a volunteer in what they call the

361 Apr. 24 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

ASSET program with Akron Urban League, now acting in Iraq. And we’re working to which is a mentoring program, a program make sure America is more secure, but designed to make sure that every child has we’re also making sure that the Iraqi peo- a chance to succeed in America, a program ple can be free, can run their own country, that understands that if you’re a fortunate can decide their own fate. I know that soul, if you’re somebody with talents to some of you here today have a loved one give, you’re called upon to lend those tal- serving in the Armed Forces. You tell them ents to help somebody in need. Whether the United States of America is proud of you become involved in mentoring or in your loved one’s service. your church or synagogue, in helping some- We learned a good lesson on September body in need, the definition of patriotism the 11th, 2001—I say a good lesson. It is to help somebody. And my call to our better be a good lesson. It was a sad day, fellow Americans is, our might is more than but we learned a lesson, and that is that our military; our might is our compassion oceans will no longer protect us from the for our fellow citizens. And I want to thank threats of a new era. We must have a— you, Anson, and thank thousands across there’s a new reality in the world today. America and the hundreds in this room We learned that lesson, but the world has who are serving your country by teaching also learned that this Nation is resolute, a child to read or making sure a shut-in that we’re determined. And the terrorists gets loved or helping a boy or a girl at are learning that they are not safe anywhere a Boys and Girls Clubs. The strength of on this Earth from the justice of the United America is the compassion of America, and States of America. Our coalition of 90 na- I’m honored you’re here, Anson. Thank tions is still intact. We’re still working hard. you. We’re waging the war on terror every single In January of this year, I defined two day, and we’re winning. great priorities for this Nation, priorities for my administration. First, we will confront And here at home, we have another great and defeat threats to America wherever priority. We will work for a vigorous and they gather. We have made very clear that healthy and growing economy so that every we would hunt down terrorists who hate American who wants to work can find a us and who want to harm us. And we made job. very clear that we would deal with the This Nation and this economy has been growing danger of Saddam Hussein and his through a lot. We have come through a brutal regime. The world now knows we recession. The first three quarters of the keep our word. year 2001 were recessionary. They were Our men in uniform have made us all negative-growth. We had to deal with some proud; the women in uniform have made major corporate scandals. Some of our citi- us all proud because they’ve showed in- zens forgot to tell the truth. They thought credible skill and bravery and decency. they could cook the books. It affected the They have fought the enemy with fierce psychology that—their behavior affected courage. They treated the innocent with the psychology of this country. They will compassion and respect, and they are work- be dealt with. Americans now know that ing to make sure the Iraqi people are free. if you try to lie, cheat, or steal from em- You see, the values of America under- ployees or shareholders, you will be dealt stand and say clearly that freedom is not with. America’s gift to the world. Freedom is We’ve also seen a slowdown in the global God’s gift to each and every person of the economy. Other countries around the world world, no matter where they live. And it aren’t growing. We’ve been attacked. We was with that value that our soldiers are fought a war in Afghanistan, and now we

362 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Apr. 24 have finished a war—in the process of fin- faster, and as it grows faster, it will create ishing a war in Iraq. And yet, in spite of more jobs. And we also know that the right those obstacles and difficulties, this econ- policies coming out of Washington can un- omy is growing. As a matter of fact, we leash the great strengths of the economy are growing faster than most of the indus- and create the right conditions for growth trialized world. and prosperity. And that’s what I want to In other words, we’ve overcome some talk to you today about, what Washington obstacles because there are great strengths can do. in this economy. Interest rates are low, and Sometimes when you hear, ‘‘Don’t worry, that helps people, for example, who are we’re from the Federal Government; we’re trying to buy a home or refinance a home. here to help,’’ it makes people a little nerv- Inflation is low. Oil and gas prices are com- ous. [Laughter] The role of Government ing down, which helps the consumer. It is to create an environment in which capital puts more money in your pocket. The en- moves freely, in which the entrepreneurial trepreneurial spirit in America is healthy. spirit is strong, create the conditions so that It’s a great strength of our country. If you people feel comfortable about investing feel like you’ve got what it takes to start and, therefore, create the conditions for job a business, if you want to go out on your growth. own, you think you’ve got a good product, We’re making some progress in Wash- this country says, ‘‘We welcome you to do ington. We’ve got a consensus on an impor- so.’’ This is an entrepreneurial heaven here tant principle: Members of both political in America, and that’s positive for our country. parties now support tax relief. Both sides But the greatest strength of the Amer- agree. Both sides understand that if people ican economy is found right here, right in have more money in their pocket, they will this room, found in the pride and skill of likely spend it or invest it, which is good the American workforce. Last year, produc- for job growth. They also understand that tivity growth in America was 4.8 percent. the money we’re talking about in Wash- That is the best annual increase since 1980. ington is not the Government’s money. It’s Here at Timken last year, productivity rose your money. It’s the people’s money. 10 percent. Which means that America can And when you have more of it, it drives compete with any nation in the world be- up demand for goods and services. And cause we got the finest workers in the that’s important, given the productivity in- world. creases of today. You see, there’s pressure The high productivity that comes from on employment. The more productive the steady innovation and skilled workers gives workforce becomes—if productivity arises— our economy a tremendous edge. In the rises like it’s doing now, it means a worker mid-1980s, it took Timken an average of can produce more. And unless there are 14 worker-hours to produce a ton of alloy folks willing to buy more goods and serv- steel. Today it takes less than 4 hours. Over ices, a company is not likely to hire. Pro- the long run, this kind of productivity ductivity increases mean you can get by makes American products more competi- with less workers. And so the only way tive, and it raises the standard of living to create the conditions necessary for addi- for the American people. The true strength tional job expansion is to increase demand of the country is the fact that we’re a pro- for goods and services. And the best way ductive nation. to create demand for goods and services And as a result of the strengths, we’re is to let people have more of their own growing. But this economy has got unmet money. And that’s why tax relief is impor- potential. We know this economy can grow tant in the year 2003.

363 Apr. 24 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

The debate over whether we ought to year so that we can get this economy start- have tax relief is over. That’s positive. Now ed and people can find work. we’re talking about how big the package If the economy needs help now, why ought to be and what it ought to look like. wait? Instead of slowly raising the child And I’ve got some ideas about how big credit from $600 to $1,000 per child, let’s it ought to be and what it ought to look do it this year and send the $400 for every like. The package ought to be least $550 child to the American family now. Instead billion in size over a 10-year period in of gradually reducing the marriage penalty, order to make sure that the economy we ought to do it now. Congress ought grows. The package needs to be robust, to respond to the conditions of the day. so that we can create more than a million They shouldn’t play politics with job cre- new jobs by the end of 2004. That’s not ation. my projection. That’s the projection of a So I hear a lot of talk in Washington lot of smart economists who’ve analyzed the about what this means. I’ll just tell you— package. They believe that if the package let me just give you the facts, and you is implemented by the United States Con- can decide whether this plan is fair. If gress, of at least $550 billion, more than you’re a family of four making $40,000 a a million new jobs will be created by the year, this tax plan will reduce your taxes end of ’04. And that’s good for the Amer- from $1,178 to $45—a family of four, ican worker. And that’s what the whole $40,000. purpose of the package is, to create the Pat Williams works right here for the conditions for job growth, so people can Timken Company. She’s a single mom. find work. She’s got the toughest job in America, Some in Congress say the plan is too being a single mom. [Laughter] She’s got big. Well, it seems like to me they might two children. Sheree is in college; Danielle have some explaining to do. If they agree is in high school. Under the plan I’ve just that tax relief creates jobs, then why are described and submitted to the United they for a little bitty tax relief package? States Congress, her yearly tax bill would If they believe tax relief is important for fall by nearly $1,000—every year. It’s not job creation, they ought to join us and join $1,000 just this year. It’s $1,000 every year. this administration and join many in Con- It’s a thousand more dollars of her own gress and have a robust package that cre- money in her pocket. She says this: ‘‘This ates enough work for the American people. will give me a little more breathing room When I was campaigning and first got so that I can assist my children as they into office, the country’s economy was slow- go off and do better and bigger things.’’ ing down. And then, as I say, the minute It’s a beautiful statement by a mom who I got sworn in, we were in a recession. is working hard for her children. And that’s why I went to Congress for a There are Pats all over this country who tax package. I said, ‘‘We got to get the will benefit from the tax plan, people who people more money so that we keep de- are struggling to make sure their kids can mand alive.’’ And Congress responded, but go to college, people who want to save, the problem is they responded with a people who—that thousand dollars a year phased-in program. They said tax relief was will mean a lot. Tax relief is good for the important, and tax relief should be robust, average citizen. but they phased it in over a period of years, An economic plan that makes sense also 3 years in some cases, 5 years in others, must focus on small businesses. Small busi- and 7 years. Listen, all I’m asking Congress nesses create most of the new jobs in to do is to take the tax relief package America. If you’re interested in economic they’ve already passed, accelerate it to this vitality like I am and like you are, there

364 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Apr. 24 needs to a vibrant component of any tax at the individual-rate level. And he wants plan that affects small business. A majority to make new investments. The proposal I’ve of small firms pay business taxes at the just outlined to you will save this good individual tax rate. Most small businesses man’s company $15,000 a year. And he pay individual tax rates. A lot of people says—let me tell you what he says the tax assume, ‘‘Well, they pay corporate rates.’’ relief will mean. He says, ‘‘That extra That’s just not true. Most small businesses money helps put an entry-level man on my are sole proprietorships, limited partner- shop floor.’’ And the horizons for this fella ships, or Subchapter S’s. So when you hear are limitless, is what he says. That’s Mike’s me talk about reducing income-tax rates, words, not mine. That’s what he thinks. you’re really hearing me talk about more And since he’s a decisionmaker, I take him capital in the hands of small-business own- for his word. The $15,000 a year means ers. Reducing income-tax rates is money that Mike is more likely to hire one extra injected into the small-business sector of person. And if that happens all across the the American economy, that sector which country, we’ve taken a big step toward creates most of the new jobs in America. making sure that people who are looking Under this plan, 23 million small busi- for work can find a job. nesses will see their revenues increase be- He also understands better than some cause of tax relief, which means more of us in Washington do about how this money for investment, more money for economy grows. ‘‘Any time you can im- growth, and more money for jobs. That’s prove the bottom line of Main Street busi- what that means. ness’’—this is Mike’s words—‘‘it’s good for And the Tax Code ought to encourage the city; it’s good for the State; it’s great small-business investment. Today, a small for the Nation. It all trickles up, instead business can deduct a maximum of only of trickling down.’’ Now, he may not have $25,000 in the year in which they buy a Ph.D. in economics, but he’s got a Ph.D. equipment. The proposal I submitted to the in commonsense economics. And this tax United States Congress says we need to plan helps people like Mike, and it’s need- triple that amount to $75,000 a year and ed. And Congress needs to move. index that amount to inflation. When a We can also promote economic growth small business buys new machinery, not and job creation by treating investors fairly. only does it help that small business be- Stock dividends are often the mark of a come more productive and more competi- solid and respectable firm and where you tive and more likely to hire somebody, it know the profits are real because you see also means that the person who built the them in cash. If you pay a dividend, the machine is more likely to hire somebody. check actually shows up in somebody’s It will have a ripple effect. The purchase mailbox. It means you’re not a pie-in-the- of a machine has a ripple effect throughout sky company. You’re not making hopeful our economy. It makes sense to encourage projections, and maybe they happen, and investment, particularly in the small-busi- maybe they don’t. If you pay a dividend ness sector. and you tell people you’re going to pay Mike Kovach knows that. He’s from a dividend, you got to deliver the dividend. Youngstown, Ohio. He runs City Machine Timken is a dividend-paying company. I Technologies. I told you he started his busi- say it’s a dividend-paying company; after ness in 1985, and he had two employees, all, Timken has paid a dividend for the and now there’s 70. That’s a pretty good last 324 consecutive quarters. That’s a solid record. He not only survived; he thrived. record. It says to me the people who run And as a result, 68 more people work, have Timken care a lot about their shareholders got jobs. He pays taxes on his business and the employees. After all, there are

365 Apr. 24 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

44,000 Timken shareholders, employees, re- million in dividends, and a lot of that went tirees, teacher retirement funds, college en- to Timken employees. So when you hear dowments, a lot of ordinary investors here politicians say the tax cut is only for the in Canton who take great pride in owning rich, they’re talking about you. When you stock in a local company. have more money to save and invest, it’s Right now, dividends are taxed twice. good for your future. It’s good for this When the company makes a profit, the div- economy. idend—the profits are taxed, and that’s Economists estimate that ending the good. That’s the way it should be. How- double taxation of dividend would create ever, when the shareholder receives his or more than 400,000 new jobs by the end her part of the profits, it’s taxed again, and of the year 2004. And sooner the Congress that doesn’t make sense to me. Taxing gets this done, the sooner we’ll see new something twice is not good public policy, jobs for the American people. particularly when you’re worried about in- When we put the job-and-growth pack- vestment and job creation and when you’re age together, I didn’t set arbitrary limits worried about shareholders and their ability on tax relief. Instead, I asked, ‘‘What does to save and invest, and when you worry the economy need? How do we stimulate about retirement citizens who rely upon work? What do we need to do for small dividend income. The double taxation of businesses? What will create the most dividends is bad for the citizens of this jobs?’’ And I concluded that of all the pro- country, and we need to eliminate it. posals that I laid out, lower taxes for fami- Ending the double taxation of dividends, lies, lower taxes for small businesses, end- according to many economists, will help the ing the double taxation of dividends to the stock market. It’ll create value in the stock tune of at least $550 billion, is the best market. And that’s positive. After all, we’re way to make sure this economy grows. becoming an ownership society. Whether Now, you hear talk about deficits, and it be in your pension plan or directly, you I’m concerned about deficits. I’m sure you own stock. And when the market’s strong, are as well. But this Nation has got a deficit it creates a sense of optimism. It gives you because we have been through a war. And a sense of security. If getting rid of the I told the American people we would spend double taxation of dividends increases the what is necessary to win the war. We markets, it’ll be good for millions of inves- weren’t going to hold back so our soldiers tors all across America. It’ll be good for were—didn’t have the right equipment and our economy, and it will reduce the cost the best training and the best possible pay. of capital, which means companies like And we had an emergency and a reces- Timken have got a better capacity to ex- sion, which affected the revenue growth of pand, which means jobs. the U.S. Treasury. I mean, the stock market Ending the double taxation of dividends went down. Some of the pie-in-the-sky pro- would be good for our seniors who receive jections didn’t make it, and the investors half of all taxable dividend income. And said, ‘‘Oops. The numbers weren’t real.’’ that’s important. The Freelands here—I The investors said, ‘‘Well, it looks like the mentioned they’re retired; they receive divi- days of everything is going up may end.’’ dend income. It would be helpful to the And so people started selling, and the mar- Freelands in their retirement to not have kets went down. That affected the revenues their dividends taxed twice. coming into the U.S. Treasury. Recession, Ending the double taxation of dividends negative growth means less revenues. And will be good for Timken workers. And so, of course, we’ve got a deficit, but I that’s important for you to understand. Last know we can grow out of the deficit with year, this company paid out more than $30 wise policy.

366 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Apr. 24

And the best way to deal with the deficit The last few months have been a time is to address the two things that affect the of challenge for this country, no question deficit. First, increase revenues to the about it. The resolve of this Nation has Treasury through economic growth and vi- been tested, yet we have great resources tality. And that’s what we discussed here of national character and national strength today. And second, make sure Congress to overcome any challenge that we face. does not overspend your money. Make sure Our confidence and our optimism have it focuses on the things that we need and never wavered. We’re defending the peace doesn’t spend beyond the things that we of this world. We love peace. We use our need. The best way to solve the deficit might to make the world more peaceful. is to grow the revenues coming into the We’re bringing freedom to corners of the Treasury through economic vitality and world that haven’t seen freedom in genera- have fiscal sanity in Washington, DC. tions. We stand strong on the principle that And with people looking for work here freedom belongs to everybody, no matter in America, we have a responsibility to help the color of their skin, no matter what their those people find jobs. So I’ve asked the religion, no matter where they live. We’re building prosperity for this country. It’s a Congress to help create what we call Per- unique moment in our history, and you’re sonal Reemployment Accounts. It’s an inno- living through it. And as importantly, the vative way to make sure that workers are American people are rising to meet it. helped, that they can help themselves. I want to thank each of you for your Under this program, Americans who face strength. I want to thank you for your love the greatest difficulties in finding work will of your country. I want to thank you for receive up to $3,000 to use in their job the work you do every day. Thanks for let- search. And they would have flexibility in ting me come. how to use that money. A person with a May God bless you, and may God bless reemployment account would be able to America. decide whether to use the funds for job training or childcare or transportation or NOTE: The President spoke at 9:56 a.m. in to cover the costs of moving to another the Development Laboratory. In his remarks, city. If the job is attained quickly, within he referred to William R. ‘‘Tim’’ Timken, Jr., 13 weeks, the worker would be able to chairman of the board, and James W. Grif- keep the cash balance that exists in the fith, president and chief executive officer, the reemployment account. To strengthen the Timken Co.; Gov. Bob Taft of Ohio; Mayor economy, you not only need good tax pol- Richard D. Watkins of Canton; and former icy, but we need to help American workers President Saddam Hussein of Iraq. The Of- find work and the dignity that comes with fice of the Press Secretary also released a holding a job. Spanish language transcript of these remarks.

Remarks to Employees at the Army Tank Plant in Lima, Ohio April 24, 2003

Thank you for the warm welcome. It’s skilled workers of the Lima Army Tank great to be in Lima. It is great to be with Plant. the hardworking people, the incredibly I want to thank you for greeting me. I want to thank you for giving me a chance

367 Apr. 24 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 to come and talk to you about two things back from that Easter break, needs to pass that are on my mind. The first thing I a robust jobs-creation program. want to talk about is making sure that peo- But I’ve also come here to talk about ple in this country who want to work can peace and security and freedom. And this find a job. is a good place to talk about it. This is We’ve been through some tough times a fine place, right here in Ohio, to talk here in America. We’ve had a recession, about peace and security, because after all, and then we had an enemy attack us. Then it is in this facility that has provided the we attacked back. There’s been the uncer- American military with the most effective tainty, uncertainty of war hanging over our armored vehicle in the history of warfare, heads. Then we had some of our corporate the mighty Abrams tank. citizens forget what it means to be a re- I’m here to thank you all for your service sponsible citizen, and they didn’t tell the to our country and thank you for the vital truth to employees and shareholders. And contribution you have made to peace and we had to deal with the corporate scandals freedom. You see, we’re determined in this that rocked the confidence of America. country to overcome the threat to our But in spite of that, our economy is country, wherever they may gather. And each of you have had a part in this mission. growing. In spite of that, we’re the best Each of you are a part to making sure economy in the industrialized world. But this country is strong enough to keep the we’re not growing fast enough. I don’t like peace. it when I hear stories about our fellow In the liberation of Iraq, we’ve applied Americans looking for work and can’t find powerful weapons, like the tank you build a job. And therefore, I sent the Congress here, to strike our enemy with speed and a package that will encourage economic vi- precision. In the use of the Abrams tank, tality and job growth, a package that starts we have got a vehicle that is the most safe with this concept, that we need more de- vehicle for our fighting personnel, precise mand for goods and services so our people enough to protect innocent life. can find work. And the best way to encour- Work is not done. There’s still dangers age demand for goods and services is, let and challenges to remain. But one thing the people keep their hard-earned money is certain: Saddam Hussein is no longer in the first place. in power. And thanks to the courage and I put out a plan that says that a family might of our military, America is more se- of four making $40,000 a year will have cure today. And thanks to the courage and their taxes reduced from about $1,100 to might of our military, the Iraqi people are $50. That’s 1,000 more dollars in their free. pocket every year, so they can spend; they I appreciate Lieutenant Colonel Walsh can save; they can invest the way they see for letting me come. [Laughter] He didn’t fit. have any choice. [Laughter] I want to thank I start with understanding whose money General Thompson. I want to thank your we’re talking about. We’re not talking about plant manager, Gary King. I want to thank the Government’s money in Washington, the UAW local president, Jeff Monroe. I DC, we’re talking about your money. And want to thank all the workers who are here. the best way to get this economy started, I want to thank you for bringing your the best way to make sure people can find families. I thank you for showing your fami- work is have an economic stimulus package lies what you have done to help make his- that focuses on jobs. And that’s what I’ve tory, to help make the world more peace- sent to Congress. And for the sake of the ful. You tell your children, when they see American workers, Congress, when they get the images of war on their TV sets, that

368 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Apr. 24 we take the action we take and you build that we send 1,200 Abrams tanks to the the products you build because we believe theater. That was one of the first decisions in peace in America. We understand we that Tommy made. And when the war have an obligation to keep our nation se- came, in the initial stages of that war, units cure. You build the weapons you build here equipped with Abrams tanks and Bradley because we love freedom in this country. fighting vehicles led the charge, were first I want to thank some elected officials in as we crossed into Iraq to free the peo- who have come, your Governor and your ple of that country. Senator DeWine and Congressman Oxley. When our coalition met fierce resistance Remember I talked about how we had in An Nasiriyah and on the way up, south some citizens who forgot to be responsible to north, our armored forces answered de- citizens when it came to whether or not cisively. The tanks built right here in Lima, they told the truth on the books. We passed Ohio, charged through elements of the a bill called Sarbanes-Oxley that said, if you dictator’s Republican Guards, led the forces cook the books, you’re going to be held of a liberation into the heart of Iraq, and to account. The Oxley of Sarbanes-Oxley rolled all the way into downtown Baghdad. is with us today. And I want to thank Mike Throughout the campaign, our enemy Oxley for his good work on behalf of honest learned that when Abrams tanks are on the government. battlefield, America means business. And Congressman Turner is with us and Our edge in warfare comes, in part, from Congressman Gillmor and your mayor— the American spirit of enterprise—no ques- your mayor, as well as local officials. Thank tion about that—from great companies and you all for coming. I’m honored to be here. great workers like you all. During the fight- You see, it’s a chance for me to remind ing in Iraq, tank commanders sent word the people of this country that we’re wit- that they needed better ways to protect nessing historic days in the cause of free- the Abrams exhaust systems from enemy dom. This is an historic moment. Just over fire. During the battle, word came back a month ago, not all that long ago, a cruel from Iraq, right here to Lima. And so engi- dictator ruled a country, ruled Iraq by tor- neers and machinists, pipefitters and weld- ture and fear. His regime was allied with ers and packers and transportation special- terrorists, and the regime was armed with ists of this plant went straight to work. weapons of mass destruction. Today, that Within a week, you had a new part de- regime is no more. signed and manufactured, and the first kits We have applied our might in the name to deal with that problem shipped to Iraq. of peace and in the name of freedom. When our soldiers and marines needed you That’s why we applied our might. We gave most, when the pressure was on, you came our word that the threat from Iraq would through, and America is grateful. be ended. And with the support of allies I understand that one welder here, Mark and because of the bravery of our Armed Springer, had a especially strong interest Forces, we have kept our word. in completing the project, to making sure Last year, one of the first preparations the Abrams were able to fulfill their mis- for possible war, one of the first parts of sion. You see, his son Joshua is serving our planning for war, came when General in Iraq as an Abrams tank commander. I Tommy Franks—from Midland, Texas, I thank Mark for his service. And the next want you to know—went to the same high time, Mark, you communicate with Josh, school as First Lady Laura Bush did—who, you tell him the Commander in Chief came by the way, sends her love and her best. to Lima to say how proud I am of his Tommy Franks asked—one of the first re- service and the others’ service to our coun- quests in preparation for possible war was try.

369 Apr. 24 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

I’ve seen buttons with pictures of troops sein no longer threatens America with on the shirts of moms and dads and loved weapons of mass destruction. ones. I want to thank you all for your pray- We’re not only in Iraq to protect our ers for the safety of our troops. I want security; we’re also showing that we value to thank you for your love of your children. the lives and the liberty of the Iraqi people. They need to know, over there in combat, We’re pressing forward with the critical that people here at home love them. I want work of relief and reconstruction in that to thank you for your patience and just country. And the work will be difficult. You let you know they’ll be home when the see, Iraq is recovering not just from weeks mission is complete. of conflict but from decades of totalitarian The mission is not complete. Our forces rule. The dictator built palaces in a country still face danger in Iraq. Our enemy is scat- that needed hospitals. He spent money on tered, but they’re still capable of doing illegal weapons, not on the education of harm. But we’re not going to lose our the Iraqi children or food for the Iraqi focus. We’re going to press on until the people. Statues of the man have been mission is complete. pulled down, but the fear and suspicion In any conflict, America’s greatest single he instilled in the people will take longer asset is the character of the men and to pass away. Yet I have faith in the Iraqi people. They women who wear our uniform. In Iraq, have the resources, the talent, and the de- they have shown us once again that power- sire to live in peace and freedom. And in ful weapons are a great advantage in mod- the hard work of building a free Iraq, they ern warfare, but courage is still decisive. will have a consistent friend in the United Some of the bravest have been lost to us States of America. and to their families. Some of the best have We have sent teams of people over to not returned home, and we will never for- Iraq to make sure that they have adequate get their sacrifice. food. We’re restoring electricity. We’re In Iraq, we are defending this Nation’s making sure the hospitals are full of medi- security. After the attacks of September the cine and staffed with people to help the 11th, 2001, we will not allow grave threats people of that country. to go unopposed. We are now working to I’ve sent a good man to help the Iraqi locate and destroy Iraq’s weapons of mass people, retired General Jay Garner—sent destruction. him to Iraq, and he arrived in Baghdad Iraqis with firsthand knowledge of these just this week. You see, it wasn’t all that programs, including several top officials long ago that our tanks were in Baghdad. who have come forward recently, some vol- It may seem like a lot of time—there’s untarily—[laughter]—others not—[laugh- a lot on our TV screens—but it wasn’t all ter]—are beginning to cooperate, are begin- that long ago that the people got the first ning to let us know what the facts were whiff of freedom. And now we’ve followed on the ground. And that’s important be- up with a team of people, headed by this cause the regime of Saddam Hussein spent man Garner who’s got one overriding goal, years hiding and disguising his weapons. He to leave a free nation in the hands of a tried to fool the United Nations, and did free people. That is our goal in Iraq. for 12 years, by hiding these weapons. And Our mission—besides removing the reso it’s going to take time to find them. gime that threatened us, besides ending a But we know he had them. And whether place where the terrorists could find a he destroyed them, moved them, or hid friend, besides getting rid of weapons of them, we’re going to find out the truth. mass destruction—our mission has been to And one thing is for certain: Saddam Hus- bring a humanitarian aid and restore basic

370 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Apr. 24 services and put this country Iraq on the tion partners: Iraq must be democratic. road to self-government. And we’ll stay as And as new Iraqi leaders begin to emerge, long as it takes to complete our mission. we’ll work with them. One thing is certain: And then all our forces are going to leave We will not impose a government on Iraq. Iraq and come home. We will help that nation build a govern- And we’re making progress. There’s tan- ment of, by, and for the Iraqi people. gible, visible progress on the ground there Our country and our good allies are in Iraq. Step by step, the citizens of that working to create the conditions for lasting country are reclaiming their own country. peace. We’re aiding the advance of peace They’re identifying former officials who are by seeking the advance of freedom. Free guilty of crimes. That deck of cards seems societies do not nurture bitterness or the to be getting complete over time. [Laugh- ideologies of terror and murder. Free soci- ter] They’re volunteering for citizens patrols eties are founded on the belief that every to provide security in the cities. They’re life has equal value. Free societies—free beginning to understand that they need to societies turn creative gifts of men and step up and be responsible citizens if they women toward progress and the betterment want to live in peace and a free society. of their own lives. American interests and Many Iraqis are now reviving religious American founding beliefs lead in the same rituals which were forbidden by the old direction. We stand for human liberty. regime. See, a free society honors religion. This past month has been a time of test- A free society is a society which believes ing for our country. And the American peo- in the freedom of religion. And many Iraqis ple have responded with resolve and are now speaking their mind in public. strength and optimism. Whatever chal- That’s a good sign. [Laughter] That means lenges may come, we can be confident our a new day has come in Iraq. When Saddam Nation is strong; our purpose is firm; and was the dictator and you spoke your mind, our cause is just. he would cut out your tongue and leave Thank you for coming. May God bless you to bleed to death in a town square. you, and may God bless America. No fooling. That’s how he dealt with dissidents. NOTE: The President spoke at 2:13 p.m. In Today in Iraq, there’s discussion, debate, his remarks, he referred to former President protest, all the hallmarks of liberty. [Laugh- Saddam Hussein of Iraq; Lt. Col. Damon T. ter] The path to freedom may not always Walsh, USA, Army plant commander, and be neat and orderly, but it is the right Gary King, plant manager, Lima Army Tank of every person and every nation. This Plant; Maj. Gen. N. Ross Thompson III, country believes that freedom is God’s gift USA, commander, U.S. Army Tank-Auto- to every individual on the face of the Earth. motive and Armaments Command; Jeff Last week there was an historic gathering Monroe, president, UAW local 2075; Gov. that occurred in the city of Al Nasiriyah, Bob Taft of Ohio; Mayor David J. Berger where Iraqis met openly and freely to dis- of Lima; Gen. Tommy R. Franks, USA, com- cuss the future of their country. And out batant commander, U.S. Central Command; of that meeting came this declaration by and Lt. Gen. Jay Garner, USA (Ret.), Direc- the Iraqis that were there: Iraq must be tor, Office of Reconstruction and Humani- democratic. And that’s the goal, the com- tarian Assistance for Post-war Iraq, Depart- mitment of the United States and our coali- ment of Defense.

371 Apr. 24 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Interview With Tom Brokaw of NBC News April 24, 2003

Preemptive Strike Against Saddam Hussein say the plans had changed, but I knew what Mr. Brokaw. Mr. President, there’s no he’d told me on the phone, it would mean tougher decision any President makes than the plans would have changed. And that to commit the Nation to war. Let’s talk is, we had a shot at Saddam Hussein, they about that first night, when you surprised thought. us all by launching the preemptive strike So I assembled the national security team against the residence of Saddam Hussein. of the Vice President, Colin Powell, Rums- The President. Well, they started in the feld, Myers, CIA Tenet, Condi Rice, Andy Situation Room, and we had Tommy Card, and some other CIA agents there— Franks on the screen with a commander— some guys I hadn’t seen before came in I think out of Saudi Arabia and Kuwait the Oval. And the reason why they were City and out of—and a CENTCOM com- there is they had a source on the ground mander out of Tampa Bay, along with their that was convinced that not only would British and Australian counterparts. Saddam Hussein be in the complex, but And then we had the national security Uday and Qusay, his two sons, would be team aligned on the table there, and I went there as well. And they explained why this around to each of the commanders and was the case. And basically they were ask- said, ‘‘Are you happy with the strategy? Do ing permission from me to launch an air- you have what it takes to win the war?’’ strike. They all answered affirmatively. I was hesitant at first, to be frank with I then gave the instructions to Secretary you, because I was worried that the first of Defense Rumsfeld that Operation Iraqi pictures coming out of Iraq would be a Freedom would commence at a time of wounded grandchild of Saddam Hussein— Tommy Franks’ choosing, told Tommy, you but Saddam Hussein, who was not there know, for the sake of peace and security at the time we started making the decision, and the freedom of the Iraqi people that would never show up—that the first images he’s got the orders to proceed. I asked of the American attack would be death to God’s blessing on him and the troops. He young children. saluted. I saluted back and left the room. And this is an interesting moment, be- It was a—it was an emotional moment cause as time went on during the day, that for me because I had obviously made up evening, the intelligence got richer and my mind that if we needed to, we would richer. In other words, the guy on the use troops to get rid of weapons of mass ground was calling in to the CENTCOM destruction to free the Iraqi people. But headquarters, who was immediately calling the actual moment of making that decision in to the White House—more and more was a heavy moment. I then went outside information. For example, he discovered and walked around the grounds, just to get that there was a bunker 100 feet away from a little air and collect my thoughts. one of the houses, a bunker that had so And I thought I was pretty well through much concrete and was likely to house with the day until 3:40 that afternoon, Saddam when he arrived and his kids, his when I got a call from Secretary Rumsfeld boys. that said, ‘‘Mr. President, the plans have And as the intelligence got richer, I got changed.’’ He said, ‘‘I would like to change more confidence with the notion that the plans. I need your permission to change Saddam would, in fact, be there. And at the plans. Can I come over?’’ He didn’t 7:15 that evening, I gave the order for

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Tommy to proceed with an attack on the which really says that he had the ability farms, but changed—they had an ordnance and the authority and the flexibility nec- package of 30 cruise missiles. But because essary to change a war plan to meet the of the bunker, they had to change the tim- needs on the ground. ing of the attack so that the stealth bomber Mr. Brokaw. That human intelligence went in first, unloaded his ordnance, and that we had on the ground, did you hear then the TLAMs or the cruise missiles back from him, I presume? would follow in behind, which means they The President. We did. had to reprogram all these missiles. And Mr. Brokaw. And did he—— they didn’t have much time to do it be- The President. He felt like we got Sad- cause the flight time of the missiles from dam. their particular launch sites was about 2 Mr. Brokaw. He did? hours. The President. He felt like that, yes. And This other thing that bothered me during we’re trying, of course, to verify. And be- the decisionmaking was that the stealth fore there’s any declaration, of course, would go in unescorted. There would have there will be a lot of evidence. been no air suppression on enemy defenses Mr. Brokaw. Did you see that famous prior to him going in, in order to keep television video of Saddam the next day, the element of surprise alive. So the day in the glasses, reading awkwardly from the changed, and it was a dramatic several notepad and so on? hours because we really changed the battle The President. Well, yes. I was amused plan. by that, almost as amused by that as I Mr. Brokaw. Did you watch that on tele- was his PR man—it was one of the vision, when the bombs began to land? classics—probably helping NBC Saturday The President. Yes, I did. I did. Actually, Night Live out mightily, but through his— they began to hit, and then I went in and it was just unbelievable what he was saying. shortly thereafter addressed the Nation— But you know, the people that wonder so I was getting makeup and talking about if Saddam Hussein is dead or not, there’s the—you know, figuring out the words in some evidence that says that he—suggests the speech. I did. And it was about 9:30 he might be. We would never make that p.m., as I recall, and then I spoke to the declaration until we were more certain. But country about 10:15 p.m. the person that helped direct the attacks But what was interesting, Tom—I don’t believes that Saddam, at the very minimum, think many people know this—is that the was severely wounded. game plan was to move Special Ops forces Mr. Brokaw. That night? early, at noon that day. And we would have The President. That night, yes. And it explained to the country, as kind of creating explains—again, there will be a lot of spec- the conditions for the battlefield, so that ulation until the truth is known, but it ex- when our troops moved significantly, their plains why, for example, one reason why conditions would be ripe for success. dams weren’t blown up or oilfields weren’t At Friday, at noon, I was going to ad- destroyed, even though we found them to dress the Nation about the air campaign, be wired with—potentially to be blown up. and the ground campaign would follow shortly thereafter. Turns out that because Shock and Awe/Iraqi Resistance we conducted the air raid, I had to speak Mr. Brokaw. Now, the air campaign is that night to the country. And then Tommy underway, and troops are moving across the said he was going to move the ground force border—— movement up early to secure oilfields and The President. That would be a day and to move as quickly as possible into Iraq, a half later.

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Mr. Brokaw. A day and a half later. So I’ve never doubted the plan. Obvi- The President. But troops were moving ously, I was concerned when we lost life, across the border earlier. or concerned that day when some of our Mr. Brokaw. ‘‘Shock and awe’’ was the prisoners, the people were captured. But phrase that was heard so much before it I had confidence in the plan because I all began. It didn’t have exactly the effect had confidence in the team. I think that a lot of people expected, be- U.S. Prisoners of War cause resistance down south was—from the militia, at least—a little tougher than a lot Mr. Brokaw. Let me ask you about that of people anticipated. day that the prisoners were captured. Ev- The President. Yes, I think it’s true. I erything played out on television. There’s think that’s an accurate look back. ‘‘Shock been probably no more televised event in and awe’’ said to many people that all we’ve the history of mankind. Suddenly you look got to do is unleash some might and people on the screen, and from Iraqi television will crumble. It turns out the fighters were there are five American prisoners of war, a lot fiercer than we thought. Because, for including a woman who was a cook, example, we didn’t come north from Tur- Shoshana Johnson. key, Saddam Hussein was able to move a The President. Well, I believe that was lot of special Republican Guard units and a Sunday. And it was a tough day. It was fighters from north to south. So the resist- a tough day for America. It was a tough ance for our troops moving south and north day for the Commander in Chief, who was significant resistance. On the other committed these young soldiers into battle hand, our troops handled it—we handled in the first place, which made their release that resistance quite well. even more joyous. But war is—it’s tough. Mr. Brokaw. Did you make some calls? President’s National Security Team The President. No, I didn’t. I’ve written Mr. Brokaw. Did that give you a pause a lot of letters, but I didn’t call any parents for a while? then. I prayed for them, but I didn’t call. The President. Well, first of all, I had Mr. Brokaw. Did you talk to Laura about confidence in the plan, because I’ve got it? confidence in my national security team. The President. I did. I talked to Laura Remember, my advisers are people such a lot during this period of time. She’s been as Dick Cheney, who had been through a steady source of strength and inspiration the war before as the Secretary of Defense; and love. And you know, there’s—any time Colin Powell, who’s not only an Army gen- there’s war and a lot of action, a lot of eral but also had been through a war be- movement of troops and equipment, people fore; Don Rumsfeld, who’s a very success- are—there’s going to be death. And it’s the ful man in the private sector but also has hardest aspect of this job, frankly, is to got great judgment when it comes to the know that those lives were lost because of military; Tommy Franks—I really trust orders I gave. Tommy; we speak the same language; after On the other hand, I firmly believe, and all, Tommy went to Midland Lee High history will prove, that decisions that I School, graduated in 1963, one year ahead made and the actions that our country took of Laura—Condi, and—I mean, I get good, will make the world more peaceful, will solid advice from people who analyzed this help secure the United States, and as im- war plan, analyzed the strategy, looked at portantly, give the Iraqi people freedom, it in depth, had looked at it for quite a let them be free, free from the clutches bit of time and convinced me that it would of one of the most barbaric regimes in the lead to victory. history of mankind.

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Rescue of Jessica Lynch available for hiding the weapons, which he Mr. Brokaw. The flip side of all that did effectively for 10 years from the—over was the rescue of Jessica Lynch. 10 years from the United Nations, and that The President. It was. we’ve only looked at about 90 of those sites Mr. Brokaw. Did you get advance notice so far—I mean, literally hundreds of sites. that that operation was going down? And so we will find them. It’s going to The President. I did. I did. Secretary take time to find them. And the best way Rumsfeld told me that—not to get my to find them is to continue to collect infor- hopes up, but there was going to be a mation from the humans, the Iraqis who very sensitive operation into a hospital were involved with hiding them. where he thought that there would be an Mr. Brokaw. As you know, there’s still American POW. And that’s all he said. He a lot of skepticism around the world about was very circumspect, as he should be, to American motives in Iraq. a lot of people, because he didn’t want The President. Right. any information to get out that might have Mr. Brokaw. Why not fold in some of jeopardized the operation. But he gave me the U.N. inspectors to this effort, not turn a heads-up. And then when we heard that it over to them but make them a part of she had been rescued, it was a joyous mo- it? Would that help with the credibility, ment. do you think? The President. I think there’s going to Iraqi Weapons of Mass Destruction be skepticism until people find out there Mr. Brokaw. Let me ask you about some was, in fact, a weapons of mass destruction of the larger policy questions. Before we program. One thing there can’t be skep- went to war against Iraq, one of the reasons ticism about is the fact that this guy was that you justified this war was that he posed torturous and brutal on the Iraqi people. a real threat to the United States. If he I mean, he brutalized them; he tortured couldn’t defend his own country—and we them; he destroyed them; he cut out their have not yet been able to find the weapons tongues when they dissented. And now the of mass destruction, which were not even people are beginning to see what freedom launched in defense of Iraq—was that means within Iraq. Look at the Shi’a threat overstated? marches or the Shi’a pilgrimages that are The President. No, not at all. As a matter taking place. of fact, I think time and investigation will The world will see that the United States prove a couple of points: One, that he did is interested in peace, is interested in secu- have terrorist connections; and secondly, rity, and interested in freedom. that he had a weapons of mass destruction Mr. Brokaw. But it is important to find program. We know he had a weapons of the weapons of mass destruction, or the mass destruction program. We now know evidence that he had a massive program he’s not going to use them. So we’ve ac- underway, isn’t it? complished one objective, and that is that The President. Yes. I think we will. I’m Saddam Hussein will not hurt the United pretty confident we will. States or friends or our allies with weapons of mass destruction. Postwar Iraq/New Iraqi Regime Secondly, we are learning more as we Mr. Brokaw. Your old family friend interrogate or have discussions with Iraqi Brent Scowcroft, who had some differences scientists and people within the Iraqi struc- with the policies here, says one of the ture, that perhaps he destroyed some, per- things that he’s worried about is that there’s haps he dispersed some. We also know no tradition of democracy there, that peo- there are hundreds and hundreds of sites ple will just seize power wherever they can.

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It seems to a lot of people that that is people within Iraq that would like that kind playing out in the south, especially where of—there may be a nationalist government, the Shi’a are saying, ‘‘Look, we’re going a government that really honors the Iraqi to run things here. We’d like to have an history and the Iraqi traditions and Iraq, Islamic government.’’ Isn’t that a serious itself. But it must be a government that concern? is going to, you know, represents all the The President. Well, first of all, we just people, and I believe that can happen. started. The country isn’t secure yet. I mean, the first things that we’re worried Looting by Iraqi Citizens about is making sure that the militia units of the old Fedayeen Saddam aren’t out kill- Mr. Brokaw. Were you surprised by the ing people. So our troops are working with degree of looting that occurred almost in- coalition forces to make the country more stantly? secure. The President. No, I wasn’t surprised at Secondly, we’re worried about making all. sure there are—you know, there’s the pres- Mr. Brokaw. You were not? Why? ence of a police force in these different The President. I mean, these were people cities to maintain order. We are just begin- that hated the regime under which they ning to move our teams in place to help lived. the Iraqi bureaucracies get up and running. Mr. Brokaw. But they went after hos- I was pleased to see that the Doctors pitals and museums and—— Without Borders organization said that they The President. I don’t like that part. And went into Iraq and found no grave humani- that was the—you know, the hospitals and tarian crisis. In other words, the food is museum were the absolute worst part. The getting to the people; medicines are getting good news is, is that the hospitals are now to the people. They did say there is a short- up and running. They’ve got enough med- age of personnel, professionally—not a ical supplies to take care of the people that shortage of medicine but a shortage of pro- need help. That museum was a terrible in- fessionals necessary to deliver the aid, and cident. I couldn’t agree more with people we’ll help the Iraqi people address that who say we’re sorry that happened. We problem. are, by the way, helping find treasure, re- My point to you is that we have an or- store treasure, and we’ll provide all the ex- derly process to bring stability and food pertise and help they need to get that mu- and health to the Iraqi people so life can seum up and running again. begin to return to normal. And then I’m But I wasn’t surprised. It was vengeance, confident that a government will emerge. because it’s like uncorking a bottle of frus- I dismiss the critics who say that democracy tration. These are people whose relatives can’t flourish in Iraq. It may not look like were beaten, tortured, shocked, killed be- America. You know, Thomas Jefferson may cause they spoke out, because they dis- not emerge. But nevertheless, I do believe agreed with Saddam Hussein. And history there can be a representative government is going to show how brutal this man and and all factions can be represented. his sons and his regime really, really was. Mr. Brokaw. But if it becomes an Islamic And therefore, it did not surprise me when government with a 60 percent Shiite major- people took vengeance on police stations ity, it could very well become that—would or took, you know, went out into Govern- that be acceptable to you? ment buildings and destroyed them. The President. What I would like to see I’m also pleased by the fact that that is a government where church and state level of—those riots or whatever you want are separated. And I believe there’s enough to call them, released some steam, and now

376 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Apr. 24 life is returning to normal. Things have set- The President. Well, you know, you hear tled down inside the country. a lot of reports about the vacuums being Mr. Brokaw. There’s still a lot of nation- filled by Iranian agents. We certainly hope alism, though. I mean, it’s a very strong that Iraq—Iran will allow Iraq to develop strain there, and in fact, some people are into a stable and peaceful society. We have taking control of their neighborhoods or sent the word to the Iranians that that’s whole sectors of Baghdad—— what we expect. I talk to Tony Blair and The President. Yes, like the guy, the self- Jose Maria Aznar on a regular basis—talked proclaimed mayor. to them yesterday—and this subject came Mr. Brokaw. Right. up. And both of them have got contacts The President. This is all—a reasonable with the Iranian Government, and they will government will evolve. We just started. It send the same message, similar to what we wasn’t but 2 weeks ago yesterday that the did to Syria, that we expect there to be statue fell down. There have been 20-plus cooperation and—— years of tyranny. And it’s hard to believe Mr. Brokaw. And if there is not, is Iran that in 20 days democracy will emerge. But next? the point we’re making is, is that the foun- The President. No, we just expect them dation for democracy is now being laid. to cooperate, and we will work with the And by the way, there’s nothing wrong with world to encourage them to cooperate. We nationalism within Iraq. People say the have no military plans. Just like I said about United States should leave, and we want Syria. I mean, listen, the world, a lot of to leave, as soon as we’ve accomplished the—frankly, the left wing critics of our our mission. policy have said, ‘‘You know, these people are so militaristic, they’re getting ready to Timing of U.S. Withdrawal invade Syria.’’ That was the line of the day. Mr. Brokaw. How long will that take? We made it clear to the Syrians we expect The President. Somebody asked me the them to cooperate. other day, how long is it going to take Mr. Brokaw. And are they responding? to get rid of Saddam Hussein’s regime? The President. Yes, I think they are. My answer is, as long as necessary. They’re doing a better job. The borders Mr. Brokaw. But it may take as long look like they’re tighter. As we find people as 2 years—— that have escaped into Syria, we’re giving The President. It could. It could, or less. the Syrian Government the names of the Who knows? But the point I’m making is, people, and they appear to want to be help- is that we are there to promote security, ful. to make sure life returns back to normal, and to help the Iraqi people establish a United Nations government, because we believe that de- Mr. Brokaw. Let me ask you about the mocracy can work within Iraq. And nation- future of some other relationships that we alism, by the way, you know, means it’s have, with the United Nations, for example. more likely that a government will evolve There are two people who admire you very that is focused on Iraq, its traditions, and much and are powerful pundits in Wash- its history, as opposed to focusing on a ington. George Will and Bill Kristol have particular religion. said of the U.N., George Will saying, ‘‘If it’s not the end as we know it, it should Iran/Syria be.’’ And Bill Kristol has said, ‘‘The U.N. Mr. Brokaw. Is Iran trying to take root I used to think was just useless, now I in southern Iraq, in your judgment? think is harmful.’’

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The President. Well, I would hope that be coming to the ranch any time soon. the U.N. would be useful. I would hope On the other hand, you know, there are that the U.N. would be an effective body some strains in the relationship, obviously, at helping deal with the new threats of because of—it appeared to some in our the 21st century, dealing with terror and administration and our country that the terrorist states and proliferation of weapons. French position was anti-American. And my And I can understand why some are frus- concern about the French position is it trated with the United Nations, because the would weaken—the position they took United Nations looked like it was not will- could weaken the NATO Alliance. NATO ing to join in the cause of freedom. And is a very important alliance. It’s something it was frustrating to Americans that it that we’ve not only worked to modernize— looked like the United Nations might hold I’ve worked to expand NATO, and it’s very up U.S. foreign policy that was being con- important that Europe not become frac- ducted in the name of peace and security. tured to the point where the United States On the other hand, I was the person won’t have relations with a united Europe that went to the United Nations in the whole, free, and at peace. first place. It was my decision to go give And hopefully, the past tensions will sub- the speech on September 12, 2002, that side, and the French won’t be using their called the United Nations to account. The position within Europe to create alliances United Nations will have a useful role in against the United States or Britain or the reconstruction of Iraq, for example, be- Spain or any of the new countries that are cause a lot of nations won’t be able give the new democracies in Europe. reconstruction money without a U.N. con- Bush Doctrine duit. And there is a role in this case for the Mr. Brokaw. We’ve talked about this be- United Nations. I hope as threats emerge, fore. Now that the war in Iraq is effectively the United Nations will be more responsive over, have you thought about a Bush doc- to those threats. trine that is a comprehensive structure of some kind, on a global basis, for dealing Visit by Australian Prime Minister John with weapons of mass destruction and the Howard need, even, of preemptive strikes against Mr. Brokaw. Are you going to invite rogue nations? French President Chirac to the ranch in The President. Well, the Bush doctrine Crawford? is actually being defined by action, as op- The President. Well, my first guest will posed to by words. Although, I think if be John Howard—well, first guest from this you compile a lot of the speeches I’ve moment forward will be John Howard, and given, you could come up with the Bush he’s coming—— doctrine. Mr. Brokaw. The Prime Minister of Aus- The way I view the post-Saddam Iraq tralia. opportunities are these: one, that we can The President. The Prime Minister of deal more effectively with weapons of mass Australia, he’s a great friend and a wonder- destruction, that we made it clear that peo- ful ally, will be coming a week from Friday. ple who harbor weapons of mass destruction will be dealt with. Hopefully, most of French President Jacques Chirac/NATO it can be done diplomatically. And you’ll Mr. Brokaw. Well, what about President see us—see me as well as members of my Chirac, though? administration begin to push for new inter- The President. You really—you’re really national protocols that will make inter- trying to get me to comment. I doubt he’ll national organizations more effective at

378 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Apr. 24 stopping the spread of weapons of mass frustration in the Middle East is also the destruction. fact that some of these governments need I also believe that reform in the Middle to enact reforms, and that’s why both re- East as well as Middle East peace is an form and working on the Middle Eastern initiative that we will continue to—that I peace will be priorities of mine. will push and push, particularly in the Mid- dle East peace process. I will work hard to achieve the two-state solution. And we Middle East Peace Process have a good opportunity to do so. There are other parts of the Bush doc- Mr. Brokaw. Is the Middle East peace trine, if you want to call it that, that are process going to accelerate greatly now that equally important. One, the AIDS initiative Arafat has accepted a Prime Minister? And in Africa is an incredibly important initia- has Arafat been removed effectively from tive, and I intend to call upon Europe, the equation? particularly the wealthier nations in Eu- The President. I think it will accelerate rope, to join us in providing the medicines, and, hopefully, greatly. I’m not so sure the anti-retroviral drugs, and the strategies what that exactly means, but it will certainly necessary to start saving lives, more lives accelerate from where we are today. on the continent of Africa. The selection of Abu Mazen as the There’s a lot of things where we can Prime Minister is very positive, primarily work together, is my point, to overcome because Abu Mazen has stated publicly that any differences that might have existed on he is against terror and will use whatever the Iraq policy. powers he has to fight off the terrorist activities that have really prevented peace Arab-U.S. Relations from moving forward. Mr. Brokaw. Before the war began, we In my June 24th speech I laid out—— were told by any number of people in your Mr. Brokaw. Will you have him to the administration that a lot of the leaders of White House without Arafat, example? the Middle East were privately saying, ‘‘We The President. I will one of these days, hope that you get rid of Saddam Hussein.’’ yes. But once the war was over, they did not Mr. Brokaw. Without Arafat? go public with praise for the United The President. Yes, absolutely. Listen, I States—Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, our always felt—first of all, I looked at the his- best friends in that region—while on the tory of Mr. Arafat. Now, I saw what he Arab street, there continued to be very did to President Clinton. There was no strong criticism to what we were doing. need to spend capital, unless you had an The President. Yes, I can understand interlocutor who could deliver the Pales- that. I mean, these guys—first of all, the tinian people toward peace. And I believe thing that was important with those coun- Abu Mazen is a man dedicated to peace, tries is they provided us help when we and I look forward to working with him asked for help. We needed basing help in for the two-state solution. My view is, is certain countries, and they provided it. That that the only way for there to be peace was one of the reasons why we were suc- and for the survival of Israel and for the cessful against Saddam Hussein. We asked, hope of the Palestinian people is for two and they delivered. states living side by side in peace. And I’ve Part of the frustrations that exist in the laid out a plan to achieve that, a plan that Middle East—and I recognize this—is the calls upon actions by the Israelis, by the fact that there is no movement toward Palestinians, as well as by the Arab nations peace with the Palestinians. Part of the surrounding that troubled part of the world.

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Military Speed and Flexibility/Embedded Mr. Brokaw. I don’t want you to give Journalists up sources and methods, but the guy who Mr. Brokaw. There used to be an Amer- called in the first time—still with us? The President. Yes, he is. He is with us. ican doctrine about when we go to war Thank God. A brave soul. it’s overwhelming force. Now it’s speed and Mr. Brokaw. That’s great. flexibility, based on Iraq, and instant communication, not only behind the scenes, but [At this point, the first part of the interview everybody gets to look in on the battlefield. concluded. The interview resumed at 2:45 The President. Well, the instant commu- p.m. in Lima, OH, after the President and nications part was one of the reasons why Mr. Brokaw left Air Force One.] I was comfortable in giving Tommy Franks Economic Stimulus Plan and the commanders in the field the go- Mr. Brokaw. Listen, now that the war ahead to take the shot at Saddam Hussein in Iraq is over, the whole country is turning on the first day. Because there in the Oval its attention back to the economy, and Office, we were getting near-instant feed- there’s—on the Hill, in your own party, back from eyes on the ground, what he there’s a lot of skepticism about whether was seeing, what he felt the conditions or not the tax cuts can get the job done. were like. It was an amazing moment to You started at $750 billion. You’ve now think that a person risking his life, viewing been talking about $550 billion. The Senate the farms, watching the entries, seeing, ob- is talking about $350 billion. Would you serving what was taking place inside one take $350 billion? of Saddam’s most guarded facilities, was The President. Well, I think it ought to able to pick up a device, call CENTCOM, be—actually, I think it ought to be more and CENTCOM would call us in near real- robust, and the reason why is because a time. lot of economists have told me that the The ability to communicate has changed tax cut needs to be sizable enough to affect demand—job creation. And that’s why I’m the nature of warfare. It allows for more pushing what I’m pushing, and I’m not interoperability, more ability for the Navy going to quit pushing until they end up and the Air Force and the Special Ops voting. I believe it’s the right thing. and the Army and the Marines to work The American people need to know that side by side in a coordinated basis, which last January I put out a job plan, and the makes it easier to fight a war with flexibility Congress has been debating it, talking and speed and precision. So the doctrine about it. And it was important in January. really has changed. It’s important now, and I expect them to As well, it’s an amazing concept when get a good jobs bill out. you think about real-time TV focusing on Mr. Brokaw. The Congressional Budget war. And by the way, I express—Laura and Office, however, says, you know, they’ve I express our deepest sympathies to David looked at it with three or four different Bloom’s wife and his family. I knew him models, and it’s just going to be too small well during the campaign. He was a great in terms of the impact on the overall econ- journalist and really a good fellow, loved omy. his family a lot. But you know, to think The President. Well, I disagree with that. that David was there—— I would like—I would hope that they would Mr. Brokaw. Rocketing across the desert. argue the case on the floor of the Senate and the floor of the House, but the skeptics The President. ——rocketing across the said it needs to be bigger. One of the desert. It’s an amazing feeling. things they also said was it’s very important

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to hold the line on spending—that’s an- And I believe that instead of getting other thing, that we accomplished some- mired in this talk about command and con- thing in the budget, discretionary spending trol and lawsuits and regulations, that we is being held to about 4 percent. On the ought to use our technological capabilities spending side, we’ve got restraint. We just to leapfrog the status quo and lead the need to make sure the package is robust world to a more energy efficient society. enough to create new jobs so people can Mr. Brokaw. But should we also assume find work. that we can burn at the same rate that Mr. Brokaw. It’s tough to come out here we have been? And you know, there’s just to Ohio, though. You’ve got a Republican no question about it, we’ve been on an Governor who went in at a very high num- energy consumption binge. ber, and now he’s down to around 42 per- The President. Yes, that’s right. And I cent in terms of approval rating. He’s hav- think that that’s why we need new tech- ing to raise taxes, cut services. Wouldn’t nologies to help us go from one era, a it be better to defer a little bit, get him hydrocarbon era, to a technologically driven off the hook? And these are important serv- era. And I believe we can get there. We’ve ices that he’s talking about. It’s about Med- got energy for, you know, a decade or two, icaid and—— without the consumer suffering badly. But The President. No, not at all. Actually, now is the time to move on new tech- what’s important is—and this is the reason nologies. This is precisely the initiative I to come to Ohio. It’s a place where people laid out for Congress. are looking for work. And I feel so strongly Arctic National Wildlife Refuge that my job package will work, I’m willing to come to a place where people need work Mr. Brokaw. You’re not going to get the and say, let’s get this done in the Congress. Arctic Wildlife Refuge this time, though, And this is the perfect place to bring a do you think? message of job creation, because there are The President. Well, it’s foolish not to, people here that—in the manufacturing in my judgment. There’s a lot of natural sector, in particular—that are looking for gas up there. And the reason we need nat- work. ural gas here in America is so—places like California built a lot of electrical plants that Energy Policy run on natural gas. We’ve got to get it Mr. Brokaw. Mr. President, I’ve been from somewhere, and I believe we can ex- struck by the fact that you now have the plore in the Arctic Wildlife in an environ- country’s attention, and there’s been almost mentally sensitive way—and so do a lot of no discussion about the need for conserva- other people. tion on energy and finding renewable But it’s become such a political issue. sources and making that the highest of the Washington, you know, is a town that— high priorities. I think the country is ready you know this better than me, I mean—— to make a sacrifice, to do something. Mr. Brokaw. No, I don’t know it better The President. Well, actually, there’s than you. You’re in the cockpit. [Laughter] been a significant discussion about new The President. Well, you’ve been there sources of energy. I was the guy that stood longer than me. You’re much older than in front of Congress and asked Congress I am. [Laughter] But they take an issue to appropriate $1.2 billion to advance the and turn it into such high politics. Really, hydrogen automobile. In other words—as the Arctic Wildlife Refuge is a classic exam- well as ask Congress to appropriate monies ple of an issue that’s been over-politicized, to explore the opportunities for nuclear fu- where the science never is allowed to sion. emerge. We can drill for natural gas, which

381 Apr. 24 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 we need to do, in an environmentally safe The President. Oh, I think, yes, maybe way. about the day the prisoners, the people took the wrong turn, the kids, the cooks, President’s Spirituality and Decisionmaking and the people like that from El Paso, Fort Mr. Brokaw. Let me ask you about the Bliss, went the wrong way. That was a war and your attitudes about it. It’s well tough day. And it’s got to be—listen, I went known that you’re a man of very strong down to Camp Lejeune and met with fam- faith. You have political and national secu- ily of—who’ve lost their lives. I met a rity responsibilities as well. Was there a young lieutenant’s wife with a young baby, time when it was difficult to reconcile those and it’s tough. two roles, your political and national secu- The amazing thing is, of course—I rity responsibility and your own spiritual shouldn’t say ‘‘of course’’—but the amazing obligation? thing about meeting those people is they The President. Well, listen, any time you gave me great strength. They were proud think about committing someone into com- of their loved ones’ sacrifice. They under- bat is an emotional moment. You can’t be stood why we were there, and they were detached from the human life involved with strong, really strong. war. And I genuinely feel that the decision Mr. Brokaw. There was a young marine I made will make America more secure. who was killed, whose father in Baltimore And I felt like the risks of doing nothing, held up his picture and said, ‘‘I want the the risk of taking no action far exceeded President to see this. It’s my only son, and the risks of combat, particularly since I I want the President to see this picture.’’ knew our plan was geared toward mini- He was opposed to the war. Did you see mizing life—minimizing loss of life—not it? only minimizing loss of life on our side The President. No, I didn’t see that, but but on the side of the innocent Iraqis. I’m sure I can understand why a dad would I don’t bring God into my life to be feel that way. I would feel the same way a political person. I ask God for strength if I were a dad about how miserable I and guidance. I ask God to help me be felt if I lost my son. a better person. But the decision about war and peace was a decision I made based Politics of War upon what I thought were the best interests Mr. Brokaw. Can you imagine being of the American people. I was able to step FDR and running World War II all those back from religion, because I have a job years; Truman, Korea? All the years that to do. And I, on bended knee to the good Vietnam went on, and 57,000 lives were Lord, asked Him to help me to do my lost. job in a way that that’s wise. The President. I know. Mr. Brokaw. Now that you’ve had your Casualties of War own—— Mr. Brokaw. I had a difficult moment The President. One month. on the air when the mother of a marine Mr. Brokaw. ——one month, but your who got killed called in and wanted to talk own time on the crucible, to know what about her son and said, ‘‘You know, I like the country would go through? what the networks are doing, but all those The President. It’s a very interesting graphics and all that fancy coverage, for question, because—yes, I know, I can’t those of us who are out here with children imagine what it would be like to have been in harm’s way, it’s murderous, Mr. through the Vietnam war as the President Brokaw.’’ And it put it all in perspective. of the United States. I hope I would have Did you have a moment like that? done it differently. I hope I would have

382 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Apr. 24 had a clearer mission and given the mili- but who’s going to listen. She understood taries the tools and their strategy necessary all along why I was making decisions I was to achieve a mission, as opposed to politi- making. She understood the threat that cizing the war the way they did. But you’re Iraq posed. She understood that Iraq was right, it’s a strain on the country. a part of the war on terror. And she On the other hand, the coverage was a doesn’t—she’s like a lot of people; she was little different. nervous about war. Mr. Brokaw. It was. The President. The perpetual moves 24 Former President Bush hours a day. Mr. Brokaw. So was your dad, by the Mr. Brokaw. And part of that was, by way. the way, that it became very emotional very The President. I’m sure he was. Nobody quickly. One of the things that you said likes wars. was that you wanted to liberate the Iraqi Mr. Brokaw. Did your dad talk to you people so they could speak their minds. every day? But in this country, when some people The President. No. I check in with him spoke their minds and it happened to be on occasion, but now we don’t talk every in opposition of the war, they got jumped day. on by a lot of folks. Mr. Brokaw. How about Barbara? What The President. Oh, I don’t think so. does she have to say, your mother? Mr. Brokaw. Well, the Dixie Chicks, for The President. She’s as feisty as ever. example. Would you have them come to She’s doing well. She doesn’t follow every- the White House? thing in the news and the opinion like Dad The President. I mean, the Dixie Chicks does. He’s an every-word man. are free to speak their mind. They can say Mr. Brokaw. Do you seek his counsel? what they want to say. And just because— It’s a little tricky. Here’s your father, some- they shouldn’t have their feelings hurt just body that you revered and love, and he’s because some people don’t want to buy been there before. But at the same time, their records when they speak out. You you’re now the President. How do you know, freedom is a two-way street. But I work that out? have—don’t really care what the Dixie The President. Well, I really don’t spend Chicks said. I want to do what I think a lot of time hashing over policy with him. is right for the American people, and if He knows that I am much better informed some singers or Hollywood stars feel like than he could possibly be. He gives me— speaking out, that’s fine. That’s the great our relationship is more of—and our con- thing about America. It stands in stark conversations are more along the line of a dad trast to Iraq, by the way. and a son, a dad conveying to his son how much he loves him, which is important. First Lady’s Role Even at the age of 56 years old, it’s impor- Mr. Brokaw. What did you and Laura tant. talk about at the end of the day? During Usama bin Laden, she was counseling you Toppling the Baghdad Statue on your language—[laughter]—saying—— Mr. Brokaw. Did you call him the day The President. It wasn’t so every day. the statue came down of Saddam Hussein? [Laughter] The President. I can’t remember. Mr. Brokaw. ——‘‘Georgie, you don’t Mr. Brokaw. Because that was a memo- have to say ‘‘wanted dead or alive.’ ’’ rable day. The President. Well, she counsels me on The President. It was. It was. a lot of things. Most of the time it’s— Mr. Brokaw. Did you watch all that?

383 Apr. 24 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

The President. I watched some of it. As The President. Yes, I saw some of that. you know, I’ve got a schedule to keep. I Like, Condi will come in and say—I’ll pick don’t have time to sit around watching TV up the phone; I’ve got direct link now— all day long. But somebody—I think the— I’ll say, ‘‘Well, Condi, what is this business Ashley or Blake said, ‘‘The statue, they’re about, what does the Agency say about this about to get it down.’’ They had a guy latest videotape?’’ She’ll pop in and say, hammering on it for a while, and I watched ‘‘You know, I talked to Tenet, and Tenet the hammering—— says our analysts can’t imagine that the guy Mr. Brokaw. It took a while to pull it could possibly be alive, walking around down. Baghdad the same day the statue came The President. I watched them hammer. down.’’ And then they said, ‘‘They’re hooking it You know, as I told you, we had some up, and they’ve got the crane out there.’’ evidence early on that strikes from the first And I said, ‘‘Well, let me know.’’ They said, day may have gotten him. I say ‘‘may’’ be- ‘‘Well, it’s about to come down.’’ So I cause we don’t have the DNA in hand to hustled and then watched it. prove, and people really don’t want to be in a position, Tom, where you make— Iraqi Information Minister broadcasting success and then all of a sud- Mr. Brokaw. What about the Iraqi infor- den Saddam Hussein shows up somewhere. mation minister, who to the very end— According to this one eyewitness, he’s not [laughter]—— going to show up anywhere. The President. He’s my man. He was great. [Laughter] Somebody accused us of Al Qaida and North Korea hiring him and putting him there. He was Mr. Brokaw. Final question. You still a classic. have two big issues out there on the hori- Mr. Brokaw. Al-Sahhaf. zon, Al Qaida and North Korea. North The President. Al-Sahhaf. Korea today saying that it’s reprocessed Mr. Brokaw. He said, ‘‘We are repulsing 8,000 plutonium rods, and if you don’t start them at the airport. This war is just about talking to them, they’re willing to sell them. over.’’ [Laughter] The President. Yes. See, they’re back to The President. He was great. [Laughter] the old blackmail game. One of our goals Mr. Brokaw. Did you watch him actu- and objectives must be to strengthen the ally? [Laughter] nonproliferation regimes and get the whole The President. I did watch some of his world focused on the proliferation of weap- clips. You know, a lot of the stuff I get, ons of mass destruction or the materials people come in and report to me—did you for weapons of mass destruction. And hear what so-and-so said, or, did you see North Korea is making my case that we’ve that? So I get a lot of things secondhand. got to come together. But in the case of the statue or Sahhaf, And we started that process in the North somebody would say, ‘‘He’s getting ready Korean Peninsula that is coming together. to speak,’’ and I’d pop out of a meeting The Chinese now, for the first time, are or turn and watch the TV. partners at the table. I look forward to hearing what the Chinese say about being Saddam Hussein rebuffed by the North Koreans because Mr. Brokaw. And did they tell you when they, too, believe that the Peninsula ought Saddam made those bizarre video appear- to be nuclear-weapons-free. This will give ances very late in the war, when he was us an opportunity to say to the North Kore- said to be walking around the neighbor- ans and the world, we’re not going to be hood—— threatened. On the other hand we, the

384 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Apr. 24 world, must come together to make sure But the point I’m trying to make is, is institutions like the IAEA are effective at that we are constantly moving against Al stopping proliferation. Qaida in Afghanistan as we speak or as It’s another reason, by the way, for us we conduct the Iraq theater. to also advance the missile defense systems, Mr. Brokaw. Mr. President, thank you because the missile defense system will very much for your time today. We really make it less likely that a nuclear country appreciate it. could blackmail us or Japan or any one The President. I enjoyed it. of our friends. Mr. Brokaw. And Al Qaida? NOTE: The interview was taped at 11:14 a.m. The President. Yes, we’re on the hunt aboard Air Force One for later broadcast. In his remarks, the President referred to former on Al Qaida. President Saddam Hussein and former Infor- Mr. Brokaw. Has it diminished 50 per- mation Minister Muhammad Said Kazim al- cent, 70 percent? Sahhaf of Iraq; Prime Minister Tony Blair The President. I can’t give you a number, of the United Kingdom; President Jose Maria but it’s certainly diminished. And Khalid Aznar of Spain; former National Security Ad- Sheikh Mohammed’s arrest, right before viser Brent Scowcroft; journalists George the Iraqi war, was a blow to the Al Qaida Will and Bill Kristol; Prime Minister network. They’re still moving around. And Mahmoud Abbas (Abu Mazen) and Chair- we’re watching. And we’re moving. We’re man Yasser Arafat of the Palestinian Author- cutting off money. There are some parts ity; Melanie Bloom, widow of NBC journalist of Afghanistan where we think some are David Bloom, who died of natural causes in hiding, and we’ve got—we’re on their trail. Operation Iraqi Freedom; country music The other day, for example, in the Situa- group the Dixie Chicks; Ashley Estes, Per- tion Room, we had Tommy up, and he sonal Secretary to the President; Blake gave us a briefing on Iraq. He’s the Gottesman, Personal Aide to the President; CENTCOM commander, as you know, also Usama bin Laden, leader of the Al Qaida ter- responsible for Afghanistan, and then the rorist organization; and Khalid Sheikh general in place in Afghanistan came up. Muhammed, senior Al Qaida leader respon- So we split the briefing between Iraq and sible for planning the September 11, 2001, Afghanistan. And it was an important brief- terrorist attack, who was captured in Pakistan ing because he was telling us troop strength on March 1, 2003. A portion of this interview and troop strategies as well as how well could not be verified because the tape was the country is beginning to get on its feet. incomplete.

Message on the Observance of Armenian Remembrance Day, 2003 April 24, 2003

Today marks the anniversary of a hor- fering that befell the Armenian people in rible tragedy, the mass killings and forced 1915 is a tragedy for all humanity, which exile of countless Armenians in the final the world should not forget. I join the Ar- days of the Ottoman Empire. Many Arme- menian-American community and Arme- nians refer to these appalling events as the nians around the world in mourning the ‘‘great calamity,’’ reflecting a deep sorrow horrendous loss of life. that continues to haunt them and their I also salute our wise and bold friends neighbors, the Turkish people. The suf- from Armenia and Turkey who are coming

385 Apr. 24 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 together in a spirit of reconciliation to con- to help achieve a secure, prosperous, and sider these events and their significance. dignified future for the citizens of Armenia. I applaud them for rising above bitterness, The United States is committed to achiev- and taking action to create a better future. ing a just and lasting settlement to the I wish them success, building on their re- Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. We will also cent and significant achievements, as they continue to help Armenia as it strives to work together in a spirit of hope and un- strengthen its democracy and market econ- derstanding. omy. As we remember those who perished and On behalf of the American people, I suffered, we salute the nation of Armenia, send solemn wishes to the Armenian people and Armenians everywhere. The United on this day of remembrance. Our nations States is grateful for the contributions of stand together, determined to create a fu- Armenian Americans to our national life. ture of peace, prosperity, and freedom for Generations of Armenians have employed the citizens of our countries, for our re- wisdom, courage, and centuries-old tradi- gions, and for the world. tions to overcome great suffering and enrich their adopted American homeland. GEORGE W. BUSH The United States is proud to be a friend of Armenia, a young state with an ancient NOTE: An original was not available for heritage. We are deepening our partnership verification of the content of this message.

Statement on Signing the Clean Diamond Trade Act April 25, 2003

I have today signed into law H.R. 1584, Process Certification Scheme (KPCS). Al- the ‘‘Clean Diamond Trade Act.’’ The Act though under this Act I have discretion to enables this Nation to implement proce- issue regulations consistent with future dures developed by more than 50 countries changes to the KPCS, under the Constitu- to exclude rough ‘‘conflict diamonds’’ from tion, the President cannot be bound to ac- international trade, while promoting legiti- cept or follow changes that might be made mate trade. Conflict diamonds have been to the KPCS at some future date absent used by rebel groups in Africa to finance subsequent legislation. I will construe this their atrocities committed on civilian popu- Act accordingly. lations and their insurrections against inter- Section 15 of the Act provides that the nationally recognized governments. The legislation takes effect on the date the United States has played a key role over President certifies to the Congress that ei- the past 2 years in forging an international ther of two specified events has occurred. consensus to curb such damaging trade and The first event is that ‘‘an applicable waiver has therefore strongly supported the ‘‘Kim- that has been granted by the World Trade berley Process.’’ Diamonds also are critical Organization is in effect.’’ The second event to the economic growth and development is that ‘‘an applicable decision in a resolu- of African and other countries, so pre- tion adopted by the United Nations Secu- serving their legitimate trade is an impor- rity Council pursuant to Chapter VII of tant foreign policy objective. the Charter of the United Nations is in This Act directs the President to imple- effect.’’ Once the Act takes effect, it ‘‘shall ment regulations to carry out the Kimberley

386 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Apr. 26 thereafter remain in effect during those pe- the President broad discretion whether to riods in which, as certified by the President certify to the Congress that an applicable to the Congress, an applicable waiver or waiver or decision is in effect. Similarly, decision’’ by the World Trade Organization I will construe section 15 as imposing no or the United Nations Security Council, re- obligation on the President to withdraw an spectively, ‘‘is in effect.’’ existing certification in response to any par- If section 15 imposed a mandatory duty ticular event. Rather, I will construe section on the President to certify to the Congress 15 as giving the President the discretion whether either of the two specified events to determine when a certification that an has occurred and whether either remains applicable waiver or decision is no longer in effect, a serious question would exist as in effect is warranted. to whether section 15 unconstitutionally GEORGE W. BUSH delegated legislative power to international bodies. In order to avoid this constitutional The White House, question, I will construe the certification April 25, 2003. process set forth in section 15 as conferring broad discretion on the President. Specifi- NOTE: H.R. 1584, approved April 25, was as- cally, I will construe section 15 as giving signed Public Law No. 108–19.

The President’s Radio Address April 26, 2003

Good morning. As America continues to in America, as small-business men and fight and win the war on terror, our Gov- women put their ideas and dreams into ac- ernment is also focused on another national tion every day. And America’s greatest eco- priority, growing our economy and creating nomic strength is the pride, the skill, and jobs. the productivity of American workers. America’s economy has been through a Yet, we know that America’s economy lot. We experienced the shock of a terrorist is not meeting its full potential. We know attack. We have endured a recession. We our economy can grow faster and create had to deal with some major corporate new jobs at a faster rate. We also know scandals. We faced the uncertainty of war, that the right policies in Washington can and we have seen a slowdown in the global unleash the great strengths of this economy economy, which weakens demand for and create the conditions for growth and American goods and services. In spite of prosperity. all of this, the American economy is grow- On Monday, Members of Congress re- ing and growing faster than most of the turn from recess, and they will face some industrialized world. important decisions on the future of our There are great strengths in this econ- economy. I have proposed a series of spe- omy. Lower interest rates have helped cific measures to create jobs by removing more Americans buy their own homes. Gas obstacles to economic growth. My jobs-and- and other energy prices are coming down, growth plan would reduce tax rates for ev- and consumers are getting the savings im- eryone who pays income tax, provide relief mediately. Inflation is low, and America’s for families and small businesses, and help families are seeing their incomes on the millions of seniors in retirement by elimi- rise. The entrepreneurial spirit is healthy nating the double taxation of dividends.

387 Apr. 26 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

With a robust package of at least $550 for the Nation. It all trickles up, instead billion in across-the-board tax relief, we will of trickling down.’’ help create more than a million new jobs I urge Congress to listen to the common by the end of 2004. Some Members of sense of people like Mike Kovach. He and Congress support tax relief but say my pro- tens of millions of Americans like him need posal is too big. Since they already agree our help in building the prosperity of our that tax relief creates jobs, it doesn’t make country. Tax relief is good for families and sense to provide less tax relief and, there- good for our entire economy. The jobs- fore, create fewer jobs. I believe we should and-growth plan I have proposed is fair; enact more tax relief so that we can create it is responsible; it is urgent. And Congress more jobs and more Americans can find should pass it in full. work and provide for their families. Thank you for listening. Americans understand the need for ac- NOTE: The address was recorded at 11:53 tion. This week in Ohio, I met Mike a.m. on April 25 in the Cabinet Room at the Kovach, whose business is in Youngstown, White House for broadcast at 10:06 a.m. on Ohio. Mike started and runs a growing April 26. The transcript was made available company, wants to hire new people, and by the Office of the Press Secretary on April would benefit from lower taxes. Mike says, 25 but was embargoed for release until the ‘‘Anytime you can improve the bottom line broadcast. The Office of the Press Secretary of Main Street business, it’s good for the also released a Spanish language transcript city; it’s good for the State; and it’s great of this address.

Remarks on Operation Iraqi Freedom in Dearborn, Michigan April 28, 2003

The President. Thank you for that warm moving toward democracy and embracing welcome. I’m glad to be here. I regret that the responsibilities of active citizenship. I wasn’t here a few weeks ago when the Every day, life in Iraq improves as coalition statue came down. I understand you had troops work to secure unsafe areas and quite a party. I don’t blame you. A lot bring food and medical care to those in of the people in the Detroit area had wait- need. ed years for that great day. America pledged to rid Iraq of an op- Many Iraqi Americans know the horrors pressive regime, and we kept our word. of Saddam’s regime firsthand. You also America now pledges to help Iraqis build know the joys of freedom you have found a prosperous and peaceful nation, and we here in America. You are living proof the will keep our word again. Iraqi people love freedom and living proof Mr. Mayor, thanks, I appreciate you the Iraqi people can flourish in democracy. greeting me once again here in Dearborn. People who live in Iraq deserve the same I appreciate your leadership. If you’ve got freedom that you and I enjoy here in any problems with the garbage or the pot- America. And after years of tyranny and holes, call the mayor. [Laughter] torture, that freedom has finally arrived. I want to thank members of the congres- I have confidence in the future of a free sional delegation who have joined us today. Iraq. The Iraqi people are fully capable Thank you all for coming. Michigan is well of self-government. Every day, Iraqis are represented in the Halls of the United

388 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Apr. 28

States Congress. I want to thank the folks I talked to Tarik Daoud, a Catholic from from the State government who have joined Basra who now lives in Bloomfield Hills. us today, and local governments. When the dictator regime fell, here’s what I appreciate so very much the CEOs of Tarik said. He said, ‘‘I am more hopeful the major automobile manufacturing com- today than I’ve ever been since 1958. We panies who are based here in Detroit who need to take the little children in Iraq and are here, Rick Wagoner, Bill Ford, and Di- hold their hands and really teach them eter Zetsche. Thank you all for coming. what freedom is all about.’’ He says, ‘‘The I look forward to discussing things with you new generation could really make democ- later. racy work.’’ Right before I came in here I had the He’s right to be optimistic. From the opportunity to meet with some extraor- beginning of this conflict, we have seen dinary men and women, our fellow Ameri- brave Iraqi citizens taking part in their own cans who knew the cruelties of the old liberation. Iraqis have warned our troops Iraq. And like me, they believed deeply about landmines and enemy hideouts and in the promise of a new Iraq. military arsenals. I spoke with Najda Egaily, a Sunni Mus- Earlier this month, Iraqis helped marines lim from Basra who moved to the United locate the seven American prisoners of war States 5 years ago. Najda learned the price who were then rescued in Northern Iraq. of dissent in Iraq in 1988, when her broth- One courageous Iraqi man gave marines er-in-law was killed after laughing at a joke detailed layouts of a hospital in An about Saddam Hussein in a house that was Nasiriyah, which led to the rescue of Amer- bugged. ican soldier Jessica Lynch. ‘‘In Iraq,’’ Najda says, ‘‘we could never Iraqi citizens are now working closely speak to anyone about Saddam Hussein. with our troops to restore order to their We had to make sure the windows were cities and improve the life of their nation. closed.’’ The windows are now open in In Basra, hundreds of police volunteers Iraq. Najda and her friends will never forget seeing the images of liberation in Bagh- have joined with coalition forces to patrol dad. Here’s what she said: ‘‘We called each the streets. In Baghdad, more than 1,000 other, and we were shouting. We never citizens are doing joint patrols with coali- believed that Saddam Hussein would be tion troops. And residents are also working gone.’’ with coalition troops to collect unexploded Audience member. He’s gone. munitions from neighborhoods and repair The President. Like Najda, a lot of the telephone system. People are working Iraqis—a lot of Iraqis—feared the dictator, to improve the lives of the average citizens the tyrant, would never go away. You’re in Iraq. I want you to listen to what an right. He’s gone. Iraqi engineer said who was working with Audience members. U.S.A.! U.S.A.! U.S. Army engineers to restore power to U.S.A.! Baghdad. He said, ‘‘We are very glad to Audience member. [Inaudible]—back in work with the Americans to have power the—[inaudible]—— for the facilities. The Americans are work- Audience member. Because of you, Mr. ing to help us.’’ President, so can you. Iraqi Americans, including some from Audience member. [Inaudible] Michigan, are building bridges between our The President. We love free speech in troops and Iraqi civilians. Members of the America. [Laughter] Free Iraqi Forces are serving as translators

389 Apr. 28 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 for our troops and are delivering humani- In a nation where the dictator treated tarian aid to the citizens. One of these vol- himself to palaces with gold faucets and unteers, an Iraqi American who fled Sad- grand fountains, 4 out of 10 citizens did dam Hussein’s regime in 1991, recently re- not even have clean water to drink. While turned to his homeland with the 101st Air- a former regime exported milk and dates borne Division. A few weeks ago, when and corn and grain for its own profit, more he first saw the cheering crowds of Iraqis than half a million Iraqi children were mal- welcome coalition troops in Hillah, he nourished. As Saddam Hussein let more wept. He said people could hardly believe than $200 million worth of medicine and what was happening, and he told them, medical supplies sit in warehouses, one in ‘‘Believe it. Liberation is coming.’’ eight Iraqi children were dying before the Yes, there were some in our country who age of 5. And while the dictator spent bil- doubted the Iraqi people wanted freedom, lions on weapons, including gold-covered or they just couldn’t imagine they would AK–47s, nearly a quarter of Iraqi children be welcome—welcoming to a liberating were born underweight. Saddam Hussein’s force. They were mistaken, and we know regime impoverished the Iraqi people in why. The desire for freedom is not the every way. property of one culture; it is the universal Today, Iraq has only about half as many hope of human beings in every culture. hospitals as it had in 1990. Seventy percent Whether you’re Sunni or Shi’a or Kurd of its schools are rundown and over- or Chaldean or Assyrian or Turkoman or crowded. A quarter of the Iraqi children Christian or Jew or Muslim—no matter are not in school at all. Under Saddam’s what your faith, freedom is God’s gift to regime, the Iraqi people did not have a every person in every nation. As freedom power system they could depend on. These takes hold in Iraq, the Iraqi people will problems plagued Iraq long before the re- choose their own leaders and their own cent conflict. We’re helping the Iraqi peo- Government. America has no intention of ple to address these challenges, and we will imposing our form of government or our stand with them as they defeat the dic- culture. Yet, we will ensure that all Iraqis tator’s legacy. have a voice in the new Government and Right now, engineers are on the ground all citizens have their rights protected. working with Iraqi experts to restore power In the city of An Nasiriyah, where free and fix broken water pipes in Baghdad and Iraqis met recently to discuss the political other cities. We’re working with the Inter- future of their country, they issued a state- national Red Cross, the Red Crescent Soci- ment beginning with these words: Iraq eties, the International Medical Corps, and must be democratic. other aid agencies to help Iraqi hospitals Audience members. U.S.A.! U.S.A.! get safe water and medical supplies and U.S.A.! reliable electricity. Our coalition is cooper- The President. Thank you. That historic ating with the United Nations to help re- declaration expresses the commitment of start the ration distribution system that pro- the Iraqi people and their friends, the vides food at thousands of sites in Iraq. American people. The days of repression And coalition medical facilities have treated from any source are over. Iraq will be Iraqis from everything from fractures and democratic. burns to symptoms of stroke. The work of building a new Iraq will One Iraqi man who was given medical take time. That nation is recovering not help with his wife and sister aboard the just from weeks of conflict but from dec- U.S. Navy ship Comfort said, ‘‘They treat ades of totalitarian rule. us like family. There are babies in Iraq

390 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Apr. 28 who are not cared for by their mothers out who they were and to bring them to as well as the nurses have cared for us.’’ justice. Already, we are seeing important We’re working toward an Iraq where, for progress in Iraq. It wasn’t all that long ago the first time ever, electrical power is reli- that the statue fell, and now we’re seeing able and widely available. One of our goals progress. Rail lines are reopening, and fire is to make sure everybody in Iraq has elec- stations are responding to calls. Oil—Iraqi tricity. Already, 17 major powerplants in oil owned by the Iraqi people—is flowing Iraq are functioning. Our engineers are again to fuel Iraq’s powerplants. meeting with Iraqi engineers. We’re visiting In Hillah, more than 80 percent of the powerplants throughout the country and city has now running water. City residents determining which ones need repair, which can buy meats and grains and fruits and ones need to be modernized, and which vegetables at local shops. The mayor’s of- ones are obsolete, powerplant by power- fice, the city council have been reestab- plant. More Iraqis are getting the electricity lished. they need. In Basra, where more than half of the We’re working to make Iraq’s drinking water treatment facilities were not working water clean and dependable. American and before the conflict—more than half weren’t Iraqi water sanitation engineers are inspect- functioning—water supplies are now reaching treatment plants across the country to ing 90 percent of the city. The opulent make sure they have enough purification Presidential palace in Basra will now serve chemicals and power to produce safe water. a new and noble purpose. We’ve estab- We’re working to give every Iraqi access lished a water purification unit there to to immunizations and emergency treatment make hundreds of thousands of liters of and to give sick children and pregnant clean water available to the residents of women the health care they need. Iraqi the city of Basra. doctors and nurses and other medical per- Day by day, hour by hour, life in Iraq sonnel are now going back to work. is getting better for the citizens. Yet, much Throughout the country, medical specialists work remains to be done. I have directed from many countries are identifying the Jay Garner and his team to help Iraq achieve specific long-term goals. And needs of Iraqi hospitals for everything from they’re doing a superb job. Congress re- equipment and repairs to water to medi- cently allocated 2.5—nearly $2.5 billion for cines. Iraq’s relief and reconstruction. With that We’re working to improve Iraqi schools money, we are renewing Iraq with the help by funding a back-to-school campaign that of experts from inside our Government, will help train and recruit Iraqi teachers, from private industry, from the inter- provide supplies and equipment, and bring national community, and most importantly, children across Iraq back into clean and from within Iraq. safe schools. And as we do that, we will We are dispatching teams across Iraq to make sure that the schools are no longer assess the critical needs of the Iraqi people. used as military arsenals and bunkers and We’re clearing landmines. We’re working that teachers promote reading, rather than with Iraqis to recover artifacts, to find the regime propaganda. hoodlums who ravished the National Mu- And because Iraq is now free, economic seum of Antiquities in Baghdad. Like many sanctions are pointless. It is time for the of you here, we deplore the actions of the United Nations to lift the sanctions so the citizens who ravished that museum, and we Iraqis can use some resources to build their will work with the Iraqi citizens to find own prosperity.

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Like so many generations of immigrants, NOTE: The President spoke at 1:46 p.m. in Iraqi Americans have embraced and en- the theater at the Ford Community and Per- riched this great country without ever for- forming Arts Center. In his remarks, he re- getting the land of your birth. Liberation ferred to former President Saddam Hussein for Iraq has been a long time coming, but of Iraq; Mayor Michael A. Guido of Dear- you never lost faith. You knew the great born; G. Richard Wagoner, Jr., president and sorrow of Iraq. You also knew the great chief executive officer, General Motors promise of Iraq, and you shared the hope Corp.; William Clay Ford, Jr., chairman of of the Iraqi people. the board and chief executive officer, Ford You and I both know that Iraq can real- Motor Co.; Dieter Zetsche, president and ize those hopes. Iraq can be an example chief executive officer, Chrysler Group; and of peace and prosperity and freedom to Lt. Gen. Jay Garner, USA (Ret.), Director, the entire Middle East. It’ll be a hard jour- Office of Reconstruction and Humanitarian ney, but at every step of the way, Iraq Assistance for Post-war Iraq, Department of will have a steady friend in the American Defense. The Office of the Press Secretary people. also released a Spanish language transcript May God continue to bless the United States of America, and long live a free Iraq. of these remarks.

Statement on the Death of Edward Gaylord April 28, 2003

Edward Gaylord was a shining example have Ed as a partner in the Texas Rangers of generosity, patriotism, and dedication to Baseball Club. He was an excellent partner helping others. As a business leader with and a fine man. Laura joins me in extend- a distinguished career in journalism, he ing our heartfelt condolences to Ed’s family spent a lifetime in selfless service to his and friends. community and State. I was honored to

Remarks on the Global HIV/AIDS Initiative April 29, 2003

Thank you all very much for the warm ability and, therefore, the duty to confront welcome. Welcome to the people’s house, this grave public health crisis. the White House. It’s my honor to wel- We are here today to urge both Houses come Members of the United States Senate of the United States Congress to pass the and the United States Congress, members Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, which from the ambassadorial corps, and fellow will dramatically expand our fight against Americans who deeply care about a neigh- AIDS across this globe. bor in need. I appreciate so very much Secretary of HIV/AIDS is a tragedy for millions of State Colin Powell’s commitment to this men, women, and children and a threat issue. The fight against AIDS is an integral to stability of entire countries and of re- part of our Nation’s foreign policy. I appre- gions of our world. Our nations have the ciate so very much Secretary Tommy

392 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Apr. 29

Thompson’s dedication to this issue, as the the call, the universal call, to help a brother chairman of the Global Fund. He knows and sister in need. I want to thank you this administration’s passion about doing for being involved in the fight against our duty. And I want to thank these mem- AIDS. I want to thank those who have bers of my Cabinet for being here today. been involved in this struggle for a long I also want to thank the chairman and period of time. I am confident that the the ranking members of the committees re- progress that you have made to date will sponsible for getting this legislation moving. be progress that we can build upon and Senator Lugar and Senator Biden both will build upon. committed to this legislation, both working Confronting this tragedy is the responsi- closely with our administration to get a bility of every nation. For the United good bill out of the Senate. And Senator States, it is a part of the special calling Hyde and Senator Lantos have been at that began with our founding. We believe work already, and I appreciate their leader- in the dignity of life, and this conviction ship as well. We’re honored to have you determines our conduct around the world. here, and we’re honored to have the other We believe that everyone has a right to Members of the Congress with us today liberty, including the people of Afghanistan who care deeply about this issue. and Iraq. We believe that everyone has a I also want to thank Tony Fauci. He right to life, including children in the cities works for the NIH. He is on the leading and villages of Africa and the Caribbean. edge of finding the vaccines that will help Today, on the continent of Africa alone, those who suffer from AIDS. I love Tony’s nearly 30 million people are living with commitment to humans, to what’s best for HIV/AIDS, including 3 million people mankind. I’m glad you’re here, Tony. under the age of 15 years old. In Botswana, I also want to thank Joe O’Neill, as the nearly 40 percent of the adult population— Director of the Office of National AIDS 40 percent—has HIV, and projected life Policy. He works closely in my administra- expectancy has fallen by more than 30 years tion. I appreciate his advice. I appreciate due to AIDS. In seven sub-Sahara African his counsel. countries, mortality for children under age I want to thank Gaddi Vasquez, who’s 5 has increased by 20 to 40 percent be- the Director of the Peace Corps, who is cause of AIDS. here. We just came from a roundtable dis- There are only two possible responses cussion, and somebody came up with the to suffering on this scale. We can turn our idea, as this initiative goes forward and we eyes away in resignation and despair, or get a good piece of legislation out of Con- we can take decisive, historic action to turn gress, and when I sign it, hopefully before the tide against this disease and give the Memorial Day, one of the things we may hope of life to millions who need our help want to do is to convert some of our Peace now. The United States of America chooses Corps to helping people in Africa who have the path of action and the path of hope. got AIDS. So Gaddi, I want you to think Since January 2001, America has in- carefully about that idea. creased total spending to fight AIDS over- I appreciate the ambassadors who are seas by nearly 100 percent. We’ve already here from the African and Caribbean na- pledged more than $1.6 billion to the Glob- tions. It’s good to see you all again. I think al Fund to Fight AIDS and other infectious the last time we saw each other was in diseases. It is by far the most of any nation black tie. It’s a lot better not being in black in the world today. And last year, I tie. [Laughter] launched an initiative to help prevent the I appreciate those who are members of transmission of HIV from mothers to chil- the faith-based world who have answered dren in Africa and the Caribbean.

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These are vital efforts, and they’re impor- Many past international efforts to fight tant efforts. But we must do far more. So AIDS focused on a prevention at the ex- in January, I asked the House and the Sen- pense of treatment. But people with this ate to enact the Emergency Plan for AIDS disease cannot be written off as expendable. Relief. With the approval of Congress, this Integrating care and treatment with preven- plan will direct $15 billion to fight AIDS tion is the cornerstone of my Emergency abroad over the next 5 years, beginning Plan for AIDS Relief, and we know it with $2 billion in 2004. We will create works. comprehensive systems to diagnose, to treat In Haiti, for example, the GHESKIO and to prevent AIDS in 14 African and clinic—where are you, Jean; * there you Caribbean countries where the disease is are; thank you for coming—the director of heavily concentrated. We won’t diminish which is here with us today, is providing our other efforts that are now ongoing. We care to 5,000 people with HIV. His report will continue the funding that is in place, was optimistic about what is possible. He but we’ll focus intensely on 14 ravaged should be speaking up here, and not me, countries to show the world what is pos- about success. He says in spite of miserable sible. conditions in Haiti, he is optimistic that This is a terrible disease, but it is not with the right strategy and the right ap- a hopeless disease. At this moment, in na- proach, we can save lives. And I appreciate tions around the world, governments and you coming, sir. health officials, doctors and nurses, people In Uganda’s capital, a clinical research living with the virus are proving that there center is providing anti-retroviral therapy is hope and that lives can be saved. to 6,000 patients with HIV. Health care We know that AIDS can be prevented. workers from other centers in Uganda trav- In Uganda—Madame Ambassador, thank el by truck and by motorcycle to rural vil- you for being here—President Museveni lages and farms a few times each week, has begun a comprehensive program in delivering critical medicine to patients who 1986 with a prevention strategy empha- cannot reach the city for treatment. sizing abstinence and marital fidelity as well These are successful strategies and must as condoms to prevent HIV transmission. be brought to a much larger scale. We’ve The results are encouraging. The AIDS in- seen what works. I’m asking Congress to fection rate in Uganda has fallen dramati- appropriate monies so we can expand what cally since 1990. And in places throughout works to save lives. the country, the percentage of pregnant In sub-Sahara Africa, just 1 percent of women with HIV has been cut in half. the more than 4 million people needing Congress should make the Ugandan ap- immediate drug treatment are receiving proach the model for our prevention efforts medicine. That’s about 50,000 people. The under the Emergency Plan. Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief is de- We also know that AIDS can be treated. signed to put major resources behind prov- Anti-retroviral drugs have become much en methods of care and treatment and pre- more affordable in many nations, and they vention and multiply these goods—good are extending many lives. In Africa, as more works many times over. AIDS patients take these drugs, doctors are That’s what we’re going to do. The re- witnessing what they call the Lazarus effect sources will be managed carefully, with when one patient is rescued by medicine, flexibility, by a new global AIDS coordi- as if back from the dead. Many others with nator. And this coordinator will help us uti- AIDS seek testing and treatment, because lize and further develop successful clinical it is the first sign of hope they have ever seen. * White House correction.

394 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Apr. 29 networks. These networks link urban med- So I ask Congress to move forward with ical centers, staffed by specialist physicians speed and seriousness this crisis requires. and nurses, with rural clinics where HIV But Africa, the Caribbean, and the United tests can be performed and medications States cannot succeed by ourselves. I urge distributed. all nations and will continue to urge all And because so much of the health care nations to join with us in this great effort. in sub-Sahara Africa is provided by facilities Fighting AIDS on a global scale is a mas- associated with churches and religious or- sive and complicated undertaking. Yet, this ders, we must ensure that the legislation cause is rooted in the simplest of moral provides the greatest opportunity for faith- duties. When we see this kind of prevent- based and community organizations to fully able suffering, when we see a plague leav- participate in helping a neighbor in need. ing graves and orphans across a continent, Our experts believe that the Emergency we must act. When we see the wounded Plan for AIDS Relief will, in this decade, traveler on the road to Jericho, we will prevent 7 million new HIV infections, treat not—America will not pass to the other at least 2 million people with life-extending side of the road. drugs, and provide humane care for mil- Thank you all. God bless. lions of people suffering from AIDS and, as importantly, for children orphaned by AIDS. NOTE: The President spoke at 2:08 p.m. in Confronting the threat of AIDS is impor- the East Room at the White House. In his tant work, and it is urgent work. It is a remarks, he referred to Representatives moral imperative for our great Nation. In Henry J. Hyde of Illinois and Tom Lantos the 3 months since I announced the Emer- of California; President Yoweri Kugata gency Plan, an estimated 760,000 people Museveni and Ambassador to the U.S. Edith have died from AIDS, 1.2 million people Grace Ssempala of Uganda; and Jean W. have been infected, more than 175,000 ba- Pape, director, Haitian Study Group on bies have been born with the virus. Time Kaposi’s Sarcoma and Opportunistic Infec- is not on our side. tions (GHESKIO).

Statement on Senate Confirmation of Jeffrey S. Sutton as a United States Court of Appeals Circuit Judge April 29, 2003

I commend the Senate for confirming United States, and State and Federal ap- Jeffrey Sutton to be a Judge on the U.S. peals courts. He will be an outstanding Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit. Mr. Court of Appeals Judge and will serve the Sutton is a man of great integrity, intellect, American people well. and experience, and has bipartisan support. All judicial nominees should receive a He has served the people of Ohio with timely up-or-down vote in the Senate. Mr. distinction, including as the State’s solicitor. Sutton was nominated on May 9, 2001, and He graduated first in his class from Ohio waited more than 23 months for this vote. State University College of Law. He is Five of the 11 nominees I submitted to known as one of the premier appellate law- the Senate on May 9, 2001, still have not yers in America, having argued numerous received votes. Some in the Senate are now cases before the Supreme Court of the engaging in unprecedented filibusters to

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prevent votes on two outstanding circuit American people. As I have said before, nominees I submitted on May 9, 2001, I call on the Senate to perform its Con- Miguel Estrada and Priscilla Owen. stitutional responsibility to hold timely up- The delays in the Senate confirmation or-down votes on all judicial nominees, no process deter good people from seeking to matter who is President or which party conserve on the bench and create a vacancy trols the Senate. crisis in the Federal courts that harms the

Remarks Honoring the National Teacher of the Year April 30, 2003

The President. Please be seated. Wel- Senator Saxby Chambliss—thank you, Zell come to the First Lady’s Garden. It’s an and Saxby, for coming; from the State of appropriate place to honor some of our Na- North Dakota, Senator Dorgan and Senator tion’s finest citizens. After all, the First Conrad—I’m honored to see both of you Lady was and is a teacher, and I’m glad all; Senator Jeff Sessions and Senator Rich- she said yes. [Laughter] ard Shelby from the State of Alabama. It I want to thank the teachers, who have turns out that some of the finalists are from traveled from all over the country, for these States. [Laughter] And these Senators being here today. Thank you for your dedi- and Members of the House are here to cation. Thank you for your hard and rejoin with Laura and me in thanking you warding work. The 54 teachers we honor all for your hard work. From the House today deserve the respect and the gratitude of Representatives: Artur Davis from the of our entire Nation. This is our way of State of Alabama; Mac Collins from the thanking you all for your dedication, your State of Georgia; Richard Burr from the service, and your love. Welcome to Wash- State of North Carolina; Earl Pomeroy ington. from the State of North Dakota; and Spen- I want to thank the Secretary of cer Bachus, who happens to be the Con- Education for joining us up here. When gressman of the particular lady standing up I picked the Secretary of Education, I next to me. Thank you all for coming. wanted somebody who knew something Thank you for your service and your dedi- about public education. I wasn’t interested cation to education. in a theorist. I was interested in finding I do want to congratulate the National a hands-on person. I knew Rod Paige when Teacher of the Year finalists: Lorraine I was the Governor of the State of Texas, Johnson of Newnan, Georgia; Melissa and he was the superintendent of the Bartlett of Statesville, North Carolina; Jen- Houston Independent School District. He nifer Montgomery of Bismarck, North Da- set high standards for every child in that kota; and Betsy Rogers. I’m going to have district. He worked hard with teachers to a little more to say about her later. I’m achieve those standards. I really want to not going to tell you who won yet—[laugh- thank Rod for the job he did in Texas ter]—but they might have figured it out. and, as importantly, for the job he’s doing [Laughter] for America. Mr. Secretary, welcome. I want to thank Tom Houlihan, who is We’ve got some fine Members of the the executive director of the Council of United States Congress with us today: from Chief State School Officers. I appreciate the State of Georgia, Senator Miller and your service so very much. And I want to

396 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Apr. 30 thank the Council of State School Officers read and write and add and subtract. And and Scholastic, Inc. for organizing this an- if they are, there will be plenty of praise. nual event to recognize our fine teachers. And if they’re not, we will work to design I also want to thank Edward Richardson, programs to make sure no child gets left who’s the chief State school officer from behind. Alabama, Ray Simon from Arkansas, and That’s the crux of the law. Every State Kent King from the State of Missouri for met the law’s January 31st deadline for sub- joining us as well. mitting their accountability plans for ap- The teachers we honor today come from proval. I’m pleased to announce today that many different backgrounds, from every Secretary Paige has approved plans from part of this country. What unites them all Arkansas, Missouri, and Washington State, is the deep conviction that every child can which bring the total number of approved learn if given the chance. We honor them plans to 16, covering 16 million children because they are willing to raise high ex- in public schools across America. pectations, to raise the standards for every Secretary Paige and his Department will child, because they know that with high continue working with the rest of the States expectations each child can rise to meet to get the plans approved quickly as pos- them. sible. People are responding to the chal- When I campaigned for President, I used lenge at the local level. People are begin- to say one of the commitments I would ning to develop the accountability systems make is we would challenge the soft bigotry to show your States and your communities of low expectations. You all have challenged that you’re doing your job, leaving no doubt the soft bigotry by setting high standards. in the minds of the parents and taxpayers You believed in the worth of every child. and citizens—some of whom praise public A good teacher believes in the possibilities schools, some of whom are critical of public of every boy and girl. A good teacher sees schools—that in fact, you’re performing. what is possible, and a good teacher be- They will understand why you’re here being lieves in the responsibility of every school honored in Washington, DC, as one of the to bring out the best in every student. top 54 teachers around our country. In 2001, we passed what’s called the No Education reform depends on good laws Child Left Behind legislation. I love that and good plans, but you and I know it phrase, because it’s a commitment of our ultimately depends upon good teachers. Nation to make sure that not only does Last June, States submitted to the Depart- every child excel but no child gets left be- ment of Education strategies for ensuring hind. Members of both parties, both Re- that all teachers are highly qualified. By publicans and Democrats, came together to this September, States will assess the pro- pass this law. Inherent in the law is the grams they expect to make by 2005 and vision of high standards and money to meet 2006 school year. And the Department is the standards and historic reforms, all of working with States to help teachers meet which put the education decisions of Amer- new definitions of teacher quality, so that ica in the hands of teachers and principals every classroom will have a well-trained, and local officials. highly effective teacher like you all. But we also said that as we seek excel- Our 2003 National Teacher of the Year lence for every child, we must design ac- is an example of the highest professional countability systems at the State level to standards and the finest personal qualities. determine whether or not each child is Betsy Rogers teaches first and second grade learning. In order to make sure no child students in Leeds, Alabama. She is an ac- gets left behind, we must understand complished teacher with 22 years in the whether or not each child is learning to profession who could have her pick of any

397 Apr. 30 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 school; yet, she chooses to teach in a school a lot of caring people ready to help along in an underprivileged rural area because the way. she believes that devoted teachers and prin- I thank every one of our Teachers of cipals can make a difference in the lives the Year for your determination and your of students from every background. love. Each of you is an example of excel- Teaching is a tradition in Betsy’s family. lence in the classroom. Each of you is a Her grandmother was a teacher. Her moth- model for a young teacher to follow. And er taught Sunday school for 50 years. In your students are fortunate to have talented her own career, Betsy Rogers is known for and good-hearted people in their lives, and a commitment to students that goes beyond our Nation is fortunate to have you in the school hours. She gives before-school tutor- classroom. Thank you for your work. May ing to students who need extra help learn- God bless what you do. ing to read and volunteers on school com- And now I’m pleased to introduce the mittees after hours. She attends sporting National Teacher of the Year, Betsy Rogers. events and birthday parties for her students. She helps the families of disadvan- [At this point, Helen Elizabeth Dawson taged students through local church and Rogers made brief remarks.] community groups. The President. Thank you all for coming. Betsy also encourages her students to help each other. As she puts it, ‘‘No matter NOTE: The President spoke at 11:25 a.m. in what your circumstances in life, you can the First Lady’s Garden at the White House. always give.’’ Teachers like Betsy Rogers The transcript released by the Office of the put children on the road to becoming good Press Secretary also included the remarks of citizens and, as importantly, successful National Teacher of the Year Helen Eliza- adults. They show students that there are beth Dawson Rogers.

Remarks on Signing the Prosecutorial Remedies and Other Tools To End the Exploitation of Children Today Act of 2003 April 30, 2003

Thanks a lot for the warm welcome, and and will greatly help in rescuing the young- welcome to the Rose Garden and the est victims of crime. With my signature, White House. What a beautiful day. I’m this new law will formally establish the glad you all are here, and I’m pleased that Federal Government’s role in the Amber you could join us on a day a vital piece Alert system and will make punishment for of legislation becomes the law of the land. Federal crimes against children more se- I appreciate the hard work of the Con- vere. This law carries forward a funda- gress. I want to thank the Members of the mental responsibility of public officials at Congress, the Senate, who are here and every level of government to do everything the Members of the House of Representa- we can to protect the most vulnerable citi- tives who are here. I want to thank you zens from dangerous offenders who prey all for your very hard work in getting this on them. bill to my desk as quickly as you did. I want to thank our Attorney General, This law, the PROTECT Act of 2003, John Ashcroft, for his leadership on this will greatly assist law enforcement in track- issue. He is strong. He is steady, and he ing criminals who would harm our children

398 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Apr. 30 will see to it that this law is executed in quickly getting key information about the its fullest. missing child and information about the I appreciate so very much Congressman suspect out into the public through radio Jim Sensenbrenner, chairman of the House broadcasts or highway signs or other means. Judiciary Committee, who worked hard to An Amber Alert adds thousands of citizens make sure this bill encompassed a lot, that to the search in the crucial early hours. it fulfilled a lot, that it met the aspirations At present, statewide Amber Alert sys- of those who are anxious to make sure our tems exist in 41 States. The bill I will sign children are protected. Chairman, you did this afternoon authorizes matching grants fine work. Thank you very much. I appre- to those and other States to help ensure ciate the members of your committee who that we have effective Amber Alerts wher- are here today. And I appreciate the fact ever they are needed. that chairman Senator Orrin Hatch is with Last year, at my direction, Attorney Gen- us as well, who shepherded the bill through eral John Ashcroft appointed an Amber the United States Senate in record time. Alert coordinator to oversee this nationwide Mr. Chairman, thank you for your hard effort. This new law formally establishes work as well. that position and empowers the coordinator I appreciate my friend, the Governor of to set clear and uniform voluntary standards Connecticut, Johnny Rowland, being with for the use of Amber Alerts across our us today. Johnny, thank you. Thank you country. for your concerns about the children of the State of Ohio—of Connecticut. The attor- It is important to expand the Amber ney general, Jerry Kilgore, is here from the Alert systems so police and sheriffs’ depart- Commonwealth of Virginia. Attorney Gen- ments gain thousands or even millions of eral, thanks for coming. Of course it’s al- allies in the search for missing children. ways good to see the Mayor—the Mayor Every person who would think of abducting of Washington, DC, Anthony Williams. a child can know that a wide net will be There are no potholes in front of the White cast. They may be found by a police cruiser House today. [Laughter] It’s good to see or by the car right next to them on a high- you, Mr. Mayor. way. These criminals can know that any Also with us today are some families who driver they pass could be the one that spots understand better than most the need for them and brings them to justice. this law. In your great suffering and loss, This is exactly what happened last sum- you have found the courage to come to mer in California when several drivers the defense of all children. Because of you, heard an Amber Alert over the radio and this critical measure is now becoming law. soon passed a vehicle meeting the descrip- Because of you, children and parents you tion they heard. Within hours, two teenage may never meet will be spared from the girls were rescued and their abductor cor- harm and anguish your families have nered by the police. We’re so happy these known. We are honored to have you all two young ladies are healthy and with us here today. today, Tamara Brooks and Jacqueline When a child is reported missing, that Marris. case becomes the matter of the most inten- Tamara’s brother is somewhere around sive and focused efforts by law enforce- here. He showed me—guess what hap- ment. Entire communities join in the pened to him today? One, he brings his search, and through unrelenting efforts, little sister to the White House, and sec- many children have been saved. Amber ondly, today he was accepted to West Alerts have become an increasingly impor- Point. He’s following in the footsteps of tant tool in rescuing kidnaped children, by two older sisters.

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The new law also confronts an evil that Amber Hagerman, whose mom is with is too often a cause of child abuse and us today—a good Texan, I might add— abduction in America, the evil of child por- was 9 years old when she was taken away nography. In the past, prosecutors have from her parents. We are acting today in been hindered by not having all the tools her memory and in the memory of so many needed to prosecute criminals who create other girls and boys who lost their lives child pornography. Under the PROTECT and innocence in acts of cruelty. Act, we’ve seen images of children, even No child should ever have to experience those created with computer technology, the terror of abduction or worse. No family will now be illegal, giving prosecutors an should ever have to endure the nightmare important new tool. Obscene images of of losing a child. Our Nation grieves with children, no matter how they are made, every family that has suffered unbearable incite abuse, raise the dangers to children, loss. And our Nation will fight threats and will not be tolerated in America. against our children. The new law will also strengthen Federal This law marks important progress in the penalties for child kidnaping and other protection of America’s children. And now crimes against the young. Judges will now it is my honor to sign the PROTECT Act have the authority to require longer super- of 2003. vision of sex offenders who are released from prison. And certain repeat sex offenders in our society will now face life behind bars, so they can never do harm again. NOTE: The President spoke at 2 p.m. in the In addition, this law creates important Rose Garden at the White House. In his re- pilot programs to help nonprofit organiza- marks, he referred to Marcus Brooks, broth- tions which deal with children to obtain er of Tamara Brooks; and Donna Norris, quick and complete criminal background mother of Amber Hagerman. S. 151, ap- information on volunteers. Listen, men- proved April 30, was assigned Public Law toring programs are essential for our coun- No. 108–21. The Office of the Press Sec- try, and we must make sure they are safe retary also released a Spanish language tran- for the children they serve. script of these remarks.

Statement on Signing the Prosecutorial Remedies and Other Tools To End the Exploitation of Children Today Act of 2003 April 30, 2003

Today I have signed into law S. 151, gram to combat child abduction, strength- the ‘‘Prosecutorial Remedies and Other ens laws against child pornography, and ad- Tools to end the Exploitation of Children dresses deficiencies in Federal sentencing Today Act of 2003,’’ also known as the policies and practices. PROTECT Act. This important legislation The executive branch shall construe sec- gives law enforcement authorities valuable tion 108(d)(3) of the Act, which calls for new tools to deter, detect, investigate, pros- the Attorney General to submit ecute, and punish crimes against America’s recommendations to the Congress, in a children. In particular, the Act builds upon manner consistent with the President’s my Administration’s ongoing efforts to ex- constitutional authority to submit for the pand and improve the AMBER Alert pro-

400 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Apr. 30 consideration of the Congress such meas- President’s constitutional authority to with- ures as the President judges necessary and hold information the disclosure of which expedient. could impair the deliberative processes of Section 401(l)(2) of the Act calls for a the Executive or the performance of the report to certain committees of the Con- Executive’s constitutional duties. gress by the Attorney General concerning prosecutorial actions, including the basis on GEORGE W. BUSH which the Solicitor General decides, in par- The White House, ticular cases involving departures from sentencing guidelines, whether or not to au- April 30, 2003. thorize an appeal. Were this provision to take effect, the executive branch would im- NOTE: S. 151, approved April 30, was as- plement it in a manner consistent with the signed Public Law No. 108–21.

Remarks Prior to Discussions With President Alvaro Uribe of Colombia and an Exchange With Reporters April 30, 2003

President Bush. It’s my honor to wel- And finally, Mr. President, you’re here come to the Oval Office a friend and coura- on a day in which our country has achieved geous person, the President of Colombia. another notable success in the war against He is determined to fight terror. He is terror. The Pakistan authorities have de- determined to fight the flow of narcotics tained Waleed bin Attash. He’s a killer. He to America. We appreciate his determina- was one of the top Al Qaida operatives, tion. We appreciate his strength. and he was right below Khalid Sheikh And so it’s my honor to welcome you, Mohammed on the organizational chart of Mr. President. Before I ask you to speak Al Qaida. He is one less person that people and before we answer two questions a side, who love freedom have to worry about. I do want to say that today we issued the I want to thank our friends in Pakistan. roadmap. The roadmap is the beginning of I want to thank the Agency, the CIA, for a long process to achieve peace in the Mid- working hard to continue to win the war dle East. In order for there to be a peace against terror. And make no mistake about in the Middle East, it is important for all it, Mr. President, we will win the war parties to assume the necessary responsibil- against terror. ities to achieve the conditions so that peace can happen. That starts with fighting off Thank you for your courageous fight in terror, to prevent killers from disrupting the war against terror, and welcome to the that which most citizens want in the Middle Oval Office. East, and that is a peaceful, hopeful world. President Uribe. Thank you, Mr. Presi- I strongly condemn the killings that take dent, for your warm welcome. This is very place in the Middle East in the last couple important for my country. Colombia has of days. I applaud the words of Abu Mazen, suffered terrorism for a long time. Thus, the new Prime Minister of the Palestinian Colombia understands the need to fight Authority, who renounced that terror. I terrorism in our country and in other— look forward to spending time and energies in any other country. And your Govern- to move the process forward. ment, your people, your country, they are

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our best allies for us to succeed in our the capacity of the Colombian economy to fight. grow. Thank you again, Mr. President. And so we’ll work—we’ll talk about all President Bush. Thank you. aspects of trade, including the Free Trade We’ll have one—we’ll alternate questions Agreement of the Americas, which, in my between the American side and the Colom- judgment, is the most hopeful trade agree- bian side. Tom [Tom Raum, Associated ment there is. We’ve got all kinds of dif- Press]. ferent opportunities to work together, whether it be in trade or counternarcotics Middle East Peace Process or fighting terror. And we will stand as Q. Mr. President, even as the new Pales- a strong friend and supporter of the Co- tinian Cabinet was sworn in, there was a lombian people as they take on difficult terror attack, and the suicide bomber was tasks. linked to Mr. Abbas’ own party. How much Steve [Steve Holland, Reuters]. confidence do you have that the new Prime Minister can control, can rein in these peo- Middle East Peace Process ple? Q. Sir, previous Middle East peace initia- President Bush. Well, for certain, in tives haven’t been all that successful. order for there to be peace, we must all What’s different about this time? join together to fight off terror. Abu Mazen President Bush. Well, just because his- has publicly declared that he will fight ter- tory has proven to be unsuccessful doesn’t ror. He understands that in order for the mean that we’re not going to try, for start- Palestinian lives to improve, terror must be ers. I’m an optimist. I believe now that battled. Listen, he’s a man I can work with. we have a interlocutor from the Palestinian And I look forward to working with him Authority that has spoken clearly about the and will work with him, for the sake of need to fight terror, that we have a good peace and for the sake of security. opportunity to advance the peace process. Do you want to call on one of your re- And I will seize the opportunity. porters? Secondly, the war on Iraq has made it President Uribe. Half of my Cabinet are absolutely clear that those who harbor ter- made of women. rorists, fund terrorists, or harbor weapons President Bush. No, I’m very impressed of mass destruction will be held to account. by that. [Laughter] Not only that, but That, in itself, helps create the conditions they’re very smart women. to move peace forward. Q. [Inaudible]—Mr. President. And by the way, in order for peace to President Bush. Thank you. occur, all parties must assume their responsibilities. That includes the Arab nations Colombia-U.S. Trade Agreement which surround Israel and the potential Q. Mr. President, people in Colombia, Palestinian state. They must cut off funding we want to know how difficult is to sign to terrorists. They must create the condi- a bilateral trade agreement with Colombia. tions necessary for peace. Israel is going Is that going to be done? to have to make some sacrifices in order President Bush. Well, we’ve got a lot of to move the peace process forward. But work to do. The President and I look for- no sacrifice should be made that will allow ward to discussing trade. One thing that and encourage terror to continue and reign. is for certain is we’ve started down the road on a free trade agreement through Colombian Terrorists the Free Trade Agreement of the Americas, Q. Mr. Bush, more than 500 terrorists which I’m absolutely confident will boost from the FARC have handed themselves—

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[inaudible]. We’re wondering if the United people who, in my opinion, are nothing States Government would be willing at but terrorists. some point to help reinsert into society President Uribe. Regarding this point, we these terrorists that have now handed have only one determination, to defeat ter- themselves—[inaudible]. rorists in Colombia. When you look at the President Bush. To help in what fashion? people in the terror organizations, you find I didn’t get your question. the ringleaders, you find professional kill- Q. [Inaudible]—to reinsert to the civil ers, and you find young people mistakenly society—— led by professional killers. Therefore, we President Bush. To bring what to the have the obligation to defeat terrorists and civil society? I’m sorry. the duty, the obligation, to give those young Q. To reinsert themselves, to go back people the opportunity to come to live to civil—— under our Constitution again. President Bush. Oh, to help them go We are telling them, ‘‘You have the op- back into civil society? portunity to follow the ringleaders of the Q. Yes. terror organizations, or you have the oppor- President Bush. Well, some terrorists are tunity to come to live in our community just plain coldblooded killers. They’re hard with the respect of our Constitution.’’ For to retrain, somebody who is a killer. And those who make—who choose this option, we—it’s going to be—the President is going we are ready to give them a new oppor- to have to make that decision, what’s best tunity. for his country. All I know is, the man President Bush. Thank you. is absolutely committed to fighting terror. Q. [Inaudible] For that, I appreciate it. He has got a President Bush. Never can tell what’s straightforward, strong vision about what going to kick in—the urge. [Laughter] has to happen to people who are willing to kill innocent people. And that is, they NOTE: The President spoke at 5:21 p.m. in must be dealt with severely. the Oval Office at the White House. In his And it’s interesting, we share the same remarks, he referred to Prime Minister strategy. When Al Qaida came and killed Mahmoud Abbas (Abu Mazen) of the Pales- Americans, there’s only one way to deal tinian Authority; Waleed Mohammed bin with them. That was to hunt them down, Attash, Al Qaida leader suspected of planning find them, and bring them to justice. And the terrorist attack on the U.S.S. Cole in as I mentioned, today we found one of Yemen in October 2000; and Khalid Sheikh the Al Qaida leaders. It was a major, sig- Mohammed, senior Al Qaida leader respon- nificant find, his detention. And the war sible for planning the September 11, 2001, goes on. It takes a while. We must be pa- terrorist attack, who was captured in Pakistan tient and strong and diligent and focused. on March 1, 2003. The Office of the Press And the President of Colombia is dili- Secretary also released a Spanish language gent, strong, and focused. He knows what transcript of these remarks. A tape was not he must do to make Colombia, a great na- available for verification of the content of tion, more safe and more secure against these remarks.

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Statement on the Roadmap for Peace in the Middle East April 30, 2003

On March 14, I noted the important efforts and contributions of both sides. The steps taken by the Palestinian Legislative pace of progress will depend strictly on the Council (PLC) toward the creation of an performance of the parties. empowered, accountable office of Prime I urge Israelis and Palestinians to work Minister. The PLC has now confirmed a with us and with other members of the new Palestinian Prime Minister and Cabi- international community and above all di- net. Today the roadmap for peace devel- rectly with each other to immediately end oped by the United States over the last the violence and return to a path of peace several months in close cooperation with based on the principles and objectives out- Russia, the European Union, and the lined in my statement of June 24, 2002. United Nations has been presented to Both Israelis and Palestinians have suffered Israel and the Palestinians. from the terror and violence and from the The roadmap represents a starting point loss of hope in a better future of peace toward achieving the vision of two states, and security. An opportunity now exists to a secure state of Israel and a viable, peace- move forward. The United States will do ful, democratic Palestine, that I set out on all it can to seize this opportunity. To that June 24, 2002. It is a framework for end, I have asked Secretary Powell to travel progress towards lasting peace and security to the region to begin working with the in the Middle East. Implementing the parties so that we can take advantage of roadmap will depend upon the good faith this moment.

Message to the Senate Transmitting Amendments to the Constitution and Convention of the International Telecommunication Union April 30, 2003

To the Senate of the United States: potentiary Conferences held every 5 to 10 I transmit herewith for Senate advice and years. In 1992, the ITU adopted a perma- consent to ratification, the amendments to nent Constitution and Convention. The the Constitution and Convention of the Constitution contains fundamental provi- International Telecommunication Union sions on the organization and structure of (ITU) (Geneva 1992), as amended by the the ITU, as well as substantive rules appli- Plenipotentiary Conference (Kyoto 1994), cable to international telecommunications together with declarations and reservations matters. The ITU Convention contains pro- by the United States as contained in the visions concerning the functioning of the Final Acts of the Plenipotentiary Con- ITU and its constituent organs. ference (Minneapolis 1998). I transmit also, Faced with a rapidly changing tele- for the information of the Senate, the re- communication environment, the ITU in port of the Department of State concerning 1994 adopted a few amendments to the these amendments. 1992 Constitution and Convention. These Prior to 1992, and as a matter of general amendments were designed to enable the practice, previous Conventions of the ITU ITU to respond effectively to new chal- were routinely replaced at successive Pleni- lenges posed.

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The pace at which the telecommuni- into force for the United States on October cation market continues to evolve has not 26, 1997. The 1998 amendments to the eased. States participating in the 1998 ITU 1992 Constitution and Convention as Plenipotentiary Conference held in Min- amended in 1994 entered into force on Jan- neapolis submitted numerous proposals to uary 1, 2000, for those states, which, by amend the Constitution and Convention. As that date, had notified the Secretary discussed in the attached report of the De- General of the ITU of their approval there- partment of State concerning the amend- of. As of the beginning of this year, 26 ments, key proposals included the fol- states had notified the Secretary General lowing: amendments to clarify the rights of the ITU of their approval of the 1998 and obligations of Member States and Sec- amendments. tor Members; amendments to increase pri- Subject to the U.S. declarations and res- vate sector participation in the ITU with ervations mentioned above, I believe the the understanding that the ITU is to re- United States should ratify the 1998 main an intergovernmental organization; amendments to the ITU Constitution and amendments to strengthen the finances of Convention. They will contribute to the the ITU; and amendments to provide for ITUs ability to adapt to a rapidly changing alternative procedures for the adoption and telecommunication environment and, in approval of questions and recommenda- doing so, will serve the needs of the United tions. States Government and U.S. industry. Consistent with longstanding practice in I recommend that the Senate give early the ITU, the United States, in signing the and favorable consideration to these 1998 amendments, made certain declara- amendments and that the Senate give its tions and reservations. These declarations advice and consent to ratification. and reservations are discussed in the report of the Department of State, which is at- GEORGE W. BUSH tached hereto. The 1992 Constitution and Convention The White House, and the 1994 amendments thereto entered April 30, 2003.

Message to the Senate Transmitting the Protocol of Amendment to the International Convention on the Simplification and Harmonization of Customs Procedures April 30, 2003

To the Senate of the United States: 1973 Convention with a General Annex and I transmit herewith for Senate advice and 10 Specific Annexes (together, the ‘‘Amend- consent to accession, the Protocol of ed Convention’’). I am also transmitting, Amendment to the International Conven- for the information of the Senate, the re- tion on the Simplification and Harmoni- port of the Department of State on the zation of Customs Procedures done at Amended Convention. Brussels on June 26, 1999. The Protocol The Amended Convention seeks to meet amends the International Convention on the needs of international trade and cus- the Simplification and Harmonization of toms services through the simplification and Customs Procedures done at Kyoto on May harmonization of customs procedures. It re- 18, 1973, and replaces the Annexes to the sponds to modernization in business and

405 Apr. 30 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 administrative methods and techniques and interests. First, accession by the United to the growth of international trade, with- States would benefit the United States and out compromising standards of customs U.S. businesses by facilitating greater eco- control. Accession by the United States nomic growth, increasing foreign invest- would further the U.S. interest in reducing ment, and stimulating U.S. exports through non-tariff barriers to international trade. more predictable, standard, and har- By acceding to the Protocol, a state con- monized customs procedures governing sents to be bound by the amended 1973 cross-border trade transactions. Setting Convention and the new General Annex. forth standardized and simplified methods At the same time, or anytime thereafter, for conducting customs business is impor- Parties have the option of accepting any tant for U.S. trade interests in light of the of the Specific Annexes (or Chapters there- demands of increased trade flows, as is the of), and may at that time enter reservations use of modernized technology and tech- with respect to any Recommended Prac- niques for customs facilitation. These tices contained in the Specific Annexes. In achievements can best be pursued by the accordance with these terms, I propose that United States as a Party to the Amended the United States accept seven of the Spe- Convention. Second, through early acces- cific Annexes in their entirety and all the sion, the United States can continue to take Chapters, but one of each of two other a leadership role in the areas of customs Specific Annexes (A–E, G, and H, as well and international trade facilitation as the as Chapters 1, 2, and 3 of F, and Chapters U.S. accession would encourage other na- 1, 3, 4, and 5 of J), and enter the reservations, particularly developing nations, to actions proposed by the Bureau of Customs cede as well. and Border Protection as set forth in the I recommend that the Senate give early enclosure to the report of the Department and favorable consideration to the Protocol of State. The provisions for which reserva- and give its advice and consent to acces- tion is recommended conflict with current sion. U.S. legislation or regulations. With these proposed reservations, no new imple- GEORGE W. BUSH menting legislation is necessary in order to comply with the Amended Convention. The White House, Accession to the Protocol by the United States would contribute to important U.S. April 30, 2003.

Remarks on the National Day of Prayer May 1, 2003

Thanks for coming. Thanks for the warm Today we recognize the many ways our welcome. I’m glad you’re here at the peo- country has been blessed, and we acknowl- ple’s house. Laura and I welcome you. edge the source of those blessings. Millions We’re really pleased to have you here. I of Americans seek guidance every day in want to thank each of you for participating prayer to the Almighty God. I am one of in the National Day of Prayer. It’s a good them. I also know that many Americans time to be praying. Every day is a good remember Laura and me in their prayers, day to pray. [Laughter] and we are so very, very grateful.

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I want to thank General Hicks, chaplain necessary and now pray that peace will be of the entire U.S. Army, for being here just and lasting. today, and thank you for your service. Shir- We continue to pray for the recovery ley, thank you as well for once again being of the wounded and for the comfort of the chairwoman of the National Day of all who have lost a loved one. The Scrip- Prayer. I see you brought your husband tures say, ‘‘The Lord is near to all who along too. [Laughter] call on Him.’’ Calling on God in prayer Luis, muchas gracias. Thank you for your brings us nearer to each other. After his beautiful prayer. Father Joe Wallroth is son was rescued from northern Iraq, the going to be with us in a second. I’m hon- father of Sergeant James Riley of New Jer- ored you are here, Father. sey said, ‘‘We have been flooded with peo- I really want to thank the Washington ple’s prayers. Everyone is praying for us, National Cathedral Choir of Men and Girls. and we are so grateful.’’ It is a fabulous way to begin a morning, During Operation Iraqi Freedom, many to walk down the corridor here and hear Americans have registered online to adopt your beautiful voices echo throughout this a service man or woman in prayer. Others magnificent house. We’re really glad you’re wear prayer bracelets to remind themselves to intercede on behalf of our troops. In here, and thank you for sharing your tal- Fountain City, Wisconsin, Lynn Cox has ents. Julie, thank you as well for coming. collected at least 80 Bibles to send to those Gosh, I could have sat here and listened serving in Iraq. In Green, Ohio, a group all day to your singing. [Laughter] of parishioners at Queen of Heaven Catho- We’ve got a lot of military chaplains who lic Church has made 2,000 rosaries for our are here. I want to thank you for your troops. Margaret Brown, who helped start service to your country and to those who the group, said, ‘‘We want them to know wear our uniform. You make a tremendous that someone back here is holding them difference in the lives, the daily lives, of up in prayer and that God is so powerful people who are frightened and lonely and He can supply all their needs.’’ worried and strong and courageous. I ap- To pray for someone else is an act of preciate so very much what you have done generosity. We set our own cares aside and and will continue to do. look to strengthen another. Prayer teaches So many great events in our Nation’s his- humility. We find that the plan of the Cre- tory were shaped by men and women who ator is sometimes very different from our found strength and direction in prayer. The own. Yet, we learn to depend on His loving first President to live in this house com- will, bowing to purposes we don’t always posed a prayer on his second evening here understand. Prayer can lead to a grateful for all who would follow him. Our 16th heart, turning our minds to all the gifts President, Abraham Lincoln, knew that his of life and to the great works of God. burdens were too great for any man, so Prayer can also contribute to the life of he carried them to God in prayer. Over our Nation. America is a strong nation, in the radio on D-day in 1944, Franklin Roo- part because we know the limits of human sevelt prayed for God’s blessing on our mis- strength. All strength must be guided by sion to ‘‘set free a suffering humanity.’’ wisdom and justice and humility. We pray This past month has been another time that God will grant us that wisdom, that of testing for America and another time sense of justice, and that humility in our of intense prayer. Americans have been current challenges and in the years ahead. praying for the safety of our troops and I thank you all for helping to keep prayer for the protection of innocent life in Iraq. an integral part of our national life. May Americans prayed that war would not be God bless each one of you, and may God

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continue to bless the United States of Luis Palau, president, Luis Palau Evan- America. gelistic Association; Col. Joseph Wallroth, USAF, Wing Chaplain, Andrews Air Force NOTE: The President spoke at 7:47 a.m. in Base; and Julie Keim, soloist, Washington the East Room at the White House. In his National Cathedral. The Office of the Press remarks, he referred to Brig. Gen. David Secretary also released a Spanish language Hicks, USA, Deputy Chief of Chaplains, U.S. transcript of these remarks. The National Army; Shirley Dobson, chairman, National Day of Prayer proclamation of April 30 is Day of Prayer Task Force; James C. Dobson, listed in Appendix D at the end of this vol- founder and president, Focus on the Family; ume.

Exchange With Reporters Aboard the U.S.S. Abraham Lincoln May 1, 2003

[The President’s remarks are joined in Q. How does that compare to the jets progress.] you used to fly? President’s Flight Aboard Navy One The President. Much more sophisticated. Q. What’s it been like here on the ship? The President. ——No, it was not me. The President. Huh? Q. [Inaudible]—land it? Q. What have you been doing on the The President. Not my first time on a ship? carrier. The President. I’ve mainly been talking Q. How was your—— to the troops. The President. Really exciting. I miss fly- Naval officer. Here they come, sir. ing, I can tell you that. This is a formal press conference that [At this point, a squadron of Navy fighter you’re now conducting. This counts. jets flew over.] Q. Not when we’re dressed like this, it The President. The press conference is doesn’t. [Laughter] over. The President. That’s right. Q. Mr. President, when you were flying NOTE: The exchange began at approximately the plane, what did you do? Did you steer 2:10 p.m. on the navigation deck of the it? U.S.S. Abraham Lincoln at sea off the coast The President. Just steer it. of San Diego, CA. In his remarks, the Presi- Q. Did you go straight, or did you turn dent referred to Comdr. John ‘‘Skip’’ Lussier, it? USN, pilot of the S–3B Viking aboard which The President. Straight. the President traveled to the aircraft carrier. Q. How did you do? Did you waver? The press release issued by the Office of the The President. Ask the pilot. Press Secretary did not include the complete Q. He won’t tell. opening remarks of the President. A tape was Q. How does it compare to the jets you not available for verification of the content used to fly? of this exchange. The President. Huh?

408 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 1

Statement on AIDS Relief Legislation May 1, 2003

The fight against AIDS is a moral imper- treatment and care for millions of people ative our great Nation must confront deci- suffering from AIDS and proven prevention sively and boldly. programs for millions more who are at risk. I applaud the House of Representatives Time is of the essence, and I urge the for acting quickly to pass historic legislation Senate to act quickly so that we can turn that is consistent with the Emergency Plan the tide against this disease and give the for AIDS Relief that I announced earlier hope of life to millions of people in the this year. Today’s action is an important world’s most afflicted countries. step toward providing critically needed

Statement on Senate Action To Block a Vote on the Nomination of Priscilla Owen To Be a United States Court of Appeals Circuit Judge May 1, 2003

Priscilla Owen is an extraordinarily well- nominees to the U.S. Courts of Appeals. qualified nominee to the U.S. Court of Ap- The Senate has a constitutional responsi- peals. She has served with distinction on bility to exercise its advice and consent the Texas Supreme Court since 1995 and function and hold up-or-down votes on all has strong bipartisan support including judicial nominees within a reasonable time from three former Democrat Texas Su- after nomination. Some Senate Democrats preme Court Justices with whom she who once insisted that every appeals court served. She was unanimously rated ‘‘well- nominee deserves a timely vote have now qualified’’ by the American Bar Association. abandoned that responsibility in favor of Justice Owen has been waiting nearly 2 partisan obstructionist tactics. years for an up-or-down vote in the United In October of last year, I announced my States Senate. The decision today by 44 plan for timely consideration of judicial Senators to filibuster and block a vote on nominees. Today I again call on the Senate her nomination is shameful. This obstruc- to end the delays and to ensure that every tionist tactic is an injustice and unfair to judicial nominee receives an up-or-down this good woman and unfaithful to the Sen- vote, no matter who is President or which ate’s own obligations. party controls the Senate. Let each Senator Senate Democrats are now simulta- vote as he or she thinks best, but give neously filibustering two well-qualified the nominees a vote.

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Letter to the Speaker of the House of Representatives Transmitting Fiscal Year 2004 Budget Amendments May 1, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker: The details of this proposal are set forth I ask the Congress to consider the en- in the enclosed letter from the Director closed amendments to the Administration’s of the Office of Management and Budget. FY 2004 budget submission for the Depart- I concur with his comments and observa- ment of Defense. tions. In total, these amendments would not Sincerely, affect the budgetary resources proposed in my FY 2004 Budget. GEORGE W. BUSH

Address to the Nation on Iraq From the U.S.S. Abraham Lincoln May 1, 2003

Thank you all very much. Admiral Kelly, have shown the world the skill and the Captain Card, officers and sailors of the might of the American Armed Forces. U.S.S. Abraham Lincoln, my fellow Ameri- This Nation thanks all the members of cans: Major combat operations in Iraq have our coalition who joined in a noble cause. ended. In the battle of Iraq, the United We thank the Armed Forces of the United States and our allies have prevailed. And Kingdom, Australia, and Poland, who now our coalition is engaged in securing shared in the hardships of war. We thank and reconstructing that country. all the citizens of Iraq who welcomed our In this battle, we have fought for the troops and joined in the liberation of their cause of liberty and for the peace of the own country. And tonight I have a special world. Our Nation and our coalition are word for Secretary Rumsfeld, for General proud of this accomplishment; yet it is you, Franks, and for all the men and women the members of the United States military, who wear the uniform of the United States: who achieved it. Your courage, your willing- America is grateful for a job well done. ness to face danger for your country and The character of our military through for each other, made this day possible. Be- history—the daring of Normandy, the fierce cause of you, our Nation is more secure. courage of Iwo Jima, the decency and Because of you, the tyrant has fallen, and idealism that turned enemies into allies— Iraq is free. is fully present in this generation. When Operation Iraqi Freedom was carried out Iraqi civilians looked into the faces of our with a combination of precision and speed service men and women, they saw strength and boldness the enemy did not expect and and kindness and good will. When I look the world had not seen before. From dis- at the members of the United States militant bases or ships at sea, we sent planes tary, I see the best of our country, and and missiles that could destroy an enemy I’m honored to be your Commander in division or strike a single bunker. Marines Chief. and soldiers charged to Baghdad across 350 In the images of fallen statues, we have miles of hostile ground, in one of the swift- witnessed the arrival of a new era. For a est advances of heavy arms in history. You hundred of years of war, culminating in

410 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 1 the nuclear age, military technology was de- morning, 19 evil men, the shock troops of signed and deployed to inflict casualties on a hateful ideology, gave America and the an ever-growing scale. In defeating Nazi civilized world a glimpse of their ambitions. Germany and Imperial Japan, Allied forces They imagined, in the words of one ter- destroyed entire cities, while enemy leaders rorist, that September the 11th would be who started the conflict were safe until the the ‘‘beginning of the end of America.’’ By final days. Military power was used to end seeking to turn our cities into killing fields, a regime by breaking a nation. terrorists and their allies believed that they Today, we have the greater power to free could destroy this Nation’s resolve and a nation by breaking a dangerous and ag- force our retreat from the world. They have gressive regime. With new tactics and pre- failed. cision weapons, we can achieve military ob- In the battle of Afghanistan, we de- jectives without directing violence against stroyed the Taliban, many terrorists, and civilians. No device of man can remove the the camps where they trained. We continue tragedy from war; yet it is a great advance to help the Afghan people lay roads, restore when the guilty have far more to fear from hospitals, and educate all of their children. war than the innocent. Yet we also have dangerous work to com- In the images of celebrating Iraqis, we plete. As I speak, a Special Operations task have also seen the ageless appeal of human force, led by the 82d Airborne, is on the freedom. Decades of lies and intimidation trail of the terrorists and those who seek could not make the Iraqi people love their to undermine the free Government of Af- oppressors or desire their own enslavement. ghanistan. America and our coalition will Men and women in every culture need lib- finish what we have begun. erty like they need food and water and From Pakistan to the Philippines to the air. Everywhere that freedom arrives, hu- Horn of Africa, we are hunting down Al manity rejoices, and everywhere that free- Qaida killers. Nineteen months ago, I dom stirs, let tyrants fear. pledged that the terrorists would not escape We have difficult work to do in Iraq. the patient justice of the United States. We’re bringing order to parts of that coun- And as of tonight, nearly one-half of Al try that remain dangerous. We’re pursuing Qaida’s senior operatives have been cap- and finding leaders of the old regime, who tured or killed. will be held to account for their crimes. The liberation of Iraq is a crucial ad- We’ve begun the search for hidden chem- vance in the campaign against terror. We’ve ical and biological weapons and already removed an ally of Al Qaida and cut off know of hundreds of sites that will be in- a source of terrorist funding. And this vestigated. We’re helping to rebuild Iraq, much is certain: No terrorist network will where the dictator built palaces for himself gain weapons of mass destruction from the instead of hospitals and schools. And we Iraqi regime, because the regime is no will stand with the new leaders of Iraq more. as they establish a Government of, by, and In these 19 months that changed the for the Iraqi people. world, our actions have been focused and The transition from dictatorship to de- deliberate and proportionate to the offense. mocracy will take time, but it is worth We have not forgotten the victims of Sep- every effort. Our coalition will stay until tember the 11th—the last phone calls, the our work is done. And then we will leave, cold murder of children, the searches in and we will leave behind a free Iraq. the rubble. With those attacks, the terror- The battle of Iraq is one victory in a ists and their supporters declared war on war on terror that began on September the the United States, and war is what they 11th, 2001, and still goes on. That terrible got.

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Our war against terror is proceeding ac- many nations, and we know from daily in- cording to the principles that I have made telligence that they continue to plot against clear to all: Any person involved in commit- free people. The proliferation of deadly ting or planning terrorist attacks against the weapons remains a serious danger. The en- American people becomes an enemy of this emies of freedom are not idle, and neither country and a target of American justice; are we. Our Government has taken unprec- any person, organization, or government edented measures to defend the homeland, that supports, protects, or harbors terrorists and we will continue to hunt down the is complicit in the murder of the innocent enemy before he can strike. and equally guilty of terrorist crimes; any The war on terror is not over, yet it outlaw regime that has ties to terrorist is not endless. We do not know the day groups and seeks or possesses weapons of of final victory, but we have seen the turn- mass destruction is a grave danger to the ing of the tide. No act of the terrorists civilized world and will be confronted; and will change our purpose or weaken our re- anyone in the world, including the Arab solve or alter their fate. Their cause is lost. world, who works and sacrifices for free- Free nations will press on to victory. dom has a loyal friend in the United States Other nations in history have fought in of America. foreign lands and remained to occupy and Our commitment to liberty is America’s exploit. Americans, following a battle, want tradition, declared at our founding, af- nothing more than to return home. And firmed in Franklin Roosevelt’s Four Free- that is your direction tonight. After service doms, asserted in the Truman Doctrine and in the Afghan and Iraqi theaters of war, in Ronald Reagan’s challenge to an evil em- after 100,000 miles on the longest carrier pire. We are committed to freedom in Af- deployment in recent history, you are ghanistan, in Iraq, and in a peaceful Pal- homeward bound. Some of you will see estine. The advance of freedom is the sur- new family members for the first time; 150 est strategy to undermine the appeal of ter- babies were born while their fathers were ror in the world. Where freedom takes on the Lincoln. Your families are proud hold, hatred gives way to hope. When free- of you, and your Nation will welcome you. dom takes hold, men and women turn to We are mindful as well that some good the peaceful pursuit of a better life. Amer- men and women are not making the jour- ican values and American interests lead in ney home. One of those who fell, Corporal the same direction: We stand for human Jason Mileo, spoke to his parents 5 days liberty. before his death. Jason’s father said, ‘‘He The United States upholds these prin- called us from the center of Baghdad, not ciples of security and freedom in many to brag but to tell us he loved us. Our ways, with all the tools of diplomacy, law son was a soldier.’’ enforcement, intelligence, and finance. Every name, every life, is a loss to our We’re working with a broad coalition of military, to our Nation, and to the loved nations that understand the threat and our ones who grieve. There’s no homecoming shared responsibility to meet it. The use for these families. Yet we pray, in God’s of force has been and remains our last re- time, their reunion will come. sort. Yet all can know, friend and foe alike, Those we lost were last seen on duty. that our Nation has a mission: We will an- Their final act on this Earth was to fight swer threats to our security, and we will a great evil and bring liberty to others. All defend the peace. of you—all in this generation of our mili- Our mission continues. Al Qaida is tary—have taken up the highest calling of wounded, not destroyed. The scattered cells history. You’re defending your country and of the terrorist network still operate in protecting the innocent from harm. And

412 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 2

wherever you go, you carry a message of off the coast of San Diego, CA. In his re- hope, a message that is ancient and ever marks, he referred to Rear Adm. John M. new. In the words of the prophet Isaiah, Kelly, USN, commander, Abraham Lincoln ‘‘To the captives, ‘come out,’ and to those Battle Group; Capt. Kendall L. Card, USN, in darkness, ‘be free.’ ’’ commanding officer, U.S.S. Abraham Lin- Thank you for serving our country and coln; and Gen. Tommy R. Franks, USA, com- our cause. May God bless you all, and may batant commander, U.S. Central Command. God continue to bless America. The Office of the Press Secretary also released a Spanish language transcript of this NOTE: The President spoke at 6 p.m. on the address. deck of the U.S.S. Abraham Lincoln at sea

Remarks to Employees of United Defense Industries in Santa Clara, California May 2, 2003

Thank you all very much. Thanks for the for your contribution to the security of your warm welcome. It’s been a heck of a trip Nation and for the peace of the world. out here to California. [Laughter] I’m hon- I’m also here for another reason. I’m ored to be here with the good folks at here to talk about the state of our economy. United Defense. I’m here to thank you for Today we saw some new statistics on em- your contribution to making the world a ployment. The unemployment number is more peaceful and free place. now at 6 percent, which should serve as Yesterday I had the honor of speaking a clear signal to the United States Congress to the American people from the deck of we need a bold economic recovery package the U.S.S. Abraham Lincoln. I made this so people can find work. That 6-percent declaration, that major combat operations number should say loud and clear to mem- in Iraq have ended, the United States and bers of both political parties in the United our allies have prevailed. States Congress, we need robust tax relief I spent the night—one night. [Laughter] so our fellow citizens can find a job. Most of the crew had been on there for I want to thank Tom for his kind intro- 91⁄2 months. I was so proud to be with duction, and I want to thank Elmer for those men and women who wear our Na- the tour. [Laughter] You all are doing some tion’s uniform. Their morale is high. They amazing stuff here. I’m really proud— have served our Nation well, and this coun- proud of the workers, proud of the engi- try is proud of them. neers, proud of the people who are keeping We are proud of everybody who wears this country on the cutting edge. I want the Nation’s uniform, and we are proud to thank the mayor of Santa Clara for com- of those who have contributed to the de- ing. Madam Mayor, I appreciate you com- fense of the country, just like the people ing. I want to thank all the local officials. right here at United Defense have done. I particularly want to thank Richard The technologies and products developed Pombo, the Congressman from the great here at United Defense have made our State of California, for being here as well. military second to none. So I’m here to I had the honor of meeting a fellow thank the folks who work for this fine com- named Steve Houck today. Where are you, pany, on behalf of the American people, Steve? Somewhere around here. Where?

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There he is. Hi, Steve. [Laughter] They no longer a threat to the United States gave Steve a great seat—[laughter]—at of America. And we’re still on the hunt. least a great view. [Laughter] Here’s why We will flush them out of their caves. We’ll I want to mention Steve. You see, Steve get them on the run, and we will bring works for salesforce.com, a company which them to justice. encourages voluntarism amongst its employ- As a result of the bravery and skill of ees. Not only does the company encourage our Armed Forces and coalition forces, the voluntarism amongst employees, Steve leads war on terror is much longer down the the effort—one of the leaders of the effort. road because of what happened in Iraq. He takes the time that the company allows You see, the Al Qaida no longer have a him and volunteers to help make some- ally in the regime in Iraq. Terrorists no body’s life better. longer have a funding source in the regime We’ve spent a lot of time in this country of Iraq. One thing is for certain: Terrorists over the recent weeks talking about the will no longer have a source of weapons great military might of America. The truth of mass destruction in the regime that used of the matter is, the greatest strength of to be in Iraq, because the regime that used our country is the compassion of our fellow to be in Iraq is no longer. citizens to one another. The great strength We have an obligation to future genera- of America can be found in the hearts of tions of Americans to make sure this coun- our fellow citizens. try is secure, and we will keep that obliga- My call to you is to love a neighbor tion. We have made progress, but there just like you’d like to be loved yourself. is more to do. In all these efforts, our men If you’re worried and interested about the and women in uniform have performed future of this country, find somebody who brilliantly. By their courage, our Nation is hurts. Find somebody who needs love. Put more secure. By their skill and sacrifice, your arm around them and say, ‘‘The great Iraq and Afghanistan are now free. American experience belongs to you just The people who serve our country de- as much as it belongs to me.’’ Steve, thank serve our gratitude, and they deserve the you for your leadership. finest equipment we can provide. The new On September the 11th, 2001, America technologies of war help to protect our sol- learned that vast oceans no longer protect diers and, as importantly, help protect inno- us from the threats of a new era. On that cent life. You see, new technologies allow day, 19 months ago, we also began a relent- us to redefine war on our terms, which less worldwide campaign against terrorists, makes it more likely the world will be more those who hate freedom, in order to secure free and more peaceful. our homeland and to make the world a You do a lot to keep the American more peaceful place. Armed Forces on the leading edge of tech- And we’re making great progress. In the nological change here at United Defense, battle of Afghanistan, we destroyed one of and I want to thank you for that. You not the most barbaric regimes in the history only help save lives, but you’re an agent of mankind—a regime so barbaric, they for peace. And that’s important for you to would not allow young girls to go to school; know that. The better we can redefine how a regime so barbaric, they were willing to war is—wars are fought and won, the more house Al Qaida. That regime no longer ex- likely it is that peace will prevail because ists. Many Al Qaida leaders no longer exist, this is a peaceful nation. This is a nation and the training camps no longer exist. that wants nothing more than the world In the war on terror, we’re making good to be more free and more peaceful. I want progress. As I said last night, nearly one- to thank you for what you’ve done, what half of all Al Qaida’s senior operatives are you’re going to do, and I want to thank

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you for the product you put out in the Perhaps some of you have got a relative field. over there, kind of like Ron Pinkney, who In the Iraqi theater, the M4 Command is an engineer here at United Defense. His and Control vehicles that you help produce son, Jason, is serving in the 101st Airborne gave our commanders unprecedented con- Division. Ron, I appreciate your sacrifice trol over the battlefields. The Bradley for your country by being a loving dad. Fighting Vehicles were responsible for a But you tell Jason, and you tell Jason to lot of tank kills. Some of the first Army tell his buddies, the Commander in Chief units sent to take control of the Baghdad and the people of Santa Clara, California, Airport were traveling in Bradleys. The are really proud of his service. world witnessed one of the swiftest ad- Major combat operations are over. Yet vances of heavy arms in the history of war- we have got commitments to keep in Iraq. fare, a 350-mile charge from south to north Parts of that country are still dangerous, in Iraq, through hostile enemy territory. and we will provide security. We will estab- We were able to do so not only because lish order in the parts of Iraq that are dan- of the good strategy, great courage, and gerous. We will chase down the leaders skill, but because of the Bradleys and of the old regime, and they will be held Abrams with which our soldiers were to account for the atrocious crimes they equipped. You’re making a good product committed on the Iraqi people. here. We’ve got hundreds of sites to exploit, One of the things that people learned looking for the chemical and biological about your company as well is how useful weapons that we know Saddam Hussein the HERCULES tank recovery system can had prior to our entrance into Iraq. Listen, be. The guy with the sledgehammer on the this guy has spent years and years and years statue needed a little help. [Laughter] of hiding weapons from weapons inspec- Thankfully, there was a HERCULES close tors. It’s going to take time, but the world by—[laughter]—a HERCULES which will see the truth. pulled that statue of Saddam Hussein to We’ll restore the hospitals, rebuild the the ground. schools, provide needed infrastructure in a That meant more to the Iraqi people country that didn’t have as many hospitals than you can possibly imagine. It was a as it needed or schools as it needed or symbol of their future, a future based upon needed infrastructure as was required, be- something that we hold dear to our hearts, cause Saddam Hussein was willing to spend a future based upon something that is not money on luxurious palaces, not on the America’s gift to the world but the Al- people of Iraq. We will stand with the new mighty God’s gift to each and every indi- leaders of Iraq as they build a Government vidual, a future based upon freedom. of, by, and for the Iraqi people. I also appreciate so very much that 35 This is going to take time. The efforts of your fellow workers are in theater. Some to restore security and infrastructure is were in Kuwait. Many are in Iraq, working going to take time, and it’s not going to on the products that you helped develop, be easy work. But we will stay the course. working through those sandstorms and We will stay as long as necessary to get those long hauls across hostile territory. the job done, and then we will leave. And They’re still in the region. They and their when we leave, we will leave behind a free families need to know America is grateful Iraq. for their service and their sacrifices, just We believe in the peace, in keeping the as we are grateful for the service and sac- peace. And the best way to make the world rifice of many of the families whose loved more peaceful and the best way to fight ones have been and still are in theater. hatred, the hateful ideologies oftentimes

415 May 2 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 found in corners of the world, is to pro- low inflation, which is positive, low interest mote freedom. Free people are less likely rates, which are really good for people who to hate. Free people are more likely to either own a home or want to buy a home focus on a hopeful future. We love freedom or refinancing a home in order to remodel in America. It’s ingrained in our soul. We a home. The greatest strength—well, let also understand the habits of freedom are me—gas prices are coming down, which, more likely to make the world a more by the way, is positive for the American peaceful and hopeful place. We will stay consumer, American people. in Iraq until it is free, and we will stay The greatest strength we have is the pro- to make sure the foundations for freedom ductivity of the American worker. That’s are real and solid. our greatest strength. Last year, produc- Now, here at home, we’ve got other— tivity growth in America was 4.8 percent. we’ve got challenges to face. I talked about It’s the best annual increase since 1950. a statistic, but behind every statistic is Let me tell you what that means here somebody’s life, when it comes to employ- at United Defense—incredibly productive ment statistics. Listen, the goal of this workforce that you have here. It took 4 country is to have an economy vibrant years for United Defense’s engineers to de- enough, strong enough so that somebody velop a working prototype of the Bradley. who’s looking for work can find a job. It took only 8 months to do the same for We’re making progress. You’ve just got to the Future Combat System vehicle. Pro- know that. We’re a growing economy. Mat- ductivity increases like that means that we ter of fact, we’re the—of all the industri- are more competitive, that people are likely alized economies, we’re one of the strong- to find better jobs, that consumers will ben- est. That’s not good enough for me, and efit. Now, productivity increase is an in- I know it’s not good enough for you. credibly important part of the future of this We’ve come through some hard times. country. And I want to thank the workers Remember, we’ve overcome a recession. here and the engineers here for being on We’ve overcome an attack on our soil. We the leading edge of the productivity in- have been in two major battles in the war creases in our country. against terror, one in Afghanistan, one in But the economy is not growing fast Iraq. We had some of our fellow citizens enough, and you know it as well as anybody forget what it means to be a responsible here. So I’ve been working with the Con- citizen, some CEOs of corporations in gress on a jobs package, a pro-growth jobs America who felt it would be okay to fudge package. See, in order to help people look- the numbers, to not tell the truth. Their ing for work, we need to figure out how irresponsible behavior affected the psy- best to encourage economic growth. That chology of the country. We’ll take care of ought to be the cornerstone of any good them. jobs package. You see, if the economy It would be helpful if many CEOs in grows, somebody is more likely to find corporate America took care of business be- work. Therefore, we ought to be asking fore we had to take care of them. I call the question: How do we create economic upon the CEOs of this company to treat growth? their employees and shareholders with the In my judgment and the judgment of utmost of respect. a lot of economists—and the truth of the Despite these obstacles, we’re growing, matter is, it’s now become kind of the com- but there is untapped potential in this mon wisdom in Washington, DC—the best economy. You know it better than anybody, way to create growth is to let people keep right here in this part of the world. The more of their own money. The more money foundations for growth are good. We got you have in your pocket, the more likely

416 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 2 it is you’re going to demand a good or certain people.’’ Let me tell you the effects a service. The more goods and services de- of this plan on a family of four making manded, the more likely it is somebody $40,000 a year. Their tax bite will go from is going to find work in America. $1,178 a year to $45 a year. Now, perhaps And therefore, I proposed a robust tax for some in Washington, DC, that $1,000 package to the United States Congress of a year for every year doesn’t sound like at least $550 billion. The reason I did so a lot. But for a family of four making is because economists have taken a look $40,000 a year, it means a lot. It means at that package and say that when it passes, a lot not only to the family for their capac- one million new jobs will be created by ity to save or invest in their children; it the year 2004. If you’re interested in job means a lot for our economy to have peo- creation, if you want to make sure that ple with an additional $1,000 in their pock- your neighbor can find work, support a job et. Congress needs to get this passed and package that is robust and strong and is get it passed soon. hopeful for the American worker. Any good economic jobs package has got We’re making good progress. I mean, it to understand the role of small business makes sense that we should make progress. in our society. Most new jobs are created After all, most of the tax relief package by small businesses. When small businesses I proposed has already been passed by the are strong, when small business flourishes, Congress. See, I said we ought to reduce people are more likely to find work. all rates. They’ve already agreed to that. Cutting the tax rates and accelerating the We ought to reduce the effect of the mar- tax rates cuts is important for small busi- riage penalty. They agreed to that. We ought to raise the child credit from $600 ness growth for this reason: Most small to $1,000 per child. They agreed to that. businesses pay tax at the individual income- The problem is that they weren’t going tax rates. Most small businesses are either to let you keep your own money for 3, a sole proprietorship or a limited partner- 5, or 7 years from now. Well, listen, our ship or a Subchapter S and, therefore, pay economy needs a shot in the arm now, tax like an individual does. not 3, 5, or 7 years from now. If you’re So that when you hear us talk about cut- somebody that’s looking for work, you’re ting individual tax rates and accelerating the not interested in what’s going to take place tax rate cuts, you’ve got to understand the 3, 5, or 7 years from now. If you’re some- impact it is going to have on the American body looking for work, you want your Gov- entrepreneur. It will mean more capital in ernment to act now. For the sake of job the coffers of the small business company. creation, the United States Congress must More capital in the coffers of the small enact all the tax reforms they passed in business company means more investment. 2001. More investment means more work for the When I get back to Washington, DC, American people. Twenty-three small-busi- I want to see a bill on my desk that recog- ness owners will see their taxes cut—23 nizes—well, that may be a little fast. How million—small-business owners will be about in a couple of weeks after I get back more likely candidates to hire somebody. to Washington? [Laughter] For the sake of As well, there is a limit on what a small job growth, let’s put those tax cuts we’ve business can deduct on capital purchases, already got in place, in place today so peo- at $25,000. Congress ought to raise that ple can find work. limit to $75,000 per year for small busi- Oh, you hear all kinds of talk in Wash- nesses, to allow small business to exempt ington about, ‘‘This plan is not fair.’’ You capital purchases of that amount. It ought know, ‘‘This plan is going to reward only to index it to inflation.

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Listen, when somebody goes out and maybe, pie-in-the-sky projections—that, buys a new computer or a new program, ‘‘Don’t worry. We don’t have any cashflow, it not only benefits the small business be- but nevertheless, we’ve got a nice story.’’ cause the small business becomes more [Laughter] The problem is, that story kind productive; it benefits the computer proof ran out of steam because there wasn’t grammer who has designed the program any cashflow. To me, it’s a great reform or the computer manufacturer who made to encourage people to pay dividends on the computer. The best way to encourage stocks, because you can’t put out a pie- economic growth is to encourage invest- in-the-sky projection if you’re a dividend- ment, is to stimulate supply and demand. paying company. If you say you’re going The Congress needs to be bold, and the to pay a dividend, you better pay the divi- Congress needs to act, and the Congress dend, and the only way you can pay a divi- needs to recognize the importance of small dend is to have actual cashflow available business in our society. for the investors. I also believe we ought to end the dou- Getting rid of the double taxation of divi- ble taxation on dividends. It makes sense dends will be good for job creation. It will to tax a company’s profits. What doesn’t be good for capital formation. It will be make sense is to tax the company’s profits good for the pension holders of America, and then tax the owners of the company and it will be good corporate reform in after they pay tax. It’s not fair to tax some- a system that needed reform. thing twice in our society. Who are the I know there’s people hurting here in owners of the companies? The owners of Silicon Valley. I know there are people who the companies are the shareholders. Mil- are worried about their future. I know this lions of Americans own stock either directly incredibly vibrant part of the American or through pension plans, 401(k)s. economy over the past year is not meeting Listen, if you’re an owner of a company, its full potential. The plan I just outlined small or large, you ought to be worried is one that will boost the economy in the about your company—your investment Silicon Valley. It’s a plan that is bold be- being taxed twice by the Federal Govern- cause we need a bold plan. It’s a plan that ment. The double taxation of dividends is is thoughtful because we need a thoughtful not fair. It is not fair to seniors, who often- plan. Most importantly, it’s a plan that will times rely upon dividend income. It’s not invigorate the entrepreneurial spirit, which fair to the workers whose pension plans has been so strong here, and make it more rely upon dividend income. It is not fair likely somebody who’s looking for a job will for the Federal Government to tax some- be able to find one. thing twice, and we need to get rid of I urge the United States Congress to the double taxation of dividends in Amer- look at the unemployment numbers that ica. came out today and pass a tax relief plan Getting rid of the double taxation of divi- that will matter, a tax relief plan robust dends will make it easier for businesses to enough so that the people of this country raise capital. It will reduce the cost of cap- who are looking for work can find a job. ital. The more capital there is in circulation, I know you’ll hear talk about the deficit, the more jobs there will be for American and we’ve got a deficit because we went workers. Getting rid of the double taxation through a recession. A recession means the of dividends will encourage companies to economy has slowed down to the extent pay dividends. where we’re losing revenues to the Federal We have just gone through a period in Treasury. We got a recession because we American economic history where people went to war, and I said to our troops, ‘‘If invested based upon what I would call, we’re going to commit you into harm’s way,

418 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 2 you deserve the best equipment, the best sure we don’t overspend the people’s training, the best possible pay. It doesn’t money in Washington, DC. matter what it costs; we’re going to pay I’m incredibly proud of this country, and what it costs in order to win the war.’’ I know you are as well. We have been We had an emergency. These all cost our through a lot as a nation. Our resolve has Government money. So with the combina- been tested. But we have shown the world tion of the loss of revenue as a result of our greatest resources and our greatest the recession, which was official in January strength, which is our national character— of 2001, and the expenditures in order to that we hold certain values to be true, that win a war and deal with an emergency and we’ve got tremendous compassion as a na- deal with the new issues of homeland secu- tion, that we’re an optimistic people and rity, we’ve got a deficit. we’re a resolved people, we are resolved And there’s two ways to deal with that. to defend the peace of the world, that we One is you control the expense side of the are resolved to bring freedom to corners ledger. You make sure the Federal Govern- of the world that haven’t seen freedom in ment spends your money on that which generations, that we’re determined to build is absolutely necessary. You focus them on the prosperity of our own country. This doing certain things and doing them well. is a unique moment in our country’s his- You must have fiscal discipline in Wash- tory—it truly is—and the American people ington, DC, in order to deal with the def- are rising to meet it. icit. I want to thank each of you for what And the other way to deal with the def- you’ve done to make this country more se- icit is to put policies in place that increase cure and the world more peaceful and the the revenues coming into the Treasury. world more free. I want to thank you for And the best way to encourage revenues coming out today. It’s such an honor to coming into the Treasury is to promote pol- be here. May God bless you and your fami- icy which encourages economic growth and lies, and may God continue to bless Amer- vitality. A growing economy is going to ica. produce more revenues for the Federal Treasury. The way to deal with the deficit NOTE: The President spoke at 10:10 a.m. in is not to be timid on the growth package. the prototype bay. In his remarks, he re- The way to deal with the deficit is to have ferred to Thomas W. Rabaut, president and a robust enough growth package so we get chief executive officer, and Elmer L. Doty, more revenues coming into the Federal vice president, United Defense, L.P.; and Treasury and then follow my lead and make Mayor Patricia M. Mahan of Santa Clara.

Message to the Congress Transmitting a Report on the National Emergency With Respect to Sudan May 2, 2003

To the Congress of the United States: (IEEPA), 50 U.S.C. 1703(c), I am providing herewith a 6-month periodic report As required by section 401(c) of the Na- prepared by my Administration on the national Emergencies Act, 50 U.S.C. 1641(c), tional emergency with respect to Sudan and section 204(c) of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act

419 May 2 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 that was declared in Executive Order 13067 The White House, of November 3, 1997. GEORGE W. BUSH May 2, 2003.

The President’s Radio Address May 3, 2003

Good morning. On Thursday, I visited and Marine units making their way to the U.S.S. Abraham Lincoln, now headed Baghdad. home after the longest carrier deployment Australia FA–18 fighters carried out deep in recent history. I delivered good news bombing runs in Iraq. The Australian Navy to the men and women who fought in the worked with British forces to take control cause of freedom: Their mission is com- of the Faw Peninsula. Australian Navy div- plete, and major combat operations in Iraq ers cleared mines in the port of Umm Qasr, have ended. Our coalition is now engaged opening sea lanes to deliver humanitarian in securing and reconstructing that country. assistance. And Australian transport planes The United States and our allies have pre- delivered emergency supplies and equip- vailed. ment for Iraqi hospitals. Operation Iraqi Freedom was carried out All told, about 2,000 Australian service with a combination of precision, speed, and members contributed to the destruction of boldness the enemy did not expect and the Saddam Hussein’s regime and the libera- world had not seen before. From distant tion of the Iraqi people. All Australians can bases or ships at sea, we sent planes and be justly proud of the superb performance missiles that could destroy an enemy divi- of Australians’ air, naval, and Special Forces sion or strike a single building or bunker. in Operation Iraqi Freedom. America is Marines and soldiers charged to Baghdad deeply grateful for their important con- across 350 miles of hostile ground in one tributions. of the swiftest mass advances of heavy arms Our coalition still has much work to do in history. The world has seen the might in Iraq. We are bringing order to parts of the American Armed Forces. of that country that remain dangerous. We In this victory, America received valuable are pursuing and finding leaders of the old help from our allies. This weekend, I am regime who will be held to account for hosting Australian Prime Minister John their crimes. We have begun the search Howard at my ranch in Crawford, Texas. for hidden chemical and biological weapons Prime Minister Howard has been a strong at hundreds of locations. We are helping ally in the war on terror, and Australian to rebuild Iraq, where the dictator built forces have played an important role in the palaces for himself instead of hospitals and liberation of Iraq. Australian Special Forces schools for the people. And we will stand entered Iraq with their American and Brit- with the new leaders of Iraq as they estab- ish counterparts at the very beginning of lish a government of, by, and for the Iraqi Operation Iraqi Freedom. They helped to people. The transition from dictatorship to secure sites in western Iraq that could have democracy is hard and will take time, but been used to launch Scud missiles. And it is worth every effort. Our coalition will they disrupted Iraqi troop movements and stay until our work is done. Then we will command posts, paving the way for Army leave, and we will leave behind a free Iraq.

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The battle of Iraq is one victory in a fate. Their cause is lost. Free nations will war on terror that still goes on. Al Qaida press on to victory. is wounded, not destroyed. The scattered Thank you for listening. cells of the terrorist network still operate in many nations. And we know from daily intelligence that they continue to plot NOTE: The address was recorded at 2:45 p.m. against free people. The proliferation of on April 30 in the Cabinet Room at the deadly weapons remains a serious danger. White House for broadcast at 10:06 a.m. on The enemies of freedom are not idle, and May 3. The transcript was made available by neither are we. Our Government has taken the Office of the Press Secretary on May 2 unprecedented measures to defend our but was embargoed for release until the homeland, and more importantly, we will broadcast. In his remarks, the President re- continue to hunt the enemy down before ferred to former President Saddam Hussein he can strike. of Iraq. The Office of the Press Secretary No act of terrorists will change our pur- also released a Spanish language transcript pose or weaken our resolve or alter their of this address.

The President’s News Conference With Prime Minister John Howard of Australia in Crawford, Texas May 3, 2003

President Bush. Thank you all for com- just 3 days after the terrorist attacks, Aus- ing. This has been an honor for Laura and tralia invoked the ANZUS Treaty’s mutual me to welcome Prime Minister Howard defense provisions. Australia came to Amer- and Mrs. Howard to our ranch. We love ica’s aid in our time of need, and we won’t coming here. It’s a place for Laura and forget that. me to really spend some private time and In nearly 20 months since September the spend time with a friend is—makes it even 11th, Australian and American intelligence more special. And John Howard has been and law enforcement officials have worked a great friend. The Australian Government very closely together. Our relationship has has been a great friend to the American never been stronger, and that’s good, be- people. The Australian people are great cause together we’ve broken up terrorist friends with the American people as well. cells, we’ve disrupted terrorist plots, we’ve The Prime Minister is a man of courage. cut off terrorist financing. We brought a He is a clear thinker. He understands the lot of terrorists to justice. responsibilities of freedom. America is real- And in Iraq, Australian and American ly grateful for the sacrifices of the Aus- forces have stood together once again. We tralian people and for the leadership of ended the rule of one of history’s worst Prime Minister John Howard. tyrants, and in so doing, we not only freed On September the 10th, 2001, Prime the American people, we made our own Minister Howard and I stood together at people more secure. By getting rid of Sad- the Washington Naval Yard to commemo- dam Hussein, we ended the suffering of rate the 50th anniversary of the ANZUS a lot of people in Iraq. And at the same Treaty. The next day, Australia and America time, we made peace more possible in the began writing a new chapter in the history world. All Australians are justifiably proud of our alliance. On September the 14th, of the superb performance—and I mean

421 May 3 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 superb performance—of the Australian Air cussed my commitment to move the Mid- Force, Navy, and Special Forces in Oper- dle Eastern peace process forward. We dis- ation Iraqi Freedom. cussed a lot of key issues. I was com- As you may know, I was on the U.S.S. fortable in so doing because I value the Abraham Lincoln 2 days ago. I met with advice of John Howard. I trust his judg- Admiral Kelly. He was our highest ranking ment, and I appreciate his friendship. official in charge of joint operations. I said, Mr. Prime Minister. ‘‘I’m getting ready to see the Prime Min- Prime Minister Howard. Well, thank you ister in Crawford.’’ I said, ‘‘What can I tell very much, Mr. President. Can I first, for him about the performance and the bravery Janette and myself, thank George and of the Australian troops?’’ He said, ‘‘They Laura very much for inviting us to a piece are the best in the world.’’ And for that, of American soil that I know has a special Mr. Prime Minister, we’re grateful. place in the President’s heart. We want to thank the Australian service- To come to the United States is always men for their service and particularly want an experience and an opportunity as Prime to say thanks to their loved ones, who I’m Minister to renew the links and the friend- sure agonized over the fate of their hus- ship and the affection between our two na- band or son or daughter, and tell them tions and our two peoples. But to come that we appreciate their sacrifice as well. We’re committed to defeating the threat to the heart of Texas and to be a guest of terror because we have both felt terror’s of the President and his wife in this won- effects. We remember the sympathy of the derful hideaway—although it doesn’t ap- people of Australia on September the 11th, pear to be very well hidden away with this and we shared the same sympathy with the large gathering today—is a special oppor- people of Australia after the horrible bomb- tunity. ings of Bali. The Prime Minister showed Can I thank the President for the kind he’s not only a man of steel, he showed words that he’s expressed about the Aus- the world he’s a man of heart as well as tralian military participation in Iraq. We too he dealt with the great tragedy that affected in Australia are immensely proud of the the Australian people. way in which the men and women of the We won’t tire in our attempts to fight Australian Defence Force discharged their terror. Nothing will deter us. We under- duties. But can I, Mr. President, congratu- stand the effects of terror. We also are late you on the leadership that you gave committed to a world that is more peaceful to the world, at times under very great and more free. We’re committed to a stable criticism, at times fighting very great ob- and democratic Iraq. We fully believe the struction. But you had a resolute, clear view people of Iraq are capable of running their of what had to be done, and we were very own country. We will work to provide the pleased and very proud and very deter- conditions necessary for security, repair the mined when the final decision was taken infrastructure, make sure that the life of to be part of that. the average Iraqi citizen is back to normal, I think what was achieved in Iraq was and then encourage the Iraqi people to de- quite extraordinary from a military point cide their own fate and run their own Gov- of view. I think the military textbooks will ernment. We agree the U.N. Security be replete with the experiences of Oper- Council should move swiftly to lift the eco- ation Iraqi Freedom for many years to nomic sanctions on Iraq. come. And the leadership of the United We’ll continue to work together to make States, with the support of its coalition part- the world more safe and free. Today we ners, Great Britain, Australia, Holland, and discussed the Korean Peninsula. We dis- others, I think has sent a very important

422 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 3 message not only to the region but also world is a safer, more optimistic place as to the rest of the world. a result of our joint efforts in Iraq, and I welcome very much the personal com- we think that is a message which is reso- mitment that you have given to the secur- nating around the world. And we too have ing of a peaceful outcome in the long-run- one aspiration for the Iraqi people, that ning and bloody saga of relations between they can live in freedom, and they can run Israel and the Palestinians. As the leader their own affairs, and they can benefit from of a nation which has been a staunch and the great civilization and the great re- unapologetic friend of Israel ever since its sources which, unhindered, are at their dis- foundation, we also support very strongly posal. the establishment of an independent Pales- President Bush. Good. Thank you, John. tinian state. And we see progress on this We will answer a couple of questions, issue as being very important to consoli- two per side. Barney, do you have a ques- dating what has been achieved in Iraq and tion? [Laughter] He doesn’t have one? building on the message of freedom that Then we’ll start with Patsy [Patricia Wilson, came out of the operation in Iraq. Reuters]. Patsy is a fine Australian, as you Our bilateral relationship is very close know. Tomorrow is her birthday. [Laugh- indeed, in so many ways. There is a stra- ter] tegic and political closeness. But more im- Go ahead and ask a soft question, then, portant than that, there is a very deep af- now that I’ve set it up. [Laughter] fection between our two nations. We have shared a lot of experiences. You recalled Iraqi Weapons of Mass Destruction that very emotional moment at the naval Q. Sir, in honor of your guest, I’ll ask dockyard on the 10th of September, the it in Australian, if that’s all right. [Laughter] first time we met, and the next day, of Is there a possibility that you may never course, the world changed so dramatically. find weapons of mass destruction in Iraq? And I can remember returning by courtesy And how would that square with your ra- of the United States Air Force from An- tionale for going to war? drews Air Force Base to Hawaii and dis- President Bush. Yes—the question is cussing with our Foreign Minister Alex- about weapons of mass destruction. Saddam ander Downer the invoking of the ANZUS Hussein had weapons of mass destruction. Treaty, in consequence of what had oc- The United States—United Nations Secu- curred the day before in New York and rity Council voted 1441, which made the Washington. declaration it had weapons of mass destruc- Australia and America are close friends tion. It’s well known it had weapons of because, above all, we have similar values. mass destruction, and we’ve also got to rec- In the end, the thing that binds nations ognize that he spent 14 years hiding weap- together more than anything else is the ons of mass destruction. I mean, he spent commonality of their values. And we have an entire decade making sure that inspec- a view of the world that puts freedom and tors would never find them. Iraq’s the size individual liberty, a belief in market out- of the State of California. It’s got tunnels, comes, where appropriate, at the center of caves, all kinds of complexes. We’ll find the activities of both our nations. them, and it’s just going to be a matter Mr. President, I’m very honored to be of time to do so. here. Janette and I have greatly enjoyed your hospitality. We wish you well. We re- Australia-U.S. Free Trade Agreement spect very much the leadership that you, Q. Mr. President, if I could ask, the personally, and your administration brings Prime Minister has also said that Aus- to the affairs of the world. We think the tralian-American ties have never been

423 May 3 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 stronger than at the moment. What impact goes on because, you know, more and more will that have on Congress when it con- people will come forward. It may not be siders an FTA for Australia? And what sort the Aces, Kings, and Queens, and Jacks of timeline are you thinking of for an FTA? that do the talking. It may be those who President Bush. Right. Well, I appreciate were doing the—carrying the water for the you asking that. I’m firmly committed to Aces, Kings, Queens, and Jacks that do the an FTA with Australia. I am hopeful that talking. the Congress feels the same way I feel. And we will learn a lot when the Iraqi We discussed the matter. I asked the people—as the Iraqi people continue to Prime Minister, are we making, from the come forth. And when we feel like sharing U.S. side, a strong enough effort to move the information with you, we will. It’s— the process along? Is Ambassador Zoellick you’ll probably learn it before I will in cer- doing what he’s supposed to be doing in tain cases. But what we’re going—the world terms of getting this trade agreement done? will find is, the man had a program to And the Prime Minister assured me that develop weapons of mass destruction, that was the case. And so that made me feel he had terrorist connections, and that he good. The idea is to try to get this thing was by far one of the most brutal dictators done by the end of the year and then, in the history of the world. of course, get it to our Congress in ’04. People in Australia and America can’t It’s—I believe we can get it done, and I imagine what—when John and I say how think it’s an important—will be an impor- brutal this guy is. This is a guy that cut tant step in our relationship. the tongues out of dissidents and let them Prime Minister Howard. Amen to that. bleed in town squares. That’s just—that’s Iraq’s 55 Most Wanted/Saddam Hussein’s beyond the imagination of the Australian Regime people to think that could possibly happen. It happened. And more and more people Q. Sir, you guys now have in custody will find out the nature of this regime as 18 of the 55 most wanted—— time goes on. I don’t know whether the President Bush. Yes. Aces will talk. I don’t know whether the Q. ——including several senior mem- Kings will talk. But many Iraqi citizens will bers, Tariq Aziz and others. What are you talk, and the more we learn, the more the learning about where Saddam might world will find out about the true nature be—— of the Iraqi regime. President Bush. Right. Q. ——what his status is, or also about weapons? Prime Minister Howard’s Visit President Bush. The question is about— Prime Minister Howard. Leigh. Leigh you know, we’ve captured 18 of the 55, Sales and ABC [Australian Broadcasting I think you said. And we’re still looking Corporation]. for Baghdad Bob, I want you to know. Q. President Bush, can you give us an [Laughter] Anyway—what are we learning? idea of the sorts of things that you and Well, we’re learning that, for example, that the Prime Minister did at the ranch last Tariq Aziz still doesn’t know how to tell night and this morning? And when do you the truth. He didn’t know how to tell the plan to visit Australia? truth when he was in office. He doesn’t President Bush. Yes, as soon as possible. know to tell the truth when he’s been— I don’t know what that means, though. So as a captive. it’s kind of what we—that’s called a And the—but we will find out a lot about ‘‘dodge.’’ [Laughter] I’d love to come to the nature of the Hussein regime as time Australia.

424 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 3

We—so I get out a coffee—of course, Minister wanted to go to bed early, because got Laura some coffee first thing in the I did too. [Laughter] And we had a great morning. And I look out my window, and visit. We’ll go and have a lunch—one more there’s the Prime Minister ready to go for tour of the ranch and have a lunch. The a stroll. So I hustled and got dressed, and one thing I regret is he didn’t go fishing we went for a good walk. And I’ll tell you with me yesterday afternoon. He wanted something, the guy—I’m a pretty good ath- a little rest, but I love having him here. lete—he walks a good clip. I was breathing I can’t tell you what a comfort it is to hard, and Barney was breathing harder. talk to him on the phone. He’s steady. You [Laughter] We had trouble keeping up with know, times get tough when you make him. tough decisions, and we both made a tough But one of my favorite things to do is decision, but there was never any doubt to show this place to friends. And so the in his mind. He was steady under fire. He Prime Minister and Mrs. Howard and stood his ground when he needed to stood Laura and I went—traveled the ranch. And his ground, because he understands the dif- I took him to my favorite spot, which is ference between right and wrong. And he this canyon, and there’s a waterfall. It knows the difference between slavery and rained a couple of days ago—actually last freedom. And I’m honored to call him night—so the water was moving pretty friend, and really am glad he’s here. good. And it’s just a special part of the Thank you all very much. Hope you ranch. enjoy your stay in this part of the world. We’ve got a lot of different variety of By the way, they tell me Australia and hardwood on this ranch. It’s hard to tell Texas, they’ve got a lot in common. Having it from this spot, but north of here, and— to watch this man perform, I agree. there’s a creek and intersection to a river, [Laughter] The biggest compliment you and there’s some just fantastic trees in can pay to somebody, at least in this part these bottoms. And John and I went and of the world, is you’re kind of like a Texan. spent some time down there. [Laughter] Thank you. We visited a lot about our mutual inter- Prime Minister Howard. Thank you. ests. He’s obviously very knowledgeable President Bush. Okay, Barney, come on. about a lot of the world. And we spent Quit showing off. [Laughter] a lot of time talking about Indonesia and the threats that emanate out of Indonesia NOTE: The President’s news conference and what the Australian Government is began at 11:17 a.m. at the Bush Ranch. In doing to work with the Indonesian Govern- his remarks, he referred to former President ment to make Australian people—and Saddam Hussein, former Information Min- America, for that matter—more secure. ister Muhammad Said Kazim al-Sahhaf We had a pretty good dinner last night— (Baghdad Bob), and former Deputy Prime a little beef. And fortunately, the Prime Minister Tariq Aziz of Iraq.

Statement on the Earthquake in Turkey’s Bingol Province May 3, 2003

I extend my condolences to those injured ince. I am particularly saddened by the and to the families of the victims of the number of children who were killed and recent earthquake in Turkey’s Bingol Prov- injured. The thoughts and prayers of the

425 May 3 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

American people are with those directly af- Turkish nation. The United States stands fected by this tragedy and with the entire ready to help in any way possible.

Remarks in Little Rock, Arkansas May 5, 2003

Thank you so very much. So I’m on my Because of their hard work and because way back from Crawford to Washington, of the bravery and skill of our military and and what the heck, I thought I’d stop into because of the bravery and skill of our coa- Arkansas. [Laughter] It’s great to be back lition, America is more secure; the world in Arkansas, a land full of really decent is more peaceful; and the Iraqi people are people. And it’s—as you know, I was hon- free. ored to be the Governor of the great State When I get back to Washington, Con- of Texas, and some of my best trips were gress has got important business to finish. into the State of Arkansas when I was down I want to talk about some of that business there. And I’m glad to be back. And thank here today. Four months ago, I sent the you all for coming. United States Congress a jobs-and-growth Before we begin, I do want to say how— package that would provide tax relief to I express my sincerest condolences to the American workers and families. victims of the tornadoes that ripped Last Friday, we got some troubling eco- through Arkansas and Kansas and Missouri, nomic news. The unemployment rate is Tennessee, Nebraska, and South Dakota. now at 6 percent. This news ought to serve Our prayers—and I hope your prayers— as a clear signal to the United States Con- are with those who—loved ones who lost gress that we need a bold economic recov- life or those who lost their home. The Fed- ery plan, so people in America who want eral Government—the local—State and to work can find a job. And part of a good local authorities need to know the Federal economic plan must understand the impor- Government will be moving as quickly as tance of small business. And that’s why I we possibly can to provide help where help went to a roundtable discussion that is needed and where help is justified. Na- Richard talked about, so I could hear from ture is awfully tough at times. And the best small-business owners and employees of thing we can do right now is to pray for small businesses, the entrepreneurs of those who have suffered. America that make this economy go. I had a good time on our ranch. One By far, the vast majority of new jobs of the guests that we had down there was in America are created by small-business the Prime Minister of Australia, John How- owners, so we spent time listening to small- ard, and his wife. The reason why we wel- business owners here in the State of Arkan- comed them there is because Australia is sas. And I want to thank you all very much an important ally of ours. Australia is a for sharing your stories and talking about strong friend of the United States of Amer- your hopes and your aspirations and your ica. The Australians fought beside our dreams for your companies. forces in Iraq. They were a part of our I also want to thank Hector Barreto, who coalition, a coalition that believes in peace is the Administrator of the Small Business and security, a coalition which believes Administration, for joining us here today. every person ought to be free. They rose Hector, I’m glad you’re here. You’re doing to their responsibilities as a free nation. a fine job of making sure the ownership

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society spreads its roots throughout all of the best way for America to be the land society in America, that the entrepreneurial of opportunity we want it to be, is for spirit is strong not only in traditional parts neighbor to love neighbor just like you’d of our society but for anybody who wants like to be loved yourself. It is that spirit to start their own business, they get a op- of community. portunity to do so here in America. And I want to thank you, David. I want to the SBA helps provide those opportunities thank you very much. I want to thank each for people. and every one of you who are helping I also want to thank your Lieutenant somebody in need in your community or Governor, Win Rockefeller, for joining us. in your neighborhood. It’s the millions of Win understands entrepreneurship—doing acts of kindness and generosity which de- a fine job as Lieutenant Governor of the fine the true spirit of the American experi- State of Arkansas, and I’m glad he’s here. ence. Congressman John Boozman is here This has been a time of testing for this from—he’s from the northern part of the country. It really has been. But I’m abso- State. Glad you all let him into Little Rock lutely confident we’ve got the strength to for this event, since he’s going to get on meet every test that’s put in our way. For Air Force One and fly back with me. But 20 months, we’ve been fighting a war I appreciate John. I appreciate his steady against terror. For 20 months, this Nation leadership. All he wants to do is talk about has been at war against people who hate Arkansas football when I’m around him. freedom, and they hate America because [Laughter] I thought so. [Laughter] of what we stand for. And we are winning I appreciate very much the mayor of Lit- that war against terror. tle Rock, Arkansas, being here. Mr. Mayor, We routed the Taliban in Afghanistan. thank you for coming. I’m honored you’re That was the Government that was so bar- here, and I want to—I appreciate the local baric and backwards, they wouldn’t let officials and the State officials who have young girls go to school. And now, thanks joined us as well. It’s my honor to be with to the United States of America and our you today. coalition, young girls go to school in Af- I also had the honor of meeting David ghanistan. Society is a better place because Shapiro. There’s David right there. David of the American troops. is a retired businessman who works for a Al Qaida is on the run. That group of program called SCORE, which is a volun- terrorists who attacked our country is slowly teer program that’s associated with the SBA but surely being decimated. Right now, to help match aspiring new businessowners about half of all the top Al Qaida operatives with experienced volunteer counselors who are either jailed or dead. In either case, can help the entrepreneur, the new entre- they’re not a problem anymore. And we’ll preneur, realize the opportunities and pit- stay on the hunt. To make sure America falls of owning your own business. is a secure country, the Al Qaida terrorists David’s spirit reminds me of the true have got to understand it doesn’t matter strength of the country. Oh, we’re a great how long it’s going to take, they will be military might—will remain that way, but brought to justice. our real might is our people. The real We’re doing a lot to secure our home- might of America is the heart of the Amer- land. We’ve got a lot of good people work- ican people, and so when somebody like ing hard to make sure the new Department David says, ‘‘Well, I’m going to help some- of Homeland Security works well. We’re body help themselves,’’ it reminds me of working with local officials in a much the true strength of our country. The best more—close manner. We’re working with way for America to be a hopeful place, State officials more closely. But the best

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way to secure America is to get the enemy in which—will be a—more likely a peaceful before they get us, and that’s exactly what’s partner in a troubled neighborhood. We’ll going to happen. stay to help the Iraqi form a government America is more secure as a result of of, by, and for the Iraqi people, and then the liberation of Iraq. Saddam Hussein is we’re coming home. no more. The terrorists can no longer find You see, here’s what America and Ameri- a source of funding in the Saddam Hussein cans believe, that freedom is not America’s regime. They won’t be able to find weapons gift to the world, that freedom is the Al- of mass destruction from Saddam Hussein mighty’s gift to each and every individual regime because that regime is gone forever. who lives in the world. I had the honor of being on the U.S.S. We have got challenges to make the Abraham Lincoln. It was an unusual ar- world more peaceful and America more se- rival—[laughter]—but it was such an honor cure, and we’ll meet the challenges. There’s to be with our sailors and pilots, people just no doubt in my mind. We’ve got chal- from all walks of life, all parts of our coun- lenges here at home, to make sure that try, that had been on a very long deploy- our economy is strong enough so people ment. Morale was high. Their spirits were can find work. The proposal I outlined 4 strong. They couldn’t wait to get home to months ago was designed to address spe- see their loved ones. I told them all in cific weaknesses in our economy and to my speech there on the deck, I said, ‘‘You remove obstacles that keep companies from wait and see what’s going to happen. Amer- hiring workers. Those obstacles still exist. ica welcomes you home. We’re proud of Congress needs to move. your service, and we’re proud of your bravery.’’ But let me take a step back, though, And for those of you with a loved one and tell you why I’m optimistic about our in our service, for those of you with a loved economic growth potential here in America. one overseas, I want to thank you very We’ve been through a lot. Just think what much for your sacrifices. When you talk we’ve been through. We’ve been through to them, tell them the Commander in a recession. The first three quarters of the Chief really appreciates the job they’re year 2001 were recessionary; they were doing. So do the Iraqi people, by the way. negative growth. We’ve been through an Not all our troops are coming home im- attack on America, an attack that affected mediately. We’ve got a job to do in Iraq. us—it just did. In a lot of ways it affected We’ve got to make sure the quality of life us. It certainly focused our resolve. But improves, and we’re working on that right it also affected our economy. now, the quality of life for all Iraqis. Got And then, just as we were recovering to make sure that the elements of the old from the attack, when we got on the offen- Ba’athist Party that still wants to create sive against the enemy, some of our citi- havoc there is brought to justice. We’ll do zens—it was revealed that some of our citi- that. We’re going to stay there to make zens forgot what it meant to be a respon- sure that the environment is such that a sible citizen, and they didn’t tell the truth democratic government emerges. to their employees and shareholders. There See, we believe that the Iraqi people are were corporate scandals which affected this plenty competent of running their own Nation. And by the way, they will be dealt Government. We believe that the habits of with as well. We passed a new law, the democracy and freedom are how you fight most important reforms—CEOs in America hatred in the world, that a free society is must understand, with certainty, there will one in which people have got positive aspi- be consequences if they’re not responsible rations for the future, a free society is one citizens. If they’re not responsible to their

428 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 5 employees and responsible to their share- do, it’s going to make it more likely some- holders, there will be consequences in body is going to find work. America. Capitalism must have honesty in The good news is that the debate has the boardrooms of American corporations. shifted from ‘‘no tax relief’’ to ‘‘how much We’ve just been through the uncertain- tax relief.’’ And I’ve got an idea. We need ties of war. There were just a lot of things robust tax relief. We don’t need a small affecting economic growth. But think about tax-relief package. We need a tax relief this: Interest rates are low, which helps the package that meets the needs of our work- home-buyer; inflation is low, which helps ers. We need a tax relief package that stim- those who—those on fixed incomes, for ex- ulates the entrepreneurial spirit. We need ample, that worry about high prices of the robust tax relief in order to make sure necessities in order to live. The housing those who are looking for work can find market is strong. The energy prices are de- a job. clining. There’s a lot of positives in our Now, let me tell you the ingredients of economy. the package that I’ve outlined. And I’d like The greatest strength in our economy is to—at the end of this, I’m going to ask the fact that we’re a productive nation. Pro- your help to maybe contact your elected ductivity of the American workforce just Representatives to let them know how you last year, for example, rose by 4.8 percent, feel, if you like this. First of all, one of the highest since 1950. When you hear the cornerstones of the tax policy is to somebody say that it’s a productive nation, speed up the tax relief which has already that means we’ve got the best workforce been passed. In the year 2001, we cut the in the world. That’s what that says to me. tax rates on everybody who pays taxes. Con- We have one of the strongest economies gress phased it in over a 5—3-, 5-, or 7- in the industrialized world. Things aren’t year period of time, phased that tax relief going as good as they can, but nevertheless, in. Well, we need the tax relief now. I we’re making progress. We’ve got some mean, the economy needs the stimulation positives on which we can build. But one today, not 3, 5, or 7 years from now. Con- of the problems with being a productive gress needs to accelerate the tax relief. economy is that a worker can—one worker We need an immediate reduction of the puts out—there’s better output per worker, marriage penalty. And we need the child let me put it to you that way. And there- credit—we need to increase the child credit fore, in order for the job market to in- from $600 per child to $1,000 per child, crease, you need to increase demand for retroactive to January 1st of this year. This goods and services. If one worker can plan would cut the taxes on 705,000 indi- produce more goods or more services than viduals and households in the State of Ar- before, you need more goods and services kansas. That’s how you stimulate demand. to be able to hire the additional worker. You let people keep more of their own In other words, we’ve got to have policy money. which stimulates demand. And the best way But the other thing that’s interesting to stimulate demand is to let people keep about this plan that’s important for the peo- more of their own money. ple of Arkansas and America to understand, Notice I said ‘‘keep more of their own when you cut individual income-tax rates, money.’’ The money we’re talking about in you help small business grow. And here Washington is not the Government’s is why: Most small businesses pay tax at money. It’s your money. The best way to the individual income-tax rate. Most small get this economy growing is to let you have businesses are taxed at the individual in- more of your own money so you can spend come-tax rates because they’re either a sole on a good or a service. And when you proprietorship, a limited partnership, or an

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S corp. Those entities pay individual in- raise the small-business-expense deduction come-tax rates. So when you’re talking from $25,000 a year to $75,000 a year. about cutting individual income tax, you’re We have the Petersons with us today. really talking about providing more capital They’re owners of a packaging company. for the small businesses of the State of They are a C corp. In other words, when Arkansas. you cut individual tax rates, they don’t get I just had the honor of talking to Maura a tax cut. However, when they buy equip- Lozano-Yancy. She is a small-business ment under this plan, they will get a tax owner here in the State of Arkansas. She relief—they’ll get tax relief. Pete says, ‘‘We specializes in serving the Spanish-speaking don’t mind spending money to make community. She has owned her business money, but you got to have money in the for 4 years. First of all, welcome to this first place.’’ That’s pretty sound economics. ownership society, Maura. One of the [Laughter] things that we want, we want more people But this plan, when they make invest- owning their own business or their own ment, would save them money over time. home. There’s nothing better than having It provides an incentive for them to invest. a society of owners helping to affect the Just like Richard Derickson, who is an S public policy in a positive way, by the way. corp. He not only gets to save money as Maura has been at it for 4 years. She a result of the income-tax rate—he and his knows that it is—it’s tough to make it as daddy started the business—his father start- a small-business owner. But she’s making ed the business in ’47. It’s a manufacturing it. How do I know? She’s got four full- company which makes panels for household time employees and nine part-time employ- appliances. Richard says he wants to ex- ees. She’s making it because not only is pand. He’s thinking about expanding. He her business thriving, but she’s employing wants to buy a sheet washer that would people. improve the company productivity. This And so we talked about this proposal plan would help him buy that. See, the which would save her more than $2,000 deal costs $250,000 to purchase one of on her taxes. You see, she’s a limited liabil- these. But if you can expense up to ity corporation, limited partnership, which $75,000, it makes it more likely somebody pays tax rates at the individual income-tax like Richard will make that investment. level. So when you’re reducing the indi- And I want you to know what happens vidual tax rates, you’re providing this entre- when somebody buys a piece of equipment. preneur with more money so that she can First, somebody has got to make the equip- either buy equipment or hire somebody ment. When somebody provides—when new—more money to invest. And it’s not there’s an incentive to go out and buy an just a one-time shot. We’re talking $2,000 extra piece of equipment, somebody is a year until we lower taxes again. I mean more likely to find work on an assembly we’re talking $2,000 a year out—in the outline which is making that equipment. And years. then he purchases the equipment; some- Here’s what Maura says—she says, ‘‘Buy- body has got to operate the equipment. ing equipment is something we always So we got a new employee there. And then wanted to do, but sometimes it gets put the company becomes more productive, back.’’ Two thousand dollars would make which means it’s more likely to have a bet- a difference in her calculations as to wheth- ter bottom line over time. And when you er or not she makes an investment. And have a better bottom line over time, it that’s what we want to encourage. We want means you’re likely to stay in business, so to encourage investment. That’s why the that the people you’ve hired today are plan I’ve submitted to the Congress will going to have work tomorrow.

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This proposal will save Richard $13,500 public policy. It makes sense to let the in taxes. Not only will he save 7,000 from seniors keep more of their own money by the increased expensing, but he’ll have getting rid of the double taxation of divi- $6,500 in his company treasury from cut- dends. ting the taxes. A while ago in the stock markets, it used My point to you is, is that the Richards to be kind of the bestselling tool to say, of the world, the Mauras of the world are ‘‘Invest in my company. I’ve got a pretty all making decisions about whether to ex- good story to tell.’’ I would call that the pand or not. They’re making decisions all pie-in-the-sky period of American invest- across America. Tax policy needs to encour- ment. ‘‘We may not have any cashflow,’’ age positive decisionmaking in the small- the owner of the company would say, ‘‘but business sector because small businesses I’ve got a great story. Go ahead and invest are the lifeblood for new employment. If with me.’’ And a lot of people did, and we’re interested in a healthy economy, any the market corrected, because good old- good plan has got to focus on small busi- fashioned economics eventually sets in. If ness, and the plan I submitted to Congress your out-go is greater than your in-flow, does just that. no matter how good your story is, you’re Gordon Whitbeck was telling me he bust. [Laughter] wants to buy an HBLC machine. I had A company which pays dividends says, to get him to explain it to me. [Laughter] ‘‘Invest in me. I’m going to pay a divi- He’s got his own laboratories. This piece dend.’’ In other words, there is no pie- of equipment will make his laboratories in-the-sky; dividends come out of cash. ‘‘In more competitive. He said he’s more likely order to earn your confidence, I’ll pay you to make that purchase when you increase a dividend on a regular basis.’’ And when expensing up to $75,000. the dividend is met, it is pretty clear the The Congress needs to hear from the company is achieving its objectives. If the people of Arkansas. Congress needs to hear company has to cut the dividend, it sends from the small-business owners all across a warning signal up to the investors. America and understand. And when they The best—a good—let me just say, a do, they must listen to the importance of good corporate reform will be conservative the small-business owner as well as to why accounting practices. If you get rid of the this plan is good for small-business growth double taxation of dividends, more compa- and job creation. nies are likely to pay dividends, as opposed As well, I’ve talked about the need to to relying upon pie-in-the-sky statements. treat our investors fairly. The Tax Code As well, we’ve got a lot of—I was talking ought to be fair, and it’s fair to tax cor- about the ownership society—a lot of peo- porate profits once. It is not fair to tax ple own stocks in America. Now, some of the owners of the corporate profits, the them directly—own their stock directly, and shareholders, again. That’s not fair. The some of them through their pension plans. double taxation of dividends is not fair. And But by getting rid of the double taxation I ask Congress to get rid of the double of dividends, a lot of economists talk about taxation of dividends. And let me explain what they call the ‘‘wealth effect,’’ that the some reasons why it makes sense to do markets will go up. This will help the that. American public at this point during our First of all, there are 62,000 seniors in economic history. The more people feel the State of Arkansas who pay taxes on they’ve got wealth in their portfolios, the dividend income. A lot of seniors rely upon more likely it is they’re willing to spend. their dividend income in order to live the And so getting rid of the double taxation out-years, their remaining years. It’s good of dividends will create an environment in

431 May 5 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 which capital moves more freely. As a mat- both sides of the equation, starting with ter of fact, getting rid of the double tax- the spending side. A Congress which over- ation of dividends will reduce the cost of spends is one which is not that concerned capital. It’s good economic policy to get about the deficit, evidently. rid of the double taxation of dividends. I mean, we need to set our priorities, Jim Davis is a fellow from right here fund those priorities, always remember in Arkansas. He owns his own insurance whose money we’re spending in Wash- company in Little Rock. He started 28 ington, DC, and keep in mind the deficit. years ago. He’s 65 years old, and he re- The surest way never to get out of deficit minded me right off the bat that he’s not is to overspend in Washington, DC. The retired. He said, ‘‘An entrepreneur never best way to deal with the deficit is to hold retires. Once you’ve got the entrepreneurial down discretionary spending to a reason- spirit, you never shake it.’’ able level. The budget I submitted to the And he was reminding me that by getting United States Congress says discretionary rid of the double taxation of dividends, he spending ought to be at 4 percent. That’s would save $5,700, money which, by the about as much as an average family’s in- way, that he would seriously consider put- come is expected to grow this year. If it’s ting back into his insurance company. He’d good enough for the average family, if 4 like to hire two additional employees. The percent is good enough for the average double taxation—getting rid of the double family, it’s darn sure good enough for the taxation of dividends would make it more United States Congress. likely two people would find work in Jim’s On the one hand, you control the spend- business. The package I outlined is fair. It addressing. On the other hand, you stimulate rev- es weaknesses in our economy. Congress enue growth. In order to offset any deficit, needs to move. They need to move boldly. you’ve got to have more revenues. The best We don’t need, as I mentioned the other way to have more revenues is to encourage day, a little bitty tax relief plan. We need economic growth. The more economic one that is strong and robust for the Amer- growth there is, the more people who are ican worker. working, the more likely it is you’re going You’ll hear them talking about the deficit to get more revenues into the Treasury of in Washington. I’m concerned about the the United States. I’m concerned about the deficit, but let me remind you about how deficit, but I’m first and foremost con- we got into deficit. We got into deficit be- cerned about that person looking for a job, cause the economy went into the recession, and so should the United States Congress is how we got into deficit. When the econ- be worried about people looking for work. omy slowed down, the revenues to the It’s time for them to move. The debate Treasury slowed down. When the market has started in Washington, DC. The mes- corrected, the revenues to the Treasury sage I hope you send is, the more tax relief, slowed down. That’s how you get into a the more work is going to be available for recession. You get less revenues coming in, your fellow citizens. I would hope you’d unless you’re willing to cut expenses. call the members of your congressional del- Secondly, we got a deficit because we egation to let them know what you think, committed—or I committed our troops into to let them know your opinion. combat. And I told the Congress, ‘‘I don’t Democracy can work, particularly when care how much we have to spend. When a lot of people get on the phone or by we put somebody in harm’s way, they de- e-mail and just let them know what’s on serve the best.’’ And so in order to deal your mind. You need to let them know with the deficit, you’ve got to deal with you’re concerned, just like the President’s

432 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 5 concerned about your fellow Arkansas cit- You see, we hold values dear to our izen who’s anxious to put food on the table heart. We believe in human dignity. We but can’t find a job. And remind them the believe every individual has worth. We be- best way to find a job—the best way to lieve in respect. We believe in tolerance. help somebody find a job is to stimulate But the thing we hold most dear to our the private sector, is to stimulate small- heart is we believe in the power of free- business growth, to let people keep more dom. of their own money. And you might just Thank you all for coming. May God bless remind them that we know whose money you all, and may God bless America. it is we’re talking about in Washington, DC. It’s the people’s money in the State of Ar- NOTE: The President spoke at 12:06 p.m. in kansas. the Music Hall at the Robinson Center. In And I want to thank you all for giving his remarks, he referred to Lt. Gov. Win me the chance to come by and say hello. Rockefeller of Arkansas; Mayor Jim Dailey It’s been an unbelievable experience to be of Little Rock; former President Saddam your President. It’s an unimaginable honor Hussein of Iraq; Maura Lozano-Yancy, to be the President of such a fabulous owner, Cross Cultural Development Group; country. I say ‘‘fabulous country’’ because Mary and Pete Peterson, owners, Arkansas there is no doubt in my mind we can Packaging Products, Inc.; Richard achieve anything we put our mind to. Derickson, owner, Hiwasse Manufacturing There’s no doubt in my mind that we can Co.; Gordon Whitbeck, chief executive offi- have a strong economy. And there’s no cer, Whitbeck Laboratories; and James doubt in my mind that the world is going Davis, owner, Davis Agency. The Office of to be more peaceful and more free because the Press Secretary also released a Spanish of the United States of America. language transcript of these remarks.

Statement on Senate Confirmation of Deborah L. Cook as a United States Court of Appeals Circuit Judge May 5, 2003

I commend the Senate for confirming nees who were also nominated on May 9, Deborah Cook to be a Judge on the U.S. 2001, Miguel Estrada and Priscilla Owen. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit. She Our justice system relies upon an inde- has served with distinction as an Ohio Su- pendent court system, and when there are preme Court justice and is known for her vacancies, the American people suffer. I integrity and outstanding legal ability. She again call on the Senate to put an end has led a distinguished legal career, and to the delays and to hold an up-or-down she will make a superb appellate court vote on all judicial nominees within a rea- judge. sonable amount of time, regardless of who Justice Cook was first nominated on May is President or which party controls the 9, 2001, and has waited nearly 2 years for Senate. a vote. Some in the Senate continue to engage in obstructionist tactics and are preventing votes on two very qualified nomi-

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Message on the Observance of Cinco de Mayo, 2003 May 5, 2003

I send greetings to those celebrating vibrant culture and deep commitment to Cinco de Mayo. faith, family, and community, Mexican Today, millions of people in Mexico and Americans have enriched our society and around the world honor the heritage of a contributed to the diversity that makes our proud people by remembering the heroic Nation strong. We also recognize the many Battle of Puebla. On May 5th, 1862, Mexi- Mexican Americans serving in our Armed co’s General Ignacio Zaragoza and his Forces who are working to bring freedom troops achieved a remarkable victory in the and justice to oppressed people. As we re- face of tremendous challenge and helped member our two countries’ shared history secure Mexico’s freedom. This example of and common values, we look forward to courage and sacrifice continues to inspire a future of continued friendship and pros- us today, as we are reminded that people perity. of every culture, of every race, and every Laura joins me in sending our best wish- background, yearn to be free. es for a memorable celebration. This observance also provides an oppor- GEORGE W. BUSH tunity for the United States to recognize the invaluable contributions of Mexican NOTE: An original was not available for Americans to our country. Through their verification of the content of this message.

Message on the Observance of National Foster Care Month, 2003 May 5, 2003

I send greetings to those celebrating Na- be separated from their families to protect tional Foster Care Month. their safety, this program supports efforts Children thrive in loving families where to correct the problem and reunite them they are nurtured, comforted, and pro- safely and quickly. The Promoting Safe and tected. For many children, foster parents Stable Families Program also supports provide a safe haven until they can return adoption and post-adoptive services to place home or be placed with an adoptive family. children with loving families, to ease a Across our Nation, approximately 570,000 child’s transition into a new family, and to children are living in foster care. During help ensure that families stay strong and this month, we honor foster and adoptive intact. And as teens leave the foster care parents, mentors, community organizations, system, the program authorizes States to and all individuals who embrace the lives provide Independent Living vouchers of up of young people in need. to $5,000 a year for education and voca- My Administration remains committed to tional training. strengthening American families by setting Every child in America deserves to live policies that encourage a secure today and in a safe, permanent, and loving family. a healthy tomorrow for children and fami- I commend foster parents for providing lies. Through the Promoting Safe and Sta- guidance and support to young people and ble Families Program, we are working to families in crisis. Your important work helps keep families together. When children must our children develop into confident and

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successful individuals and demonstrates the NOTE: An original was not available for compassionate spirit of our great Nation. verification of the content of this message. Laura joins me in sending our best wishes. GEORGE W. BUSH

Remarks to the Tax Relief Coalition May 6, 2003

Thank you all. Good to see you. Thanks as a clear signal to Members of the United for coming. Thank you all. Thanks for com- States Congress that we need a bold eco- ing. I heard you were in the neighbor- nomic recovery plan. Congress will hear hood—[laughter]—so I decided to drop by from me. Congress will hear from the Sec- and say hello. Thanks for your interest in retary. Congress needs to hear from you. your country. Thanks for your concern We need tax relief that creates the greatest about the future. Thanks for worrying number of jobs. The goal is to create a about somebody who is wondering whether million new jobs by the end of next year. he or she are going to be able to put food I’ve submitted a good, strong plan that will on the table, to find work. And that’s what help meet that goal. The United States we’re here to talk about. Congress must not only listen to your voice The Tax Relief Coalition is a broad but must listen to the voice of somebody group, united by the commitment to the looking for work. We need aggressive ac- spirit of risktaking. You understand that tion out of the United States Congress now. free enterprise makes this economy go. You I want to thank our Secretary of Treas- understand the role of Government is not ury, John Snow. He’s experienced. He’s ca- to create wealth but an environment in pable. He’s able. He just as—he could eas- which the entrepreneur can flourish. You ily have looked me in the eye and said, understand that our duty here in Wash- ‘‘No, I don’t want to serve my country. ington is to set pro-growth policies in place I think I’m kind of happy where I am in that reward and respect Americans who the private sector.’’ But no, he said, ‘‘Mr. work hard and take risks. That’s what you President, I want to serve the country.’’ understand. And our country is better off because John I appreciate your understanding, and I’m Snow said yes. Mr. Secretary, thank you. glad you’re here because you’re here at just I want to thank my friend Dirk Van the right time. [Laughter] You see, Con- Dongen, who’s been a tireless advocate for gress is now considering what to do. Con- policies that help people looking for work. gress is debating the package. They’re try- He’s the president of the Tax Relief Coali- ing to figure out what course to take. And tion. I want to thank all the members of I’m glad you’re bringing your voices to the the Tax Relief Coalition who are here, who Halls of Congress and can be a loud voice, have joined us, who realize that democracy as both the Secretary and I understand, can work if you work at it. And I appreciate and that’s going to be important in the you coming. Halls of Congress. [Laughter] I want to thank Tom Donohue, who is Last Friday, we received some troubling the president and CEO of the Chamber, economic news. The unemployment rate is for lending this fantastic hall and this beau- now at 6 percent. The news ought to serve tiful building for—lending us this for the

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purposes of making a statement to the And here at home, we have responsibil- country about our mutual desire to help ities. As we press forward on national secu- people find a job. rity, we must promote job security here I want to thank all the entrepreneurs in America. Our goal is a vibrant and grow- who are with us today, the risktakers, the— ing economy—that’s our goal—in which the really, truly the engine of growth for the entrepreneur can find new opportunities, American economy. We’ve got the Brindley in which every person who wants to work boys here from Vienna, Virginia. I’m going can find a job. That’s the stated goal of to say something about them a little later this administration. It’s, I know, a goal that on. They started what they call Jammin’ you share as well. Java. [Laughter] The good news is, Jammin’ The American economy has faced one Java is succeeding. I had a chance to visit challenge after another over the past sev- with them before we came in, as I did eral years. The stock markets peaked in with the Rickards as well, who have got early 2000. The economy began to slow their own business. I’m going to say some- in the summer of that year. In early 2001, thing about them a little later on. our economy was in recession. And then The reason I point them out is, there we got attacked by the terrorists, and that are people in this audience who own their affected our capacity to grow. And we’ve own business, who are part of the owner- endured the uncertainty of war. We’ve seen ship society in America, who are creating failures in corporate responsibility across new jobs. So, for all the entrepreneurs who America. Unfortunately, some of our citi- are here with us and all across America, zens forgot what it means to be a respon- thank you—thank you for working hard to sible citizen of this country. They didn’t realize your dreams. tell the truth. They didn’t tell the truth America is a strong and confident nation, to their employees and their shareholders. and those qualities are seeing us through They self-enriched at the expense of small some challenging times. For nearly 20 investors and public interests. In every case, months, we have waged a relentless cam- we’ve taken action to confront these chal- paign against global terror. For 20 months, lenges. we have done what the American people Our economy is growing. We’ve got expect, and that is to hunt down the killers, many strengths in our economy. First, the one at a time, so that America is more economy is growing because interest rates secure. We are winning the war on terror. are low. I mean, I want you to know that And as a part of the war against terror, in spite of all the hurdles and the chal- we removed Saddam Hussein from power lenges we faced, we’re still growing faster in Iraq. Thanks to the skill and courage than nearly all the industrialized countries. of our military and other coalition forces, And interest rate—low interest rates help America is more secure, the world is more because it helps Americans buy a home peaceful, and the Iraqi people are now or refinance or remodel a home. And that free. helps. That helps create employment op- We will continue to meet our responsibil- portunity. Inflation is low, and that helps. ities to secure America. We will continue Energy prices are now falling. That’s like to dismantle the Al Qaida network. We will tax relief on a daily basis when you go continue to promote the peace. We will to the pumps. continue to promote freedom, because we We’ve got two great strengths even bet- know a free society is one that is more ter than the statistics I just cited: One, the likely to be a peaceful society. We assumed entrepreneurial spirit is strong; and sec- those responsibilities. We’ll follow through ondly, we’ve got the best workers in the on our responsibilities. world in America. Last year, productivity

436 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 6 growth in America was about 4.8 percent. That’s the right answer, and that’s the pack- That’s the best annual increase since 1950. age I submitted to the United States Con- When you’re talking about productivity ingress. creases, you’re really talking about tech- The good news is, many in this room nology and, more importantly, the human have already been through the tax relief capacity of the workforce. Our workers are exercise in recent history. Many of you in great, the best in the world. this room were involved in the spring of But even with the strengths I just out- 2001 to convince Congress to pass tax re- lined, it’s important for Members of Con- lief. And it’s a good thing you were ingress to hear from you that we’ve got more volved, and it’s a good thing they did, be- work to do, that there’s unmet potential cause the tax relief helped make the 2001 in this economy. It’s not growing fast recession one of the shortest and shallowest enough. In spite of the strengths, there’s in American history. still people looking for work, and we’ve got The issue we now face results from the to do more. And that’s the message I want fact that Congress phased in tax relief over you to take to the Halls of the United 10 years. In other words, they passed tax States Congress. relief, but it was going to be incremental. This isn’t the first time I’ve been talking My proposal would get the tax relief into about this subject. [Laughter] Four months effect this year. Our motto is this: If tax ago, I sent a jobs-and-growth package to relief is good for Americans years from the Congress. That was 4 months ago. And now, it is even better when the American we’ve seen some progress since then, and economy needs it today. that’s good news. First of all, both parties in both Houses of Congress now recognize Instead of lowering all tax rates little by that tax relief helps create jobs. little, the Congress needs to do it all at That’s important, that both Houses un- once and needs to do it now. Instead of derstand that when somebody keeps more gradually reducing the marriage penalty, we money, they’re likely to demand a good should do it now. Instead of slowly raising or a service, when they have more of their the child credit from $600 to $1,000, we own money to spend. By the way, when ought to do it now. And we should send you’re up there, remind them something the extra $400 per child to American fami- that you and I know is true: The money lies this year. we talk about in Washington, DC, is not You’ll hear all kinds of rhetoric about the Government’s money; it is the people’s how this plan is not fair. Well, let me just money. describe to you what it means to the family And so, the debate is not if there is of four making $40,000 a year. It means going to be tax relief; the debate now is their taxes would go from $1,178 a year how much tax relief. And when they ask to $45 a year. That’s what that means. That you, ‘‘How much do you think, citizen?’’ sounds fair to me. And it will sound really what you ought to say is, ‘‘Enough to make fair to the family making $40,000 a year. sure that we create a million new jobs by You see, that’s $1,000 not just one year, the end of 2004.’’ That’s the definition of but for every year. It’s $1,000 of that fam- the right amount. ily’s own money coming back into their per- The definition of the right amount is not sonal treasury, so they get to decide what some theory—is based upon theory. It’s to do with the money. They get to decide based upon the practical application of tax whether to save for a college tuition. They cuts, and it ought to be based in human get to decide whether to prepare for retire- terms. The right answer for how big the ment. They get to decide how to make tax cut ought to be is a million new jobs. their family stronger with their own money.

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It’s also important for your message to appreciate not only the courage, but I ap- understand—it’s important for your mes- preciate this, that they have gone from 5 sage to understand that this tax relief will employees to 25 employees. help 23 million small businesses create new Here’s what Luke says. Luke says, ‘‘Buy- jobs. Any good tax relief plan must under- ing equipment is something we need to stand the role of the small business in do in order to grow the business, in order American economy. to stay up with competition. Any break we This plan says loud and clear to the Con- get obviously encourages us to hire more gress: We understand the role of the entre- people and buy equipment.’’ In other preneur; we understand most new jobs are words, tax relief will be used by the created by small-business owners. And this Brindleys to buy new equipment. And plan directly affects small business, because when they buy new equipment, it means most small businesses pay taxes at the indi- their workforce becomes more productive. vidual tax rates. You know why? Because It means they can compete better in the they’re either a sole proprietorship or a lim- marketplace. It also means that somebody ited partnership or a Subchapter S corpora- has got to make that equipment. And when tion. All three of those entities pay tax at somebody makes the equipment, somebody the individual tax rates. So when we reduce is finding work. In other words, good tax individual tax rates, we help the bottom policy ripples throughout our economy. line of every mom-and-pop business in And Randy and Harriet Rickard are with America. When we accelerate the tax rate us. I cite these examples because Congress reduction, it really means we’re putting must understand that behind the numbers capital into the treasuries of the small busi- is just people that are taking risk for the nesses all across America. More capital means more investment. More investment sake of creating jobs. The Rickards are means more jobs. If Congress is interested here. They started their own business 3 in job creation, if you want to join us in years ago. It’s a home remodeling business. creating a million new jobs, cut the tax Randy runs a tight ship. He’s got four em- rates on the small businesses all across the ployees, and he’s one of them. He com- country. prises 25 percent of his workforce. [Laugh- Our Tax Code should also support small- ter] But that’s the nature of most small business owners who want to invest in the businesses, people who are working hard, future. So today, a small business can de- people who are expanding, people who are duct $25,000 for investment in new equip- providing a good or a service. ment. The proposal that you’re advocating This proposal that we’ve proposed will there in the Halls of Congress, the proposal save him nearly $2,400 every year. That’s I have submitted, says that we would triple enough to help pay health insurance for the amount of expensing in new equipment employees, or it’s enough to add a new from $25,000 to $75,000 per year and index truck, to make sure his business is competi- that to inflation. tive. He says anything is helpful. ‘‘If the I mentioned the Brindley boys were with economy does well, I do well.’’ Well, us today, from Vienna. They—let me talk Randy, this plan is all aimed at making about—they help define the entrepre- sure the economy does well, so you can neurial spirit in America. They started their do well. And when you do well, somebody business right after September the 11th, is going to work. That’s the whole basis 2001. Those are confident people. [Laugh- of the plan. ter] Those are people that said, ‘‘We’re not The jobs-and-growth plan would encour- going to allow a terrorist attack to diminish age investment by ending the double tax- our dreams to have our own business.’’ I ation on dividends. Taxing profits at the

438 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 6 corporate level is fair. That’s fair. Some- will help 400,000 people find work by the body makes a profit, that profit ought to end of next year. be taxed. However, when the profits get The House of Representatives is consid- distributed to the shareholders and it gets ering a proposal that would include all the taxed again, that’s unfair. It’s counter- elements of the growth plan which I just productive. Ending the practice makes the described to you. It would also significantly Tax Code fair. It makes it fair especially reduce the double taxation on dividends. for our seniors, who receive more than half It’s a positive step. And they’re making of all taxable dividend income. progress. I’m going to continue to work Economists say that this move will boost with both the House and the Senate, with the stock market. That’s what the econo- the goal of making sure as many people mists say—not all but a lot of the smart can find work as possible. But the more ones say that. [Laughter] In other words, the Members of Congress hear from you, there’s a wealth effect that will take place. the more likely it is that this plan is going An increasing stock market means a lot for to pass. many of our fellow citizens, because we What you need to do is tell them what are becoming an ownership society. Many tax relief will do for our country; if you people own stocks directly. Many people own your company, how much it will help own stocks through their pension plans. your company grow, how many jobs that Many people will be directly affected by you’ll be able to create with tax relief. an increasing stock market. And so getting That’s what you need to tell them. rid of the double taxation of dividends will You’ll also hear talk about the deficit. help an ownership society realize more And yes, we’ve got a deficit because we wealth. Getting rid of the double taxation went through a recession. You see, a reces- of dividends will be good corporate reform. sion means you get less money coming into We went through a period where people your treasury. When the economy goes said, ‘‘Invest in my company because I hap- down, there’s less tax revenues coming to pen to have a good story. I may not have the Treasury. any cashflow, but I’ve got a good tale to Secondly, we’ve got a deficit because tell.’’ [Laughter] The problem—the new ec- we’re at war. And one thing is for certain onomics sometimes overlooked old account- about this Commander in Chief: We will ing. And that is, when you run out of cash, spend whatever is necessary to win the war. it doesn’t matter what the story is like. We owe it to every soldier in the American [Laughter] A dividend-paying society is one military to make sure they’ve got the best that says, ‘‘I’ve got a good story, and oh, pay, best equipment, best possible training. by the way, part of my story is I’m going We owe it to the families of the military to distribute, on a regular basis, cash out to make sure that they’re as well protected of my treasury in the form of a dividend.’’ as possible. So our expenditures went up Getting rid of the double taxation of divi- because of the emergency in war and reve- dends will be good corporate reform. It nues went down. That’s the ingredients for will make our balance sheets more reliable. what they call a deficit. It will be better for small investors. It will And there’s two ways to deal with that also help create new jobs. We estimate that deficit, in my judgment. One is to hold 400,000 new jobs will be created when we the line on spending. I submitted a bill get rid of the double taxation of dividends. to the—I submitted a budget to the United So when you hear people say the proposal States Congress which holds the discre- only helps, you know, a certain investor tionary spending to 4 percent. That’s a rea- class, they’re not telling the whole story. sonable level. We, of course, will work with Ending the double taxation of dividends Congress to make sure they stick to that

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budget—control spending on the one hand, to work can’t find a job, and that’s why and on the other hand, in order to get we’ve put policies out there that promote rid of the deficit, you boost revenues com- growth and economic vitality. But we not ing into the Treasury by encouraging eco- only believe in the dignity of every Amer- nomic growth and vitality. ican; we believe in the dignity of every I’m concerned about the deficit but not person. See, we believe that freedom is the as concerned about the deficit as I am Almighty God’s gift to each and every per- about people trying to find work. I’m more son on this—who lives on this globe. That’s worried about the person looking for work. what we believe. And therefore, we’ve got a plan that is ro- You’re representing the best of a free bust and strong, that encourages economic society. The willingness to speak out really vitality and growth, so our fellow citizen does speak to the great freedoms of Amer- can get to work and get to work soon. ica, and we hold those freedoms dear. We You all can make a difference in this believe in freedom not only for our own debate. Not only the people present in this people, but we believe in freedom for those room can make a difference, but people who are enslaved. We believe so strongly who are listening across the country can in freedom that we’re willing sometimes to make a difference. That’s why they’ve got take risk for not only our own freedoms e-mails—[laughter]—or telephones or, in but the freedoms of others. That’s the great some cases, buses. People on the Hill are thing about our country. We’re a strong responsive to the voice of their fellow citi- country. We’re a confident country, but zens. we’re also a compassionate country that be- So thanks for coming, to be a part of lieves in values and principles that will en- a process that distinguishes—that really dis- dure the test of time. tinguishes us in many ways from many Thank you for coming to Washington to parts of the world, a process in which the exercise your freedom. May God bless you citizen can make a difference, part of the all, and may God bless America. process that says democracy is by far the fairest way for people to live. And that’s NOTE: The President spoke at 10:31 a.m. in what we believe. the Hall of Flags at the U.S. Chamber of We believe strongly in certain principles. Commerce. In his remarks, he referred to We believe in the dignity of every single Luke and Daniel Brindley, owners, Jammin’ human being. That’s why we want to make Java; and former President Saddam Hussein sure—that’s why we care when we hear of Iraq. The Office of the Press Secretary somebody can’t find a work. That’s why also released a Spanish language transcript we grieve when a fellow citizen who wants of these remarks.

Remarks on the Appointment of L. Paul Bremer III as Presidential Envoy to Iraq and an Exchange With Reporters May 6, 2003

The President. Today it’s my honor to man of enormous experience, a person who announce that Jerry Bremer has agreed to knows how to get things done. He’s a can- become the Presidential Envoy to Iraq. In do type person. He shares the same values selecting Jerry Bremer, our country will be as the American—most Americans share, sending one of our best citizens. He’s a and that is our deep desire to have an

440 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 6 orderly country in Iraq that is free and that the size of the tax package will depend at peace, where the average citizen has a on them, and the bigger the package, the chance to achieve his or her dreams. more likely it is that people are going to The Ambassador goes with the full bless- find a job here. ings of this administration and the full con- Randy [Randall Mikkelsen, Reuters]. fidence of all of us in this administration Q. Mr. President, following up briefly on that he can get the job done. Scott’s [Scott Lindlaw, Associated Press] So, Mr. Ambassador, thanks for taking question, will fiscal discipline be as high this on. I’m proud of you, and I appreciate on the qualification list for Mitch Daniels’ so very much you’re willing to sacrifice not successor as it was when he entered office? only on behalf of our country but on behalf The President. First of all, fiscal dis- of the people of Iraq who deserve a free cipline was high on my agenda. And there- and democratic society. Good luck to you. fore, anybody that works for me will place Ambassador Bremer. Thank you, Mr. a premium on fiscal discipline. It turns out President. that the—that appropriators love to appro- The President. I’ll answer some ques- priate here in Washington. Given a pot of tions. money, they will appropriate it, unless Yes. there’s an administration willing to fight on Resignation of Office of Management and behalf of the taxpayers. This administration Budget Director Mitchell Daniels, Jr. is willing to fight on behalf of the taxpayers. We will insist upon fiscal discipline here Q. Mr. President, how did Mitch Daniels in Washington, DC. explain his resignation today? And does that Angle [Jim Angle, FOX News]. departure affect your prospects for a tax package on the Hill? Iraqi Weapons Lab The President. Mitch told me that he Q. Mr. President, Defense officials are wants to go back home to the State of now saying they are confident they have Indiana and perhaps pursue a run for polit- found a mobile biological lab, exactly what ical office. I told him, I said, ‘‘Mitch, we’re Secretary Powell described before the going to miss you a lot in this administra- United Nations. Are you aware of the de- tion.’’ He has served us well. He has been tails? What can you tell us about that? And a really good watchdog of the taxpayers’ has Secretary Rumsfeld given you any de- money. And you know, I’m going to miss tails? him. On the other hand, this administra- The President. I’m not surprised if we tion’s loss is the gain of the people of Indi- begin to uncover the weapons program of ana. Saddam Hussein because he had a weapons And we’re going to get a tax package program. I will leave the details of your through because it’s the right thing to do, question to the experts, but one thing we and I hope Congress acts decisively and know is that he had a weapons program. boldly. I put up a package that will increase We also know he spent years trying to hide the number of new jobs by a million folks the weapons program. And over time, the at the end of 2004. And I expect them truth will come out and the American peo- to understand, there’s a lot of people look- ple will see that when we rid Saddam Hus- ing for work, and the burden is on them sein from—got him out of power, we made right now. And we’re going to send a lot America more secure. of people up there from around the country, and we’ll be sending our own folks NOTE: The President spoke at 1:19 p.m. in here in the administration to work with the Oval Office at the White House, fol- Members of the Congress to remind them lowing a meeting with Secretary of Defense

441 May 6 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Donald H. Rumsfeld. In his remarks, he re- also released a Spanish language transcript ferred to former President Saddam Hussein of these remarks. of Iraq. The Office of the Press Secretary

Remarks at the Signing Ceremony for the United States-Singapore Free Trade Agreement May 6, 2003

Thank you. Good afternoon, and wel- America supports free trade because it come to the White House. I’m honored creates new opportunities for millions of to host Prime Minister Goh as we sign people, new wealth for entire nations, and an historic free trade agreement between benefits that are widely shared. NAFTA the United States and Singapore. and the Uruguay Round, for example, show Our two countries have a proud history us what free trade can accomplish. They’ve of friendship and cooperation. We’re work- created more choices and lower prices for ing together to meet the threats of a new consumers, raising living standards for a era, and we share a belief in the power typical American family of four by at least of free enterprise and free trade to improve $2,000 a year. Free trade has a direct ben- lives. The U.S.-Singapore Free Trade efit for our citizens. Agreement marks a crucial step forward for In NAFTA’s first 6 years, more than half both our countries. And with the approval of Mexico’s new manufacturing jobs were of the Congress, this agreement will help connected to trade. Trade helps people in generate well-paying jobs and opportunities our neighborhood. It helps people find for people in Singapore and in the United work. A prosperous neighborhood is in the States. interest of the United States of America. The Prime Minister is a man with whom Trade helps people emerge from poverty. I enjoy good conversations. He’s got good Trade helps people realize their hopes and advice, and I’m proud to call him friend. ambitions. Trade is an important part of I appreciate so very much our—members improving the lives of people around the of my Cabinet who are here: the Secretary of State; Secretary of Commerce; Trade globe. Minister Robert Zoellick, Ambassador And that’s why this administration strong- Zoellick. I want to thank very much the ly stands for free trade. From the first days Singaporean delegation for coming. Ma- of this administration, we have been work- dame Ambassador, it’s good to see you ing to extend the benefits of trade to every again. I appreciate our Ambassador, Frank region of the world. We’re a leader in the Lavin, for being here, and I appreciate his negotiations of the WTO. We’ve advanced service to our country. bold proposals to open up global markets. I’m so grateful for the Members of Con- We seek to build on the success of NAFTA gress for being here. Thank you all for with the Free Trade Area of the Americas. coming—strong free-traders, people who We’re also encouraging the free flow of believe in the possibility of trade, in the trade and investment in the Pacific, among hope of trade. I want to thank members our partners in APEC and ASEAN. Amer- of our business community who are here. ica has implemented a free trade agree- Mr. Prime Minister, you’ve drawn quite a ment with Jordan, our first ever with an crowd. [Laughter] Arab nation. And we’re finalizing our pact

442 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 6 with Chile. Similar negotiations are under- agreement, and I’m sure they will. Singa- way with Australia, Morocco, and five na- pore is a nation that is small in size but tions in the Central American region. And large in influence. With this agreement, soon we’ll beginning negotiations with the Singapore becomes an even more valued Southern African Customs Union to bring economic partner of the United States. new opportunities to a part of the world Mr. Prime Minister, your nation has also where the need is great. been a vital and steadfast friend in the fight The agreement that the Prime Minister against global terror. Singapore has made and I sign today is the first of its kind determined and successful efforts to break between the United States and an Asian- up terror plots before they can take inno- Pacific country. The 4 million people of cent lives. Singapore have built a strong and vibrant As a member of the U.N. Security Coun- economy. Singapore has long set an exam- cil, Singapore worked hard to secure the ple for its neighbors in the world of the passage of Resolution 1441, requiring Iraq transforming power of economic freedom to live up to its international obligations. and open markets. Singapore is already And now with Iraq’s liberation, Singapore America’s 12th-largest trading partner and will send police and health care workers buys a full range of American products, to help with Iraq’s reconstruction. everything from machine parts and com- Mr. Prime Minister, I appreciate your puters to agricultural products. nation’s contribution as we overcome great This free trade agreement will increase dangers and defend the peace. I’m grateful access to Singapore’s dynamic markets for as well for your commitment to a world American exporters, service providers, and that trades in freedom and for all the hard investors. The agreement contains state-of- work on both sides that have made this the-art protections for Internet commerce agreement possible. We take great pride and intellectual property that will help in the strong relationship between our drive growth and innovation in our dynamic countries. technology sectors. Welcome to Washington, Mr. Prime The agreement also safeguards the right Minister. of workers and protections for our environment. It’s a modern agreement. And it’s NOTE: The President spoke at 3:10 p.m. in a good agreement for both countries. By the East Room at the White House. In his granting free trade—by granting trade pro- remarks, he referred to Chan Heng Chee, motion authority last year, Congress showed Singapore’s Ambassador to the United support for an agenda of free and open States. The transcript released by the Office trade. And I want to thank them for that. of the Press Secretary also included the re- I hope the Congress will act in this same marks of Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong of spirit and quickly give final approval to this Singapore.

Joint Statement Between the United States of America and Singapore May 6, 2003

President George W. Bush and Prime tality of the bilateral relationship between Minister Goh Chok Tong today signed the the United States and Singapore. U.S.-Singapore Free Trade Agreement In the signing ceremony and in their (FTA) and celebrated the strength and vi- Oval Office meeting, the two leaders

443 May 6 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 expressed conviction that the FTA, the first noted that enhanced cooperation among ever between the United States and an ASEAN nations and international coopera- Asian nation, would enhance mutual pros- tion with the region has helped disrupt ter- perity and reinforce the strategic partner- ror plots and led to the apprehension of ship between the two nations. The two members of the Jemaah Islamiyah terrorist leaders expressed hope that the FTA would network. They welcomed recent arrests in be a catalyst for trade liberalization and Indonesia and the exceptional progress enhanced growth in the region and beyond. made in the investigation of the October In this regard, the President and the Prime 2002 Bali bombings. However, the Presi- Minister reaffirmed their commitment to dent and the Prime Minister agreed that achieving a successful outcome at the the war against terrorism in Southeast Asia World Trade Organization’s Doha Develop- is far from over. The two leaders pledged ment Agenda trade negotiations. The Presi- to redouble their efforts to work with other dent also reaffirmed his commitment to the leaders in the region and through multilat- Enterprise for ASEAN Initiative (EAI), eral organizations, including ASEAN and which he launched at APEC in 2002 with APEC, to defeat terrorism. They also re- Leaders from the Association of Southeast affirmed their commitment to work with Asian Nations (ASEAN). The EAI sets other states in Asia to achieve the com- forth a roadmap to promote increased in- plete, verifiable, and irreversible elimi- vestment, economic growth, and free trade nation of North Korea’s nuclear weapons between the United States and ASEAN program. countries. President Bush and Prime Minister Goh The President and the Prime Minister agreed that the U.S.-Singapore security discussed the global health threat posed by partnership has helped foster stability in Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Asia. The President also thanked Singapore (SARS). President Bush commended Singa- for its leadership beyond the region, includ- pore for its quick, decisive, and transparent ing as a key member of the Coalition on response to SARS and expressed con- Iraq. Singapore supported the U.S.-led coa- fidence that Singapore’s efforts to prevent lition to disarm Iraq out of a belief that the spread of the disease would succeed. the world must send a strong message of President Bush also welcomed Prime Min- deterrence to other regimes and terrorist ister Goh’s leadership in initiating the Spe- networks that might be looking to use cial ASEAN Leaders Meeting and ASEAN- weapons of mass destruction. Prime Min- China Leaders Meeting on SARS held in ister Goh welcomed the successful conclu- Bangkok on April 29, 2003. Given Amer- sion of combat operations in Iraq, and the ican leadership in the biomedical field and two leaders agreed to cooperate closely to Singapore’s advanced research facilities, deliver the humanitarian assistance and President Bush and Prime Minister Goh services necessary to help the people of agreed that the two countries should ex- Iraq build a stable, prosperous, and demo- plore prospects for collaborative efforts to cratic state. In that regard, the President understand new health threats which put welcomed Singapore’s offer to dispatch a the world community at risk, including medical team, police personnel, and techni- tropical diseases and biological warfare cians to help rebuild Iraq. agents. The two leaders tasked their respec- President Bush and Prime Minister Goh tive health and medical experts to begin reviewed recent developments in Southeast consultations on possible joint projects. Asia. President Bush praised Singapore’s ef- The warm discussion between the Presi- forts to respond to the challenge of ter- dent and the Prime Minister and the sign- rorism in Southeast Asia. The two leaders ing of the U.S.-Singapore FTA strengthens

444 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 7 their personal friendship and the partner- NOTE: An original was not available for ship between their two nations. The good- verification of the content of this joint state- will generated today will be valuable in ment. moving forward on their common agendas.

Message to the Congress on Terminating the National Emergency With Respect to UNITA May 6, 2003

To the Congress of the United States: to the Angolan government. In September Pursuant to section 202 of the Inter- 2002, the Angolan government and UNITA national Emergency Economic Powers Act, reestablished the Lusaka Protocol’s Joint 50 U.S.C. 1622, I hereby report that I have Commission to resolve outstanding political issued an Executive Order (the ‘‘Order’’), issues. On November 21, 2002, the Angolan that terminates the national emergency de- government and UNITA declared the pro- scribed and declared in Executive Order visions of the Lusaka Protocol fully imple- 12865 of September 26, 1993, with respect mented and called for the lifting of sanc- to the actions and policies of the National tions on UNITA imposed by the United Union for the Total Independence of An- Nations Security Council. gola (UNITA) and revokes that order, Ex- With the successful implementation of ecutive Order 13069 of December 12, the Lusaka Protocol and the demilitariza- 1997, and Executive Order 13098 of August tion of UNITA, the circumstances that led 18, 1998. to the declaration of a national emergency The Order will have the effect of lifting on September 26, 1993, have been re- the sanctions imposed on UNITA in Execu- solved. The actions and policies of UNITA tive Orders 12865, 13069, and 13098. no longer pose an unusual and extraor- These trade and financial sanctions were dinary threat to the foreign policy of the imposed to support international efforts to United States. United Nations Security force UNITA to abandon armed conflict Council Resolution 1448 (2002) lifted the and return to the peace process outlined measures imposed pursuant to prior U.N. in the Lusaka Protocol, as reflected in Security Council resolutions related to United Nations Security Council Resolu- UNITA. The continuation of sanctions im- tions 864 (1993), 1127 (1997), and 1173 posed by Executive Orders 12865, 13069, (1998). and 13098 would have a prejudicial effect The death of UNITA leader Jonas on the development of UNITA as an oppo- Savimbi in February 2002 enabled the An- sition political party, and therefore, on de- golan government and UNITA to sign the mocratization in Angola. For these reasons, Luena Memorandum of Understanding on I have determined that it is necessary to April 4, 2002. This agreement established terminate the national emergency with rean immediate cease-fire and called for spect to UNITA and to lift the sanctions UNITA’s return to the peace process laid that have been used to apply economic out in the 1994 Lusaka Protocol. In accord- pressure on UNITA. ance therewith, UNITA quartered all its I am enclosing a copy of the Executive military personnel in established reception Order I have issued. This Order is effective areas and handed its remaining arms over

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at 12:01 a.m. eastern daylight time on May NOTE: This message was released by the Of- 7, 2003. fice of the Press Secretary on May 7. The Executive order of May 6 is listed in Appen- GEORGE W. BUSH dix D at the end of this volume. The White House, May 6, 2003.

The President’s News Conference With President Jose Maria Aznar of Spain May 7, 2003

President Bush. Welcome. It’s also my the Iraqi people, and I thank you for that honor to welcome an important friend of help. America, President Jose Maria Aznar. I Today I moved to ease sanctions imposed welcome you back to the Casa Blanca. It’s by the United States against Iraq’s old Gov- good to see you again. ernment. First, based on the authority re- Jose Maria is a man of principle and cently given to me by Congress, I am sus- a man of courage. Under his leadership, pending the Iraq Sanctions Act, which re- Spain has been a strong partner in the war stricts the export of certain equipment nec- against terror and has stood with a coalition essary for Iraq’s reconstruction. to liberate the people of Iraq. He believes Secondly, I am directing Treasury Sec- in freedom, freedom for all. retary Snow to relax administrative sanc- Together, Spain and America will con- tions on American companies and citizens tinue to meet the responsibilities of free conducting business in Iraq that contributes nations for the peace and security of the to humanitarian relief and reconstruction. world. Soon, at the U.N. Security Council, the We last met in March at the Atlantic Summit in the Azores. The 8 weeks since United States, Great Britain, and Spain will have been a momentous chapter in the his- introduce a new resolution to lift the sanc- tory of freedom. We liberated the people tions imposed by the United Nations. The of Iraq from a brutal dictatorship. We regime that the sanctions were directed brought greater security to people of all against no longer rules Iraq. And no coun- nations. try in good conscience can support using I want to thank the President for Spain’s sanctions to hold back the hopes of the diplomatic support before the conflict and Iraqi people. for the use of Spanish airspace and bases Across the globe, Spain and America will as the war grew closer. I also offer my continue as strong allies in the war against condolences to the family and friends of terror. Today the United States took steps the two members of the Spanish media to cut off financing for the Batasuna organi- who lost their lives while covering the hos- zation, because of its ties to the ETA. We tilities. believe that the people of Spain, like every- Both Spain and the United States are where, have a right to live free from terror. committed to a stable, democratic, and We’ll also work for a better world beyond peaceful future for the people of Iraq. the war on terror. We are committed to Spain has shown that commitment by send- expanding trade, which builds prosperity on ing medical and engineering units to help

446 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 7 both sides of the Atlantic. We’ll work to- and on shared values, on many things— gether to address global poverty and the given one clear example, the most serious terrible diseases such as HIV/AIDS. risk, perhaps, to us all, terrorism. But this Spain and the United States will stand relationship is based on firm belief in on the side of people everywhere who are shared values and in principles that we de- striving for greater freedom, tolerance, and fend and that we proclaim and that we opportunity. We are determined to help assume. build peace between the Israelis and the And it’s also based on something that Palestinians. Last week’s confirmation of is very important, in that commitments are Abu Mazen and his cabinet permitted the met. And that’s something these days is release of the roadmap for peace, devel- worth remembering, and that’s the value oped with Russia, the European Union, and of giving your word. When you give your the United Nations. Spain and the United word and you keep it, then that gives rise States are determined to take advantage of to trust and that, in turn, friendship. And this moment of opportunity for peace. I’m that, I believe, is what serious countries grateful for the wise counsel and for the and serious governments must do. friendship of Jose Maria Aznar. With regard to Iraq, that we’ve spoken Bienvenidos. about, I very much appreciate all the infor- President Aznar. Good afternoon, every- mation that the President shared with me. one. I would, firstly, like to thank President Well, we’ve done, very simply, very nor- George Bush and thank him because of mally, what we had to do. But today, we his kind invitation. And I want to thank confront the future with optimism from a the President personally because, upon his founded hope for the Iraqi people in free- initiative, the U.S. Government has taken dom. Having won freedom for the Iraqis an extremely important decision in the is the best hope we can sow for Iraq’s antiterrorist struggle by illegalizing future. And we want a democratic Iraq in Batasuna, that has supported—considering which the Iraqis may decide their own fu- it a terrorist organization, as part of the ture, they can be—have their own future terrorist organization that has made so in their own hands, and naturally, that they many victims in Spain. can live in freedom. I want to recall here in the White House That is something that Spain is com- precisely that in July 2001—that is to say, mitted to, to Iraq’s reconstruction. And we before 9/11—President Bush committed will, naturally, cosponsor with our friends himself very firmly in Madrid to solve and and partners, the United States, Great Brit- help to fight terrorism. So we’re speaking ain, the new resolution that the Security of deep convictions that unite us. Council may take on sanctions. So I want you all to know that President Yesterday, I told Secretary-General Kofi Bush has scrupulously met his commitment. Annan that sanctions had to be lifted. And And today, in a very fundamental support I believe it should be done as quickly as in the struggle against terrorism, and I, as possible, because they’ve lost their reason President of the Government of Spain, as to exist. And with that resolution we will a Spaniard and as a friend, would like to also be meeting one of the commitments thank him most especially. of the Azores, and that is defining the cen- The second thing I wanted to say is that tral role of the United Nations in the proc- the relationship between Spain and the ess. United States is extremely solid, strong. It’s One last consideration regarding the firm, and we want it to be that way not Middle East, Israelis, Palestinians, the start- only now but also in the future. And I ing out of the roadmap is the expression think that it is based on a shared vision of a firm political commitment of all of

447 May 7 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 us and the expression of President Bush’s Council. And it’s all about the Iraqi people, firm political commitment. That opens up so I hope we’re successful. possibilities—because after the situation in Iraq, now many possibilities opened up— Death of Spanish Journalists in Iraq but it also opens up responsibilities. Every- Q. Well, President Bush, you have ex- one has to meet their responsibilities, and pressed your condolences because of the we very highly value the steps taken by death of the two Spanish journalists in Iraq. the Palestinian Authority. We wish Abu My question would be, do you think this Mazen success. And we will actively co- was a mistake, firing against the Palestine operate so as to sow the relationship be- Hotel, under which fire Jose Couso died? tween Israelis and Palestinians with coexist- And if so, would you apologize, do you ence, peace, and hope. think it’s necessary to apologize before the Thank you very much, Mr. President. Spanish Government and the family of President Bush. Dos preguntas por lado. these journalists? Tom [Tom Raum, Associated Press]. President Bush. I think war is a dangerous place, and I think that nobody U.S. Action on Iraqi Reconstruction would kill a journalist intentionally. Q. Thank you, Mr. President. How are President Aznar. Well, the U.S. Govern- you doing in getting a resolution put to- ment has already said that this was a mis- gether to win the support of some of the take, and we believe this. I am truly, fully critics on the Security Council, namely Rus- convinced that no one would intentionally sia and France? And is the United States fire against innocent victims, and in this prepared to ignore the sanctions if the June case, the journalists who died. And that’s 3d deadline comes and it’s necessary? all; that’s it. The President has often ex- And to Mr. President Aznar, what will pressed the pain that this produces and his you be able to do to help win the speedy condolences because of this. And I think vote you talked about? And do you find that’s clear enough. that public opinion at home is making it President Bush. Steven [Steve Holland, harder for you to make such a case? Reuters]. President Bush. You want to translate? He managed to violate a rule. He asked President’s Visit to the U.S.S. Abraham two questions instead of one question. But Lincoln that’s okay. He’s been around a long time. Q. Mr. President, do you have any reac- Yes, listen, we have—we discussed the res- tion to Senator Byrd’s criticism of your air- olution today. We believe there is a mood craft carrier landing? to work together to achieve a resolution President Bush. Exactly—the fact that it that will expedite the reconstruction of was on the fourth hook? Iraq. The read from at least our diplomats Q. I guess that’s it. No, I think the words at the United Nations is that the kind of— were ‘‘flamboyant showmanship.’’ the atmosphere that existed prior to the President Bush. Yes. No, listen, it was war has changed and that people now want an honor for me to go on the U.S.S. Abra- to work together for the good of the Iraqi ham Lincoln. I appreciate the chance to people. I think Jose Maria shares that senti- thank our troops. It was an unbelievably ment. positive experience. And not only was I President Aznar. Absolutely. I hope it’s able to thank our troops; I was able to true. For our part, the position I’ve main- speak to the country and talk about not tained is a clear one, and everyone needs only their courage but the courage of a to contribute to it within the Security lot of other men and women who wear

448 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 8 our country’s uniform. I’m glad I did it. President Bush. Thank you all. It was also a really good landing. U.S. Relations With Chile and Mexico Q. The criticism is that—the criticism NOTE: The President’s news conference was made of Chile and Mexico that they began at 5:58 p.m. in the Cross Hall at the would not support the resolution in the White House. In his remarks, he referred to U.N. Security Council, the war against Iraq. Prime Minister Mahmoud Abbas (Abu What is your opinion of this? Mazen) of the Palestinian Authority. Presi- President Bush. They’re friends of ours, dent Aznar referred to Secretary-General period. We’ve got great relations with Mex- Kofi Annan of the United Nations. President ico, and we’ll continue to have great rela- Aznar spoke in Spanish, and his remarks tions with Mexico. We’ve got an important were translated by an interpreter. The Office free trade agreement with Chile that we’re of the Press Secretary also released a Spanish going to move forward with. language transcript of this news conference. President Aznar. For my part, I have to The Presidential determination suspending say that in addition to being our friends, the Iraq Sanctions Act is listed in Appendix they’re family. D at the end of this volume.

Remarks Prior to Discussions With Amir Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani of Qatar and an Exchange With Reporters May 8, 2003

President Bush. It’s my honor to wel- tion for me to come and meet with him come the Amir of Qatar to the Oval Office. here at the White House. We in Qatar The Amir has shown great leadership. He are very keen to have a very unique and has led his country to join in a vast coali- strong and distinct relationship with the tion to make the world more peaceful, to United States, a relationship that it is trans- make the world more free. parent. Mr. Amir, you made some promises to Our military relationship is very good. America, and you kept your promises. We are very committed with the United We’re honored to call you friend. We ap- States regarding every agreement that we preciate your steadfast support. have signed to fulfill our part. The Amir also has served as a strong We are also so grateful for the United example of what is possible in his part of States, because it is helping Qatar in the the world. He is a reformer. He’s promoted areas of education and economics and eco- a new constitution which allows women to nomic development. And in Qatar we wel- vote. He’s promoted women into his cabi- come all American corporations who are willing to come and invest in Qatar. net. He is a strong leader. He believes President Bush. Thank you, sir. Keil strongly in education; an educated populace [Richard Keil, Bloomberg News]. is one more likely to realize their dreams. So, Your Highness, it’s such an honor Iranian Nuclear Weapons Program to have you here, and I welcome you, and Q. Mr. President, there are reports this I want to thank you for your friendship. morning that Iran may be pursuing or ac- Amir Hamad. I would like to thank the celerating its pursuit of nuclear weapons. President very much for his gracious invita- Is this of a concern to you, particularly

449 May 8 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 as you are also trying to deal with a similar President Bush. Well, first of all, the situation in North Korea? question is, will the Congress respond in President Bush. Well, I’ve always ex- a bold enough way to help people who pressed my concerns, that of the Iranians are looking for work find a job? That’s the may be developing a nuclear program. I fundamental question Congress ought to have done so publicly. I have done so pri- ask. vately. As you may recall, I expressed those Q. What do you think of this com- concerns to Vladimir Putin when I went promise—— to Russia. And as I understand, the IAEA President Bush. And I continually remind is coming out with a report in June, and people that I want something strong we’ll wait and see what it says. enough so people can work. And I will But one of the things we must do is continue reminding Congress that they work together to stop the proliferation of have a responsibility to listen to the voices weapons of mass destruction. It is a major of those who are unemployed. I certainly issue that faces the world, and it’s an issue have heard those voices, and you’ll see me in which the United States will still lead. next week continuing to take that message Stretch—you’re not Stretch [Bill out to the country. Sammon, Washington Times]. Holland [Steve Holland, Reuters] and the last question. Women in Combat Q. Mr. President, I know you support Secretary Powell’s Upcoming Visit to the our women in the military, but sometimes Middle East/Roadmap for Peace female prisoners of war are treated worse Q. Secretary Powell is going to the Mid- than males. Is it time to review the Clin- dle East this weekend. Are you seeing any ton-era rule change that puts women into progress at all on the roadmap? The vio- combat situations? lence seems to be going—— President Bush. I will take guidance from President Bush. That was supposed to the United States military; our commanders be a dramatic announcement for my speech will make those decisions. I will tell you tomorrow at the University of South Caro- this: When I was on the U.S.S. Abraham lina: I hereby send Secretary Powell to the Lincoln, I met two women pilots. I would Middle East. It doesn’t sound like it’s that have just have been happy to have one dramatic anymore. [Laughter] You’ve of those pilots fly me on that carrier as jumped the gun on me. the guy, as ‘‘Loose’’ flew me on the carrier. Q. Sorry, sir. [Laughter] But in terms of whether or not, you President Bush. That’s all right. It’s your know, the configuration of our force and job. That’s your job. who ought to be fighting where, that’s Q. Have you seen any—— going to be up to the generals. That’s how President Bush. Yes, of course we’re we run our business here in the White going to make progress. Yes, we’ll make House. We set the strategy, and we rely progress, absolutely. And the reason why upon our military to make the judgments we’ll make progress is that the Palestinian necessary to achieve the strategy. Authority has now got a leader in the Prime Scott [Scott Lindlaw, Associated Press]. Minister who has renounced violence. And he said he wants to work with us to make Tax Cut on Dividends the area more secure. He understands what Q. Mr. President, can you live with a we know, that a peace process will proceed scaled-back tax cut on dividends the Senate if and when there is a concerted effort is talking about now? to fight violence.

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So one of the things I’ll be talking to Thank you all. Very good work, Holland. His Highness about—who, by the way, is very active in this process—is how do we NOTE: The President spoke at 11:56 a.m. in work with the Arab world to encourage the the Oval Office at the White House. In his Arab world to assume its responsibilities of remarks, he referred to President Vladimir stopping the funding of terror and to work- Putin of Russia; Comdr. John P. ‘‘Loose’’ ing with the Palestinian Authority to en- Lussier, USN, executive officer, VS–35, courage the habits of democracy and free- Naval Air Station North Island, CA; and dom with the Palestinian Authority. Prime Minister Mahmoud Abbas (Abu So I’m very optimistic. That’s why I’m Mazen) of the Palestinian Authority. Amir sending Secretary Powell there—a secret Hamad spoke in Arabic, and his remarks which is no longer a secret. [Laughter] were translated by an interpreter.

Remarks Honoring Central European Nations on Their Upcoming Admission to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization May 8, 2003

Thank you all very much, and welcome I want to thank the Members of the to the White House. We’re glad you’re United States Senate who have joined us here. Interestingly enough, it was here, 58 here today. I appreciate Majority Leader years ago today, that President Harry Tru- Bill Frist of Tennessee for coming. I par- man announced the end of the war in Eu- ticularly want to thank Chairman Dick rope. And the people of America and Eu- Lugar and ranking member Joe Biden for rope celebrated that victory together. their strong leadership in getting the Senate This year on V–E Day we mark another to vote unanimously for the admission of kind of victory in Europe. Just hours ago, these nations into NATO. Great job, Sen- the United States Senate voted unani- ators. mously to support NATO admission for I also am honored to welcome George Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Roma- Voinovich, the Senator from Ohio and, nia, Slovakia, and Slovenia. These heroic more importantly, Janet Voinovich, his wife—[laughter]—and Senator Carl Levin nations have survived tyranny. They have from Michigan. Welcome. I’m glad you all won their liberty and earned their place are here, and thanks for coming. among free nations. America has always I want to welcome the chairmen and considered them friends, and we will always chairwomen of the Parliamentary foreign be proud to call them allies. affairs committees who are here. I appre- I appreciate the Foreign Ministers of the ciate the Ambassadors from our current NATO nations—or the nations who will and future allied nations who are joining soon be joining NATO—who are with us us today. I want to thank General Richard today. We just had a great discussion in Myers for joining us today, the Chairman the Roosevelt Room in the White House of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. And I want complex. to thank all of our distinguished guests for I appreciate so very much the Secretary coming. of State, Colin Powell, who has been a The defeat of Nazi Germany brought an strong and tireless advocate for the expan- end to the armed conflict in Europe, but sion of NATO. that victory did not bring true peace and

451 May 8 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 unity to the Continent. For millions, tyr- the terrorists, and to bring freedom to the anny remained in a different uniform. The Afghan people. freedom of Bulgaria and Romania and Slo- In the battle of Iraq, Central and Eastern vakia and Slovenia was subverted by Com- European countries have stood with Amer- munist dictators. And Estonia, Latvia, and ica and our coalition to end a grave threat Lithuania were wiped off the map as inde- to peace and to rid Iraq of a brutal, brutal pendent countries. regime. The peoples of Bulgaria, Estonia, As the Iron Curtain fell across Europe Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, Slovakia, and and walls and barbed wire were raised, the Slovenia have a fresh memory of tyranny. free nations of Europe and the United And they know the consequences of com- States gathered their will and courage and placency in the face of danger. formed the greatest alliance of liberty. Time and again, they have demonstrated Through 40 winters of cold war, NATO their desire and ability to defend freedom defended the security of the western world against its enemies. They have proven and held in trust the ideal of freedom for themselves to be allies by their action, and all the peoples of Europe. now it is time to make them allies by trea- This division, this great standoff, did not ty. end in military conflict. It ended when the This morning’s vote in the Senate brings peoples of Central and Eastern Europe that day closer. I urge all the current mem- took history into their own hands and took bers of NATO to welcome these new mem- back their rights and their freedom. bers as quickly as possible. These nations From that moment, it was clear that the will make NATO stronger, and we need old lines dividing Europe between East and that strength for all the work that lies West, the lines of Yalta, were entirely irrel- ahead. We must continue to fight global evant to the future. terror and strongly oppose the proliferation Nearly 2 years ago, in Warsaw, I urged of weapons of mass destruction. the enlargement of NATO to all of Eu- NATO itself must develop new military rope’s democracies, from the Baltic to the capabilities to meet the emerging dangers Black Sea and all that lie between, so that of a new era. We must help the people peoples in those countries would have the of the Balkans to become full partners in same chance for security and freedom en- the progress of Europe. We welcome the joyed by Europe’s older democracies. commitment of Albania, Croatia, and Mac- I called upon all the NATO Allies to edonia to the values and principles of renew our mission and to meet the great NATO. And we will help them as they challenges and opportunities of the world move forward with reform. beyond Europe. And these challenges ar- We have work ahead in bringing order rived quickly. Following the terrorist attacks and security to Iraq, so the Iraqi people of September the 11th, NATO invoked its can build the institutions of freedom and commitment to the collective defense for provide an example of democracy to other the first time in its history. Arab nations. And just as NATO has stood Our friends in Central and Eastern Eu- for the freedom of all of Europe, we must rope responded as well, providing resources stand with people everywhere who strive of law enforcement and intelligence to help for greater freedom and tolerance and de- break up terrorist cells, to disrupt terrorist velopment and health and opportunity, in- plots, and to cut off terrorist funding. cluding those in the Middle East and Afri- In the battle of Afghanistan, nations from ca. Central and Eastern Europe supplied sol- This day was a long time in coming, yet diers and special forces and peacekeepers there was never any doubt. Through dec- to help defeat the Taliban, to help destroy ades of crisis and division, Europe’s peoples

452 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 8 shared with people everywhere the same NOTE: The President spoke at 3:38 p.m. in need and hope for freedom. This hope the East Room at the White House. In his overcame the designs of tyrants, and this remarks, he referred to Foreign Minister Sol- hope overcame the tragedies of war. omon Pasi of Bulgaria; Foreign Minister The nations of Central and Eastern Eu- Kristiina Ojuland of Estonia; Foreign Min- rope are one of history’s great examples ister Sandra Kalniete of Latvia; Foreign Min- of the power and appeal of liberty. And ister Antanas Valionis of Lithuania; Foreign we believe that example will be followed Minister Mircea Dan Geoana of Romania; and multiplied throughout the world. Foreign Minister Eduard Kukan of Slovakia; Thank you all for coming. May God bless and Foreign Minister Dimitrij Rupel of Slo- your nations. venia. The Office of the Press Secretary also released a Spanish language transcript of these remarks.

Statement on the Death of Walter Sisulu May 8, 2003

I was saddened to hear of the death of free man and to see his vision become a Walter Sisulu in South Africa on May 6, reality. He leaves a legacy of courage and 2003. Walter Sisulu was a man of great conviction for South Africans and all of us moral and strategic vision who committed who share his belief in the equality of all his life to leading the struggle to end apart- people. heid rule in South Africa. Sisulu was a man On behalf of the American people, I ex- of principle and humility whose pursuit of tend our deepest sympathies to Mrs. an inclusive, multiracial South Africa never Albertina Sisulu, the Sisulu family, and the wavered through the 25 years of his impris- people of South Africa. onment. Walter Sisulu lived to become a

Statement on Senate Action To Block Votes on the Nominations of Miguel A. Estrada and Priscilla Owen To Be United States Court of Appeals Circuit Judges May 8, 2003

Miguel Estrada and Priscilla Owen have ters. These partisan obstructionist tactics been waiting 2 years for an up-or-down are unprecedented, unacceptable, and in- vote in the Senate. Both of these nominees consistent with the Senate’s constitutional are of the highest integrity and character responsibility. with tremendous legal experience. Both Because of the Senate’s failure to hold have been unanimously rated ‘‘well-quali- timely votes, the number of judicial vacan- fied’’ by the American Bar Association. cies has become unacceptably high. When Each has the support of a majority of Sen- the Federal courts are understaffed, they ators, yet votes on their nominations are cannot act in a timely manner to resolve being blocked by a minority of Senators disputes that affect the lives and liberties who are engaged in simultaneous filibus- of Americans.

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Mr. Estrada and Justice Owen represent In recent days, many Senators of both the mainstream of American law and Amer- parties have rightly spoken out about the ican values, possess extraordinary experi- broken confirmation process and reiterated ence and integrity, and have strong bipar- the need for the Senate to ensure timely tisan support from those who know them consideration of judicial nominees. I appre- best. They will be outstanding circuit ciate their call for the Senate to fulfill its judges once they receive a vote and are constitutional responsibility and hold up-or- confirmed. down votes on all judicial nominees within a reasonable time after nomination.

Remarks on the Judicial Confirmation Process May 9, 2003

Thank you all very much. Please be seat- Texas, to come up here and serve our ed. Thanks. Thanks a lot for coming. country. I also want to thank the Attorney Thanks for the warm welcome. Welcome General for serving our country as well. to the White House and the Rose Garden. He is doing a fabulous job for our Nation, I’m pleased all of you could be here to and we wish him a happiest 60th birthday stand for a truly independent Federal judi- today. ciary. The Framers of the Constitution I’m so pleased the leaders of the United knew that freedom and justice depend on States Senate are here. Bill Frist is ably fair and impartial judges. To ensure judges leading the United States Senate. Thank of the highest quality, integrity, they de- you for coming, Senator. I want to thank signed a system in which the President Senator Orrin Hatch for being here as well. would nominate judges and the Senate The chairman is going to lead the efforts would vote up or down on the nominees. to reform our process. And Mr. Chairman, Today, we are facing a crisis in the Sen- I support your work to make sure we in- ate and, therefore, a crisis in our judiciary. crease judicial pay across the United States. Highly qualified judicial nominees are wait- Thank you for your leadership. ing years to get an up-or-down vote from I’m also grateful that Senators Cornyn the United States Senate. They wait for from Texas, Dole, and Graham of South years while partisans search in vain for rea- Carolina, Mitch McConnell, Zell Miller, sons to reject them. The obstructionist tac- and Arlen Specter are with us. These folks tics of a small group of Senators are setting represent the best of the United States a pattern that threatens judicial independ- Senate, and thank you for coming. ence. Meanwhile, vacancies on the bench I appreciate the fact that members of and overcrowded court dockets are causing John Ashcroft’s staff from the Justice De- delays for citizens seeking justice. The judi- partment are here, in particular Larry cial confirmation process is broken, and it Thompson, Bobby McCallum, and Ted must be fixed for the good of the country. Olson. Thank you all for your good work Every person nominated to the Federal and service. bench deserves a timely vote. I know we’ve got a lot of distinguished I want to appreciate Al Gonzales’ intro- lawyers who are here. A.P. Carlton is the duction. I appreciate his good, sound legal president of the American Bar Association. advice. He’s been my friend for a long A.P., I appreciate you coming and lending time. I’m really pleased he left Austin, your efforts to make sure that the system

454 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 9 works on behalf of the American people. parties, and he has support from a majority Duard Bradshaw, who’s the president of in the United States Senate. the Hispanic National Bar Association, is Yet, after 2 years, he still cannot get an here as well. Welcome to you both. Thank up-or-down vote on the floor of the Senate. you for your concern. And welcome to all. A group of Democratic Senators has in- Exactly 2 years ago, I announced my first sisted that Mr. Estrada answer questions 11 nominees to the Federal appeals court. that other nominees were not required to I chose men and women of talent and in- answer. These Senators have sought con- tegrity, highly qualified nominees who rep- fidential Justice Department memos not resent the mainstream of American law and sought for other appeal court nominees— American values. Eight of them waited a request opposed by all living former So- more than a year without an up-or-down licitor Generals because of the damage it vote in the United States Senate. As of would do to our legal system. These Sen- today, three of that original group have ators have also filibustered for 3 months waited 2 years. Their treatment by a group to prevent a vote on Miguel Estrada’s nom- of Senators is a disgrace. ination. Never before has there been a suc- Overall, I have sent to the Senate 42 cessful filibuster to prevent an up-or-down superb nominees for Federal courts of ap- vote on an appeals court nominee. This peal. Eighteen of them are still waiting for is an unprecedented tactic that threatens a vote in the Senate, and 8 of those 18 judicial independence and adds to the va- have been waiting more than a year. More cancy crisis in our courts, and it is wrong. appeals court nominees have had to wait Justice Priscilla Owen, whom I have over a year for a hearing in my Presidency nominated to the Fifth Circuit Court of than in the last 50 years combined. This Appeals, also has the support of the major- is not just business as usual. This is an ity of United States Senators. And she too abnegation * of constitutional responsibility, has become the target of a filibuster. Jus- and it is hurting our country. tice Owen is an extraordinarily well-quali- As President, I have the constitutional fied nominee who has served with distinc- responsibility to nominate excellent judges, tion on the Texas Supreme Court since and I take that responsibility seriously. The 1995. Like Miguel Estrada, she has earned men and women I have nominated are an the American Bar Association’s unanimous historically diverse group whose character rating of ‘‘well-qualified.’’ She has strong and credentials are impeccable. bipartisan support, including endorsements This group includes Miguel Estrada, my from three Democrats who served with her selection for the DC Circuit Court of Ap- on the Texas Supreme Court and endorse- peals. Miguel Estrada has served in the Jus- ments from 15 past presidents of the Texas tice Department under Presidents from bar. Yet, Justice Owen has been waiting both political parties. He has argued 15 2 years—2 years—for an up-or-down vote cases before the U.S. Supreme Court. He on the Senate floor. has earned the American Bar Association’s The list goes on. And the trend is clear: highest mark, a unanimous rating of ‘‘well- Of the 18 appeals court nominees awaiting qualified.’’ If confirmed, Miguel would be a vote, all who have been rated by the the first Hispanic American ever to serve American Bar Association have received on the court that is often considered the ‘‘well-qualified’’ or ‘‘qualified’’ ratings. Some second highest in the land. Miguel Democratic Senators have referred to those Estrada’s nomination has strong support ratings as the gold standard. But those from citizens and leaders in both political same Senators have ignored those high marks and instead of applying the gold * White House correction. standard, have applied a double standard

455 May 9 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 to some of my nominees. The Senate has States Senate. Here’s how it works: Judges a constitutional responsibility to hold an upon the Federal appellate and district courts or-down vote. would notify the President of their inten- Throughout most of our history, the Sen- tions to retire at least a year in advance ate has exercised this responsibility and whenever that is possible. The President voted promptly on judicial nominees. Dur- would then submit a nomination to the ing the administration of former Presidents U.S. Senate within 180 days of receiving Bush and Clinton, however, too many ap- notice of a vacancy or intended retirement. peals court nominees never received votes. The Senate Judiciary Committee would And today the situation is worse than ever, hold a hearing within 90 days of receiving making the need for reform greater than a nomination. And the full Senate would ever. vote on a nominee no longer than 180 days While Senators stall and hold on to old after the nomination is submitted. The goal grudges, American justice is suffering. is to have a new judge ready to take the Dockets are overcrowded, judges are over- bench on the same day the sitting judge worked, and citizens are waiting too long retires. for their cases to be heard. The regional Since I announced this plan, the Judicial appeals courts have a 12-percent vacancy Conference has done its part by strongly rate, and filings in those courts have urging judges to give a one-year advance reached an all-time high again last year. notice of retirement. I’ve done my part The Sixth Circuit, which covers Ohio and with an Executive order issued today for- Michigan and Kentucky and Tennessee, has malizing my commitment to submit nomi- 4 vacancies on a 16-judge court. The DC nations within 180 days after notification Circuit has 3 vacancies on a 12-judge court. of a vacancy. And now we’re waiting for Of the 18 open seats that could be filled the Senate to do its duty and ensure timely by the nominees waiting for Senate con- up-or-down votes for every single nominee. firmation, 15 have been classified as judicial Majority Leader Frist and Judiciary emergencies by the Judicial Conference of Chairman Hatch are pushing hard for the United States. The American Bar Asso- progress on this issue. They are reformers. ciation has called this an emergency situa- And I thank you for your hard work. U.S. tion. And the Chief Justice recently said Senator Arlen Specter and U.S. Senator that these vacancies and rising caseloads Zell Miller have proposed reforms to fix threaten the proper functioning of Federal the problem. And I thank you for your courts and asked the Senate to give every leadership. I’m very pleased that 10 fresh- nominee a prompt up-or-down vote. men Senators of both parties have come The bitterness and partisanship that have together to demand the return of dignity taken over the judicial confirmation process and civility to the process. As newcomers, also threatened judicial independence. they see the futility of endless bickering Some Senators have tried to force nomi- that blocks good judges from the bench. nees to take positions on controversial Under the leadership of John Cornyn issues before they even take the bench. and Democrat Mark Pryor, these Senators This is contrary to the constitutional design sent a letter to the Senate leadership last of a separate and independent judicial week. And this is what it said: ‘‘None of branch. us were parties to any of the reported past Six months ago, I proposed a plan to offenses, whether real or perceived. None end the vacancy crisis and make the proc- of us believe that the ill will of the past ess work again. This plan would apply no should dictate the terms and direction of matter who lives in the White House or the future. Each of us firmly believes the no matter which party controls the United United States Senate needs a fresh start.’’

456 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 9

I completely agree, and so do the Amer- the day when a good nominee gets a vote, ican people. I believe a fresh start is pos- up or down, in timely fashion on the floor sible. And we will stand with these Senators of the United States Senate. to bring needed reform on behalf of the Thank you all for coming, and God bless. American people. And I ask for your help. Thank you all for coming. I ask for your help to make sure our judiciary functions in a way that will make the NOTE: The President spoke at 10:30 a.m. in people proud. I ask for your help in talking the Rose Garden at the White House. In his to Senators as we convince them that ob- remarks, he referred to Counsel to the Presi- structionist policies harm the American dent Alberto R. Gonzales. The Executive people. It hurts the justice system that order on facilitating the administration of jus- makes us the envy of the world. I know tice in the Federal courts is listed in Appen- we can move forward. I look forward to dix D at the end of this volume.

Commencement Address at the University of South Carolina in Columbia, South Carolina May 9, 2003

Thank you all very much. Thank you all. He said, ‘‘We’re honored to have the Presi- President Sorensen and Governor Sanford, dent speaking with us today. It’s almost members of the South Carolina congres- as good as last year when Lou Holtz was sional delegation and State officials, mem- the speaker.’’ [Laughter] bers of the faculty, trustees, the families, Today marks a great achievement for this distinguished guests, and members of the graduating class. You’ve put your talents to Class 2003, thank you for the warm wel- good use; you’re seeing the rewards of your come to this great State and to this fine hard work. Congratulations to each one of university. I’m honored to be with you on you. graduation day as you all become proud I also congratulate the men and women alumni of the University of South Carolina. who gave their best to this and every class, I work every day with a distinguished the fine professors of the University of graduate of USC, and I brought him along South Carolina. And I join the graduates this afternoon, White House Chief of Staff in thanking the people whose love and sac- Andrew Card of the Class of 1971. rifice made this day possible, the parents Andy is a superb public servant and an honorable man. His loyalty to this univer- of the graduates of the Class of 2003. sity runs deep, and sometimes he gets car- Forty-six years ago, Senator John F. Ken- ried away. [Laughter] I don’t mind the nedy came to this campus to address the chicken finger Wednesdays at the White graduating class of 1957. He spoke of the House. [Laughter] I don’t even mind his great problems of that time, including, he shag dancing in the West Wing. [Laughter] said, ‘‘untangling the strife-ridden, hate-rid- But it’s a little much when Andy shows den Middle East.’’ In the decades since, up on the day of the Clemson game that strife and hate sometimes seemed like dressed as ‘‘Cocky.’’ [Laughter] a distant tragedy having little to do with I am so thankful for the invitation to America. be the speaker this afternoon. When I ar- After September the 11th, 2001, your rived, I heard an old boy standing outside. generation and our whole country knows

457 May 9 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 better. In an age of global terror and weap- you will be entering a military that will ons of mass destruction, what happens in remain second to none. the Middle East greatly matters to America. Our Nation is strong. Our greatest The bitterness of that region can bring vio- strength is that we serve the cause of lib- lence and suffering to our own cities. The erty. We support the advance of freedom advance of freedom and peace in the Mid- in the Middle East because it is our found- dle East would drain this bitterness and ing principle and because it is in our na- increase our own security. tional interest. The hateful ideology of ter- So today I want to discuss with you a rorism is shaped and nurtured and pro- great goal for this Nation. We will use our tected by oppressive regimes. Free nations, influence and idealism to replace old in contrast, encourage creativity and toler- hatreds with new hopes across the Middle ance and enterprise. And in those free na- East. A time of historic opportunity has tions, the appeal of extremism withers arrived. A dictator in Iraq has been re- away. moved from power. The terrorists of that Free governments do not build weapons region are now seeing their fate—the short, of mass destruction for the purpose of mass unhappy life of the fugitive. Reformers in terror. Over time, the expansion of liberty the Middle East are gaining influence, and throughout the world is the best guarantee the momentum of freedom is growing. We of security throughout the world. Freedom have reached a moment of tremendous is the way to peace. Some believe that democracy in the Mid- promise, and the United States will seize dle East is unlikely, if not impossible. They this moment for the sake of peace. argue that the people of the Middle East The future of peace requires the defeat have little desire for freedom or self-gov- of terror. So America and a large coalition ernment. These same arguments have been of nations are waging a global and unrelent- heard before in other times, about other ing war against the terrorists, and we are people. After World War II, many doubted winning. that Germany and Japan, with their his- In the battle of Afghanistan, we de- tories of autocratic rule and aggressive ar- stroyed one of the most oppressive regimes mies, could ever function as free and on Earth, and we destroyed many of the peaceful societies. In the cold war we were terrorists it harbored. Across six continents, told that imperial communism was perma- America and our friends and allies have nent and the Iron Curtain was there to been hunting down the terrorists one by stay. one and bringing them to justice. In each of these cases—in Germany, in And in the battle of Iraq, we faced a Japan, in Eastern Europe, and in Russia— regime that aided terrorists, armed itself the skeptics doubted; then history replied. with weapons of mass destruction to threat- Every milestone of liberty over the last 60 en the peace, and persecuted its own peo- years was declared impossible until the very ple. And today, that regime is no more. moment it happened. The history of the During these 20 months, the world has modern world offers a lesson for the skep- seen the resolve of the American people. tics: Do not bet against the success of free- And the world has seen the power and dom. the skill and the bravery of American Freedom has advanced because the de- Armed Forces. Our men and women in sire for liberty and justice is found in every uniform have acted with courage and de- human heart. And the men and women cency, in the proudest traditions of this Na- of the Muslim world, one-fifth of all hu- tion. And our Nation is grateful. And for manity, share this hope of liberty. Freedom those of you who are going into the ROTC, has advanced because it is a way to lift

458 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 9 millions out of poverty and improve their and attack freedom, they are resisting and lives. Where freedom is denied, people live attacking the hopes of Muslims everywhere. in isolation and stagnation. Where freedom When terrorists go on missions of suicide is welcome, people in every culture can and murder, they defile the high ethical flourish. And freedom is advanced in our teachings of Islam itself. Their true ambi- time because at crucial moments brave men tion is to dominate and control and remake and women have worked and sacrificed for whole societies in their own cruel image. it. And the United States has taken their Repression of the kind practiced by Sad- side. This is how dissidents and political dam Hussein and the Taliban is not the prisoners became the leaders of newly free wave of the future. Free people, not tyrants countries. And this is how former enemies or murderers, will set the course of history. became loyal friends of the United States. Freedom is taking hold in Afghanistan The Middle East presents many obstacles and Iraq, countries of more than 50 million to the advance of freedom. And I under- newly liberated people, countries building stand that this transformation will be dif- for themselves the institutions of self-gov- ficult. Recently, a group of 30 Arab scholars ernment. And our Nation has special re- issued a report describing a freedom deficit sponsibilities to these countries, responsibil- in Arab countries, citing in particular a lack ities we will keep. In Afghanistan, America of human rights and poor education. They and our allies are helping to build roads also identified the social oppression of and train police and rebuild schools. This women as a major barrier to progress. And summer, at townhall meetings across the they are correct. No society can succeed country, Afghans will discuss the working and prosper while denying basic rights and draft of a new constitution. And in the fall, opportunities to the women of their coun- a national assembly will convene to ratify try. the constitution of a free and democratic For all the challenges, we also see hope- Afghanistan. ful signs of change. About half of all the Muslim people live under democratic rule The Afghan people face continued strug- in nations from Turkey to Indonesia. The gles in rebuilding their Government and Governments of Bahrain and Morocco have the nation, but the days when women were held recent and free elections. And Jordan beaten in the streets and executed on soc- will hold elections next month. The people cer fields are over. of Qatar have approved a new constitution In Iraq, we are restoring electricity and guaranteeing basic freedoms. Crown Prince water and providing medicines and supplies Abdullah of Saudi Arabia has proposed a and removing the thugs who threaten the new Arab charter calling for internal reform peace and order of the country. Iraqi citi- and enhanced political participation in na- zens have conducted two major conferences tions of that region. to discuss their country’s future and place And in Iran, the desire for freedom is themselves to the path of self-government. stirring. In the face of harsh repression, Soon, Iraqis from every ethnic group will Iranians are courageously speaking out for choose members of an interim authority. democracy and the rule of law and human The people of Iraq are building a free soci- rights. And the United States strongly sup- ety from the ground up, and they are able ports their aspirations for freedom. to do so because the dictator and his re- Those who feed hatred want to create gime are no more. a faultline between East and West. Yet in America is working with governments the growing desire for freedom throughout and reformers throughout the Middle East. the Muslim world, there is no clash of civ- We are strengthening ties through our Mid- ilizations. When terrorists and tyrants resist dle East partnership initiative. As a further

459 May 9 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 step, Secretary Powell and Trade Rep- O’Connor has agreed to help lead this ef- resentative Zoellick will meet with regional fort. leaders in Jordan next month to discuss As trade expands and knowledge spreads an agenda of economic and political and to the Middle East, as women gain a place social progress. Progress will require in- of equality and respect, as the rule of law creased trade, the engine of economic de- takes hold, all peoples of that region will velopment. see a new day of justice and a new day The combined GDP of all Arab countries of prosperity. is smaller than that of Spain. Their peoples For generations, one of the most tragic have less access to the Internet than the problems in the Middle East has been the people of sub-Sahara Africa. The Arab conflict in the Holy Land. Yet now with world has a great cultural tradition, but is a liberated Iraq, with new leadership for largely missing out on the economic the Palestinian people, with efforts of lead- progress of our time. Across the globe, free ers like President Mubarak and Crown markets and trade have helped defeat pov- Prince Abdullah, the hope of peace is re- erty and taught men and women the habits newed. of liberty. So I propose the establishment If the Palestinian people take concrete of a U.S.-Middle East free trade area with- steps to crack down on terror, continue on in a decade, to bring the Middle East into a path of peace, reform, and democracy, an expanding circle of opportunity, to pro- they and all the world will see the flag vide hope for the people who live in that of Palestine raised over a free and inde- region. pendent nation. We will work with our partners to ensure All sides of this conflict have duties. that small and mid-sized businesses have Israel must take tangible steps now to ease access to capital and support efforts in the the suffering of Palestinians and to show region to develop central laws on property respect for their dignity. And as progress rights and good business practices. By re- is made toward peace, Israel must stop set- placing corruption and self-dealing with tlement activity in the occupied territories. free markets and fair laws, the people of Arab nations must fight terror in all forms the Middle East will grow in prosperity and and recognize and state the obvious once freedom. and for all: Israel has a right to exist as Making the most of economic opportuni- a Jewish state at peace with its neighbors. ties will require broader and better edu- The way forward in the Middle East is cation, especially among women who have not a mystery; it is a matter of will and faced the greatest disadvantages. We will vision and action. The way forward depends work to improve literacy among girls and on serving the interests of the living instead women, building on similar efforts in Af- of settling the accounts of the past. ghanistan and Morocco and Yemen. We’ll To seize this moment, I am sending Sec- provide resources for the translation of retary Powell to the Middle East to call early reading books into Arabic and donate all the parties to their responsibilities. Sec- those books to primary schools in the re- retary Powell leaves on this mission tonight. gion. He carries with him my personal commit- And ultimately, both economic success ment: America will work without tiring to and human dignity depend on the rule of achieve two states, Israel and Palestine, liv- law and honest administration of justice. ing side by side in security and prosperity So America will sponsor, with the Govern- and in peace. ment of Bahrain, a regional forum to dis- You are living in an historic time for cuss judicial reforms. And I’m pleased that our country. When America was attacked Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day 20 months ago, many thought that an age

460 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 9 of fear and terror had arrived. Yet the May God bless you, and may God con- world has seen something very different. tinue to bless America. Thank you very America is fighting against grave threats much. wherever they may gather. We’re determined to help build a Middle East that grows in hope instead of resentment. Because of the ideals and resolve NOTE: The President spoke at 3:16 p.m. in of this Nation, you and I will not live in the Carolina Center. In his remarks, he rean age of terror. We will live in an age ferred to Andrew A. Sorensen, president, and of liberty. Lou Holtz, head football coach, University I wish each of you well in the careers of South Carolina; Gov. Mark Sanford of and lives that await you. I thank you for South Carolina; former President Saddam the invitation, for the honorary degree, and Hussein of Iraq; and President Hosni Muba- for the privilege of sharing this proud day rak of Egypt. The Office of the Press Sec- with the University of South Carolina Class retary also released a Spanish language tran- of 2003. script of this address.

Statement on House of Representatives Action on Jobs-and-Growth Tax Relief Legislation May 9, 2003

I commend the House for making great rates, increasing small-business expensing, progress toward passing a jobs-and-growth increasing the child credit, delivering sig- package that will spur economic growth and nificant marriage penalty relief, and ad- create jobs for American workers. The tax dressing the unfair double tax on dividends. relief package passed by the House today I look forward to building on this success includes all of the elements of my original to deliver the economic boost America’s plan, including accelerating all income-tax workers deserve.

Statement on Proposed Legislation To Increase Salaries for the Federal Judiciary May 9, 2003

I am pleased to support legislation intro- ommendation of the Chief Justice and the duced in the Senate this week that would Judicial Conference that salary increases be increase the annual salaries of Justices and enacted for the Judiciary. judges of the United States. This bipartisan legislation, S. 1023, responds to the rec-

461 May 9 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Letter to the Speaker of the House of Representatives Transmitting Supplemental Budget Requests May 9, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker: tions Act, I hereby request and make avail- I ask the Congress to consider the enable $280.0 million for the Transportation closed amendments to the Administration’s Security Administration (TSA) of the De- FY 2004 budget submission for the Depart- partment of Homeland Security. Consistent ments of Agriculture, Energy, Housing and with the Act, TSA would utilize these re- Urban Development, the Interior, Justice, sources solely for expenses incurred to hire, Labor, and Transportation; the Office of train, and deploy initial passenger screen- Personnel Management; and the Farm ers. Credit Administration. I also ask the Con- The details of this proposal are set forth gress to consider the enclosed proposals for in the enclosed letter from the Director the Department of the Interior and the of the Office of Management and Budget. Social Security Administration. I concur with his comments and observa- This transmittal also contains FY 2004 tions. budget amendments for the Legislative Sincerely, Branch. Appropriations requests of the Legislative Branch are historically trans- GEORGE W. BUSH mitted without change. Further, in accordance with provisions of NOTE: An original was not available for Public Law 108–11, the FY 2003 Emer- verification of the content of this let- gency Wartime Supplemental Appropria- ter.

The President’s Radio Address May 10, 2003

Good morning. This week with a vote riage penalty; an increase in the child credit in the House of Representatives, Congress from $600 to $1,000; an increase in the took a positive step towards passage of my expensing provision for small-business in- jobs-and-growth proposal. The plan I sub- vestment in new equipment; and action to mitted would create more than a million reduce the double taxation of dividend in- jobs by the end of next year through imme- come. diate tax relief for American families and These reforms would bring immediate businesses. help throughout our economy. They would Since I sent my plan to Congress in Jan- leave more money in the hands of families uary, the need for action on the economy who need it to make purchases and to pay has become even more urgent. The unem- the bills. And this tax relief would give ployment rate last month reached 6 percent, as many employers continue to hold employers greater incentives and resources back on the kinds of investments that lead to invest in new equipment. The result will to new jobs. The bill that passed the House be more jobs, and that is our goal. of Representatives this week includes all We are also making progress on passing the elements of my plan: cuts in income- tax relief in the Senate. The Senate Fi- tax rates this year; reduction of the mar- nance Committee has approved legislation

462 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 11 that includes important aspects of my pro- Next week, I will travel to New Mexico, posal. I urge the Senate to complete its Nebraska, and Indiana to address the Na- work next week so the House and Senate tion’s hard-working small-business owners, can work out their different versions and families, and investors. My message to get a tax relief bill to my desk as soon them will be simple: The surest way to as possible. grow this economy and create jobs is to This week’s progress demonstrates that leave more money in the hands of the peo- both Houses of Congress and both political ple who earn it. parties agree that tax relief will help this I urge every citizen to participate in this economy. Now the discussion is about how important debate and to make your voice much tax relief the American people need heard. Explain to your local representative and deserve. We need at least $550 billion or your Senators what tax relief would in tax relief over the next decade, big mean to your family and your business, and enough to make a real difference in the please tell the members of Congress why paychecks of American workers, big enough our economy needs that relief now. to help entrepreneurs create more jobs, Thank you for listening. and big enough to give our economy the boost it needs. NOTE: The address was recorded at 11:02 This past week, I met a small-business a.m. on May 9 in the Cabinet Room at the owner named Luke Brindley. Luke and his White House for broadcast at 10:06 a.m. on family started their Virginia business less May 10. The transcript was made available than 2 years ago with 5 employees, and by the Office of the Press Secretary on May now they’re up to 25. Here’s what Luke 9 but was embargoed for release until the says: ‘‘Any break we get encourages us to broadcast. The Office of the Press Secretary hire more people and buy more equip- also released a Spanish language transcript ment.’’ of this address.

Exchange With Reporters in Santa Fe, New Mexico May 11, 2003

President’s Golf Game/President’s Schedule we’re going to go to see some of the tor- Q. How’s the game? nado sites. And it will give me a chance The President. I need a lot of work. to tell the people who’ve suffered great loss how much a lot of the Nation prays for Q. Better than yesterday? them and how we’re concerned about The President. Equally as feeble—equally them. But it’s been a fabulous experience as feeble. here in a wonderful part of the world. The It’s been a fabulous weekend here in hospitality by the people here has been just Santa Fe. I’m now ready to get back to great. I really appreciate it. work. Got some travel to do tomorrow; be Happy Mother’s Day, everybody. talking to the country about the need for an economic stimulus package. And then NOTE: The exchange began at 5:45 p.m. at we’re going to go see, Tuesday afternoon, the golf course at Las Campanas.

463 May 12 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Remarks in Bernalillo, New Mexico May 12, 2003

The President. Thank you all very much. We’re standing in the midst of what we Claudine, thanks for those wonderful call the American Dream. The Martinez words. It is—let me just put it this way, family is living that dream. They own their we’ve had a great weekend here in the own business. And when you own some- Land of the Enchanted. thing in America, it means you have a stake I want to thank the good folks of Santa in the future. What we want to do is pro- Fe for their warm hospitality. I particularly mote the ownership society around America want to thank Governor Bill Richardson, by encouraging the entrepreneurial spirit to not only for being here but for being so remain strong in this country. kind to my wife Laura at a fantastic recep- I’m proud to be here with Senator Pete tion Friday night in Santa Fe. Thank you Domenici. Senator Domenici is one of the very much, Governor, for doing that. I’m giants of the United States Senate. I’m also sure the New Mexican people are going proud to be here with Heather Wilson and to thank you for cutting their taxes too. Steve Pearce, two fine Members of the You know, we had a great weekend. I’m Congress. I want to thank all the other here in Albuquerque today to talk about State officials who are here along with the a big decision which is now before the Governor. I appreciate the local officials United States Congress and the fact that who are here. I want to thank you for your you can help them make the right decision. warm hospitality. I’m here to remind not only you all but I appreciate Hector Barreto, who’s the our fellow Americans that when you raise Administrator of the Small Business Admin- your voices, the people in Washington tend istration, for joining us today. Thank you to listen. for coming, Hector. It just so happens the And I hope you’ll join me in raising your Deputy Secretary of the Department of voices to make sure that Congress enacts Energy is here, Kyle McSlarrow. I appre- an economic stimulus plan big enough to ciate his service to our country. And re- help people who are looking for work, a cently, I nominated a fine New Mexican plan big enough to encourage economic citizen to become the Secretary of the growth. Navy, and that would be Colin McMillan. You see, the reason we’re here at this I appreciate you coming, Colin, and thank small business is most new jobs in America you for your service to your country. are created by small businesses. And so I want to thank the chamber of com- the plan I’ve submitted understands that. merce members who are here. I want to A significant part of any good economic thank small-business owners who are here. stimulus plan must focus on the entre- I want to thank the MCT employees and preneur in America. In order to make sure family members who are here as well. people can find work in this country, Con- Thank you for letting me come by to say gress must pass a plan which invigorates hello. the small-business owner and the small- And finally, I met a fellow named Wil- business dreams of America. liam O’Leary. Let me tell you what William I want to thank the Martinez family for does; he works with individuals to help their hospitality and their invitation. I also them find loans and financial support they want to thank the dad for not only being need. In other words, he is a volunteer such a good dad but for having a dream to be a part of a program to help people and working hard to achieve the dream. realize their dreams.

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You know, there’s been a lot said about ers down one by one and bring them to the might of our country, and we are a justice, which is what we’ll do. strong country. We’re strong militarily. But In bringing people to justice, we freed our greatest strength is the heart and soul the people of Afghanistan from one of the of our individual citizens. The greatest most brutal regimes in the history of man- strength is the fact that we’re a compas- kind. Thanks to the United States of Amer- sionate country who care deeply about ica, young girls now go to school for the neighbors. And when you—William works first time in their lives. We’ve got more with people here, and if somebody’s got work to do to make sure that’s a free soci- an idea and they want to learn how to ety. We will stay in Afghanistan to help advance that idea, he’s willing to help. And the people of Afghanistan help themselves. if you find a neighbor in need or somebody We’ve hunted down and found Al Qaida needs help, I urge you to do so. members in places other than Afghanistan. The compassion of America sets us apart They just need to know that so long as in many ways. We’re strong because a lot they want to hurt our country, there is no of people in this country have heard that cave deep enough for them to hide. universal call to love a neighbor just like We’re working with many nations around you’d like to be loved yourself. Many of the world to cut off their money and dis- you in this audience have heard that call. rupt their finances, to share intelligence to We thank you for your compassion, and make sure that we can protect our people. we thank you for your decency. And as part of the war on terror, we liber- This has been a time of testing for Amer- ated the people of Iraq from a brutal dic- ica. It’s been a time of interesting testing. tator. We made America more secure by Audience members. [Inaudible] making sure he does not use weapons of mass destruction. The President. But we have the strength Two weeks ago, on the U.S.S. Abraham and we have the confidence to meet every Lincoln, I shook hands with Navy Petty single challenge. Officer Damian Lopez. Damian lives 50 For 20 months—for 20 months we have miles from here. Sailors and officers of the waged a relentless campaign against global Abraham Lincoln represent the best of our terror. An enemy struck us because they country. These folks, like many others, sac- hate what we stand for. They hate the fact rificed on behalf of their Nation. Here’s that we have freedom of speech in Amer- what he said. He said, ‘‘When we needed ica. They hate the fact that we have free- to be serious about our job, everybody did dom of religion in America. They hate the their part. I had a part in freeing a nation fact that we love freedom, and so they at- and serving my country.’’ Our Nation is tacked us. And they thought we had quit. grateful to this young man from New Mex- Audience members. No-o-o! ico, and we’re grateful to all the people The President. They thought we were who’ve sacrificed on our country’s behalf, soft. the people who wear the uniform of the Audience members. No-o-o! United States military. The President. But we love our freedoms. We have a lot of work to do in Iraq. Audience members. Yes! We have a lot of work to do in Iraq. The President. Our biggest job is to make Haven’t been there very long, by the way— sure the American homeland is secure. less than 60 days ago that we started our We’ve done a lot here to protect the Amer- mission. And in that period of time, not ican homeland by creating a Department only did we remove a regime which threat- of Homeland Security. But the best way ened our security and held the American to secure the homeland is to hunt the kill- people hostage, not only did we remove

465 May 12 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 a regime that brutalized their own people, them to learn the lessons of the past; that but we will stay to make sure that the shareholders, that employees, that Ameri- Iraqi people have got the security nec- cans will insist they be held to account essary, the food necessary, the medicines if they ever lie, cheat, and steal. necessary, the conditions necessary to have We’re overcoming that. We’ve overcome an Iraq of—we will stay as long as nec- those obstacles. And yet, too many of our essary to make sure that the Iraqi people people aren’t working. We’re growing, but have a Government of, by, and for the Iraqi we’re not growing fast enough. We’re grow- people, and then we’ll come home. ing. Inflation is low, which is good. We’re We have faced big challenges in this growing because interest rates are low. En- country. But because of the actions we ergy prices are coming down, which is kind have taken and the sacrifices many have of like tax relief. [Laughter] But the great- made, America is more secure, the world est asset we have in America is the produc- is more peaceful, and many people are tivity of our workforce. We’ve got the finest more free. workers in the world here in America. And as we make sure that America is But in spite of the good news, people secure, we’ve also got to make sure we are looking for work. And as long as our have job security in America. Too many fellow citizens are looking for work, we of our people here aren’t working. The in- must act. So long as families are struggling flation—I mean, the unemployment rate hit to pay the bills, we must act here in Amer- 6 percent. That should serve as a warning ica. So long as small businesses are hesitant signal for the reluctant Members of the to expand and to create new jobs, we must United States Congress that we need to hear the voices of those who are looking act. And the ‘‘we’’ in this case is the United for work. And so we’ve got challenges here States Congress. at home. I’m optimistic we can meet those I have made my proposal, strongly sup- challenges. After all, we’ve been through ported by Senator Domenici, strongly sup- a lot here in this country, and yet we’re ported by Congressman Wilson and Con- still growing. gressman Pearce. And my proposal is based I want to review the history right quick. upon this principle: If your economy is too In March of 2000, the stock market started slow, you need to increase demand for to decline. In January of 2001, we were goods and services. And the best way to in a recession, which meant three quarters create demand for good and services is let of negative growth, and then it looked like the people keep more of their own money. we were kind of starting to come out. And When you got more money in your pock- then the enemy hit us. And they killed et, it means you’re likely to demand a good thousands of our citizens, and it affected or a service. And in our society, when the psychology of this country. We weren’t somebody demands a good or a service, used to being attacked. The people are re- somebody is going to produce that good solved and strong, and we overcame that. or a service, and when somebody produces And then we found out some of our citi- the good or a service, it means somebody zens forgot what it means to be a respon- is more likely to find work. The best way sible citizen. They cooked the books. They to stimulate this economy is to have robust didn’t tell the truth to their employees and tax relief for the American people. shareholders alike. They’re now being taken And the thing I like about Pete and to account and held to account. We expect Heather and Steve is, they know what I honest bookkeeping in America. And it’s know. When we’re up there in Washington, important for CEOs of big, publicly held we’re not talking about the Government’s corporations to understand that we expect money. If you listen closely to some of

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the rhetoric from some of the elected offi- they’re here is I want the American people cials, they say, ‘‘Well, we’re going to do to understand we’re not talking about the- this with the Government’s money, or we’re ory; we’re not talking about numbers; we’re going to do that with the Government’s talking about what the tax relief plan does money.’’ Folks, we’re not talking about the to help our citizens survive these difficult Government’s money in Washington. We’re period of time. Pam and Robert, they’ve talking about your money. got two little kids; they’ll save $1,100 a One of the central elements of this plan year. It means a lot to them, because it’s is to accelerate the tax rate reductions $1,100 for every year. And all of a sudden which Congress has already passed. You now, it means they’ve got more of their see, in 2001, I went in front of the Con- own money to decide what to do for their gress, said, ‘‘We’ve got an economic issue. families. They get to decide, not the Gov- Let’s have tax relief for the American peo- ernment. They get to decide what to do ple.’’ And they passed substantial tax relief, with the $1,100. but the problem was the tax relief plan Oh, you’ll hear the talk about how this was phased in over 3, 5, or 7 years. We plan, you know, only helps the rich people. don’t need it phased in over 3, 5, or 7 That’s just typical Washington, DC, political years. We’ve got people looking for work rhetoric, is what that is. That’s just empty today. We want to help people today. We rhetoric. This plan for a family of four mak- want to expand that economy today. If tax ing $40,000 a year would see their tax bill relief is good enough 7 years from now, go from $1,178 a year to $45 a year. it’s good enough today. This is a good plan because it makes This plan will reduce all taxes imme- a difference to all kinds of people, people diately. It will reduce the marriage penalty who could use that extra money. And this immediately. After all, we want the Tax economy could use the fact that people Code to encourage marriage and not dis- have got a little extra money, and that’s courage marriage. As well, it will increase important for our fellow citizens to under- the child credit from $600 to $1,000 per stand. child, retroactive to January of this year. The cornerstone of the plan, however, I just met Leanne Montoya.* She’s a focuses on small business. It’s an important hardworking lady. She’s got two kids— part of the plan. It’s an integral part of sons—who are here. Right? They’re some- the plan. I told you earlier, most new jobs where here. [Laughter] There they are. are—in America—are created by small- They’re little guys. She—her husband died business owners, which makes it—see, if unexpectedly. She’s got the toughest job you’re interested in expanding the job base in America, being a single mom, raising and you go to the origin of job creation, two little guys that she loves dearly. This it seems like to me—and the origin of job plan will let her keep $800 of her own creation is a small-business owner. money per year. Now, that may not sound Now what’s interesting about America is like a lot to some of the folks in Wash- most small-business owners pay business tax ington, but it’s darn sure a lot for her and at the individual income-tax rate. And the her two boys. And it’s not $800 for 1 year; reason why is they’re a limited liability cor- it’s $800 every year. And it gives her a poration or an S corp or a sole proprietor- chance. ship. And therefore, when you reduce the Pam and Robert Lucero are with us. And individual tax rates, you’re really pumping by the way, these good folks shared with capital into the treasuries of the small-busi- me some of their stories. And the reason ness owners across America. It is important for Congress to know, a robust relief plan * White House correction. helps the entrepreneur in this country.

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There is today a limitation on what a wants to add on to his facility. He wants small business can deduct when they invest to be able to accommodate consumer de- in new equipment, and that limitation is mand by expanding his plant and facility. at $25,000. In other words, it puts a cap And when he does, it means somebody is on investment, so to speak, because of the going to have to build the plant, which tax plan—tax incentives or the lack thereof. means there’s an additional job there. He This plan that Congress is now looking at, might buy a hydraulic pump. That means strongly supported by your Senator and the somebody is going to have to manufacture two Congresspersons here, would raise the the additional hydraulic pump. Somebody cap from $25,000 to $75,000 a year. is going to work somewhere else. And here’s why that’s important. Phil The point I’m making to you is, is that Archuletta is here with us today. when Phil makes the decision he makes Audience member. Yeah! and Jay makes the decision to expand their The President. Phil and his one friend. businesses, there are thousands like them [Laughter] He started P&M Signs with his all around America. And it’s those cumu- sister in 1991. He went from 1 employee, lative acts of increased capital expenditure or maybe 2, to 19. He told me that he which makes it more likely one of our fel- is going to expand. He told me that if this low citizens, or additional citizens, are new cap goes in, he’s more likely to invest going to be able to find work. in plant and equipment so he can expand The final aspect of the plan says that his business. we ought to get rid of the double taxation The plan makes—incensed Phil to make of dividends in America. First of all, there’s the decision to make a capital investment. just a simple fairness issue on the double And if he makes that decision, it means taxation of dividends. Listen, we should be somebody is going to have to make the taxing corporate profits, and we do. But machinery that he purchases. It means that in this country, not only do we tax cor- when he purchases the machinery, his em- porate profits; when part of those profits ployees become more productive. In other are distributed to the owners of the compa- words, the effect of creating incentives is nies, small and large alike, it gets taxed that jobs will more likely be created from again. And who are those owners? Well, the supplier to Phil’s business, and as Phil’s 50 percent—— business becomes more productive, it is Audience members. [Inaudible] more likely somebody is going to find em- The President. Yes, you’re right. [Laugh- ployment from his business. ter] We are becoming an ownership society You see—and it’s not just Phil who will when it comes to stock ownership. Thou- be making a decision. Jay Walton of Jay sands of people own their own—they own Walton Automotive is here. Perhaps you’ve equities directly. But thousands as well own had your tires aligned there. Well, he start- equities through their pension plans. If ed 29 years ago with three employees. He’s you’re a teacher, you own equities. If you’re kind of like the Martinezes here in Albu- a policeman, you own equities. A lot of querque. They start small, but they grow people in this country own equities. And big. He’s got 24 people. That’s a big in- therefore, the more the plan focus—or any crease. That means people are working be- plan focuses on helping the market, the cause of Jay’s vision. He is a Subchapter more we’re helping our average citizens re- S. So when you hear them talking about alize wealth. tax relief, it means the taxes on his business And that’s what we want. We want our are going down. citizens to be wealthier, not poorer. Any But as well, he’s interested in expanding. plan has got to say, how do we help our He wants more space for his shop. He citizens have more wealth in their pockets?

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It doesn’t make any sense, in a country Dividend—getting rid of the double tax- that is trying to attract capital to increase ation of dividends will encourage more the job base, to have a shareholder receive companies to pay dividends, will encourage about 40 cents on every dollar of profit more ownership, will help ease the cost on his or her investment. That doesn’t of capital, and will serve as good and posi- make any sense. That provides a disincen- tive corporate reform in America. Congress tive from people investing. And we need needs to get rid of the double taxation of investment. I’ve told you the effect of cap- dividends. ital investment in our society. The easier So this is the plan. And we’re making it is for companies to attract capital, the progress. I want to thank the House of more likely it is somebody is going to be Representatives for passing a plan to the able to find work. tune of $550 billion. And as the Senate I want to talk about two other aspects debates this plan, they’ve got to remember of the dividend plan. Thirty-one thousand what drives this economy. The small-busi- seniors here in New Mexico rely upon divi- ness owner drives this economy. Investment dends to meet their financial needs. We drives this economy. And as the Senate get rid of the double taxation of dividends, talks about this plan, I hope they hear the that means 31,000 seniors in this good State voices of those looking for work. The more are to have more money in their pocket. robust the plan, the more likely it is some- And that’s good public policy, it seems like body is going to find a job here in America. Now, you’re going to hear a lot of talk to me. about the deficit as an excuse not to cut The other thing that’s important to know taxes. And I am concerned about the def- is we just went through a period of time icit. But let me explain to you why we in American corporate history where folks have a deficit. We have got a deficit be- said, ‘‘Would you invest in my company cause this economy went into a recession, because, you know, the sky is the limit. which means less revenues were coming I may not have any cashflow, but I’ve got into our Treasury. The country slowed a heck of a good tale.’’ [Laughter] ‘‘Nobody down, and as a result, there was less taxes seems to be buying my product, but I’ve coming into Washington, DC. got a good story. After all, we’re in a new We have got a recession because we economy.’’ The problem is the new econ- went to war, and I told the American peo- omy was fine, but old accounting practices ple, ‘‘If we’re going to commit our troops still mattered. And when you ran out of into harm’s way, we’re going to spend what- cash, you’re broke. ever money is necessary to make sure we Well, in a dividend society, in a dividend- win.’’ Yes, we’ve got a deficit, but we can paying society, the pie-in-the-sky pro- deal with that two ways. One is to make nouncements no longer hold water. Be- sure Congress does not overspend. And I cause if your competitor is paying a divi- want to thank Pete and Heather and Steve dend, you can only pay dividends when you for joining with me on a budget which remake cash, when you generate enough cash stricts discretionary spending to 4 percent. to send to the owners. A good corporate In other words—and I will continue to do reform would be to have a dividend-paying my part, I assure you, to make sure Con- society, so that the investors, shareholders, gress does not overspend on the expense small and large alike, will know whether side. the company is real or not, on whether I fully recognize that some people up they get that check every month or every there, when they hear—have the word ‘‘ap- quarter, whether that dividend is coming propriator’’ by their name, appropriate. in. [Laughter] My job is to encourage them

469 May 12 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 to appropriate but in a wise way, and I going to be more secure because of the will continue to do so. But if we hold down resolve and will of the American people. spending, the way to deal with the deficit And there is no doubt in my mind with is to encourage revenue growth in the the right policy out of Washington, DC, Treasury, and the way to deal with—en- that the entrepreneurial spirit of this coun- courage revenue growth is to stimulate this try is going to remain strong, the produc- economy. The best way to deal with the tivity of our workers is going to be high, recession is to have an economic growth and this economy is going to come back plan that will cause economic vitality. so our fellow citizens can find work. And Yes, I’m worried about the deficit. I’m there’s no doubt in my mind I feel that worried about the deficit, but I’m more way, because I’m a fortunate man. I’m the worried about the fellow looking for work. President of the greatest nation on the face I’m worried about the deficit, but I’m more of the Earth. worried about the single mom who’s wor- Thank you all for coming. God bless, and ried about putting food on the table for God bless America. her children, so she could find work. And that’s where the focus of this administration NOTE: The President spoke at 9:35 a.m. in is going to be. the president’s office at MCT Industries. In There’s no doubt in my mind this Nation his remarks, he referred to Gov. Bill Richard- will rise to the challenges which we face. son of New Mexico; Ted R. Martinez, presi- There’s absolutely no doubt in my mind dent, MCT Industries, and his daughter that the world is going to be more peaceful Claudine, who introduced the President; because of the actions taken by the United former President Saddam Hussein of Iraq; States of America and our friends. There and Phil T. Archuletta, chief executive offi- are no doubt in my mind this Nation is cer, P&M Signs, and his sister, Mabel.

Remarks in Omaha, Nebraska May 12, 2003

The President. Thank you all very much. in this administration: One half of the ticket Thank you all for coming. It is—I’m so was born right here in Nebraska. Our great glad to be back in Nebraska. Thanks for Vice President, Dick Cheney, was born in coming by to say hello. It’s an honor to Nebraska. No wonder he’s given me such be here. Brad, I want to thank you very good advice. much for opening up your fine facility to Thanks for coming out. I’m really proud the entourage that travels with me and all to be introduced by Chuck Hagel. He’s these fine folks. I appreciate the entrepre- a fine United States Senator and a good neurial spirit of Airlite Plastics. I want to friend. I appreciate him. He mentioned the thank all the good, hard-working folks that Governor. I’m proud to call Mike Johanns work here to make this company a going my friend, and I’m glad he’s here. And concern. I appreciate your hospitality, and I appreciate the first lady of the State of I want to congratulate you on your new Nebraska joining us here today too. It’s building. It’s a beautiful facility. good to see you all. Thanks for coming. I’m here to talk about some important I also appreciate so very much Ben matters facing this country. But before I Nelson for coming, and his wife, Diane. do, I want to remind you about something

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I’m honored you all are here. I’m pleased strength is the military strength. No, that’s to have you here. Thanks for coming. good. That helps. [Laughter] But we’re a You’ve done a pretty good job about se- loving nation and a compassionate nation lecting Congressmen—well, better than a and a decent nation. pretty good job. You’ve done a great job And I want to thank Anne Carroll, and here in Nebraska. I’m proud that Doug I want to thank all of you all who work Bereuter is here and Lee Terry and Tom hard to help a neighbor in need. And keep Osborne—all of them fine Members, and doing it. The best way to have a compas- all of them good to work with. And you sionate tomorrow for all our citizens is to know what else—you let a man come across put your arm around somebody who hurts the border today to come here. And that and say, ‘‘I love you. What can I do to would be Congressman Steve King from help?’’ right across the way in Iowa. Now, we’ve been tested. This Nation has I’m honored the Lieutenant Governor is been tested. As Chuck reminded you, I was here. I’m honored the secretary of state here on that fateful day. The enemy hit is here. I’m honored the attorney general us. They thought we were going to fold is here. I’m honored the State treasurer our tent. They thought we were weak. They is here. I’m honored the State auditor is thought we were afraid. But what they’ve here. And I’m honored you all are here seen in the last 20 months is a relentless too. Thanks for coming. campaign against global terror, because we Before we talk about the issue facing this love our freedoms. What they have seen country and our responsibilities and how is a nation which stands strong when it we’re going to assume those responsibilities, comes to doing our duty and assuming our I do want to talk about a lady I met at responsibilities to fight terror and to make the airport today, a woman named Anne our people more secure. Carroll. It wasn’t all that long ago that we sent Audience member. Woo-hoo! our troops into Afghanistan in order to up- The President. Well, somebody’s heard hold the doctrine that said, ‘‘If you harbor of her. That’s good. [Laughter] You’re a terrorist, you’re just as guilty as the ter- probably wondering why I would even rorists,’’ to uphold that doctrine that says, mention Anne Carroll. Well, let me tell ‘‘If you feed or hide a terrorist, we will you why. You see, there’s a lot of talk hold you to account just like we’re going across our country and around the world to hold the terrorists to account.’’ And the about America’s muscle. They talk about Taliban found out what we meant. our military might. They talk about our As a result of the skill and bravery of strength, but they overlook the true the United States and our coalition friends strength of the country. The true strength and allies, we have freed the people of of the country is the heart and soul of Afghanistan from the clutches of one of the individuals in this country. the most barbaric regimes in the history Anne Carroll volunteers her time. She’s of mankind. And now, as a result of our very actively involved in the Habitat for decisions and actions, many young girls go Humanity and the International Meals on to school for the first time in Afghanistan. Wheels. She’s involved with helping make And we’re still on the hunt. There’s still somebody else’s life better. You know, the Al Qaida operatives moving around. And great strength of America happens when we’re going to stay on the hunt until we a neighbor loves a neighbor in need. bring them to justice. We have a duty in The great strength of this country is the this country to defend our freedoms. We hearts and souls of the American people. have a responsibility to future generations Don’t ever let them tell you the great of America to uphold our responsibility to

471 May 12 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 make this country secure. And we assume is a society which is less likely to create those duties, and we accept that responsi- terror activities. A free society is one in bility. which people are more likely to channel And so today, as I speak, there are Spe- their God-given talents in a constructive cial Forces teams on the hunt, on the and positive way. prowl. We’re running down leads. We’re No, we’re in Iraq until Iraq is free, com- cutting off their money. We’re working with pletely free. We will help rebuild that a vast coalition of nations which love free- country. People with food on the table and dom, and we’ll stay on the hunt until we with their lights on in their house and peo- have totally dismantled the Al Qaida net- ple that can move around freely without work to make this world more free. fear of a gang attacking them, these are And part of the war on terror was deal- people that are more likely to develop a ing with the dictator in Iraq. Part of making society which is a free society. So first this country more secure and the world things first. And it doesn’t matter how long more peaceful was going into Iraq and re- it takes. The United States will put the moving a dictator who had defied resolu- conditions right, along with our allies, cre- tion after resolution after resolution from ate the conditions necessary for Iraq to be the international community, a dictator with run by the Iraqis, an Iraq of, for, and by known terrorist connections, a dictator who the Iraqi people, and then we’ll come had weapons of mass destruction. No, we home. sent in some of the bravest of the brave. There is no doubt in my mind, as a result And as a result of their courage and sac- of the actions that this country has taken rifice, America is more secure; the neigh- to defend ourselves, the world is a more borhood is more peaceful; the world is peaceful place. And there is no doubt in more peaceful; and the Iraqi people are my mind, as a result of the actions this free. Nation has taken to defend ourselves, free- I want to thank very much the folks from dom has a better chance to take hold all Offutt Air Force Base who went over to across the world. I’m proud of this country. the theater—the 55th, Fighting 55th went. I’m proud of the decisions and actions we About 1,500 of them participated in making have taken, and I’m proud of the values sure the Al Faw Peninsula was secure, we hold dear to our hearts. helped hunt down enemy Scud missiles, And while we continue to work on the helped the recovery of seven POWs in homeland security, we’ve got to remember northern Iraq. I’m proud to call them fel- that part of a secure nation is one in which low Americans. For those of you who have people have job security, in which people got a loved one wearing this Nation’s uni- can find a job if they’re looking for work. form, you thank them, and you tell them And I’m concerned about that. That inter- the Commander in Chief is incredibly est—unemployment rate hit 6 percent the proud. other day. And that ought to be a wake- We haven’t been at this long. It wasn’t up call to Members of the United States all that long ago that I gave Secretary Congress that we’ve got an issue here in Rumsfeld the orders to move in—less than this country, and we need policies that will 2 months ago that our military, along with get people back to work. others, started to liberate Iraq, but we’re I’m optimistic about our future because, making progress toward achieving our ob- like you, I have seen what we have over- jective. Our objective is to make the world come. Let me review the history right more peaceful, and the best way to make quick. The stock market started to decline the world more peaceful is to promote free- in March of 2000. And since this is now dom. In America, we believe a free society an ownership society, it affected a lot of

472 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 12 people. A lot of people count on their many of our citizens are looking for work. stocks as part of their retirement package. And so long as somebody’s looking for work If you’re a teacher, you care about the that wants to work, says to me we’ve got stock market. If you’re a policeman, you a problem. care about the stock market. If you’re an And therefore, I laid out a plan to deal average citizen, it’s likely you care about with it. And it starts—based on this prin- the stock market, because your pension ciple. It says, if you’re worried about people plans or your 401(k)s are invested. finding work—in other words, one of the And so the market started going down problems we have is we’re such a produc- in March of 2000, and then we went into tive economy. We’ve got the best workers a recession. That’s three quarters of nega- in the world, by the way; the productivity tive growth. From January of 2001, for the rates are way up in America. But the more three quarters ending—starting January productive you are, it means there’s better 2001, we were negative. That meant we output per worker, which means you better were going backwards, meant the economy increase demand if you’re trying to create was going down. It meant people were be- new jobs. In other words, if one worker ginning to hurt. And we started getting our can do more work, you’ve got to create feet underneath us and started making the need for more work in order to make some progress; then the enemy hit us. They a job available for somebody looking for attacked us, and it affected us. Obviously, work. took a lot of lives, and we mourn for those And the best way to do that is to stimu- lives, and we mourn for those families who late a demand for good and services, and still suffer as a result of that attack. the only way to stimulate a demand for But it also affected the psychology of good and services in our economy is to the country. You see, we thought oceans let people keep more of their own money. could protect us forever. And we realized And notice I said, ‘‘more of their own we were vulnerable under the—in this new money.’’ Sometimes in the Washington de- era in which we live. But the country came bate—I noticed Senator Hagel emphasized back together. We rallied, and then, all of that as well. See, he knows what I know: a sudden, some of our fellow citizens— Sometimes in Washington, people forget we discovered that some of our citizens whose money we’re talking about. You hear forgot what it was like to be a responsible them say, ‘‘Well, the Government’s citizen and they cooked the books. They money—well, we’re going to spend the were CEOs of corporate America, and they Government’s money here,’’ or ‘‘We’ll do forgot they have a responsibility to share- this with the Government’s money.’’ We’re holders and employees to tell the truth. not talking about the Government’s money. They got a bad case of big-shot-itis. We’re talking about the people’s money. [Laughter] But they’re now learning that It’s your money. they’re going to be held to account if they And the more of your own money you don’t tell the truth. have, the more likely it is our economy So we overcame corporate scandal, and is going to grow. See, the more money we’re still overcoming those scandals. you have in your pocket, it increases de- We’ve been through a lot, when you think mand for goods and services. And when about it. And yet, we’re growing. The econ- there’s an increased demand for goods or omy is still moving forward. As a matter increased demand for services in our soci- of fact, we’re one of the best economies ety, in our marketplace, somebody is going amongst the industrialized world. And that’s to produce the good or a service. And as positive. But we’re not growing fast enough. somebody produces that additional good or We’re not growing fast enough because too a service, it means somebody is more likely

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to find a job. And we’re here talking about money. They ought to decide what to do one thing, jobs for the American people. with it. That’s what we’re here talking about. They’re going to talk about making sure So here is what I have proposed. Here’s that they started a college savings account what I’ve proposed. First of all, you’ve got for their children. All of a sudden, the idea to recognize we did cut the taxes on every- of sending their children to college is a body who paid taxes in 2001. And that little less onerous, because there’s tax relief. made sense. We reduced the penalty in They save that money. They said, ‘‘We both the marriage penalty. We increased the had to work through college. We never had child credit. But the problem was, is that anything set aside for us’’—this is what Kim in 2001, it seemed okay to phase those says—‘‘so it’s important that we provide tax relief, those tax cuts in over a 3- to something for our kids so they don’t have 5- to 7-year period. Well, we know you to do all the struggling we had to do.’’ need that tax relief right now. If you’re That’s a fantastic parent who believes that a person looking for a job, you’re not inter- way. They understand their most important ested in tax relief in 7 years. If you’re out responsibility is to love their children with there looking for work, you want it today. all their heart. This tax relief helps them. And so I submitted to the United States Jenny Theisen’s with us. Her husband Congress, strongly supported by the people is a staff sergeant out at Offutt. They’ve here, that let’s just make it happen now. got children. They want to put money aside Let’s not wait. Let’s get tax relief to the for their kids’ saving. They maybe want to American people as quickly as possible. do a little remodeling. Now, you see, when And so that’s what we’ve done. That’s part of the plan. A significant part of the plan somebody makes the decision to get a little is to accelerate the tax relief in place for extra money in their pocket, they decide everybody who pays taxes. to remodel, somebody’s got to show up to You’ll hear all kinds of rhetoric out of the house to do the remodeling. Some- Washington. They’ll say, ‘‘This plan only body’s got to bring the hammer and the benefits the rich. I can’t be for this, be- saw over and the paint. Somebody’s got cause only the rich people benefit.’’ Well, to go buy the paint. And all of a sudden, it’s interesting they would say that. I just you start having a positive effect on the met with a bunch of your fellow citizens economy when the Jenny Theisens of this who disagree with that concept. I had the world start making decisions about chang- honor of having a roundtable discussion ing the nature of her home. prior to coming into this hall, and I met It’s not just Jenny. There’s going to be with some good, hard-working folks from thousands of people like her who make the this part of the world. decision with her own money to remodel The Madrigals are with us today, and their homes. And all of a sudden, the reso is their extended family—[laughter]— modeling industry gets a shot in the arm, Kim and Greg. They’ve got a son, Noah, and somebody is more likely to find work. and a daughter, Marina. They’re hard-work- When you leave money in somebody’s ing people. They’re worried about their fu- pockets and they decide to spend it, it’s ture. This tax relief will provide them $900 going to have a positive effect all through- in tax relief a year. That’s not 900 for 1 out the economy. year; that’s 900 for a series of years. That’s I met with Julie and Tom Belt from $900 this year, next year, next—and all of Council Bluffs. They’ve got three young a sudden, it gives them $900 to start plan- boys. They’re going to save $1,375 a year. ning for their future. They get to decide That’s real money. That’s money that’s what to do with their own money. It’s their going to go into the pockets of good, solid,

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middle-class citizens who will make deci- of—you know, 20 people. Anyway, he’s sions with that money, and it will begin growing. And he told me, he said, ‘‘If I’m to circulate through our economy. allowed to expense more than $25,000, I’m And I met the Bullers. [Applause] likely to add on to my garage. And when They’re going to use some of that money I add on to my garage, it’s going to mean to pay their cheering section. [Laughter] I need somebody else to work in the ga- They’re going to save $1,000 a month— rage’’—because it can’t sit empty. And then a year, for the out-years. somebody is going to have to come and My point to you is, is that tax relief will build the garage. have an incredibly positive effect on the What we’ve got to do in our society is hard-working people of this country, people increase the vitality of our small businesses who are working hard to get ahead, people and encourage small businesses to invest. who are struggling with the bills they got When somebody invests, it means some- today and are worried about their future. body has to provide the product. And when Tax relief is good for American families. somebody has to provide a product, some- Tax relief is important and is needed for body is more likely to find work. The tax our economy. relief plan I submitted to the United States And let me tell you what else reducing Congress has got one thing in mind, help- the individual rates will do. It will serve ing people find work. as a stimulus for small business. Now, you And the final aspect of the plan I want see, most small businesses pay tax at the to talk to you about is the policy I’ve sub- sole proprietorship, as a result of being a mitted to the Congress that will get rid sole proprietorship or what they call a lim- of the double taxation of dividends. Some ited liability corporation or a Subchapter people say, ‘‘Well, the double taxation of S. And that means they pay taxes at the dividends isn’t going to help anybody ex- individual income-tax rate. So if you’re the cept the rich.’’ Well, they don’t understand traditional mom-and-pop business, you will the nature of our society, evidently. More pay—it’s more likely you’ll be paying taxes and more and more people now own at the individual income-tax rate. When you stocks. More people have got a stake in hear people talk about—me talk about re- the future of the stock market because of ducing income taxes on the individual, I retirement plans, for example. want you to remember that it’s also cutting And therefore, it doesn’t make any sense taxes on the small businesses of America. to penalize companies—if you’re a stock- And let me tell you why that’s important. holding society, it doesn’t make any sense Most new jobs in America are created by to penalize companies which distribute cash small businesses. And if you’re interested to the owners. That’s a dividend. If you’re in job creation, you’ve got to do something an owner of the company, it seems like about helping the small businesses of this to me you want to maybe get a little some- country. And part of that package is to thing out of it besides the appreciation of allow small businesses to deduct $75,000 the stock. You’d like to get a dividend. a year on equipment purchases, as opposed But we penalize that kind of behavior to the current limitations of $25,000 a year. in America because we not only tax the And so today I was down there in Albu- company’s profits; we then tax the distribu- querque, New Mexico, and I was talking tion of the profits to the shareholders. We to some entrepreneurs and talking to a guy tax the same dollar twice, and that is not who owned his own garage. I can’t remem- fair. It’s not fair policy. ber how long—I think he’s owned his busi- It is not fair to tax the profits twice of ness for 20 years. He started off with two our senior citizens. Sixty-four thousand sen- people. He’s now up to maybe a couple iors in Nebraska rely on dividends to meet

475 May 12 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 their financial needs. If you’re worried interest in this issue. I ask you to continue about the senior citizen being able to live working with the members of the Nebraska a comfortable life upon retirement, then delegation, to let them know your feelings you need to join us in getting rid of the on this very important issue. double taxation of dividends. A lot of sen- Now, you’ll hear people say, ‘‘Well, we iors count on dividend income in order to can’t do this because there’s a deficit’’— survive, and the double taxation of divi- if I just take a quick second and just tell dends penalizes those seniors. you my views on that. I’m concerned about The double taxation of dividends will be the deficit. You’re concerned about the def- good corporate reform. You see, we went icit, I know. But let me remind you why through a period of time, as you might we have a deficit. We have a deficit be- remember, where people said, ‘‘Invest in cause the economy slowed down, is why my company. I’ve got a good story, but we have a deficit. When the economy goes I don’t have any cashflow. But give us a into recession, it means less revenues are shot.’’ Kind of the pie-in-the-sky theory of coming into the Treasury. Secondly, we market investing. ‘‘Go ahead and invest. have a deficit because I told the American I’ve got a good tale to tell, but no one people, ‘‘If we ever put our soldiers in seems to be buying my product.’’ harm’s way, we’re going to pay whatever The new economy also was tagged with is necessary to win, to protect them, give reality by old economics. That is, if you them the best.’’ And that’s what we did. run out of money, you’re not going to be It’s exactly what we did. in business. If a dividend society is one Now, there’s two ways to deal with that. which says in order to justify your story, One, you can raise the taxes in order to in order to justify your existence, you’ve make up the deficit, which doesn’t make got to keep up a steady stream of divi- any sense to me. It’ll hurt the economy. dends—you can’t say pie-in-the-sky if If giving people more of their money you’ve promised the investor and the share- means more jobs, taking away their money holder that they’re going to get a dividend. means less jobs. Or you can do our plan, You’ve got to perform. And so getting rid which is hold the line on spending in of the double taxation of dividends will Washington, DC, which is being realistic cause more businesses to pay a dividend. with the people’s money. And I want to It helps incent them to pay a dividend. thank the Members up here that voted for And therefore, fancy footwork isn’t going that budget I submitted that holds discre- to work. The only thing that will work is tionary spending to 4 percent. making sure people have got a steady So you hold the line on the expense side, stream of dividends. and you increase the revenues coming into And finally, getting rid of dividend—the the Treasury by increasing jobs, by increas- double taxation of dividends will lower the ing economic vitality. Yes, I’m concerned cost of capital, will make it easier for peo- about the deficit, but I’m more concerned ple to raise money. And remember, when about the person looking for a job today. people have money to invest, it means And this plan we’ve got not only will deal somebody is more likely to find work. We with the deficit in the long term but in estimate that getting rid of the double tax- the short term says, we care about the man ation of dividends will add 400,000 new or a woman looking for a place to work jobs by the end of 2004. I want Congress in America. to take this proposition seriously. It’s good I’m confident about our economic out- for America. look, particularly confident when Congress And we’re making progress. We’re mak- does the right thing and lets you have more ing progress. I want to thank you for your of your own money. We don’t need to be

476 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 13 little-bitty in this deal. We need to be ro- ple of this country are strong. We’ve got bust to get people back to work. We don’t great workers. We’ve got a great system. need to be afraid of the politics or afraid There’s no doubt in my mind we’ll succeed, of the rhetoric. We need to be strong in because there’s no doubt in my mind we’re our desire to do what is right for this econ- the greatest nation on the face of the Earth omy. And what is right is a robust plan. because of the American people. And what is right is a strong plan which Thank you for coming. May God bless, will get money in people’s pockets, so you and may God bless America. can decide what to do with it. And when you decide to do positive things with it, somebody’s likely to find a job. NOTE: The President spoke at 4:40 p.m. in No, there’s no doubt in my mind that the production line of the foam plant at this country can overcome the obstacles Airlite Plastics. In his remarks, he referred that have been put in our way. There’s to Brad Crosby, president, Airlite Plastics; no doubt in my mind that when we remain Stephanie Johanns, wife of Gov. Mike strong and diligent—and we will—America Johanns of Nebraska; Senator E. Benjamin will be more secure. There’s no doubt in Nelson of Nebraska and his wife, Diane; Lt. my mind, as we continue to work hard Gov. David Heineman, Secretary of State for the values we believe, people will real- John A. Gale, State Attorney General Jon ize the beauty of freedom and the benefits Bruning, State Treasurer Lorelee Byrd, and of freedom. And therefore, the world will State Auditor Kate Witek of Nebraska; and be more peaceful. former President Saddam Hussein of Iraq. There’s no doubt in my mind that this The Office of the Press Secretary also re- economy is going to be strong, because the leased a Spanish language transcript of these entrepreneurial spirit is strong and the peo- remarks.

Remarks in Indianapolis, Indiana May 13, 2003

Thanks a lot for the warm welcome. I’m those of our fellow citizens are with the so grateful so many of my fellow citizens families of the victims of yesterday’s mur- have shown up this morning. Thanks for der in Saudi Arabia. We pray for them. coming. I’m here to discuss some of the We mourn the loss of life. These despicable challenges that this Nation faces and to let acts were committed by killers whose only you know I’m optimistic we can overcome faith is hate. And the United States will anything in our path. find the killers, and they will learn the We have a challenge to make sure that meaning of American justice. we have economic security here at home. I want to thank the chairman, Dick That’s one of the challenges we face, and Lugar, for his service to our country and I will discuss that challenge. We also have for his friendship. He’s a fine, fine man. a challenge to protect our fellow citizens A member of my Cabinet has joined us from terrorism. here today, my man Mitch. Mitch Daniels Today’s attacks in Saudi Arabia, the ruth- has been a good friend, a close adviser, less murder of American citizens and other and I’m going to miss him. Washington’s citizens, remind us that the war on terror loss, however, will be the gain of the peo- continues. My thoughts and prayers and ple of Indiana. He’s a fine fellow.

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I appreciate very much that Governor to help a child learn to read. She under- O’Bannon has joined us today. Mr. Gov- stands a society—a hopeful society is one ernor, thank you for coming. I’m honored in which we work hard to save lives, one you are here. And I’m appreciative that person at a time. She—not only that, but Indiana’s other Senator, Senator Evan she works at the Christamore House, which Bayh, has joined us as well. Senator, thanks is a house—a center aiming to serve people for coming. I appreciate you coming. in need, to help people who hurt. Eliza- I’m proud that members of the Indiana beth, thank you for coming. I’m honored congressional delegation have joined us as you’re here. Please stand up. And for any well. Chris Chocola from up north has of you who want to follow the path of Eliz- come to be with us today. Steven Buyer, abeth Hamilton, we’ve got what’s called the Congressman Buyer is with us today. Con- USA Freedom Corps. You can look it up gressman Dan Burton is with us today. on the Internet if you’re interested in help- Congressman Mike Pence is with us today, ing somebody in need. If you really want and I’m also very pleased that Congress- to make this country a strong country, vol- woman Julia Carson is with us today as unteer. Help somebody who hurts. Love well. a neighbor just like you’d like to be loved We’ve got members of the statehouse yourself. who are with us. The State attorney general This Nation has been tested. For 20 is with us, and other members of the state- months, we have waged a relentless cam- house. Thanks for coming. Mr. Mayor of paign against global terror. You see, the Indianapolis, I’m honored you are here, enemy hit us, and they didn’t realize the that Mayor Peterson has taken time out nature of this country. They probably of his day to greet me. thought we would just fold our tents and I just had the honor of talking to some go home. They don’t understand America. of your citizens about what tax relief will They don’t understand how much we love mean to them. I’m going to talk about freedom. They don’t understand how much some of them a little later on. But I want we cherish—[applause]. They probably to thank you all so very much for taking thought we would forget, but anytime anytime out of your day to kind of tell me body attacks our homeland, anybody—any- what life’s all about here. [Laughter] time anybody attacks our fellow citizens, Last night when I landed, I met a lady we’ll be on the hunt, and we’ll find them, named Elizabeth Hamilton. She is—the and they will be brought to justice. Just reason I bring up Elizabeth is because I ask the Taliban. [Laughter] want you to understand that the true We went into Afghanistan, not all that strength of America is not our military or long ago when you think about it, to uphold our ability to bomb people. The great a doctrine that said, ‘‘If you harbor a ter- strength of our country is the fact that we rorist, if you hide a terrorist, if you feed love each other. The great strength of a terrorist, you’re just as guilty as the ter- America is that we’re a compassionate na- rorist, and you’ll be held to account.’’ tion. So we, along with a vast coalition, went There’s been a lot of talk about our mili- into Afghanistan to bring people to justice tary, but I want you to remember that the but also to free people from the clutches thing that makes this Nation strong is the of one of the most barbaric regimes in fact that we have citizens like Elizabeth modern history. And now, thanks to the Hamilton who are willing to love somebody United States of America and a lot of our just like they’d like to be loved themself. friends, young girls go to school for the You see, Elizabeth is a reading tutor. first time. I’m proud of this country and She’s willing to take time out of her life what we stand for.

478 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 13

I figured we’ve destroyed about one-half Tillie, tell her I’m glad we’re on the same of Al Qaida, the top operators of Al Qaida. side. [Laughter] And that’s good. But we’ve got more work We moved into Iraq. We removed the to do. And the other half are going to get dictator, but we’ve got work to do. First, on the run, and we will find them. In order we’re going to help rebuild the country, to protect this homeland, the best way to make sure the people have got food on protect the homeland is to hunt down any- the table, make sure the children can go body who would do harm to Americans to school, make sure those who need med- and bring them to justice, and precisely ical supply can find medical supply. We’re what we’re going to do in America. going to turn the lights on all around the We will be patient, and we’ll be relent- country so that life can return back to nor- less, because that is our obligation to future mal. And then we’ll work with the Iraqi generations of Americans, an obligation people to have a Government of, by, and which says that we must work hard to make for Iraqi citizens. We’ll work to make sure sure people can grow up in freedom and that democracy takes hold, because we be- peace in this country. lieve people everywhere love freedom. And We also waged another battle in the war then we’re coming home. A free Iraq will make the world more against terror when we liberated the people peaceful, because you see, when people are of Iraq from the brutal regime of Saddam free, they’re less likely to promote ter- Hussein. Thanks to our United States mili- rorism. When people are free, they’re more tary and coalition forces, America is now likely to work to realize their aspirations more secure; the world will be more peace- in a positive way. Freedom around the ful; and the Iraqi people are free. world will bring peace, and that’s why America is proud of our military. We are America stands so strong for free people proud of their skill. We’re proud of their everywhere across this globe. courage. We’re proud of people like Army We will work hard to make sure the Corporal Damien Luten, who went to high homeland is secure and freedom prevails. school right here in Indianapolis. On March And likewise, we’ll work home to make 23d, he was in a supply convoy in Iraq sure everybody can find work in America. that came under attack. He was wounded. I saw the other day that the unemployment He was taken prisoner, and—thank God— rate went to 6 percent. That should be he was rescued. He now has the Purple a clear signal to reluctant Members of the Heart. But more importantly, he, like ev- United States Congress that we need an erybody else who wears our uniform, has aggressive economic growth plan so people the gratitude of the United States of Amer- can find work. ica. People can say—they say, ‘‘Well, if the And I know our troops are grateful for unemployment rate is going up, how can the support they found in places like Indi- you be optimistic?’’ And my answer is, be- anapolis. At the public library on Wash- cause we’ve overcome a lot, and we’re still ington Street, a group of grandmothers got growing. I want to remember what this Na- together and knitted scarves for our soldiers tion has been through. First of all, in to keep the desert sand out of their eyes. March of 2000, the stock market started What struck me was what 72-year-old Tillie going down. That affected a lot of people Caldwell had to say. And here’s what she because we’re an ownership society. Now, said—her words, not mine—‘‘What else are over 50 percent of our fellow citizens have a bunch of old ladies going to do?’’ [Laugh- got an interest in the stock market. You ter] ‘‘If I could, I would be the first on either own stock directly or your pension the frontline with a rifle.’’ Whoever knows plan owns stock. If you’re a police officer—

479 May 13 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 and thank you for serving your community, what I want you to consider. I want you by the way—you’ve got interest in the stock to consider how to make this economy market because of your pension plans. If grow. I want there to be one thing in your you’re a retired teacher, you’ve got interest. mind when it comes to debating what’s If you’re a retired citizen, you’ve probably right or wrong, and it’s not politics. It’s got some interest in the market. And the helping people find a job in the United market started going down in March of States of America.’’ 2000. And I’ve put a plan out that recognizes And then our Nation went into a reces- our strengths. First of all, the entrepre- sion starting January 1st of 2001. That neurial spirit is strong in America. This is means three quarters of negative growth, a country where if you’ve got a dream and three quarters of going backwards. And are willing to work for it, you can achieve then, just as it looked like things were kind that dream. And we’ve got to keep that of getting better, the enemy hit us. And entrepreneurial spirit strong in this great that affected America. It affected us deeply. country. It hurt our economy in a lot of ways. And Interest rates are low. That’s a strength we started getting settled down after that. that helps the homeowner either buy a And then it became clear, over the past home or refinance a home. We want peo- years, some of our citizens forgot what it ple owning their homes in America. And meant to be a responsible citizen. Some interest rates—low interest rates help peo- CEOs around our country forgot what it ple own a precious asset like a home. Infla- meant to be responsible in their jobs. They tion is down, which is positive. But the didn’t tell the truth to employees and shareholders alike. They will learn a lesson, best thing we’ve got going for us is we’re that we expect people to be responsible the most productive workforce in the in positions of authority. They will be held world. Our workers are the best in the to account, and this should serve as a lesson world. for people in positions of responsibility. It That’s good news, and it can be bad should serve as a lesson for other chief news. And one of the reasons it’s bad news executive officers of corporate America that is, the more productive the workforce—in we expect there to be open accounting and other words, each worker can produce fair compensation packages. We expect more goods and services per hour—it there to be responsible behavior in Amer- means you’d better increase the demand ica’s corporate boardrooms. for goods and services if you want to in- Now, we’ve been working our way crease employment. The more productive through problems. And in spite of those we are, the more the economy has to grow problems, we’re growing. As a matter of in order for somebody to find work. fact, we’re growing more than most other The best way to encourage—increase de- countries in the industrialized world. And mand for goods and services is to let people that’s positive news. What isn’t positive is keep more of their own money. You see, the fact that too many of our fellow citizens when somebody has more of their own are looking for work. What’s not positive money, they’re likely to make a decision is some of your fellow citizens are saying, on a good or a service. They say, ‘‘I want ‘‘What can I do to put food on the table more of this,’’ or, ‘‘I need an additional for my family?’’ And when people are look- good,’’ in which case somebody is likely ing for work, it says we’ve got a problem, in our system to produce it. And when and we need to do something about it. somebody meets that demand by additional And so I went to the United States Con- production, somebody is more likely to find gress and said, ‘‘Here’s my plan. Here’s a job. And we’re here to talk about one

480 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 13 thing, jobs. That’s what we’re here to talk way they see fit. After all, it’s your money about. to begin with. So I submitted a plan to the United This plan is important for the small-busi- States Congress that focuses on jobs. First ness growth. It’s important to kind of keep of all, one of the key parts of this plan that entrepreneurial spirit strong in Amer- is that it understands whose money we’re ica, and I’ll tell you why. Most small busi- talking about. Sometimes in Washington, nesses pay tax at the individual income- you hear the rhetoric, ‘‘Well, we’re spend- tax rate level. Most small businesses are ing the Government’s money.’’ Now, you limited liability corporations, and therefore, don’t spend the Government’s money in they pay tax at the individual rate—or Sub- Washington. We’re spending your money. chapter S corporations or sole proprietor- It’s your money we’re talking about. ships. Your mom-and-pop small business is And so I said, ‘‘Let’s let the people keep more likely to pay tax at the individual in- more of their own money.’’ In 2001, the come-tax rate. And therefore, when you Congress responded. It cuts rates on every- lower those rates, when you lower all rates, body. That’s fair. If you’re going to cut what you’re really doing is injecting capital the rates, you cut them on everybody. Gov- into the treasuries of American small busi- ernment shouldn’t pick and choose winners nesses. And the reason that’s important is when it comes to tax relief. Secondly, it most new jobs are created by small busi- said the marriage penalty is not a good nesses in America. thing. We ought to encourage marriage, not So when you hear the debate about re- discourage marriage. And the third aspect ducing all tax rates, I want you to remem- of the plan, I said we ought to increase ber that a crucial part of this plan focuses the child credit from $600 to $1,000 per on the American entrepreneur and the child. small businesses. And part of the plan says And so, Congress listened in 2001 and we’re going to raise the amount of money passed the plan, except they phased it in that a small business can deduct on a cap- over a period of years. And my attitude ital expenditure. In other words, if you buy is this: If the economy is hurting today, new equipment right now, you can only if we’ve got some of our fellow citizens deduct up to $25,000. So we’re saying you looking for work, instead of waiting 5 years, ought to be able to deduct up to $75,000. let’s do it today. The person looking for Yesterday I—it is clear we’ve got some a job doesn’t care what happens 5 years small-business owners with us who under- from now. The person looking for a job stand the limitations placed on investment. wants the economy to grow today. For the Well, if that’s the case, you’re some of the sake of economic vitality, Congress has got 497,000 small businesses right here in the to act and act boldly on this plan to get State of Indiana. It seems like to me you’re more of your own money back to you. a good place to be a small-business owner, And people, you’ll hear all the time in which is exciting. Washington, they’ll say, ‘‘Well, this is only I was yesterday—started in Albuquerque for a certain class of people.’’ That’s the and met a fellow who started his own ga- old, tired, stale class warfare argument. A rage. And he started with two employees; family of four making $40,000 a year would now he’s got—I forgot how many he said— see their Federal tax bill go down from a couple of dozen, which is incredibly posi- $1,178 a year to $45. That’s a family of tive. He said to me, ‘‘With the increase four making $40,000. And that’s $1,000 not on the ability to write off more of my cap- just for one year but for years. And it gives ital investment, I’m going to increase my that family a chance to plan. It basically garage space,’’ which means somebody has says that family can use their money the got to provide the concrete to pour the

481 May 13 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 foundation; somebody has got to figure out ‘‘Bet on us. Even though we don’t have where to buy the metal; somebody has got any cash, we’ve still got an interesting tale to make the metal. Then he’s going to need to tell,’’ you know, the new economy. The some extra employees to make sure the problem is, the new economy was affected garage space isn’t empty. by old accounting practices. And when In other words, what I’m telling you is, companies didn’t have any money, eventu- is that by encouraging small businesses to ally they went out of business. Well, if you invest capital, really what we’re doing is have a dividend-paying society, you can tell we’re increasing the ability for somebody an interesting story, but you also better to find work. The more people are buying have enough cash to back your story up. goods and products in our society, the more A dividend society is one that says, ‘‘We’ve production there will be of those goods and got a good story, but we also have got products, and the more likely is one of enough success where we can distribute your fellow citizens who’s looking for work cash to the owners on a quarterly basis.’’ will be able to find a job. This is all about A good corporate reform will be to encour- jobs. age companies to back up their perform- And the final aspect of the jobs-and- ance with cash distribution to the owners. growth package is to get rid of the double And who are the owners? The owners taxation on dividends. And there are a lot are from all walks of life. I’ve just told of reasons why we should. First of all, it’s you we’re an ownership society. If you have fair to tax corporate profits. If a company a pension plan, you’re a—you own stock. makes money, it is fair that we collect a If you have a—if you’re a retired teacher, tax from that company. It doesn’t seem fair you’re interested. There’s 177,000 seniors to me, however, that if the company dis- in this State who rely upon dividends to tributes a share of those profits to the own- meet their financial needs. ers, small and large alike, that we ought Oh, I’ve heard the rhetoric coming out to tax the profit again. That’s not fair. of Washington: ‘‘This is only for rich peo- As a result of the double taxation, share- ple. That’s why he’s doing it.’’ Well, Janet holders who receive a dividend keep as lit- Herke I met today. She has six grand- tle as 40 cents on the dollar earned, which children. Every month she sets aside $100 raises the cost of capital. It makes raising to help her children eventually pay for her capital more expensive, and that’s not good grandchildren’s education. She is a respon- for society which is interested in creating sible citizen. She’s retired. She relies upon more jobs. It doesn’t make sense to tax dividend income. Getting rid of the double anything twice. It certainly doesn’t make taxation of dividends will save this good any sense to tax anything twice and, there- lady $1,800 a year, for the out-years as fore, make it harder for somebody to raise well. And the savings mean this to her— capital necessary to expand their business this is what she said, ‘‘I want to pass along so somebody can find work. what I’ve invested and save for my kids It is very important, also, to realize the and grandkids, because they are the most reform aspects of encouraging companies important things in my life.’’ Now, you tell to pay dividends. If you get rid of the dou- Janet that this getting rid of the double ble taxation of dividends, more companies taxation of dividends is only for rich people. will pay dividends. I met with Wilbur and Doris Richards. We just went through a period of time I met with the Richards. Wilbur is an Army when some of our corporate citizens said, veteran. He helped liberate World War ‘‘Invest in my company because I’ve got II—Europe in World War II. Doris worked an interesting story.’’ I would call that the in local schools here. They worked hard. pie-in-the-sky economic period, you know, The proposal would cut their taxes by 70

482 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 13

percent, and at $800 more a year, which which means the economy slowed down to would help them pay for health insurance, the point where there’s less revenue com- it certainly eases the pressures that now ing into the Treasury. Yes, we’re in deficit exist on their life. Wilbur says he gets the because we’ve got less money coming in. most out of every buck. And my tax relief We’re also in deficit because I made a plan would give him and seniors like him promise to the people who wear the uni- more bucks to work with—his words, not form of the United States military, ‘‘If we mine. put you in harm’s way, we will spend what Dena Kerhoulas is here with us. She’s is ever necessary to make sure we win.’’ the lady who’s got the same hairstyle as We will deal with the deficit. There’s my mother—[laughter]—and sounds just a couple ways to deal with it. One way about as feisty. [Laughter] Right after Sep- is to raise your taxes, and that’s not going tember the 11th, here’s what she did: Sep- to happen. The other way is to do two tember the 11th, 2001, she bought more things. One is to control spending. It’s to stocks, because, she said, ‘‘I wanted to show be responsible with your money. It’s to set them they don’t have us whipped.’’ She clear priorities and say to the Congress, has stocks that pay dividends, like a lot ‘‘Here are the guidelines. Here’s what we of seniors do. These aren’t overly rich peo- expect you to honor,’’ and that is, in this ple. They’re rich in spirit, but they’re what case, no more than 4 percent increase in we call average in wealth. She’d save $2,000 discretionary spending. In other words, a year, money she could use, money that there needs to be fiscal sanity in Wash- when she spends will help somebody find ington, DC, and at the same time, have work. policies which grow the economy so we I met the Grubbs family and the can get more revenues coming into the Knights—same story over and over again Treasury. If you’re interested in the deficit, all across America. Getting rid of the dou- you ought to be supporting fiscal discipline ble taxation of dividends will help our sen- on the one hand and aggressive policies ior citizens, and that’s good policy. to make sure people can find work on the I proposed an aggressive plan, because other hand. I want more people working. I proposed I’m optimistic we’re going to make good a plan where the—some economists say will progress in Washington. I want to thank add a million new jobs by the end of 2004. the House of Representatives for voting on We don’t need tepid steps in Washington, a good plan. It’s a good start. And now DC. We need plans that will get this econ- it’s up to the Senate to follow suit. I believe omy growing strong so our fellow citizens the Senate, when they hear from you, will can find a job. follow suit. I believe the people in the There’s all kinds of reasons why people elected office need to hear from our citi- don’t want to support a strong plan. One zens. of the most—one of the ones you hear I look forward to signing a good bill, the most about is that it will cause a deficit. one that will help people get back to work. Let me discuss that with you right quick, I look forward to signing a good piece of if you don’t mind. Sure, we’re in deficit. legislation which will rekindle the entrepre- We’re in deficit. We’re in deficit because neurial spirit of this country. I look forward we went through a recession. I explained to signing a bill that will help America re- to you what the country had been through. main strong. And there’s no doubt in my The stock market went down starting in mind we will. March of 2000. That means less revenues I’m confident that the future that lies coming into our Treasury when people sold ahead is a positive future for all our citi- their stocks. We went through a recession, zens. I’m confident that because of the

483 May 13 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

United States of America, the world will Thank you all for coming. God bless, and be more free. I’m confident that if we re- God bless America. main strong like I know we will, the world will be more secure. And I’m confident, NOTE: The President spoke at 10 a.m. in the thanks to the strength and the compassion Pepsi Coliseum at the Indiana State Fair- of our country, the world will be more grounds. In his remarks, he referred to Gov. peaceful. And the reason I’m so confident Frank O’Bannon and State Attorney General is I realize that I’m the President of the Steve Carter of Indiana; Mayor Bart Peterson greatest nation on the face of the world. of Indianapolis; and former President Sad- dam Hussein of Iraq.

Remarks in Pierce City, Missouri May 13, 2003

Thank you all very much. It is my honor And for the volunteers who are here, to be here. Can you hear me back there? the people who have taken time out of It is my honor to be here with some of your lives—the Red Cross or the Salvation our country’s finest citizens. I am sorry I’m Army or the church groups or the USA here under such circumstances. Freedom Corps people—I want to thank I first want to thank the mayor for his you very much for helping your neighbor hospitality and helping to arrange my visit. in need. I want to thank the good father for opening I’m asking the FEMA people and the up this place of worship, this house of God, Governor and the mayor and everybody— to help those who suffer. I find it—and I said, ‘‘Is the Government moving fast I hope you do—uplifting that in the midst enough?’’ That’s the question that I need of tragedy, amongst people who have lost to know. And some of you said, ‘‘Yes,’’ and their homes, in some cases their loved one, some of you said, ‘‘No.’’ And for the ones or their businesses, lost their possessions, who said, ‘‘No,’’ we will do everything we that we gather to comfort each other and can to get you the—what you’re owed. to find help in the house of the Lord, be- We’ll process the paperwork as fast as pos- cause it’s with His strength and His prayer sible, and if you qualify for help, they’ll that you’ll find the sustenance to go on. get you the help. That’s what we’re supposed to be doing. One of the things that struck me as I So one of my visits—one of the reasons worked through the crowd here, shaking I’m visiting here is to ask the question, as many hands as I could, was that the you know, to people. Because if there’s— people here who have been affected by the moving too slow or people are saying one storm are ready to move on, are ready to thing and the other thing is not happening, pick up their lives, and are ready to do now is the time to find out. everything they can to convert this tragedy But the other real reason is to let you into good. Folks want to rebuild their— know there’s a lot of Americans who are the feed man told me, he said, ‘‘I got wiped praying for you. A lot of people around out, but I’m starting tomorrow to rebuild this country saw the devastation—they my company.’’ And there’s no doubt you didn’t see what I’ve seen, because they— will, because there’s a lot of people that you can’t tell how bad it is until you actu- want to help you. ally come here to Pierce City and see it

484 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 13

yourself. You can’t realize what it’s like to NOTE: The President spoke at 2:05 p.m. in see a tornado go right down the main street the parish hall at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. of a town and just wipe it out. It’s hard In his remarks, he referred to Mayor Mark to envision. But a lot of people know you’re Peters of Pierce City; and Rev. Peter J. suffering, and a lot of people are praying Morciniec, pastor, St. Mary’s Catholic for you, and a lot of people care for you. Church. The Office of the Press Secretary And a lot of people wish you all the best. also released a Spanish language transcript May God bless you. of these remarks.

Remarks on the Tornado Damage and an Exchange With Reporters in Pierce City May 13, 2003

The President. This is this man’s busi- Terrorist Attack in Saudi Arabia ness. They built their business last year. Q. Sir, do you think that the bombing They had a family restaurant. They had a in Saudi Arabia was the fault of Al Qaida? family restaurant. The children worked in The President. Well, there’s a lot of sus- it. And their lives got turned upside-down picion it is Al Qaida. Al Qaida is a group in one minute. This whole town, this whole of people that they don’t care about taking street got wiped out. The tornado just came innocent life. And obviously, these killers straight down the street. didn’t care about innocent life. And we’ll And the only thing I can tell a man who find out. We’ll find out. We’re going to has lost it all and a lady who has lost it find out. all in one moment is, is that a lot of people Q. Sir, are you satisfied with the coopera- are praying for them, and our Government tion the Saudis have given you? And do is going to try to do our best. But if you you believe they did all they could to pre- look in his eyes, you can see that—the dev- vent this? astation that took place, when you lose The President. Well, we’ll let the facts— we’ll sort the facts out and find out what something—all you own overnight. The the facts are. Colin Powell is over there good news is his family is still standing, now, and I’m confident, when I get back and he’s strong. God bless you. God bless to Washington tomorrow, that George you. Tenet of the CIA will give me a full brief- Q. What’s your name? ing of what we know. And we’ll just find Scott Rector. Scott Rector. This is my out. Let me get back to Washington and wife, Lynette. sort through the facts. The President. Rector—2002 is when he Q. Are you going to pull more Americans realized his dream. out of Saudi Arabia? Mr. Rector. It’s going to say ‘‘again in The President. Let me get back to Wash- 2003’’ here in about 5, 6 months. [Laugh- ington, find out the facts. We’ll assess all ter] the threats. We’ll take the necessary pre- The President. Yes. Oh, Mike [Mike cautions. But one thing is for certain: The Allen, Washington Post], okay. We’ll get people that killed the Americans and other you in a minute. Any questions or any- innocent life will be tracked down, and they thing? will be brought to justice. It doesn’t matter how long it takes. The war on terror goes

485 May 13 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 on. And this incident in Saudi Arabia shows change. And you know, I’m from Texas, the country that we still have got a war where we had the Jarrell tornado came and to fight. And we will fight it, and we will just wiped out the city of Jarrell. They win it. hadn’t had a tornado in that part of the Just like the people of this city are going State in a long time, and lo and behold, to rebuild this city, this country is going one shows up, and people lost their life. to defend our security and fight these ter- Q. Do you think the Government is rorists. doing enough? Q. This bombing looked like it was pretty The President. Well, that’s what I’m here well-planned. to ask. And I want to make sure FEMA The President. It was very well-planned, responds quickly. I’ve been told by the yes. Governor he’s satisfied. The mayor has told Q. So these guys have a little bit of me that he believes we’re moving fast money, they have some infrastructure—— The President. It doesn’t take much enough. But I’m moving out of the councils money to put a car bomb together. It takes of government. I’m trying to get directly hatred. It takes hatred in your heart. It to the people to find out. And there’s— takes an absolute disregard for innocent a lot of people are content, and some peo- life. And that’s the nature of Al Qaida. I ple are frustrated. can’t say for certain it was Al Qaida yet, Yes, ma’am. but I wouldn’t be surprised if it was. Q. So many people here didn’t have in- Q. Do you think Iran—— surance—— The President. Iraq? The President. That’s right, and we’re Q. Iran. going to have to deal with that. Q. Is there money available that’s not Tornado Damage in Pierce City a loan for these people? The President. Well, we have—we’ll just The President. Oh, I have no idea. Look, it’s way too early. Let me get back to have to figure it out, take a look and see. Washington and get the facts, and we’ll But you’re right, there’s a lot—a lot of the work on it. homes were insured, and a lot of the busi- In the meantime, my heart is right here nesses weren’t. And as you can see, this in Pierce City, Missouri, with the people street right here, all the commerce in this whose lives were destroyed as a result of entire town was wiped out. The mayor was a tornado that swept down this street. And talking about what it means to be trying let me say one thing about what I saw to run a city that has got no sales tax rev- at the church. I saw not only a determined enue because nobody can buy anything be- group of citizens, but I saw a group of cause the businesses are destroyed. volunteers from all over this State, and And this is devastation—complete devas- even some from Texas, I want you to know, tation here in Pierce City, and that’s what that they want to help them. And for that, we’re here to—listen. We’ve got the people I’m grateful, and I know their Nation is from the Federal Government all over it. as well. There’s a lot of love in this country. The people from the State government are Q. There were so many storms, all of listening to people’s complaints. And we’ll a sudden, unlike anything you’ve seen be- just see the best we can do. I am not fore. going to make a promise to these good The President. That’s what happens people that won’t be fulfilled. So I’m here sometimes. You know? That’s just what to listen, first of all. happens sometimes. Weather patterns

486 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 14

Terrorist Attack in Saudi Arabia Texas Legislature Q. Were you surprised at this attack Q. Sir, you mentioned Texas. Have you could take place a year and a half—after been following what’s going on in the Texas a year and a half of—— Legislature? The President. No, I’m not surprised. Al The President. I have not. Qaida—until Al Qaida is completely Q. Democrats leaving the State to avoid brought to justice, they want to hurt Ameri- a vote—— cans and our friends and allies. And so The President. No, I haven’t—[laugh- we’ll do everything we can to secure the ter]—but I’m confident my friend—that homeland, and we’ll do the best we can Governor Perry will be able to deal with to make sure people can’t come into our it. country and hurt us. But the best way to Why don’t we get out of the rain? Thank secure the homeland is to chase these kill- you all. ers down, one at a time, and bring them to justice, which is the policy of the Bush administration and will be the policy of the NOTE: The President spoke at approximately Bush administration for a long—hopefully, 2:30 p.m. during a tour of the city. In his a long time. I know so long as I’m the remarks, he referred to Gov. Bob Holden of President, we will deal with these people. Missouri; Mayor Mark Peters of Pierce City; That’s the only way to secure the coun- and Gov. Rick Perry of Texas. A tape was try. And so these—they’ll hit and run, and not available for verification of the content they’ll try to hide. We’re going to get them. of these remarks.

Letter to Congressional Leaders Reporting on the Deployment of United States Military Personnel as Part of the Kosovo International Security Force May 14, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. President:) to establish KFOR in U.N. Security Coun- In my report to the Congress of Novem- cil Resolution 1244 of June 10, 1999. The ber 15, 2002, I provided information re- mission of KFOR is to provide an inter- garding the continued deployment of com- national security presence in order to deter bat-equipped U.S. military personnel as the renewed hostilities; verify and, if necessary, U.S. contribution to the NATO-led inter- enforce the terms of the Military Technical national security force in Kosovo (KFOR) Agreement between NATO and the Fed- and to other countries in the region in sup- eral Republic of Yugoslavia; enforce the port of that force. I am providing this sup- terms of the Undertaking on Demilitariza- plemental report prepared by my Adminis- tion and Transformation of the former tration, consistent with the War Powers Kosovo Liberation Army; provide day-to- Resolution (Public Law 93–148), to help day operational direction to the Kosovo ensure that the Congress is kept fully in- Protection Corps; and maintain a safe and formed on continued U.S. contributions in secure environment to facilitate the work support of peacekeeping efforts in Kosovo. of the U.N. Interim Administration Mission As noted in previous reports, the U.N. in Kosovo (UNMIK). Security Council authorized member states

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Currently, the U.S. contribution to nicipal elections were successfully held for KFOR in Kosovo is about 2,250 U.S. mili- a second time in October 2002. tary personnel, or approximately 9 percent NATO continues formally to review of KFOR’s total strength. Additionally, U.S. KFOR’s mission at 6-month intervals. military personnel occasionally operate from These reviews provide a basis for assessing Macedonia, Albania, and Greece in support current force levels, future requirements, of KFOR operations. Nineteen non-NATO force structure, force reductions, and the contributing countries also participate with eventual withdrawal of KFOR. NATO has NATO forces in providing military per- adopted the Joint Operations Area plan to sonnel and other support personnel to regionalize and rationalize its force struc- KFOR. ture in the Balkans. The KFOR has trans- The U.S. forces are assigned to a sector ferred full responsibility for public safety and policing to the UNMIK international principally centered around Gnjilane in the and local police forces throughout Kosovo eastern region of Kosovo. For U.S. KFOR except in the area of Mitrovica, where the forces, as for KFOR generally, maintaining responsibility is shared due to security con- a safe and secure environment remains the cerns. The UNMIK international police and primary military task. The KFOR forces op- local police forces have also begun to as- erate under NATO command and control sume responsibility for guarding patrimonial and rules of engagement. The KFOR co- sites and established border-crossing check- ordinates with and supports UNMIK at points. most levels, provides a security presence The continued deployment of U.S. forces in towns, villages, and the countryside, and has been undertaken pursuant to my con- organizes checkpoints and patrols in key stitutional authority to conduct U.S. foreign areas to provide security, protect minorities, relations and as Commander in Chief and resolve disputes, and help instill in the Chief Executive. I appreciate the continued community a feeling of confidence. support of the Congress in these actions. The UNMIK continues to transfer non- Sincerely, reserved competencies under the Constitu- GEORGE W. BUSH tional Framework document to the Kosovar Provisional Institutions of Self-Government NOTE: Identical letters were sent to J. Den- (PISG). The PISG includes the President, nis Hastert, Speaker of the House of Rep- Prime Minister, and Kosovo Assembly, and resentatives, and Ted Stevens, President pro has been in place since March 2002. Mu- tempore of the Senate.

Message to the Congress Transmitting a Report on the National Emergency With Respect to Iran May 14, 2003

To the Congress of the United States: month periodic report prepared by my Ad- Consistent with section 401(c) of the Na- ministration on the national emergency tional Emergencies Act, 50 U.S.C. 1641(c), with respect to Iran that was declared in and section 204(c) of the International Executive Order 12170 of November 14, Emergency Economic Powers Act, 50 1979. U.S.C. 1703(c), I transmit herewith a 6- GEORGE W. BUSH

488 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 14

The White House, May 14, 2003.

Remarks Following Discussions With President Roh Moo-hyun of South Korea May 14, 2003

President Bush. It’s my honor to wel- President Roh. When I left Korea, I had come our good friend the President of both concerns and hopes in my mind. Now, South Korea to Washington, DC, and the after having talked to President Bush, I Oval Office and now the Rose Garden. I’ve have gotten rid of all my concerns, and been really looking forward to this visit. now I return to Korea only with hopes We’ve had several phone calls where we’ve in my mind. discussed important issues, and now we’ve In a very short period of time, we have had a chance to discuss important issues smoothly reached an agreement. It was not face to face. even necessary to tell President Bush all I have found the President to be an easy the logic that I had in mind to convince man to talk to. He expresses opinions very him before I came here. President Bush clearly, and it’s easy to understand. One had an accurate idea of what concerned thing is for certain: We will work to have me and what were my hopes. And I second the best possible relations between our to what President Bush has just stated. countries, and it’s based upon close con- There is one thing that he didn’t men- sultation on a wide variety of issues. There’s tion. We have reached agreement that the no question in my mind we’ll have the kind Korea-U.S. alliance have been maintaining of personal relationship where we can— its strength over the past 50 years, and will consult freely to solve major problems. it will become only more stronger in the We of course discussed the need to have coming 50 years or even more. And I could a nuclear-weapons-free Korean Peninsula. think of many achievements that we both I assured the President we will continue obtained from this meeting, but the most to work to achieve a peaceful solution. important one of those is the fact that We’re making good progress toward achiev- President Bush and I had a very frank and ing that peaceful resolution of the issue candid discussion. And apart from our na- of the Korean Peninsula in regards to tional agenda, we also built a close, per- North Korea. sonal friendship. We talked about other issues. One im- I would like to rephrase myself. We have portant issue is to make sure we continue reached agreements on many national agen- working closely on economic issues. I have da issues, but more importantly, we have confidence in regards to the South Korean become to trust each other and have con- economy. I believe South Korea will confidence in each other. tinue to be an engine for economic growth I would like to reiterate my heartfelt and vitality. And I look forward to working thanks to President Bush and his aides for with the President to continue to foster providing me with this opportunity. Thank very strong bilateral relations. you very much. So, Mr. President, I’m glad you’re here. Welcome.

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NOTE: The President spoke at 6:42 p.m. in dent Roh spoke in Korean, and his remarks the Rose Garden at the White House. Presi- were translated by an interpreter.

Joint Statement Between the United States of America and the Republic of Korea: Common Values, Principles, and Strategy May 14, 2003

On May 14, 2003, President George W. to consult closely with President Roh on Bush of the United States of America and the appropriate posture for USFK during President Roh Moo-hyun of the Republic the transition to a more capable and sus- of Korea held a summit meeting at the tainable U.S. military presence on the pe- White House in Washington, D.C. Noting ninsula. They shared the view that the relo- that 2003 marks the fiftieth anniversary of cation of U.S. bases north of the Han River the U.S.-ROK Mutual Defense Treaty, the should be pursued, taking careful account two leaders pledged to work together to of the political, economic and security situ- promote the values of democracy, human ation on the peninsula and in Northeast rights and market economy shared by the Asia. The two leaders also noted the oppor- people of both nations and to build a com- tunity provided by the Republic of Korea’s prehensive and dynamic alliance relation- growing national strength to continue ex- ship for continued peace and prosperity on panding the role of the ROK armed forces the Korean Peninsula and in Northeast in defending the Korean Peninsula. Asia. President Bush and President Roh wel- The U.S.-ROK Alliance comed the growing bilateral U.S.-ROK cooperation on international security chal- President Bush and President Roh wel- lenges beyond the Korean Peninsula. Presi- comed the fiftieth anniversary of the U.S.- dent Bush thanked President Roh for his ROK alliance and paid tribute to those who support on Iraq and welcomed the Repub- have contributed to the alliance, particularly lic of Korea’s decision to deploy medical the Korean host communities and the and construction units and undertake other members of U.S. Forces Korea (USFK) who have devoted themselves to the de- efforts to assist with post-conflict humani- fense of peace and freedom on the penin- tarian assistance and reconstruction in Iraq. sula. President Bush reaffirmed the U.S. President Roh expressed his support for commitment to a robust forward presence U.S. and international efforts to establish on the peninsula and in the Asia-Pacific lasting peace and security in the Middle region. The two leaders pledged to work East. The two leaders also reviewed closely together to modernize the U.S.- progress and cooperation in the war on ter- ROK alliance, taking advantage of tech- ror, noting the contribution of ROK forces nology to transform both nations’ forces to Operation Enduring Freedom and Af- and enhance their capabilities to meet ghan reconstruction. emerging threats. To commemorate the fiftieth anniversary In the context of modernizing the alli- of the alliance, the two Presidents wel- ance, the two leaders agreed to work out comed the convening of forums of experts plans to consolidate U.S. forces around key to conduct discussions on the future of hubs and to relocate the Yongsan garrison U.S.-ROK relations and to generate fresh at an early date. President Bush pledged ideas for both governments.

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North Korea to resolve the nuclear issue. President Roh President Bush and President Roh re- stated that future inter-Korean exchanges affirmed that they will not tolerate nuclear and cooperation will be conducted in light weapons in North Korea. They noted with of developments on the North Korean nu- serious concern North Korea’s statements clear issue. The two leaders reaffirmed about reprocessing, possession of nuclear their commitment to maintaining close co- weapons, and its threat to demonstrate or ordination between the U.S. and ROK gov- transfer these weapons. They stressed that ernments on this issue as well as in tri- escalatory moves by North Korea will only lateral consultations with Japan. lead to its greater isolation and a more Economic Relations desperate situation in the North. The two leaders agreed on the impor- Both leaders reiterated their strong com- tance of working together to promote pros- mitment to work for the complete, perity in their two countries, in the region, verifiable and irreversible elimination of and around the world. They agreed that North Korea’s nuclear weapons program Korea’s economic fundamentals are strong through peaceful means based on inter- and expressed high confidence in the pros- national cooperation. They welcomed the pects for continued increases in trade, in- role played by China at the April 23–25 vestment and growth in the Republic of trilateral talks in Beijing. They agreed that Korea. President Bush welcomed and sup- the Republic of Korea and Japan are essen- ported President Roh’s commitment to con- tial for a successful and comprehensive set- tinued structural reform of the Korean tlement and that Russia and other nations economy and his goal of making Korea a can also play a constructive role in multilat- regional hub for trade, finance, and invest- eral diplomacy. While noting that increased ment in Northeast Asia. The two leaders threats to peace and stability on the penin- agreed that progress on open trade, invest- sula would require consideration of further ment, and transparency are essential to steps, they expressed confidence that a making this hub concept a reality, and rec- peaceful resolution can be achieved. ognized the important role of the private Noting that the United States and the sector in this effort. Republic of Korea are the two leading do- The two leaders expressed a desire for nors of humanitarian food assistance to enhanced bilateral economic cooperation North Korea, the two Presidents reaffirmed and reaffirmed their commitment to resolve that humanitarian assistance is provided bilateral trade issues through consultation, without linkage to political developments and agreed to explore ways to further and noted the need to ensure that the as- strengthen the already close economic and sistance goes to those in need. President trade partnership. Recognizing the impor- Bush stressed that North Korea’s nuclear tance of global trade liberalization, the two programs stand in the way of the bold ap- leaders expressed their determination to proach and the ability of the international work together to achieve a successful con- community to consider comprehensive clusion of the Doha Development Agenda. steps to assist the many needs of the North The two leaders also agreed to strengthen Korean people. cooperation in the APEC forum. President Roh outlined his Peace and Prosperity Policy and President Bush reiter- Toward a Full Partnership ated his support for the process of South- Taking note of the one hundredth anni- North reconciliation. President Bush noted versary of Korean immigration to the that the Republic of Korea has used this United States, President Bush conveyed his dialogue channel to call upon the North deep respect not only for the contributions

491 May 14 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 of Korean-Americans to American society combat crime and infectious diseases but also for the ideals of democracy, peace around the globe. and prosperity realized by the citizens of The two leaders agreed that their fre- the Republic of Korea. President Roh ex- quent telephone calls since President Roh’s tended his appreciation to the U.S. govern- election in December and their substantial ment and its people for all that has been discussion in Washington have built a per- done to help Korean-Americans realize sonal foundation of mutual trust and re- their dreams in American society. spect that will enhance U.S.-ROK coordina- President Bush and President Roh high- tion on North Korea and other challenges lighted the importance of increasing bilat- in the months and years ahead. President eral cooperation across a broad range of Roh thanked President Bush for his hospi- global issues. In this context, the two lead- tality and invited him to make a return visit to Seoul at his convenience. President ers welcomed U.S. and ROK cooperation Bush said he looked forward to another in the International Thermonuclear Experi- visit to the Republic of Korea. mental Reactor (ITER) project, in the Global Forum on Corruption to be held NOTE: An original was not available for in Seoul later this month, and on other verification of the content of this joint state- efforts to improve the environment and ment.

Remarks at the National Hispanic Prayer Breakfast May 15, 2003

Thank you all. Thank you all very much. of the United States Senate. Senator Frist, Sientese. Gracias, Luis. El honor es mio. thank you for coming. I was told one of It is an honor to be here again this year. the leaders of the House, Nancy Pelosi, I’m so pleased that you would have me is to be here. I’m not going to try to read back for the National Hispanic Prayer off every single name of every single person Breakfast. I’m really pleased this is becom- in the Congress who may or may not be ing a tradition in Washington, DC. here; I’ll probably skip one and add one It is important and it is good to begin that isn’t. [Laughter] But let me just tell the day with prayer and fellowship. Prayer you, I’m honored to be working with them. is an opportunity to praise God for His It’s a fine group of our fellow citizens, all works and to thank Him for His blessings. working together to try to do the best thing Prayer turns our minds to the needs of on behalf of the American people. others, and prayer changes our hearts as I want to appreciate Gaddi Vasquez, who we seek God’s will. is the Director of the Peace Corps, who’s I want to thank you for reminding the with us today. Donde esta? Hey, Gaddi, Nation and our Capital about an even thank you for coming. greater source of strength and authority. I think the Mayor is here. Mr. Mayor, I want to thank my friend Luis for being I appreciate you coming. I’m honored to a general in the army of compassion. He have you here. I always like to tease the is what I like to call a social entrepreneur. Mayor about the potholes in front of the I want to thank the Members of the White House. [Laughter] There aren’t any. United States Congress who are with us Says to me he’s doing a pretty darn good today. I see Senator Bill Frist, the leader job.

492 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 15

I want to thank Reverend Jose Martinez the United States. He had kept that oath and Manuel Vasquez. I want to appreciate for decades before he took it, and I’m the beautiful musicians who sang today. I’m proud to call him my fellow American. honored that the students from St. Rita’s Our country is proud of all the Hispanic Catholic School in Alexandria are with us Americans who serve in uniform. We’re today. Thank you all for coming. I appre- deeply grateful for those who have died ciate the pastors who are here and the in the cause of our security and in the leaders from around our country. Welcome cause of freedom. We honor their memory. back to Washington. We pray for their families. We honor the Last May, when I came, you honored communities and the churches where they me with a special gift, a bilingual Bible learned the value of service and sacrifice. that was made for me in Mexico. And this Because of their sacrifices, America is a Bible means a lot because with it came more secure country. Because of their sac- a promise. You promised that you were rifices, the world will be a more peaceful praying for me. There is no greater gift place. And because of their sacrifices, peo- that a President can receive. I have felt ple who had lived in bondage under the the comfort of those prayers, and I am strong arm of a brutal dictator are now really grateful. Thank you from the bottom free. of my heart. America is blessed by their sacrifices, and Hispanic Americans bring many gifts to America is also blessed by the sacrifices this Nation, hard work and strong cultural that you make every day as you care for traditions and patriotism. Above all, the the sick, house the homeless, feed the hun- Hispanic community lives every day por los gry, and preach the Word—la palabra. valores de fe y familia. Your good works In the Book of James, we are reminded and reverence bring compassion to our that faith without works is dead. By loving country and honor to Almighty God. a neighbor as you’d like to be loved your- In the last several weeks, we have self, you prove every day that faith is alive. learned the names of some exceptional By your work and prayers, you have formed young men and women who have shown your own army, an army of compassion. the strength and character of America. At And by living your faith, you bring hope the National Naval Medical Center, I met to those who need it most. Master Gunnery Sergeant Guadalupe It is appropriate that the group spon- Denogean. Sergeant Denogean is an immi- soring this breakfast has the name Nueva grant from Mexico who served in the Ma- Esperanza—New Hope. Hope allows us to rine Corps for 25 years. This spring he dream big, to pray bold, and to work hard was wounded near Basra, and he was sent for a better future. I want to thank you back to America for treatment. When asked for your abiding hope, for your steadfast if he had any requests, the good sergeant faith, and for your acts of love. I want just had two, a promotion for the corporal to thank you for helping to keep prayer who helped rescue him, and he wanted to an important part of our national life. May be an American citizen. God continue to invigorate you as you work I was honored to be with the sergeant to make this country a compassionate home the day he received a Purple Heart and for anybody. May God continue to invig- took the oath of citizenship. It was an orate you as you reach out to help a neigh- amazing experience, a truly American expe- bor in need. rience, to be in the hospital where he was This country needs your compassion. We recovering from his wound, to see this son need your works. We need your love. May of Mexico raise his right hand and pledge God bless you all, and may God continue to support and defend the Constitution of to bless America.

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NOTE: The President spoke at 7:38 a.m. in tecostal Movimiento Internacional, Region a ballroom at the Capital Hilton. In his re- del Este; and Manuel Vasquez, vice presi- marks, he referred to Rev. Luis Cortes, Jr., dent, North American Division, Seventh Day founder and president, Nueva Esperanza; Adventist Church. The Office of the Press Mayor Anthony A. Williams of Washington, Secretary also released a Spanish language DC; Rev. Jose Martinez, Iglesia de Dios Pen- transcript of these remarks.

Remarks at the Peace Officers Memorial Service May 15, 2003

Thank you all very much for that warm zens, and I appreciate your leadership, Di- welcome, and thank you for the privilege rector Mueller. of joining you all for this memorial service. I want to thank the Members of Con- Today Americans join in tribute to a gress who are here. I know Duke great profession and remember good men Cunningham is here. I see Mac Collins. and women who have fallen in the line I know there are other Members from the of duty. We recall their stories. We offer United States Congress who are here. our heartfelt sympathy to their families and Thank you for coming to join us. their colleagues, and we honor their distin- I want to thank Aliza Clark for her con- guished service to the cause of justice and tinued leadership; Jim Pasco. It’s good to peace. see Ray Kelly. I want to thank Marc I appreciate Chuck Canterbury’s leader- Anthony and Jamie McCarthy for joining— ship. I appreciate his candor. I appreciate for lending their talents to this solemn serv- the fact that he cares deeply about the ice. I appreciate you all coming. men and women who wear the uniforms I want to thank all the law enforcement all across our country. The Fraternal Order officers who have come here today to honor the fallen. But I want to thank you as well of Peace has got a good man in Chuck for what you do every day to make sure Canterbury, leading this fine organization. our country is a secure country. I particu- He also replaced a good man, a man larly want to say to the families, there is that I could call friend, in Steve Young. a lot of love and compassion in this Nation I know Denise and his son Steven are with of ours. A lot of people pray for you, and us today, and our prayers are with you, my hope is that their prayers will give you Denise and Steven, as you continue to cope the strength necessary to move on. with the life without your good husband This year, 377 names are added to the and good dad. National Law Enforcement Memorial, in- I appreciate so very much members of cluding 148 who were killed in the line my Cabinet being here today. John of duty in 2002. The death of a peace offi- Ashcroft stands strong for law and order cer is a reminder that peace can be fragile in our country. I’m honored that Gale and safety will always need defenders. Law Norton and Elaine Chao will join us as enforcement officers know that evil is real, well. The Director of the FBI, Bob and evil has servants of its own, criminals Mueller, is doing a fantastic job in con- and terrorists who live by violence and verting the FBI into a agency which is make victims of the innocent. going to be on the frontline of making sure And law enforcement officers know that terrorists do not harm our American citi- evil must always be opposed. Justice and

494 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 15 order and safety in every time are the found on basketball courts or in rock bands. achievements of bravery. More than They’re found on the backs of engines and 700,000 of our fellow Americans show that the front seats of squad cars.’’ bravery as sworn officers of the law, and Over the past 20 months, Americans this Nation is grateful to your service. have rediscovered how much we owe the The risks of law enforcement come in men and women who repeat an oath and difficult assignments and even in routine carry a badge. They have not only taken calls. Officers train and prepare for many a job, they have accepted a mission. When threats. Yet preparation will never take the they are called for help, they answer it. danger away from a hard profession. Mary You see danger; they will confront it. All Ann Collura, an 18-year vet from Fair of us rely, every day, on their high stand- Lawn, New Jersey, Police Department, was ards of conduct, their skill, and your sense killed while confronting an armed man of duty. after a high-speed chase. A fellow officer In the spring of last year, Sheriff’s Dep- later said, ‘‘You know, there are probably uty David March of Los Angeles County a hundred cops like this who did everything pulled over a stolen car and was shot and right and still have their names on the wall. killed by the driver. His colleagues remem- You put your fate in the hands of God ber him as a good street cop. It’s one of every day when you go out there.’’ the most perilous and essential jobs in For an officer’s loved ones, daily life is America. His boss, Sheriff Lee Baca, said, also an act of faith. Family members share ‘‘an honest man who had no fear, a man the uncertainties and worries of service. of faith who believed in others.’’ About a America recognizes and honors the sacrifice of our law enforcement families. We thank week before his death, Deputy March sent you for your service to our country as well. an e-mail to his station commander, and And every May 15th, we think especially here’s what he said. ‘‘My goals are simple. of those who have received the sudden and I will always be painfully honest, work as terrible news, many of whom are here hard as I can, learn as much as I can, today. Your sadness and loss are deep and and make a difference in people’s lives.’’ so is your pride. Long before tragedy came, These are the values we expect of every you knew this person you loved was brave sworn law enforcement officer, honesty and and good, and your country knows it, too. hard work and devoted service. These are Last October, Virginia State Trooper C. the values Americans see every day in the Mark Cosslett was killed while racing to officers of law who patrol the streets and a scene. He had spent the morning at a highways, investigate crimes, and arrest the pre-school, comforting children who were accused. And every time such a man or frightened by the sniper attacks here in woman is taken from us, our Nation has Washington—in the Washington area. One lost one of its finest citizens, a community of the parents later said, ‘‘I never met Mark has lost a friend and protector, and a family Cosslett and wouldn’t have known his name has lost an example of character and cour- but for his fatal accident. I do know one age who they will love and respect forever. thing, and I knew it before he was gone: Today, in their memory, the flag of the At a time when my family was looking for United States of America flies at halfstaff. a hero, there he was.’’ We pray God’s blessings on those who In times of challenge and uncertainty, grieve. Our Nation honors each name. We we see more clearly who has really earned are grateful for each life. our admiration. At a memorial service for May God bless you all, and may God Chicago Patrolman Benjamin Perez, the po- continue to bless the United States of lice chaplain said this: ‘‘Heroes are not America.

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NOTE: The President spoke at 12:40 p.m. on missioner Raymond W. Kelly; entertainer the West Grounds at the Capitol. In his re- Marc Anthony; and Tucson, AZ, police offi- marks, he referred to Chuck Canterbury, na- cer Jamie McCarthy, who sang the national tional president, Steve Young, former na- anthem. The Peace Officers Memorial Day tional president, and James O. Pasco, Jr., ex- and Police Week proclamation of May 9 is ecutive director, Fraternal Order of Police; listed in Appendix D at the end of this vol- Aliza Clark, president, Fraternal Order of ume. Police Auxiliary; New York City Police Com-

Statement on the Indonesia-Free Aceh Movement Decision To Resume Discussions on Implementation of the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement May 15, 2003

The United States welcomes the decision peace. In returning to the negotiating table, of the Government of Indonesia and the the two sides are taking a concrete step leadership of the Free Aceh Movement toward a better future for the people of (GAM) to resume discussions in Tokyo this Aceh. I call on the leadership of the GAM weekend aimed at implementing the De- to renew its commitment to a peaceful so- cember 2002 Cessation of Hostilities Agree- lution in Aceh and for both sides to pursue ment (COHA) between Indonesia and the good faith implementation of the COHA. GAM. The United States strongly supports The United States appreciates the deter- efforts to pursue a negotiated peace in mined efforts of the Henri Dunant Center Aceh within the framework of a unified to advance the cause of peace and justice Indonesia. for Aceh. I also wish to thank Prime Min- I commend President Megawati for dem- ister Koizumi and the Government of Japan onstrating her Government’s commitment for hosting the negotiations between Indo- to the Aceh peace process and for her will- nesia and the GAM and taking an active ingness to go the extra mile in pursuit of leadership role in this process.

Message to the Senate Transmitting the Protocol of 1997 To Amend the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution From Ships May 15, 2003

To the Senate of the United States: from Ships, to the International Convention I transmit herewith, for the advice and for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, consent of the Senate to its ratification, the 1973, as Modified by the Protocol of 1978 Protocol of 1997 to Amend the Inter- (hereinafter the ‘‘MARPOL Convention’’), national Convention for the Prevention of was signed by the United States on Decem- Pollution from Ships, 1973, as Modified by ber 22, 1998. I also enclose, for the infor- the Protocol of 1978 thereto (hereinafter mation of the Senate, the report of the the ‘‘Protocol of 1997’’). The Protocol of Department of State and its attached anal- 1997, which would add Annex VI, Regula- ysis of the Protocol of 1997, as well as tions for the Prevention of Air Pollution

496 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 16

Resolution 2 of the 1997 MARPOL Con- quirements for platforms and drilling rigs ference with its annexed Technical Code at sea. on Control of Emission of Nitrogen Oxides MARPOL Annex VI is an important step from Marine Diesel Engines. toward controlling and preventing emissions The MARPOL Convention is the global of harmful air pollutants from ships. U.S. agreement to control pollution from ships. ratification of the Protocol of 1997 will MARPOL Annex VI regulates the emission demonstrate U.S. commitment to an inter- into the atmosphere of specified pollutants national solution and should hasten the from ships. It complements the other an- entry into force of the Protocol of 1997. nexes to the MARPOL Convention, which Ratification will also enhance our ability to relate to the transport of oil (Annex I), work within the treaty framework to obtain harmful substances carried in bulk (Annex subsequent amendments that will require II), harmful substances in packaged form further reductions in emissions of nitrogen (Annex III), ship-generated sewage (Annex oxides that are now achievable through the IV) and garbage (Annex V). The United use of modern control technologies which States is a party to all of these annexes the United States strongly supports. I recommend that the Senate give early with the exception of Annex IV. and favorable consideration to the Protocol MARPOL Annex VI regulates the pre- of 1997 and give its advice and consent vention of air pollution from ships by lim- to ratification, subject to the declarations iting the discharge of nitrogen oxides from and understanding set out in the accom- large marine diesel engines, governing the panying report of the Secretary of State. sulfur content of marine diesel fuel, prohibiting the emission of ozone-depleting sub- GEORGE W. BUSH stances, regulating the emission of volatile The White House, organic compounds during the transfer of May 15, 2003. cargoes between tankers and terminals, setting standards for shipboard incinerators NOTE: An original was not available for and fuel oil quality, and establishing re- verification of the content of this message.

Remarks on Presenting the Commander in Chief’s Trophy to the United States Air Force Academy Falcons May 16, 2003

The President. Coach, how are you? rivalry amongst our academies is—our mili- Coach Fisher DeBerry. Sir. tary academies is one of the great traditions The President. Sit down, please. in our Nation, and I want to congratulate Coach DeBerry. Thank you, sir. Honored the Air Force Fighting Falcons for suprem- to be here. acy on the football field. The President. Thanks. Getting to be a I particularly want to say something habit. [Laughter] about Fisher DeBerry. He’s obviously a It’s my honor to welcome back to the unique guy who has got the unbelievable White House the Air Force Academy Fal- ability to motivate people in a good way. cons, who have now won the Commander So Coach, I congratulate you. We’re proud in Chief’s Trophy for their 6th consecutive of you, and the school and the men you year and 16th time overall. The football coach are better off for your presence.

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I want to thank the Members of the you—the character you displayed in your Congress who are here. For some reason drive to be the best will serve our Nation it seems like the Colorado Congressmen well, because we’re still at war. We learned have taken an interest for being here. that lesson in Saudi Arabia the other day. [Laughter] Senator Allard, thanks for com- An Al Qaida—a group we think is Al Qaida ing, and Congressman Hefley, as well as killed innocent life just for the sake of kill- Congressman Dicks from the State of ing them. Washington and Congressman Sam Johnson And we’ll do everything we can to pro- from the State of Texas. Thank you all for tect our homeland. We’ll do the best we coming. I appreciate you guys being here. can with the Transportation Security Agen- Now, Sam is an old fighter pilot—well, cy. We’ll do a better job on the borders. not an old fighter pilot—[laughter]—was a But the surest way to protect our homeland great fighter pilot—[laughter]—who one is to find these killers and bring them to time dead-sticked a Cessna onto the Dal- justice, which is what the United States las—the Dallas Tollway at night. [Laughter] of America is going to do. The skills you That’s how he got to be elected to the have learned on the football field and at Congress. [Laughter] the Air Force Academy are going to be Jim Roche is with us, the Secretary of necessary skills to protect the American the Air Force. Thank you for coming, Mr. people from the true threats of the 21st Secretary. The Acting Superintendent of century. the Air Force, General Weida, is with us So I’m proud to welcome you all here as well. I’m glad you’re here. I want to as football stars and champions, but I’m thank you all for coming as well, the folks more proud to be able to reassure our fel- that—not only the players but the folks that low Americans that people of high caliber make sure the players get the helmet and and high quality and high skill will serve the water and the tape on their ankles and in our Nation’s defense during a dangerous the people who support Air Force football. time, which will allow me to boldly predict The academies are really important for the United States of America will win the a lot of reasons. Obviously, what you learn war on terror. on the football field is even more important And so it was an honor to bring a— since we’re still at war. And it’s the quali- you call it a six-pack when you win 6 years ties of—that you learn on the football field in a row? [Laughter] Six-peat. A great that will serve our Nation in good stead coach and a great American. Welcome. after you graduate. Some of your fellow football players saw war in Iraq. And as NOTE: The President spoke at 2:35 p.m. in a result of their bravery and their skill, the East Room at the White House. In his the country is now more secure; the United remarks, he referred to Fisher DeBerry, States people are more secure; the world head football coach, and Brig. Gen. Johnny is going to be more peaceful; and the Iraqi A. Weida, USAF, commandant of cadets and people are now free from the clutches of commander, 34th Training Wing, U.S. Air an incredibly brutal dictatorship. What Force Academy.

498 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 16

Remarks on Senate Action on Jobs-and-Growth and AIDS Relief Legislation and an Exchange With Reporters May 16, 2003

The President. We had a good day yester- Saudi Arabia/Terrorism day in the United States Senate as the Sen- Q. Mr. President, in terms of combating ate passed a bill that will make it more terrorism at home, do you think the Saudis likely people looking for work will find a have gotten the message this time around? job. I’m pleased with the progress. I look The President. Well, Saudi Arabia is our forward to working with House and Senate friend, John [John Roberts, CBS News], leadership to reconcile any differences they and we’re working closely with them to have and get a bill to my desk as soon track down the killers of American citizens as possible. I’m optimistic about our econ- and British citizens and citizens from Saudi omy and its future. I’m even more opti- Arabia as well as other countries. mistic now that the Senate has acted. The best way to defend the homeland, I’m also so pleased that the Senate the best way to secure the future of the passed a bill to help ease the suffering on American people is to find the killers be- the African Continent as well as in some fore they strike us. And that’s exactly what Caribbean nations. We’ve got a HIV/AIDS we’re doing now inside of Saudi Arabia. initiative that will help—say to the world Obviously, we mourn the loss of life. It that the United States is a compassionate is a—it is certainly a wake-up call to many country; we care deeply about the suffering that the war on terror continues, that we’ve that takes place in the world. still got a big task to protect the American Again, I want to thank the Senate for— people and others who love freedom from as well as the House—for passing a good the designs of—and the will of these pur- piece of legislation. It looks like that bill veyors of hate. And we’ll find them. We’ll can get done pretty quickly, and I’ll be bring them to justice. able to sign it and take it to Europe with Q. me as a symbol of the great depth of com- But sir, is the message coming from passion that our country holds for those this administration to the Saudis that you’ve who suffer. got a problem, you have to deal with it—— I’ll ask—answer a few. Tom [Tom Raum, The President. The message—— Associated Press]. Q. ——and you have to wake up to the fact that you have to deal with it? The President. Yes, here’s the message. The message is the war on terror goes on, Tax Cut Legislation that there are killers on the loose—obvi- Q. Mr. President, can you live with a ously, killers on the loose inside of Saudi tax cut like the one the Senate passed that Arabia in this example. And we want to goes away after 3 years? work with them and find them, find those The President. Here’s the thing about the killers, and bring them to justice. And we tax cut. The tax cut must be strong and are still in a—it’s dangerous in the world. robust so people will be able to find work. And it’s dangerous inside Saudi Arabia, and That’s what I’m focused on. I’m interested it’s dangerous so long as Al Qaida continues in jobs and job creation. And the more to operate. bold the tax relief package, the more likely And so we’ll chase them down. We’re it is a fellow American will be able to find doing everything we can to secure the work. homeland. The best way to secure the

499 May 16 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 homeland is to work with countries like We’ve also got a lot of work to do on Saudi Arabia and to find the killers and the security front. As John clearly pointed get them before they get us. And that’s out, we’ve got an issue. We’re dealing with what this country will do. countries from around the world to make Woodward [Bob Woodward, Washington sure that they know that the war on terror Post]. continues. No one should be complacent Q. Sir. in the 21st century, the early stages of the The President. How are you? 21st century, so long as Al Qaida moves. Q. Very well. I’ve told the country that we’ve brought The President. Yes, Mark [Mark Knoller, to justice about half of the Al Qaida net- CBS Radio]. work—operatives, key operatives. And so the other half still lives. And we’ll find 2004 Election them, one at a time. Q. Mr. President, you filed with the FEC Listen, have a great weekend. Thank you today. How does it feel to be a candidate? all. And how do you assess your chances? You’re looking good, John, from the war The President. The American people will zone. decide whether or not I deserve a second Q. Thank you, sir. I call it the Iraq- term. In the meantime, I am focusing my kins Diet. [Laughter] attention today on finding—helping people find work. And that’s where I’m going to NOTE: The President spoke at 3:20 p.m. on be for a while. I want this economy to the South Lawn at the White House prior be robust and strong so that our fellow to his departure for Camp David, MD. A Americans who are looking for a job can tape was not available for verification of the find a job. content of these remarks.

Statement on Senate Action on Jobs-and-Growth Tax Relief Legislation May 16, 2003

I commend the Senate for its bipartisan lief, and increases expensing for small busi- passage of a jobs-and-growth package that nesses. includes all of the components of my origi- Jobs are on the line, and I look forward nal plan. By including a measure to com- to working with the full Congress to pass pletely abolish the double taxation of divi- a robust economic growth plan. I call on dends, the Senate has demonstrated that Congress to resolve their differences quick- they are committed to creating as many ly so that I can sign a bill that will help jobs as possible for American workers. The create jobs, boost take-home pay, and spur Senate bill also speeds income-tax rate cuts economic growth. for individuals and families, increases the child credit, provides marriage penalty re-

500 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 16

Statement on Senate Action on Legislation To Implement the Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief May 16, 2003

With today’s vote in the United States expand successful prevention programs to Senate, Congress has given the hope of life help those at risk. to millions of people in countries most af- I look forward to this legislation reaching flicted by AIDS. This historic legislation my desk as soon as possible so we can will enable us to provide critical treatment begin to turn the tide in the fight against and care for millions who suffer and greatly AIDS.

Message to the Congress on Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to Burma May 16, 2003

To the Congress of the United States: been resolved. The actions and policies of Section 202(d) of the National Emer- the Government of Burma, including its gencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)) provides policies of committing large-scale repres- for the automatic termination of a national sion of the democratic opposition in Burma, emergency unless, prior to the anniversary are hostile to U.S. interests and pose a con- date of its declaration, the President pub- tinuing unusual and extraordinary threat to lishes in the Federal Register and transmits the national security and foreign policy of to the Congress a notice stating that the the United States. For this reason, I have emergency is to continue in effect beyond determined that it is necessary to continue the anniversary date. I have sent the en- the national emergency with respect to closed notice, stating that the Burma emer- Burma and maintain in force the sanctions gency is to continue beyond May 20, 2003, against Burma to respond to this threat. to the Federal Register for publication. The most recent notice continuing this emer- GEORGE W. BUSH gency was published in the Federal Register The White House, on May 17, 2002. May 16, 2003. The crisis between the United States and Burma that led to the declaration of a na- NOTE: The notice is listed in Appendix D tional emergency on May 20, 1997, has not at the end of this volume.

Message to the Congress Transmitting a Report on the National Emergency With Respect to Burma May 16, 2003

To the Congress of the United States: and section 204(c) of the International As required by section 401(c) of the Na- Emergency Economic Powers Act, 50 tional Emergencies Act, 50 U.S.C. 1641(c), U.S.C. 1703(c), I am providing a report

501 May 16 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 prepared by my Administration, covering spect to Burma that was declared in Execu- the 6-month period since November 20, tive Order 13047 of May 20, 1997. 2002, on the national emergency with re- GEORGE W. BUSH The White House, May 16, 2003.

The President’s Radio Address May 17, 2003

Good morning. May 17th is Armed coalition forces in Iraq were precision-guid- Forces Day, when America honors the men ed by lasers or global positioning satellites, and women who serve in every branch of compared with just 13 percent of the the service. Here in the Oval Office, I’m bombs we used in the 1991 Gulf war. joined by some distinguished Americans, For all the contributions of technology, eight members of the military who fought however, the battles of Iraq and Afghani- bravely during the battle of Iraq. All of stan were won by the skill and courage them were wounded in battle and are re- of well-trained, highly motivated men and covering from their injuries. All of them women. In the recent fighting, marines and have earned the respect and the gratitude soldiers charged to Baghdad across 350 of our Nation. miles of hostile ground in one of the swift- Americans are proud of every man and est advances of heavy arms in history. Pilots woman who has faced the risks of war in flew through blinding sandstorms; soldiers the cause of freedom. Many still face dan- and marines ran into the face of gunfire, gerous duty in Iraq and Afghanistan as they at times ignoring their own injuries to save provide order and stability in liberated wounded comrades. Special Operations countries. Many are fighting on other fronts forces conducted daring raids to seize air- in the war against terror, and some brave fields and missile launch sites. Every Americans have given their lives to protect branch of the service worked in united pur- our country and to keep the peace. Our pose and displayed the highest standards whole Nation honors their memory, and of professionalism and honor. our thoughts and prayers are with the loved With the liberation of Iraq and Afghani- ones they left behind. stan, we have removed allies of Al Qaida, The world has seen the tremendous ca- cut off sources of terrorist funding, and pabilities of the United States military. made certain that no terrorist network will With fine allies at their side, American sol- gain weapons of mass destruction from Sad- diers and sailors, airmen, and marines used dam Hussein’s regime. advanced technology to gain historic vic- These two battles were important victories in Iraq and Afghanistan. Unmanned tories in the larger war on terror. Yet the Predator aircraft carried out bombing mis- terrorist attacks this week in Saudi Arabia, sions deep behind enemy lines, keeping which killed innocent civilians from more more of our pilots out of harm’s way. Sat- than half a dozen countries, including our ellites high above the Earth, at any time own, provide a stark reminder that the war of day or night, provided detailed images on terror continues. of individual targets and whole battlefields. The enemies of freedom are not idle, At least two-thirds of the bombs used by and neither are we. Our Government is

502 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 19 taking unprecedented measures to defend of the United States Army, Navy, Coast the homeland. And from Pakistan to the Guard, Air Force, and Marines. Philippines to the Horn of Africa, we are Thank you for listening. hunting down Al Qaida killers. So far, nearly one-half of Al Qaida’s senior operatives NOTE: The address was recorded at 1:55 p.m. have been captured or killed. And we will on May 16 in the Cabinet Room at the White remain on the hunt until they are all House for broadcast at 10:06 a.m. on May brought to justice. 17. The transcript was made available by the This Nation accepts the responsibilities Office of the Press Secretary on May 16 but of keeping the peace. And the best way was embargoed for release until the broadcast. In his remarks, the President referred to keep the peace is to make sure that to former President Saddam Hussein of Iraq. our military remains second to none. On The Office of the Press Secretary also re- this Armed Forces Day, we are grateful leased a Spanish language transcript of this to all who serve and sacrifice as members address.

Statement on the Terrorist Bombings in Casablanca, Morocco May 17, 2003

I strongly condemn the terrorist bomb- for its tolerance and its diverse range of ings in Casablanca, Morocco, that have religious and ethnic communities. taken many innocent lives. On behalf of These acts demonstrate that the war the American people, I extend condolences against terror goes on. Morocco is a close to the families of the victims and our hopes friend of the United States, and we offer for a quick recovery to those injured. assistance to the Government of Morocco These acts of murder show, once again, to help track down and bring to justice that terrorism respects no boundaries nor those responsible. borders. Casablanca is a city well-known

Remarks at a Welcoming Ceremony for President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo of the Philippines May 19, 2003

President Bush. Madam President, Attor- special ties of history and friendship and ney Arroyo, members of the Philippine del- family. And we share a commitment to the egation, Members of Congress, and distin- defense of democracy and the advance of guished guests: On behalf of the American freedom. people, Laura and I welcome you to the Just over a century ago, Americans and United States. Filipinos worked side by side to liberate This is the first state visit by the leader the Philippines. Nearly half a century later, of an Asian country during my administra- in a World War, our soldiers fought and tion. You honor the American people with died together in places like Bataan and your visit, because our two nations share

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Corregidor. And on this foundation of com- We share great goals in the world. We mon sacrifice, America and the Philippines are committed to opening markets in Asia built an alliance that remains strong, an and around the world to bring more people alliance that is essential to the peace of into an expanding circle of development the Pacific. and prosperity. And we are committed to In this new century, both our nations adding the moral and material resources are threatened by terrorism, and we are of our countries to the global fight against determined to fight that threat until it is poverty and hunger and disease. defeated. Our diplomats and law enforce- Partnership between our nations is sus- ment and intelligence officers are working tained by the friendship between our peo- arm-in-arm to disrupt terror plots, to cut ples. More than 2 million Americans trace off terrorist financing, and to bring the ter- their ancestry back to the Philippines, and rorists to justice. they enrich our national life. Many Filipino President Arroyo has welcomed Amer- Americans serve in our military, and I’m ican troops to train and advise their Phil- proud to recognize one of them today. ippine counterparts in Philippine-led Army Lieutenant General Edward Soriano antiterror operations. And she has been a is one of the highest ranking Filipino Amer- leader in building broader cooperation icans in the history of America’s military. He brings pride to both our countries, and against terror throughout the Asian Pacific we honor his service in the cause of free- region. dom. Madam President, for all you have done The Philippines was the first democracy to make our world safer, America thanks in Asia and has a proud tradition of demo- you. cratic values, love of family, and faith in Last week’s terrorist attacks in Saudi Ara- God. President Arroyo, you are carrying bia that killed innocent civilians from the this tradition forward, and I’m proud to United States, the Philippines, and many call you friend. Today the First Lady and other nations remind us that the war on I are honored to welcome you and Attorney terror continues. The world’s free nations Arroyo to America and to the White House. have the courage and the determination to Mabuhay! fight this war, and together we will defeat the forces of global terror. NOTE: The President spoke at 9:11 a.m. on President Arroyo also recognizes the the South Lawn at the White House, where threat posed by weapons of mass destruc- President Macapagal-Arroyo was accorded a tion. And she spoke with strength and con- formal welcome with full military honors. In viction of the need to disarm the Iraqi his remarks, President Bush referred to Jose dictator and to liberate the Iraqi people. Miguel Arroyo, husband of President Now the Philippines is helping Iraq take Macapagal-Arroyo; and former President its place among free nations by sending Saddam Hussein of Iraq. The transcript re- military police and medical personnel. The leased by the Office of the Press Secretary President and I both recognize that a free also included the remarks of President and secure Iraq is good for the Philippines, Macapagal-Arroyo. The Office of the Press is good for America, and is good for the Secretary also released a Spanish language world. transcript of these remarks.

504 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 19

The President’s News Conference With President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo of the Philippines May 19, 2003

President Bush. Thank you all very much. reviewed last year’s highly successful de- Please be seated. Welcome. We’ll have ployment of U.S. troops to the southern some opening statements. The President Philippines, and we agreed to a similar de- and I will answer some questions, two ployment in the near term, in which U.S. apiece per side. We’ll alternate. forces would support Philippine-led It is my honor to welcome President Ar- antiterror operations. royo back to the White House. We took The President and I also reviewed the office on the same day over 2 years ago, developments with the Moro Islamic Lib- and we have worked closely ever since. eration Front, MLIF. That group must President Arroyo is a friend of America and abandon the path of violence. If it does a friend of freedom. I appreciate her so and addresses its grievances through strength. I appreciate her courage. And I peaceful negotiations, then the United appreciate you being here today, Madam States will provide diplomatic and financial President. support to a renewed peace process. The relationship between the Philippines My country welcomes President Arroyo’s and the United States is stronger today commitment to improve the capacity of the than at any time in our recent history. Our Philippine Armed Forces, and we are pre- alliance helps ensure the security of both our countries. This is a vital alliance. And pared to help. We have agreed to launch I was pleased to inform President Arroyo a comprehensive review of Philippine secu- that the United States plans to designate rity requirements and how the United the Philippines as a major non-NATO ally. States can best support Philippine military This step will allow our countries to work modernization and reform. In addition, we together on military research and develop- are prepared to help Philippine forces ad- ment and give the Philippines greater ac- dress their most pressing needs, such as cess to American defense equipment and mobility, equipment, and spare parts. supplies. Our countries have a strong economic The President and I also discussed devel- relationship, and America supports Presi- opments in Iraq. I appreciate her strong dent Arroyo’s program of economic reform. support for the disarmament and liberation We agreed to launch an initiative to make of that country. I’m also grateful that the it easier and less costly for Filipino workers Philippine Government plans to commit in America to send remittances back to the military police and medical personnel to as- Philippines. I also informed President Ar- sist in the reconstruction of Iraq. royo that the United States will be extend- The Philippines and the United States ing new benefits to World War II veterans are strong allies in the war on terror. The from the Philippines who fought side by murder of citizens from both our countries side with American forces to defend free- last week in Saudi Arabia reminds us that dom. this war is far from over. The Philippine Finally, I’m honored to accept President Government is strongly committed to de- Arroyo’s generous invitation to visit the feating terrorists operating in its own part Philippines this fall, when I intend to travel of the world, such as the Abu Sayyaf group. to Southeast Asia for the APEC leaders The United States is committed to help- meeting. In the meantime, to keep our re- ing when asked. President Arroyo and I lationship moving forward, we’ll be sending

505 May 19 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 other senior officers to Manila, starting with earlier. I was supposed to be here last our Energy Secretary, Spence Abraham. March. The Philippines and America are old President Bush. Right. friends who are tackling a lot of new chal- President Macapagal-Arroyo. And we’ve lenges. Our relationship is strong; our rela- been working on what we can have to- tionship is growing stronger. gether in this state visit. But because we Madam President. postponed it and we didn’t know the date President Macapagal-Arroyo. Thank you, of the state visit, because we didn’t know Mr. President. Thank you once again for the timetable for the war, there were many inviting me on this state visit. As I said things that America already helped us with earlier, this shows how warm is the rela- in preparation for this state visit, even with- tionship within our two countries. We’ve out a date. So we—I’d like to thank you, become closer because of the war on ter- President Bush, for what we have been ror, but our closeness is certainly rooted able to achieve before the state visit, what in our deep and long shared history. we are achieving in this state visit, and what We became closer with the war on terror we will be achieving afterwards, because because the Philippines is one of the first of the deeper relationship that we have en- countries to join this war on terror. And tered into, culminated in this wonderful the reason why we did it is that we in visit of ours to your country. the Philippines know what it is to suffer President Bush. Madam President, thank from the hands of terrorism. We know the you. pain of terrorism. And we are with you We’ll start off with Tom [Tom Raum, in your leadership against terrorism, wher- Associated Press]. ever it may be found. There may be others who might feel tainted or hostile about U.S. War on Terror leadership in the war against terrorism. We Q. For both Presidents, do the recent believe that the U.S. leadership and en- suicide—the recent terror bombings, in- gagement with the U.S. makes the world cluding the ones in Morocco and Saudi a safer place for all of us to live in. Arabia, suggest that Al Qaida is regrouping But this trip is not just about terrorism, and back in business? And if so, is there it’s about fighting poverty. Poverty and ter- a chance that we overestimated the damage rorism are twin evils that we must fight. that we did to the organization? For the Philippines, we consider the U.S. President Bush. First of all, I have said a strategic partner not only in security mat- this is going to be—always said this is going ters but also in the economy, in the fight to be a long war, that—not only a long against poverty. I appreciate the support war, a new kind of war. We’re trying to President Bush has announced with regard chase down people who hide and move to our security assistance and also with re- around in the dark corners of the world, gard to our economic assistance and eco- and they plot, and they plan, and then they nomic cooperation with each other. pop up and kill. They don’t care about in- And in other meetings that we will be nocent life. And we’re making progress. I having with American officials, with multi- mean, we are, slowly but surely, disman- lateral agencies that are based in Wash- tling the Al Qaida operational network. ington, DC, and with the U.S. private sec- But we’ve got a lot of work to do, which tor, there will be other developments re- means we’ve got to continue to work to- lated to this visit that I’m sure will enhance gether to share information, cut off money, our relationship with each other even more. share intelligence, and hunt these people There’s been a lot of work in preparation down and get them before they get us. for this state visit. I was supposed to come And that’s why I appreciate President

506 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 19

Arroyo’s leadership. She’s tough when it what is military and for a more prolonged comes to terror. She fully understands that and sustained period. in the face of terror you’ve got to be strong, President Macapagal-Arroyo. Well, as I not weak. She knows, like I know, that said earlier, it’s made the U.S. and the Phil- the only way to deal with these people is ippines closer to each other. And for me, to bring them to justice. You can’t talk to because in the beginning of my term, of them. You can’t negotiate with them. You my tenure, we were fighting a lonely fight must find them, and that’s precisely what against the terrorists in southwestern Phil- our alliance is continuing to do. ippines, I felt that when we formed the And so I’m pleased with progress we’ve global coalition against terrorism, then we made, but I will continue to warn the were no longer alone. The world came to American people, like I’ve been doing for know how bad terrorism is, something we a long time, that this is still a dangerous have known for a long time. And the world world we live in. Clearly, the attacks in came to help us, because in the inter- Saudi Arabia mean that we’ve got to be national coalition, we started to help one on alert here at home, that we’ve got to another. be diligent, that we’ve got to understand I welcome the support of the world, and there’s an Al Qaida group still actively plot- I welcome the support of the U.S. in our ting to kill. war against terrorism. We’re working on the clues out of Mo- President Bush. Yes, I remember right rocco to determine whether there’s a direct after September the 11th, President Arroyo connection between that Al Qaida oper- called me, and there was no doubt in my ation and what happened in Morocco. Time mind where she stood. It was more than will tell. But the world is dangerous, which the condolence call. It was a let’s-get-after- means that we’ve got to continue to renew them call. And I knew that we had—I had these alliances and these friendships to a strong ally and friend when it came to make sure that we make the world more chasing these people down, which is pre- secure. cisely what we have to do. And she knows President Macapagal-Arroyo. Well, that, and that’s the strategy she’s employed. there’s been great progress in the war on And so you asked a question about what terror. But certainly, it is not yet over. The this war on terror has meant for our rela- Al Qaida and its sister terrorist organiza- tionship. First and foremost, it meant that tions are finding their way not only in Afri- I’ve got a great deal of respect for your ca, not only in the Middle East but also President and her courage and her willing- in Southeast Asia. And as we have seen, ness to fight for security of the Philippine therefore, terrorism knows no borders. And people and to defend freedom. And she that’s why, while each country must take is a great example of leadership in a part greater responsibility for its own economic of the world that is a dangerous part of and political security, it is also important the world. that we enhance our regional and inter- As President Arroyo mentioned, not only national cooperation in this war against ter- are there, obviously, actions around the rorism. Middle East and not only do we have to make sure our own homeland is secure, Filipino-U.S. Relations but Southeast Asia is a dangerous part of Q. Just to get direct quotes from both the world too. And the Philippines have Presidents, I’d like to know exactly how witnessed this danger firsthand, and we’ll the war against terrorism has affected the continue to work, at her request, along the U.S.-Philippine relations, and how you in- guidelines that are necessary in your Con- tend to nurture this relationship beyond stitution, to work for freedom and security.

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Tom—I mean Holland, Steve [Steve peace to step up and fight off terror, to Holland, Reuters]. Excuse me. cut off the money and to find these people Middle East Peace Process and bring them to justice. No, we’re still on the road to peace. It’s Q. Are you going to put the Middle East just going to be a bumpy road. And I’m roadmap on hold in the wake of the latest not going to get off the road until we bombings? Do you still have confidence in achieve the vision. Prime Minister Abbas—— President Macapagal-Arroyo. Well, the President Bush. Yes, I’ve got confidence road to peace is really very difficult, but we can move the peace process forward. it’s very important that we cooperate. And But the bombings, the recent bombings— in Southeast Asia, I would like to say that, I mean, Prime Minister Sharon is fixing in addition, that if we are going to fight to come over here, and of course, there terrorism successfully and achieve peace, are terrorists who want to disrupt the visit what is important is that we work on it by bombing and killing. It’s clear there are together and we have a comprehensive ap- people there that still cannot stand the proach, because terrorism will spread like thought of peace. And therefore, it re- a contagion. It will spread like SARS if minds—it gives me a chance to remind we don’t address the poverty that rep- people in the region, if you’re interested resents the breeding grounds for terrorism. in moving the peace process, join us in In the Philippines, terrorism thrives and fighting terror. gets its recruits, not coincidentally, in the And I still believe that we need to— provinces that are the poorest, in the region not only believe, I will move the process that is the poorest in our country. That forward. But it is clear that the process is why I appreciate the support of President is not going to be smooth so long as terror- Bush not only for the security assistance ists kill. And it’s a stark reminder that there in the war against terrorism but also in are killers who can’t stand the thought of the efforts to fight poverty and the socio- peace. And it’s sad, and it’s pathetic. But— economic ills that plague southern Phil- and therefore, we must all work together— ippines especially. and I say ‘‘we,’’ those of us who care for That is our roadmap to peace. Every re- peace. People in the Palestinian Authority gion has its specific roadmap to peace. We who care for peace must work with us to have some roadmaps in common; we have fight off terror. People in Israel who care some that are specific to us. But for our for peace will work with us to fight terror. region, it is a comprehensive approach. And The countries in the region that long for I appreciate President Bush for under- a peace process must understand that standing the comprehensive approach and what’s more important than process is re- helping us through it. sults, and that we’ve got to work together President Bush. Final question. Do you to cut off the funding and the support and care to call on somebody, Madam Presi- activity of the terrorist killers who can’t dent? stand peace. Europe must work with us Q. I was about to ask about the eco- to do everything we can to discourage the nomic side of it—— terrorist activities that derail a process to- President Macapagal-Arroyo. Yes. ward peace. No, the roadmap still stands. The vision Filipino-U.S. Relations of two states existing side by side in peace Q. ——but both of you have already is a real vision and one that I will work spelled it out in details. Anyway, Mr. Presi- toward. But we’ve got a lot of work to dent Bush mentioned, and please comment do to convince all of us who care about on this, Mrs. President, about the non-

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NATO—designate the Philippines as a non- people were comfortable middle-class citi- NATO status—— zens. And so one of the things you’ve got President Bush. Right. to do is to make sure we distinguish be- Q. ——and about the MILF—your offer tween hate and poverty. of assistance in the MILF problem, be- Secondly, trade is an important aspect cause we have poverty problem there now. of helping to create the conditions nec- President Bush. Well, my offer of assist- essary for people to rise out of poverty. ance, it depends upon the MLIF choosing And we talked about our trade relationship. peace as a peaceful reconciliation of issues. An aspect of poverty is food, and we talked If they continue to want to use terror and about our Agricultural Departments workforce, we will be involved to the extent ing together for the Food for Peace pro- that the President invites us to be involved, gram and the interchange along that. In within the Constitution of the Philippine other words, all up and down—energy we Government. talked about—all up and down the different And the other part of the question? aspects of our society, we had meaningful Q. Non-NATO status. discussions. Not only in the Cabinet Room President Bush. Non-NATO status, yes. but prior to this and after this day, our That puts the Philippines right up there Secretaries, respective Secretaries, will con- with Australia, Egypt, Israel. These are tinue to interface to create the conditions major non-NATO allies, which means it will necessary for prosperity to reign. be easier for us to answer requests on mili- The other thing that’s important is the tary equipment, to provide parts and equip- Philippine Government must also assume ment to make sure that the defense capa- their responsibilities. And I was very im- bilities of the Philippine military are mod- pressed by the discussions on tax reform. ern and the choppers fly, choppers are The President put out a bold initiative. I maintained, choppers move, when the was most pleased that the Speaker and the President orders up a strike, it happens head of the Senate were here in Wash- quickly. All this does is facilitate the capac- ington, DC, and they were very receptive, ity to interact with each other on a better it seemed like to me, to some of the tax basis, on a priority basis. proposals that the President laid out, to Secondly, the other thing I talked about make sure that the budget of the Philippine was a comprehensive review of—and that Government is more efficient in collecting just means our military is going to be in- the revenues due to the Government. And volved with your military, the Philippine so, in other words, it’s a comprehensive military, in such a way as to determine approach, and it’s one we spent a lot of needs and assess whether or not we’ve got time discussing. the capacity to help meet those needs. President Macapagal-Arroyo. With regard Q. And the poverty problem? to poverty, I don’t see poverty only as a President Bush. And the poverty prob- means to fight terrorism. Fighting poverty lem—listen, this Nation is committed to is an end in itself. So I agree with President dealing with poverty. First, let me make Bush. It’s not poverty that causes terrorism. it very clear, poor people aren’t necessarily Terrorism breeds on poverty, and poverty killers. Just because you happen to be not breeds on terrorism. They reinforce each rich doesn’t mean you’re willing to kill. And other, and that’s why we must fight them so it’s important to understand—people are together. susceptible to the recruitment by these ex- And I came to Washington not just about tremists, but I refuse to put a—put killers terrorism but fighting poverty for its own— into a demographic category based upon for the sake of the fight. And I believe income. After all, a lot of the top Al Qaida that many of the things that we have

509 May 19 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 worked on together are things that fight 3 to 6 months a study can be done and poverty and, incidentally, fight terrorism. our OFWs can be—our overseas Filipinos But even if there were no terrorism, they can begin to send the remittances with certainly fight poverty and are—do the bet- these reduced costs. And based on the ter for our country. Mexican experience, the costs can go down For instance, the GSP privileges that by as much as $300 million a year. And we’ve been able to enjoy. Since my last that’s going to provide a lot of income to visit with President Bush, we’ve been able the Filipinos back home, and the commen- to have—we’ve been able to enjoy about surate jobs that they can provide. a billion dollars a year, and again, rein- So all of these things are important in forced now, in GSP privileges. And if we themselves. And incidentally, they also help get to include things like carrageenan in us to fight poverty—poverty and terrorism the GSP list, as we are negotiating now, at the same time. that’s going to give a lot of work to all President Bush. Thank you all very much. those people in the coastal areas of Mindanao, especially the areas which I said are the poorest provinces in our country. And then another example of getting to- NOTE: The President’s news conference gether in the fight against poverty is work- began at 11:45 a.m. in the East Room at the ing also on investments. And one of the White House. In his remarks, he referred to things that we talked about is—and one Prime Minister Ariel Sharon of Israel; Jose of the things that we’ll be getting together de Venecia, Jr., Speaker of the Philippines on would be more insurance, OPIC insur- House of Representatives; and Franklin M. ance for U.S. investments in the Phil- Drilon, President, Senate of the Philippines. ippines. So that’s going to create more jobs. A reporter referred to Prime Minister And President Bush talked about the re- Mahmoud Abbas (Abu Mazen) of the Pales- mittances of our OFWs. I hope that in tinian Authority.

Joint Statement Between the United States of America and the Republic of the Philippines May 19, 2003

President George W. Bush today wel- and President Macapagal-Arroyo paid trib- comed President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo ute to a revitalized and maturing bilateral to the White House on the occasion of alliance and pledged to strengthen the part- her State visit to Washington. The two nership further in the years ahead. leaders discussed the full range of global The two leaders noted with satisfaction and bilateral issues and reaffirmed the that the U.S.-Philippine alliance continues depth and breadth of ties between the to play a vital role in ensuring mutual secu- United States and the Republic of the Phil- rity, as it has since the signing of the U.S.- ippines. The Presidents agreed that rela- Philippine Mutual Defense Treaty over 50 tions are deeper and warmer today than years ago. In recognition of this proud his- at any time in recent history and noted tory and continued partnership, the Presi- that those ties are rooted in shared history, dent announced his intention to designate shared values, and a common interest in the Philippines as a Major Non NATO Ally global peace and prosperity. President Bush (MNNA). This step will allow the two

510 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 19 countries to work together on military re- security assistance, training, equipment, and search and development and give the Phil- law enforcement assistance to support the ippines greater access to American defense Philippines in the war on terror, as appro- equipment and supplies. President Bush priate. thanked President Macapagal-Arroyo for Recalling last year’s highly successful de- her strong and unequivocal support in the ployment of U.S. troops to the southern Iraq campaign and expressed appreciation Philippines, the two leaders noted with sat- for the Philippine government’s plans to isfaction that the terrorist Abu Sayyaf deploy peacekeeping and medical personnel Group (ASG) had been driven substantially to assist in Iraq’s reconstruction. The two from the island of Basilan, enabling the Presidents reaffirmed their shared commit- restoration of peace and order. The two ment to a free Iraq at peace with its neigh- Presidents reaffirmed their commitment to bors. The two leaders also agreed that destroy the ASG once and for all. Toward North Korea’s nuclear weapons program is that end, President Bush and President unacceptable and stressed that North Ko- Macapagal-Arroyo agreed to hold another rea’s relations with the Asia-Pacific region joint military activity in the near term, in hinge on the verifiable and irreversible which the United States will provide sup- elimination of nuclear weapons capability. port to ongoing Armed Forces of the Phil- President Macapagal-Arroyo expressed ippines-led operations against the ASG. the view that the world had changed on The two leaders agreed on the need for September 11, 2001 and that conflict in a comprehensive approach to defeating ter- Iraq had been another milestone in the war rorism in Southeast Asia, recognizing that on terror. She noted that across Asia, there terrorism knows no borders. The Presidents is a growing capability and readiness to co- agreed on the need for efforts to alleviate operate on maintaining peace and stability poverty and other socio-economic griev- in this new environment, and emphasized ances which can create conditions that can that the United States’ leadership and stra- be exploited by terrorists. President Arroyo tegic presence in the region are essential expressed appreciation for increased U.S. for the continuation of this positive trend. economic and development assistance to President Bush welcomed this perspective the southern Philippines, which reinforces and reiterated that Asia remains a major the Philippine Government’s own efforts to focus of U.S. foreign policy. heal divisions in Philippine society. To ad- President Bush praised President vance this agenda, President Bush informed Macapagal-Arroyo’s leadership and strength President Macapagal-Arroyo that the in confronting terrorism in the Philippines United States will train and equip a Phil- and beyond and reaffirmed the U.S. com- ippine engineering unit capable of per- mitment to support Philippine efforts to de- forming civic action and humanitarian feat terror in all its forms. The two leaders projects in conflict zones. reviewed recent progress in the war on ter- President Bush condemned recent terror but agreed that this effort is far from rorist acts in the southern Philippines. over, as demonstrated by the May 12 ter- President Arroyo appreciated the economic rorist attack in Riyadh, in which both assistance recently allocated by the United American and Philippine citizens were States Congress to support peace in killed and wounded. President Arroyo wel- Mindanao. President Bush stated that the comed the additional counterterrorism se- United States stands ready to provide diplo- curity assistance for the Philippines in the matic and financial support to a renewed fiscal year 2003 supplemental budget. Presi- peace process with the Moro Islamic Lib- dent Bush emphasized that the United eration Front (MILF), provided that the States would continue to provide significant MILF renounced terror.

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The two Presidents agreed that the U.S.- mination to pursue reforms in revenue col- Philippine security partnership has never lection, energy privatization, and intellec- been healthier and emphasized the impor- tual property rights protection. They fur- tance of U.S. support for continuing efforts ther noted their shared hope that current to improve the capabilities of the Armed and continuing reforms will strengthen the Forces of the Philippines (AFP). Toward Philippines’ eligibility for participation in that end, the two Presidents agreed to the President’s Millennium Challenge Ac- launch a comprehensive review of Phil- count (MCA) in the future. ippine security needs and how best the The two Presidents highlighted the re- United States can support President markable contributions of Filipinos and Fil- Macapagal-Arroyo’s plans to modernize and ipino-Americans to American economic life. reform the AFP. President Bush committed Recognizing the important role that the to help address the AFP’s most pressing over 7 million overseas Filipino workers needs, particularly in the area of mobility, play in the Philippine and global econo- by providing helicopters and spare parts. mies, President Bush announced that the President Macapagal-Arroyo thanked Presi- United States is launching a project to fa- dent Bush for his promise of assistance and cilitate the flow of remittances from Fili- pledged her government’s full support for, pino workers around the world back to the and participation in, the more comprehen- Philippines. The two leaders agreed that sive review. this project would improve the lives of mil- The two Presidents expressed great pride lions of Filipinos by lowering the costs of in the robust economic and trade ties that remittance transactions and making it easier bind the United States and the Philippines, for funds to flow to the Philippines from as evidenced by annual bilateral trade ex- the United States and around the world. ceeding $18 billion and cumulative direct The two Presidents reviewed with pride private investment of $3.5 billion. The lead- the contributions made by Philippine World ers reviewed progress in implementing War II veterans who gave so much in de- President Bush’s Enterprise for ASEAN fense of freedom. President Bush an- Initiative, which is aimed at generating sus- nounced his intention to support legislation tained economic growth in Southeast Asia. extending new benefits for Commonwealth They welcomed the revival of the bilateral Army veterans and guerrillas who lawfully Trade and Investment Framework Agree- reside in the United States. He also an- ment and agreed to resolve issues identified nounced continuing efforts to improve in its Trade and Investment Council con- medical care for Filipinos veterans in the sultations. President Arroyo welcomed the Philippines by providing medical equipment U.S. decision to provide tariff-free General- to the Veterans Memorial Medical Center ized System of Preferences (GSP) benefits in Quezon City in the 2004 fiscal year. to specific products requested by the Phil- Presidents Bush and Macapagal-Arroyo ippines and the offer of additional technical looked forward to the May 20 signing by and capacity building assistance on the pro- Secretaries Powell and Ople of agreements tection of intellectual property rights. on assistance for Mindanao, law enforce- President Bush commended President ment cooperation, and science and tech- Macapagal-Arroyo for her steadfast leader- nology cooperation, noting that cooperation ship in pursuing needed economic reforms in these three areas is a priority for both in the Philippines, noting in particular her countries. ‘‘Strong Republic’’ agenda aimed at rooting President Bush was pleased to accept out corruption, expanding economic oppor- President Macapagal-Arroyo’s invitation to tunity, and alleviating poverty. President pay a reciprocal visit to the Philippines Bush welcomed President Arroyo’s deter- when he travels to Southeast Asia for

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APEC in 2003. The two leaders agreed that Treasury and the Agency for International to maintain momentum in the bilateral rela- Development (AID). tionship, other senior U.S. officials will travel to Manila in the coming months, beginning soon with Secretary of Energy NOTE: An original was not available for Abraham and continuing thereafter with verification of the content of this joint state- senior officials from the Department of ment.

Remarks at a State Dinner Honoring President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo of the Philippines May 19, 2003

Welcome. Madam President, Attorney strong support for the war against terror, Arroyo, it is a high honor for Laura and and you have not wavered. me to welcome you and host you at the The President was also a strong and per- White House. Madam President, I know suasive voice on the need to disarm Sad- you attended college here in Washington, dam Hussein and to liberate the Iraqi peo- so perhaps I ought to say welcome back ple. or, as they say at Georgetown, Hoya Saxa. Madam President, for your leadership [Laughter] and for your friendship, I thank you. With your visit, the Philippines and the Seventeen years ago, the Filipino people United States affirm our strong friendship, restored their nation’s democratic tradition our common commitment to fighting ter- and inspired lovers of freedom across the ror, and our shared determination to pro- globe. In the years since, the Philippines mote freedom. has emerged as a stronger and more con- Our nations are natural partners. We are fident nation. The Philippines is building connected by an ocean, united by a shared its prosperity on the foundation of markets history, and sustained by the bonds of fam- and building its future on a foundation of ily and culture. More than 2 million Ameri- democracy. These commitments are open- cans have family ties to the Philippines. And some are with us tonight, and you’re ing new opportunities for the Filipino peo- welcome. Filipino Americans strengthen ple and setting a hopeful example for other America’s culture, our economy, and our nations traveling the road to freedom. Government. And we are privileged that President Arroyo is playing a large role they call this country their home. in her nation’s success. Her bold and deter- The United States and the Philippines mined leadership has opened a new chapter are also joined by common values, espe- in the friendship between our countries and cially the value of human freedom. And is responsible for revitalizing our strong alli- when freedom comes under attack, our ance. countries respond. In his last poem, Jose Rizal, one of the Madam President, you’ve been a fierce founders of the Filipino independence, re- fighter of terrorism in your own country. ferred to his native land as the ‘‘Pearl of You’ve earned the respect of the American the Orient Seas.’’ More than a century people for your resolve. And after Sep- later, this ‘‘pearl’’ is admired the world over tember the 11th, you were one of the first for its beauty, its progress, and its wonder- leaders to contact me and express your ful people.

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Madam President, it will be my pleasure NOTE: The President spoke at 8:33 p.m. in to visit the Philippines later this year, with the State Dining Room at the White House. you as my host. And Laura and I and the In his remarks, he referred to Jose Miguel American people are honored to have you Arroyo, husband of President Macapagal-Ar- and your husband as our guests here to- royo; and former President Saddam Hussein night. Would you please join me in a toast of Iraq. The transcript released by the Office to the enduring friendship between the of the Press Secretary also included the re- Philippines and the United States. marks of President Macapagal-Arroyo.

Message to the Congress Transmitting a Report on Trade and Investment Policy for Sub-Saharan Africa and Implementation of the African Growth and Opportunity Act May 19, 2003

To the Congress of the United States: ran Africa and Implementation of the Afri- Consistent with title I of the Trade and can Growth and Opportunity Act.’’ Development Act of 2000, I am providing GEORGE W. BUSH a report prepared by my Administration entitled ‘‘2003 Comprehensive Report on U.S. The White House, Trade and Investment Policy for Sub-Saha- May 19, 2003.

NOTE: This message was released by the Of- fice of the Press Secretary on May 20.

Remarks on the Healthy Forests Initiative May 20, 2003

Thanks for coming, and good morning. sides of the forest was startling, and it was I welcome you all to the White House, tragic. and I’m pleased all of you could be here Active forest management could have to support the preservation of a great saved both areas. It could have saved mil- American treasure, our forests. lions more acres across America from the Nine months ago, I stood at the scene devastation of severe forest fires and insect of Squires Peak fire in Oregon. On one damage. Yet, for too many years, bureau- side of a dirt road, where small trees and cratic tangles and bad forest policy have underbrush had been removed before the prevented foresters from keeping our fire rolled through, the forest was green woodlands healthy and safe. The cost to and alive. On the other side of the road, America has been high, in the loss of lives where a similar thinning project had been and property and in the destruction of stalled by lawsuits, the landscape was woodlands and wildlife. charred, and the trees looked like match- No region in America is immune to this sticks. The contrast between these two problem. Wildfires, diseases, and insect in- festations threaten the habitat of animals

514 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 20 and diminish the quality of our water. And the fact that he commanded a group of problems on public lands hurt private lands great professionals, and those would be the as well. After all, the problems can leap U.S. Forest Service professionals. And so, across boundary lines to destroy homes and Rex, thank you for coming. And I want farms and ranches and, in some cases, to thank all the people who work for the towns. U.S. Forest Service across our country. The Healthy Forests Initiative that I an- We’re lucky to have some Governors, nounced last summer is making American particularly out West, who understand prac- woodlands more safe, acre by acre. As we tical, sensible policy, people that are work- approach the start of fire season, we have ing hard to help the world realize that not a responsibility to do even more to protect all the smarts exist in Washington, DC, that our forests, and we will meet that responsi- there’s plenty capable people outside of the bility. People who understand the responsi- Nation’s Capital. And one such Governor bility we assume when we take office are is with us, and that’s Judy Martz, who’s on the stage with me today, namely Sec- the chairperson of the Western Governors’ retary Gale Norton and Secretary Ann Association, the Governor of Montana. Veneman. And I want to thank them for Thank you, Judy, for coming. their leadership. And I want to thank you Plus, we’ve got some good people in the for your work. Congress who care about this issue, people As well, I appreciate Jim Connaughton, who work in a bipartisan fashion to get who’s the Chairman of the Council on En- the bill through. We’ve got Members of vironmental Quality. That means he works the United States Senate who are here, in the White House and helps coordinate strong leaders on this issue, starting with policy out of the White House. Jimmy is Senator Pete Domenici from the State of doing a fine job. New Mexico, Gordon Smith from the State On stage with me today is Andrea of Oregon, Larry Craig from the State of Gilham. She’s the fire management officer Idaho, and the birthday boy, Senator for the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Who she Crapo—where are you? Congratulations, represents are all the people on the front- Mike, happy birthday. line, the yellow shirts. She represents the I want to thank the Members of the people who put their lives at risk, some- House. The House is going to take this times because of bad forest policy. She rep- bill up today, as I understand. I want to resents the folks who I got to meet after thank you all for working on this: Pombo, touring some of the fire areas, who had Goodlatte, McInnis; Walden of Oregon; worked themselves into complete exhaus- Sherry Boehlert of New York has been a tion because they were serving their neigh- stalwart in bringing factions together on the bors, because they were risking life to pro- floor of the House, and I want to thank tect others. She represents the best of you for that, Sherry, for your leadership; America, and I want to thank you all for Gilchrest of Maryland, Taylor of North coming here today. Carolina, Renzi of Arizona, and Mike Ross I also want to thank Rex Mann, who’s of Arkansas, thank you all for coming. I’m the area commander for the U.S. Forest proud you all are here. Service. Rex is a well-organized fellow. He’s Last year, 23 firefighters died while bat- a smart man. He understands sensible pol- tling disastrous forest fires. Our professional icy. After all, he’s made a career of trying firefighters take risk. We need to mitigate to make sure sensible policy came into those risks by sound policy. We need to being to prevent devastation of our forests. be smart about how we manage our forests. I met Rex at the site of a tragic fire. I Those fires last year scorched 7 million saw how well-organized he was, and I saw acres, more than double the average of the

515 May 20 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 last 10 years. Major blazes burned in 15 common sense, and it is the consensus of States across our country, destroyed 815 scientists, wildlife biologists, forestry profes- homes. It cost the taxpayers about $1.6 bil- sionals, and firefighters, the very people lion of fire suppression. The economic im- who have dedicated their lives to keeping pact of these wildfires and of mismanaged our forests healthy and our community safe. forests is widespread. Hard-working Ameri- This is policy that came from the grass- cans and the communities that count on roots to the White House. We’ve asked ex- healthy forests are suffering. perts on how best to deal with the problem. Since 1989, five Western States, Oregon, See, we see a problem, and we want to Washington, Idaho, Montana, and Cali- deal with it for the good of the country. fornia, have lost 47,000 timber jobs. Four Andrea Gilham is a fire management of- hundred mills have closed in those States. ficer and a member of the Blackfeet Tribe At present, this year’s fire outlook seems in Browning, Montana. She has been fight- less severe, and that’s good news for the ing fires since she was 19 years old, 2 years men and women who wear the yellow. Yet, ago. [Laughter] She has a degree in forest the danger persists, and many of our forests resource management. She’s the kind of are facing a higher than normal risk of cost- person that Congress needs to listen to. ly and catastrophic fires. The communities She knows the cost of doing too little to from Georgia to California that are at sig- prevent extreme wildfires. In 1990, she was nificant risk for those fires need our help. working the frontlines of the Dude fire in And today we pledge it; we pledge our Arizona’s Tonto National Forest on the day help. six firefighters died. Andrea says, ‘‘Every- Wildfires in unnaturally overgrown forest body knows what we need to do. The burn hotter and spread faster than normal longer we wait, the more likelihood a cata- fires. And their effects on the environment strophic wildfire is going to happen. Lives can be devastating. The fires sterilize soils and property are at risk.’’ and trigger soil erosion. They decimate our Everybody who’s in the field knows what forests, killing even giant sequoias that have we need to do. Everybody whose job it survived centuries of smaller fires. They de- is to protect America and the communities stroy the habitats of endangered species. from wildfires know what we need to do. Last year, the fire in Hayman, Colorado, The Forest—many in the Forest Service damaged the habitat of several species, for know what we need to do. Enough on the example, including the Mexican spotted House floor, I hope, know what we need owl. to do. We’ve just got to make sure that One reason for these deadly fires is enough Senators know what we need to found in decades of well-intentioned but do to propose and get through the Healthy misguided forest policy which has allowed Forests Initiative. dangerous undergrowth to build up on the And the initiative I’ve laid out is begin- forest floor. During seasonal droughts, ning to make sense. We’ve begun to cut these small trees and underbrush act as through the bureaucratic redtape, and ladders for fires to reach to the tops of there’s a lot of redtape here, as the people our oldest and tallest trees. They make for- on the frontline can tell you. Since 2000, ests vulnerable to insect infestation and dis- the Federal Government has more than ease. doubled the amount of money budgeted Sound science shows that we can prevent for firefighting—and that is good—for fire- such fires by managing forests with con- fighting and fire prevention. For ’04, we trolled fire, cleaning out the underbrush, budgeted an 8-percent increase. And I want and thinning the areas that are vulnerable to thank the Members of the Congress and to intense fires and insect attacks. This is the Senate who are working with us on

516 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 20 that project, to make sure we’ve got enough 22 years in the Army before coming home money to let these good folks do what to manage his family cattle and tree farm they’re supposed to do, on behalf of com- near Batesville, Arkansas. About 6 years munities all across the country. ago, when Ron noticed the health of the This year, we’ve reduced the under- forest in his area deteriorating from insect growth that fuels fires on more than 1.3 infestation, he decided to do something million acres of forest and rangelands. That about it. Ron, his wife, and their two sons was nearly twice as many as were treated spent an entire winter cleaning out the dis- in the year 2001. We’re moving at a record eased and lower-quality trees that were pace. We’ve still got a long way to go. crowding out the taller trees in his 40-acre There’s a lot more work to do. One-hun- forest. dred-and-ninety-five million acres are vul- When he was finished, the forest was nerable to devastating forest fires. For the healthier. The bugs were gone, and he had sake of our forests and for the sake the made about $15,000 from the sale of the communities, we’ve got to act quickly, and undergrowth that he cleared away. Today that’s why we’ve gathered here. he belongs to a group of nearly 200 land- I appreciate the Congress’ hard work on owners in central Arkansas who are working the ‘‘Healthy Forests Restoration Act.’’ I to manage their woodlands and to keep appreciate the House moving the bill today. the bugs out. Ron says some of the land- I urge Congress to get it done, to get it owners who live near national forest areas to my desk as quickly as possible. The bi- are worried because the Government partisan bill—and I emphasize ‘‘bipartisan moves too slowly in treating our own for- bill’’—builds on the success of the Healthy ests. Here’s what he says: ‘‘The conditions Forests Initiative. It sets the goal of are preventable with a little bit of manage- thinning trees and cleaning out underbrush and restoring the health to 20 million acres. ment. You don’t just have to throw up your I hope Congress says, when we’re success- hands. There are times you need to get ful in the 20 million, we need to get after in there quickly, when the situation is dire.’’ the 175 million more acres. And the situation is dire across America. This bill sets priorities for forest manage- We need to listen to the voices of reasoned ment by authorizing work in the areas that people. We need to get the politics out are closest to rural communities and work of this, and we need to focus on what’s where there’s the greatest risk for environ- best for America, is what we need to do. mental damage. It’s a practical piece of leg- We need to bring people together, for the islation. It’s good, commonsense environ- sake of our forests, for the sake of those mental policy, is what we’re talking about. who work to see that our forests are The ‘‘Healthy Forests Restoration Act’’ healthy, for the sake of those who sacrifice helps the people closest to the problem to fight the fires. That’s what we need to by allowing local citizens to help plan do here in Washington, DC. We need less projects for nonprofit, for profit, and for bickering, less politics, and more sound, stewardship groups. And these citizens can commonsense policy. And that’s what we’re benefit economically from selling the small- talking about right here today. er trees that are cleared out from the for- And the reason why that is necessary is ests. because our forests are a treasure, and we Local citizens can be great allies in the are their stewards. We must preserve them. effort to protect our forests. Ron Bell is We must protect the people and commu- with us today—where are you, Ron? There nities who depend on them. We must fulfill he is. Hi, Ron—thought you would have our promise to the next generation—that’s gotten a better seat. [Laughter] He spent what we must do—and leave behind a

517 May 20 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 world as blessed and as beautiful as the NOTE: The President spoke at 10:55 a.m. in one our parents left us. the Jacqueline Kennedy Garden at the White Thank you for your interest in this im- House. The Office of the Press Secretary also portant subject. May God bless your work, released a Spanish language transcript of and may God continue to bless the United these remarks. States of America. Thank you.

Statement on House of Representatives Action on Healthy Forests Restoration Legislation May 20, 2003

Today’s action by the House on the I urge the Senate to act quickly on this ‘‘Healthy Forests Restoration Act of 2003’’ much-needed legislation. As this year’s fire is an important step toward implementing season progresses, we must equip Federal the kind of active forest management that land managers with the tools they need to is good for both the environment and our protect lives and communities, restore for- economy. It will save lives and the national est health, and safeguard habitat and water- treasure of our great forests, with their sheds. wildlife, trees, waters, habitat, and other natural resources.

Radio Remarks to the People of Cuba on Cuban Independence Day May 20, 2003

Today, Cubans around the world cele- NOTE: The President’s remarks were re- brate May 20th, Cuban Independence Day. corded in Spanish at 9:50 a.m. on May 16 On behalf of the people of the United in the Cabinet Room at the White House States, I send greetings to the Cuban com- for later broadcast on Radio Marti. The munity. My hope is for the Cuban people Spanish language transcript and an English to soon enjoy the same freedoms and rights translation were released by the Office of the that we do. Dictatorships have no place Press Secretary on May 20. This text follows in the Americas. May God bless the Cuban the English translation. people who are struggling for freedom. Thank you.

Commencement Address at the United States Coast Guard Academy in New London, Connecticut May 21, 2003

Thank you very much. Thanks for the ral Olsen, Secretary Ridge, Lieutenant Gov- warm welcome. Admiral Collins and Admi- ernor Rell, Mr. President—I’m glad you’re

518 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 21

here; thank you for coming, sir—Congress- and urgent tasks. Terrorists who seek to man Simmons, the fine professors of the harm our country now face your ‘‘Shield U.S. Coast Guard Academy, distinguished of Freedom.’’ Every citizen can be grateful guests, proud family members, and the that the Coast Guard stands watch for graduates, thank you for your welcome, and America. thank you for the honor of speaking to the The Coast Guard is also playing a vital newest officers of the United States Coast role in America’s strategy to confront terror Guard. before it comes to our shores. In the Iraqi You know, I was born in this State, just theater, Coast Guard cutters and patrol down the road. [Laughter] I’ve still got rel- boats and buoy tenders and over a thou- atives living here. [Laughter] And it looks sand of your finest active duty and reserve like some of them were up late last night members protected key ports and oil plat- painting Pride Rock. [Laughter] forms, detained Iraqi prisoners of war, and This is a proud day for the Class of 2003. helped speed the delivery of relief supplies I know you’ve worked hard to get here. to the Iraqi people. Many have returned You’ve persevered through the rigors of safely to port, and many remain on duty Swab Summer. You’ve faced difficult trials in the Persian Gulf. All have helped to in the classroom, aboard Eagle. And now, liberate a great people, and all have with silver dollars in your pockets, you’re brought a great credit to the uniform of ready to become officers in our Nation’s the United States Coast Guard. oldest continuous seagoing service. You In Iraq, America’s military and our allies have shown each day that you ‘‘revere carried out every mission and exceeded honor’’ and that you ‘‘honor duty.’’ You every expectation. Heavy units of armor have made your families, your professors, and infantry moved with speed and agility and your country proud. On behalf of the that kept the enemy in a state of constant American people, thank you for choosing surprise and deadly confusion. Airstrikes a life of service, and congratulations on a and cruise missiles destroyed the power great achievement. centers and meeting places of the regime, I bring with me a small graduation while targets were carefully examined to present. Pursuant to the longstanding tradi- protect the innocent from harm. Our forces tion, I hereby grant amnesty to all cadets confronted an enemy that rejected every on restriction for minor conduct offenses. rule of warfare and morality, but our men [Laughter] I leave it up to Admiral Olsen and women in uniform showed their de- to determine the definition of ‘‘minor.’’ cency and kept their honor. In a month [Laughter] of battle, American armed services set an Coast Guard Academy life is demanding, example of skill and daring that will stand and it should be because you are entrusted for all time. with solemn responsibilities in peace and America will not relent in the war against in war. America counts on the Coast Guard global terror. We will hunt the terrorists to enforce maritime law, to secure our wa- in every dark corner of the Earth, and terways and ports, to rescue those in dis- we’re making good progress. Nearly one- tress, and to intercept illegal drugs. In this half of Al Qaida senior operatives have new century, we will count on you even been captured or killed. We will deny the more. The men and women of this class terrorists the sanctuary and bases they need are the first ever to graduate into the De- to plan and strike, as we have done in partment of Homeland Security, which is the battle of Afghanistan. We will not per- charged with protecting the American peo- mit terror networks or terror states to ple against terrorist attacks. You are bring- threaten or blackmail the world with weap- ing a long tradition of duty to this new ons of mass destruction, as we have shown

519 May 21 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 in the battle of Iraq. Our country has been the faceless enemies of human dignity, attacked by treachery in our own cities, and plague, starvation, and hopeless poverty. that treachery continues in places like Ri- And America is at war with these enemies yadh and Casablanca. We have seen the as well. ruthless intentions of our enemies. And The advance of freedom and hope is they are seeing our intentions: We will challenged by the spread of AIDS. Today, press on until this danger to our country on the continent of Africa, nearly 30 million and to the world is ended. people are afflicted with HIV/AIDS, includ- Yet, the national interest of America in- ing 3 million children under the age of volves more than eliminating aggressive 15. The African Continent has lost 7 million threats to our safety. We also stand for agricultural workers. In some countries, al- the values that defeat violence and the most a third of the teachers are HIV-posi- hope that overcomes hatred. We find our tive. A 15-year-old boy living in Botswana greatest security in the advance of human has an 80-percent chance of dying of AIDS. freedom. Free societies look to the possi- It is a desperate struggle for any person bilities of the future, instead of feeding old or any nation to build a better future in resentments and bitterness. Free countries the shadow of death. build wealth and prosperity for their people Yet, this shadow can be lifted. AIDS can in an atmosphere of stability and order, be prevented, and AIDS can be treated. instead of seeking weapons of mass murder Lives can be saved, and others extended and attacking their neighbors. Because by many years. In my State of the Union America loves peace, America will always Address in January, I put forward an Emer- work and sacrifice for the expansion of freedom. gency Plan for AIDS Relief directing $15 The advance of freedom is more than billion over the next 5 years to fight AIDS an interest we pursue. It is a calling we abroad. And we will especially focus our follow. Our country was created in the efforts on 14 African and Caribbean nations name and cause of freedom. And if the where HIV/AIDS is heavily concentrated. self-evident truths of our founding are true I’m pleased that both Houses of Con- for us, they are true for all. As a people gress have now passed a bill authorizing dedicated to civil rights, we are driven to these funds. I look forward to signing the defend the human rights of others. We are bill next week. The Emergency Plan for the nation that liberated continents and AIDS Relief is the largest single upfront concentration camps. We are the nation of commitment in history for an international the Marshall plan, the Berlin airlift, and public health initiative involving a specific the Peace Corps. We are the nation that disease. ended the oppression of Afghan women, With this dramatic expansion of Amer- and we are the nation that closed the tor- ica’s efforts, we will prevent 7 million new ture chambers of Iraq. HIV infections, treat at least 2 million peo- America’s national ambition is the spread ple with life-extending drugs, and provide of free markets, free trade, and free soci- humane care for 10 million HIV-infected eties. These goals are not achieved at the individuals and AIDS orphans. expense of other nations; they are achieved When I travel to Europe next week, I for the benefit of all nations. America seeks will challenge our allies to make a similar to expand not the borders of our country commitment which will save even more but the realm of liberty. lives. I will remind them that the clock Our vision is opposed by terrorists and is ticking, that every single day 8,000 more tyrants who attack a world they can never people will die from AIDS in Africa; there inspire. This vision is also threatened by will be 14,000 more infections. I will urge

520 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 21 our European partners and Japan and Can- We must also give farmers in Africa, ada to join a great mission of rescue and Latin America, and Asia and elsewhere a to match their good intentions with real fair chance to compete in world markets. resources. When wealthy nations subsidize their agri- The advance of freedom and hope in cultural exports, it prevents poor countries the world is also challenged by an ancient from developing their own agricultural sec- enemy, famine. Our world produces more tors. So I propose that all developed na- than enough food to feed its 6 billion peo- tions, including our partners in Europe, imple. Yet tens of millions are at risk of star- mediately eliminate subsidies on agricul- vation, and millions more lack water fit for tural exports to developing countries so that drinking. This crisis also is concentrated in they can produce more food to export and Africa. We have the ability to confront this more food to feed their own people. suffering, and we accept the duty as old The advance of freedom is also under- as the Scriptures to comfort the afflicted mined by persistent poverty and despair. and to feed the hungry. Half the human population lives on less America is already the largest provider than $2 a day. Billions of men and women in the world of food relief, giving more can scarcely imagine the benefits of mod- than $1.4 billion in global emergency food ern life because they have never experi- aid and one-half of all contributions to the enced them. World Food Program. And we are deter- For decades, many governments around mined to do more. I’ve committed to a the world have made sincere and generous nearly $1 billion initiative to provide clean efforts to support global development. Far drinking water to 50 million people in the too often, these funds have only enriched developing world. I’ve also asked Congress corrupt rulers and made little or no dif- to provide $200 million for a new famine ference in the lives of the poor. It’s time fund, which will give us the flexibility to for governments of developed nations to act quickly when the first signs of famine stop asking the simplistic question: How appear. I call on other nations to follow much money are we transferring from na- our lead by establishing their own emer- tions that are rich? The only question that gency funds. By saving time in responding matters is: How much good are we doing to crisis, we will save lives. to help the people that are poor? The only We can also greatly reduce the long-term standard worth setting and meeting is the problem of hunger in Africa by applying standard of results. the latest developments of science. I have The lesson of our time is clear: When proposed an Initiative to End Hunger in nations embrace free markets, the rule of Africa. By widening the use of new high- law, and open trade, they prosper, and mil- yield biocrops and unleashing the power lions of lives are lifted out of poverty and of markets, we can dramatically increase despair. So I have proposed the creation agricultural productivity and feed more of a new Millennium Challenge Account, people across the continent. an entirely new approach to development Yet, our partners in Europe are impeding aid. This money will go to developing na- this effort. They have blocked all new tions whose government are committed to biocrops because of unfounded, unscientific three broad standards: They must rule just- fears. This has caused many African nations ly; they must invest in the health and edu- to avoid investing in biotechnologies, for cation of their people; and they must have fear that their products will be shut out policies that encourage economic freedom. of European markets. European govern- To fund this account, I have proposed ments should join, not hinder, the great a 50-percent increase in America’s core de- cause of ending hunger in Africa. velopment assistance over the next 3 years.

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Under this proposal, our annual develop- for however long their project takes. Like ment assistance eventually will be $5 billion generations before us, this generation of greater than it is today. I urge the Congress citizens will show the world the energy and to give its full support to the Millennium idealism of the United States of America. Challenge Account. And when I’m in Eu- I see that idealism in the faces of our rope, I will call on America’s partners to soldiers and sailors and airmen and ma- join us in moving beyond the broken devel- rines. I see that idealism in the faces of opment policies of the past and encourage this Academy class. The men and women the freedom and reform that lead to pros- of the Coast Guard are ‘‘always ready’’ to perity. defend the security of this Nation. You are These goals—advancing against disease, ‘‘always ready’’ to rescue those in trouble. hunger, and poverty—will bring greater se- These two commitments define your mis- curity to our country. They are also the sion, and they define America’s role in his- moral purpose of American influence. They tory. We understand that strength is nec- set an agenda for our Government, and essary to confound the designs of evil men. they give idealistic citizens a great cause And we know that the compassion and gen- to serve. President Woodrow Wilson said, erosity of this land can aid the suffering ‘‘America has a spiritual energy in her and inspire the world. We will use the great which no other nation can contribute to power of America to serve the great ideals the liberation of mankind.’’ In this new of America. And by these efforts we will century, we must apply that energy to the build a lasting, democratic peace for our- good of people everywhere. selves and for all humanity. For more than four decades, the volun- Congratulations. May God bless the Class teers of the Peace Corps have carried the of 2003. May God continue to bless the good will of America into many parts of United States of America. Semper paratus. the world. Interest in this program is greater than ever before. I’m determined to double the size of the Peace Corps over NOTE: The President spoke at 11:37 a.m. at the next 5 years. Today I would like to Nelson W. Nitchman Field. In his remarks, announce a new USA Freedom Corps ini- he referred to Adm. Thomas H. Collins, tiative called Volunteers for Prosperity, USCG, commandant, U.S. Coast Guard; which will give America’s highly skilled pro- Rear Adm. R.C. Olsen, Jr., USCG, super- fessionals new opportunities to serve intendent, United States Coast Guard Acad- abroad. The program will enlist American emy; Lt. Gov. M. Jodi Rell of Connecticut; doctors and nurses and teachers and engi- and President Thomas E. Remengesau, Jr., neers and economists and computer spe- of Palau, who presented a commission to the cialists and others to work on specific de- first Coast Guard Academy graduate from velopment initiatives, including those that Palau. The Office of the Press Secretary also I have discussed today. These volunteers released a Spanish language transcript of this will serve in the countries of their choice address.

522 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 21

Statement on the Resignation of Christine Todd Whitman as Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency May 21, 2003

Christie Todd Whitman is a trusted cleaning up abandoned industrial sites and friend and adviser who has worked closely turning them into assets for the commu- with me to achieve real and meaningful nities in which they are located. We are results to improve our environment. also making great progress on the Clear Christie Todd has been a dedicated and Skies Initiative that I outlined to signifi- tireless fighter for new and innovative poli- cantly reduce pollution from powerplants cies for cleaner air, purer water, and better by 70 percent. protected land. Christie Todd Whitman has served my In just over 2 years, we have acted in administration exceptionally well. I thank a comprehensive way to reduce pollution her for her outstanding service to our Na- from diesel fuel sources and implemented tion and wish her well as she returns home an innovative initiative to better protect our to New Jersey. water quality and watersheds. We are

Remarks at the President’s Dinner May 21, 2003

Thank you all. Thanks for the warm wel- in Washington, DC, to work together to come. It’s always nice to have a nice quiet keep this Nation strong and secure and dinner with a few friends. [Laughter] Can’t prosperous and hopeful, and we accept that tell you how much we appreciate you com- responsibility. ing, though. I appreciate so very much the Speaker First I want to thank my friend George of the House, Denny Hastert. He is such Allen for putting together this fine event. a good Speaker. We want to keep him as I want to thank all those who’ve helped. the Speaker. And the same goes for the I particularly want to thank all of you all majority leader in the United States Senate, for coming from all across the great coun- Senator Bill Frist. It is a joy to work with try. Thank you for your support. It makes these two fabulous Americans. a huge difference to our ‘‘Grand Party.’’ I’m also honored to be on the—sharing Your participation in the process makes a the stage with the Senate dinner chairman, great difference to our great country. Senator Orrin Hatch from Utah; the chair- All of us who serve this country have man of the National Republican Campaign important responsibilities. You’ve got re- Committee, from the State of New York, sponsibilities at home to love your children Congressman Tom Reynolds; the House with all your heart and all your soul. You’ve dinner chairman, Congressman Dave Camp got responsibilities in your communities to from Michigan. I want to thank all the Sen- love a neighbor like you’d like to be loved ators and Members of the House of Rep- yourself. If you’re a CEO in corporate resentatives who are here. America is fortu- America, you have a responsibility to tell nate to have you—your service on behalf the truth to your employees and share- of all of us. holders. And we have responsibilities here

523 May 21 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

I want to thank the members of the Cab- The Vice President and members of the inet who are here. I want to thank the Cabinet and everybody else who works for Oak Ridge Boys for sharing their beautiful me is resolved to keep the vow we made voices. Most of all, I want to thank you to restore honor and dignity to the office all for supporting us and what we’re doing of the President of the United States. for the country. And I’m proud of the United States Con- For the last 21⁄2 years, this country has gress. The Congress is focused on results, faced incredible challenges, and those chal- and they have delivered tremendous results lenges brought out the best in America. for the American people: Major tax cuts The testing of America has revealed the so the working people can keep more of spirit of America. The world has seen that their own money; education reform; Home- we are courageous, resolute, tough when land Security Department to better secure we have to be, and a compassionate people. America; trade legislation. No, this Con- The world has seen the strength and the gress, instead of endless bickering and idealism of the United States military. needless partisanship, has focused on Thanks to the skill and courage of our what’s—doing right for the American peo- troops and the technology of our military, ple. And I’m proud of what you all have the world has seen that the guilty have done. more to fear from the United States of We’ve come a long way in 21⁄2 years, America. but we’ve got a lot more work to do. We’ve Thanks to the skill and bravery of our got a lot to do. First, America is committed troops and coalition forces, because the to expanding the realm of freedom and guilty can no longer hide behind the inno- peace for our own security and for the ben- cent, the world will be a more peaceful efit of the world. And second, in our own place. The terrorists will have fewer places country we must work for a society of pros- to hide. Tyrants will no longer be free to perity and compassion, so that every citizen enslave their people. Freedom has arrived has a chance to work and succeed and real- in far corners of the Earth. ize the great promise of the United States Every friend of this country and every of America. enemy of this country can be certain Amer- Across the world it has never been more ica will always work to keep the peace, clear that the future of freedom and peace and we will always keep our word. depend on the actions of the United States. We’re working hard to change the tone This Nation is freedom’s home and de- in Washington, DC, and I believe we have. fender. We welcome this charge of history, We’ve raised the debate to focus on results and we will keep it. and progress, and we’re achieving great re- As we saw again last week in Saudi Ara- sults for the American people. One reason bia and in Morocco, the war on terror con- we’re able to do so is because I put to- tinues. Our work is not done. The enemies gether a fabulous team. To the Cabinet of freedom are not idle, and neither are members here, I want to thank you for we. This country will not rest. We will not your service. But I do want to mention tire. We will not stop until the danger to one member of my team that is not with civilization is removed. us tonight but is doing a fabulous job for Our national interest involves more than America, and that’s the finest Vice Presi- eliminating aggressive threats to our safety. dent our Nation has ever known, Vice Our greatest security comes from the ad- President Dick Cheney. vance of human liberty, because free na- Now, my mother may have a different tions do not support terror. Free nations point of view—[laughter]—but I got the do not attack their neighbors. Free nations mike. [Laughter] do not threaten the world with weapons

524 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 21 of mass murder. As Americans, we believe talk about in Washington, DC, is the peo- that freedom is the deepest need and hope ple’s money. of every human heart. And we believe that Chairman Thomas in the House and freedom is the right of every person and Chairman Grassley in the Senate are work- the future of every nation. ing hard to reconcile any differences, and America also understands that unprece- I’m confident they’ll be able to do so and dented influence brings tremendous re- get a package to my desk that I can sign sponsibilities. We have duties in the world. into law. The Members of the House and When we see disease, starvation, and hope- the Senate are results-oriented people. less poverty, we cannot and we will not When they see a problem, they act. We turn away. On the continent of Africa, want everybody in America who wants to America is now committed to bringing the work to be able to find a job. healing power of medicine to millions of Economic security also depends on a men and women and children who suffer good education for every child. I came to from AIDS. Washington with a deep desire to pass fun- I want to thank the United States Con- damental reforms in education, to bring gress. I want to thank the House, once high standards, accountability, regular test- again, for voting for the package today to ing to every public school in America. With make sure that the great compassion of a solid bipartisan majority, we passed the America is felt in some of the most hope- No Child Left Behind Act. This is a good less corners of the world. I want to thank start, but it’s only a start. And now we’re Henry Hyde and Dick Lugar and Bill Frist, working with Governors and chief school who guided this important legislation through both Houses, a piece of legislation officers of every State to make reform a which I look so forward to signing next reality. Every child can learn the basics of week before I go overseas. And when I reading and math, and every school must go overseas, I will remind our partners in teach those basics. The days of excuse-mak- Europe about our great heart, our great ing are over, and now we expect results compassion, and call upon them to join us in every classroom, so that not one single in this great work. child in America is left behind. We have challenges at home, and there’s We can use our past success as a model not doubt in my mind we are equal to for meeting other priorities currently before those challenges. Our most urgent mission the Congress. Members of the Congress in the months ahead is to strengthen this are working with us now to strengthen and economy, to create the conditions for job modernize Medicare, to give seniors more growth, and to provide economic security health care choices and access to prescrip- and opportunity for all our American citi- tion drugs. All of us on the Federal payroll zens. Prosperity is the result of hard work get a choice in health care plans. Seniors and the dreams of the American people. ought to have the same choices. If choice The role of Government is not to create is good enough for Federal workers, it is wealth but the environment in which work good enough for the seniors in America. and entrepreneurship pay off. Together, we’ve been working to cut Republican Members of the House and down on frivolous lawsuits and pass mean- Senate understand that. Each body has now ingful medical liability reform. People who passed additional tax relief to leave more have been mistreated by doctors deserve money into the hands of the American peo- a day in court. Yet the system should not ple. See, we understand this: The money reward lawyers fishing for large settlements. we talk about in Washington, DC, is not The medical liability issue is a national the Government’s money. The money we problem that requires a national solution.

525 May 21 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

The House has passed a good bill, and ture which says, ‘‘You have a responsibility the Senate should follow suit. to help a neighbor in need.’’ I also continue to work with the Con- We can see the culture of service and gress to pass a comprehensive energy plan responsibility is rising around us in Amer- to lessen our dependence on foreign oil. ica. We started what’s called the USA Free- We must also advance our agenda of dom Corps. The response has been fan- compassionate conservatism. We have a re- tastic. Our fellow citizens from all walks sponsibility to apply the best, most innova- of life, all political parties, have joined in tive ideas to the task of helping our fellow making sure that people who hurt receive citizens in need. We must continue to work the love and affection they need. Our faith- for meaningful, real welfare reform, to based charities are strong and vibrant in bring work and dignity into the lives of America. We’ve got people who are willing more and more Americans. The Congress to sacrifice on behalf of others, those who should finish work on a faith-based bill to wear the uniform, the police and the fire- support the armies of compassion, for men- fighters. We’ve got people who are now toring children and caring for the homeless serving in their communities and being and offering hope to the addicted. held up as examples—positive examples— I appreciate the hard work of Orrin so that children can learn the meaning, the Hatch and Bill Frist to make sure that our real meaning of hero. No, America’s culture judiciary functions properly. I have sub- is changing and changing to the better. mitted superb nominations to our Federal It is such an honor to be the President courts. The confirmation process in the of a great country. Our Nation has faced United States Senate should be about jus- mighty challenges over 21⁄2 years. We’ve tice, not about empty politics. endured terrorist attacks, yet we have We have a full agenda for America, and grown stronger. We’ve led the world in the a clear and optimistic vision for our future. fight against terrorism. We freed a great We believe in an ownership society. We people from a ruthless dictator and elimi- want Americans to own their own health nated the threat posed to world peace. plan. We want Americans to be able to We met every challenge, and we will start their own businesses. We want more meet every challenge that comes, because families to own homes. We want people this is the greatest country on the face of to be owning a piece of their retirement, the Earth. And the reason it is, is because so that every person has the dignity and of the great strength and compassion of independence that come from ownership, the American people. assets and property that they can call their It is such an honor to be here. May own. God bless you all, and may God bless We also have a vision for a responsibility America. society. We’re changing the culture in this country, from one that has said, ‘‘If it feels NOTE: The President spoke at 7:20 p.m. at good, just go ahead and do it,’’ and ‘‘If the Washington Convention Center. In his you’ve got a problem, blame somebody remarks, he referred to Senator George Allen else.’’ The culture is shifting to one in of Virginia, chairman, National Republican which people know they’re accountable for Senatorial Committee; and entertainers the what they do, they’re responsible for the Oak Ridge Boys, who sang the national an- children they bring into the world; a cul- them.

526 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 22

Remarks Following a Meeting With Congressional Leaders May 22, 2003

The President. I just had a great meeting more likely it is somebody is going to be with Members of the House and Senate. able to find work in America. In other The Vice President and I came up to con- words, the more money somebody has, it gratulate the Speaker and the leader on means somebody is more likely to demand a season of accomplishment. We’ve got an a good or a service, which means somebody obligation to help those who suffer. Amer- will produce a good or a service, which ica’s a great, strong country. We’re also a means somebody is likely to find work. compassionate country. This bill I’m going to sign is good for And I thank the Members of the House American workers. It is good for American and Senate for passing an AIDS bill that families. It is good for American investors, will help the people of Africa, a really good and it’s good for American entrepreneurs piece of legislation, a great piece of work and small-business owners. These two bod- by the Speaker and the leader and other ies are fixing to go on a well-deserved Members. break. And when they come back, we’re I also came to congratulate them on the going to work together on reforming of soon-to-be passage of an economic jobs- Medicare. and-growth bill. This is a Congress which Q. Mr. President? is able to identify problems facing the The President. And furthermore—[laugh- American people and get things done. ter]—thank you for your time. [Laughter] These are can-do people, and I’m real Thank you. proud of the work they’ve done. I look forward to signing the economic NOTE: The President spoke at 9:34 a.m. out- recovery bill soon. The principle of the bill side the House Chamber at the Capitol. In is pretty simple, that we believe the more his remarks, he referred to Senate Majority money people have in their pockets, the Leader Bill Frist of Tennessee.

Remarks Announcing the Nomination of Joshua Bolten To Be Director of the Office of Management and Budget May 22, 2003

The President. Good morning. The Office aged, more accountable, and driven by re- of Management and Budget is one of the sults. most important agencies in our Govern- I also depend on the Director to provide ment. This agency has a central responsi- honest and thorough information on the bility for implementing the full range of state of our budget and to offer sound ad- this administration’s agenda, from growing vice as we carry out our national priorities. the economy and creating jobs to ensuring For this essential position, today I nominate a strong national defense and a secure one of my closest and most trusted advis- homeland. I depend on the OMB Director ers, Joshua Bolten. to keep a watchful eye on the taxpayers’ For more than 4 years, first in Austin money, to reform the operations of our and now in Washington, I have counted Government, to make them better man-

527 May 22 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 on Josh for his knowledge, his clear think- Mitch Daniels. Mitch has watched over the ing, and his sound judgment. From his budget with a sharp eye and the common work in the private sector and practice of sense of a strong executive. He’s insisted law in the investment banking world, Josh on good management of the people’s has a broad perspective on commerce and money. He’s done his job with great energy international economy. From his experience and consistent good humor. I have a feeling in both the executive branch and on Cap- that Mitch’s days in the public service are itol Hill, Josh Bolten understands the work- not over. I want to thank Mitch for serving ings of the Federal Government as well our country so very well. as anybody in this city. And most impor- And now I’m pleased to introduce my tant, from his tenure as my Deputy Chief choice as the next Director of the Office of Staff for Policy, Josh knows the philos- of Management and Budget, Josh Bolten. ophy and priorities of my administration. [At this point, Director-designate Bolten Josh Bolten is brilliant. He is tireless. made brief remarks.] He remains calm in any storm. He is a The President. Thank you all. Thank you man of complete integrity. No member of all very much. my staff has served with greater skill or earned greater respect amongst his col- NOTE: The President spoke at 9:58 a.m. in leagues than Josh Bolten. I’m honored that the Oval Office at the White House. The he’s agreed to join my Cabinet. transcript released by the Office of the Press When confirmed by the Senate, Josh will Secretary also included the remarks of Direc- take over from a superb public servant, tor-designate Bolten.

Statement on the Earthquake in Algeria May 22, 2003

On behalf of the American people, I ex- ries, and the major damage in towns east tend condolences to the people of Algeria of Algiers and in the capital city. Our pray- for the terrible losses caused by yesterday’s ers are for the victims, their families, and earthquake. I was deeply saddened to learn the entire Algerian nation. The United of the hundreds of deaths, the many inju- States stands ready to help.

Statement on House of Representatives Action on Unemployment Insurance Extension Legislation May 22, 2003

I commend the House of Representatives America’s unemployed workers. I also urge for passing an unemployment insurance ex- Congress to pass legislation to create the tension that will continue important addi- innovative Re-employment Accounts I pro- tional assistance for American workers as posed to give certain unemployed individ- our economy recovers. Combined with ac- uals additional benefits and incentives to tion on the jobs-and-growth package, Con- find work. I look forward to signing these gress has taken important steps to help measures into law.

528 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 22

Statement on United Nations Security Council Action To Lift Sanctions on Iraq May 22, 2003

Today’s unanimous vote by the United tivities. I look forward to the Secretary- Nations Security Council adopting Resolu- General’s appointment of a Special Rep- tion 1483 to lift sanctions on Iraq will help resentative as we work together to help the Iraqi people to rebuild their country Iraq recover from three decades of brutal and work toward a more prosperous and dictatorship. I also look forward to the es- secure future, one in which they will gov- tablishment of an Iraqi Interim Administra- ern themselves, rejoin the world economy, tion that is broadbased and represents all and remain at peace with their neighbors. of Iraq’s people so that Iraqis can partici- The nations of the world have dem- pate as quickly and as fully as possible in onstrated their unity in their commitment the revitalization of their country. to help the Iraqi people on their path to- The United States and its coalition part- ward a better future. ners will remain in Iraq as long as nec- The Security Council’s resolution affirms essary to help put Iraq on the path toward that the United Nations will have an appro- democracy, with a united, representative priate vital role in Iraq’s reconstruction and government that respects human rights and transition to a new government. It estab- the rule of law. We call on all countries lishes a strong and important framework to join in helping the Iraqi people achieve for many nations to participate in these ac- this goal as quickly as possible.

Message to the Congress Transmitting the Executive Order Protecting the Development Fund for Iraq and Certain Other Property in Which Iraq Has an Interest May 22, 2003

To the Congress of the United States: any nature whatsoever arising from or re- Consistent with section 204(b) of the lated to the sale or marketing thereof, and International Emergency Economic Powers interests therein. Act, 50 U.S.C. 1703(b) (IEEPA), section A major national security and foreign 5 of the United Nations Participation Act policy goal of the United States is to ensure (22 U.S.C. 287c) (UNPA), and section 301 that the newly established Development of the National Emergencies Act, 50 U.S.C. Fund for Iraq and other Iraqi resources, 1631, I hereby report that I have exercised including Iraqi petroleum and petroleum my authority to declare a national emer- products, are dedicated for the well-being gency to deal with the unusual and extraor- of the Iraqi people, for the orderly recon- dinary threat posed to the national security struction and repair of Iraq’s infrastructure, and foreign policy of the United States by for the continued disarmament of Iraq, for the threat of attachment or other judicial the costs of indigenous civilian administra- process against the Development Fund for tion, and for other purposes benefiting the Iraq, Iraqi petroleum and petroleum prod- people of Iraq. The Development Fund for ucts, and interests therein, and proceeds, Iraq and other property in which Iraq has obligations, or any financial instruments of an interest may be subject to attachment,

529 May 22 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 judgment, decree, lien, execution, garnish- Order 12724 of August 9, 1990, which ment, or other judicial process, thereby blocked property and interests in property jeopardizing the full dedication of such as- of the Government of Iraq, its agencies, sets to purposes benefiting the people of instrumentalities and controlled entities and Iraq. To protect these assets, I have or- the Central Bank of Iraq that are in the dered that, unless licensed or otherwise au- United States, that hereafter come within thorized pursuant to my order, any attach- the United States, or that are or hereafter ment, judgment, decree, lien, execution, come within the possession or control of garnishment, or other judicial process is United States persons, including their over- prohibited, and shall be deemed null and seas branches, and Executive Order 13290 void, with respect to the following: of March 20, 2003, which confiscated and (a) the Development Fund for Iraq, and vested certain Government of Iraq ac- (b) all Iraqi petroleum and petroleum counts, shall not apply to the Development products, and interests therein, and pro- Fund for Iraq or to Iraqi petroleum or ceeds, obligations, or any financial instru- petroleum products, and interests therein, ments of any nature whatsoever arising and proceeds, obligations, or any financial from or related to the sale and marketing instruments of any nature whatsoever aris- thereof, and interests therein, in which any ing from or related to the sale and mar- foreign country or a national thereof has keting thereof, and interests therein. any interest, that are in the United States, I have delegated to the Secretary of the that hereafter come within the United Treasury, in consultation with the Secretary States, or that are or hereafter come within of State and the Secretary of Defense, the the possession or control of United States authority to take such actions as may be persons. necessary to carry out the purposes of the In addition, by my memorandum to the Executive Order, including the promulga- Secretary of State and Secretary of Com- tion of rules and regulations. I have also merce of May 7, 2003 (Presidential Deter- authorized the Secretary of the Treasury mination 2003–23), I made inapplicable to employ all powers granted to the Presi- with respect to Iraq section 620A of the dent by IEEPA and UNPA to carry out Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, Public Law the purposes of the Executive Order. I am 87–195, as amended, and any other provi- enclosing a copy of the Executive Order sion of law that applies to countries that I have issued. have supported terrorism. Such provisions of law that apply to countries that have GEORGE W. BUSH supported terrorism include, but are not limited to, 28 U.S.C. 1605(a)(7), 28 U.S.C. The White House, 1610, and section 201 of the Terrorism Risk May 22, 2003. Insurance Act. I also have ordered that Executive Order NOTE: The Executive order is listed in Ap- 12722 of August 2, 1990, and Executive pendix D at the end of this volume.

530 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 23

Letter to the Speaker of the House of Representatives Transmitting a Contingent Emergency Request for the Department of Homeland Security May 22, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker: to ensure that DHS has resources on hand In accordance with provisions of Public to provide timely response to future disas- Law 107–73, the Departments of Veterans ters. Affairs and Housing and Urban Develop- I designate these funds made available ment, and Independent Agencies Appro- today as an emergency requirement pursu- priations Act, 2002, I hereby request and ant to section 251(b)(2)(A) of the Balanced make available $250 million for the disaster Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act relief program of the Department of of 1985, as amended. Homeland Security (DHS). The details of this action are set forth These funds would allow DHS to con- in the attached letter from the Director tinue providing assistance for disasters in of the Office of Management and Budget. several States, including the recovery from I concur with his comments and observa- damaging winter storms on the East Coast tions. and recent tornado disasters in the Mid- Sincerely, west. These funds also would be available for ongoing response to prior disasters and GEORGE W. BUSH

The President’s News Conference With Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi of Japan in Crawford, Texas May 23, 2003

President Bush. Welcome. I’m honored The Japanese Government demonstrated to welcome my very good friend the Prime its commitment to peace and freedom, Minister of Japan to Crawford. He was a along with America, that Saddam Hussein’s gracious host when I visited Japan, and regime live up to its international obliga- Laura and I are pleased to return the hos- tions. I appreciate the Prime Minister’s pitality. strong leadership on Iraq as well as Japan’s We have met nine times during my Pres- diplomatic and financial support for key re- idency. I know the Prime Minister well. gional states affected by the conflict. I trust his judgment. I deeply respect his Today Japan is committed to playing a leadership. Our meeting today affirms the leading role in Iraq’s long-term reconstruc- close and unique relationship between our tion, will also provide immediate assistance two nations. for schools, medical supplies, and sanita- For the past half-century, America has tion. Japanese forces will provide logistical been committed to the security of Japan support for humanitarian and reconstruc- and to the stability and prosperity of the tion activities. I thank the Prime Minister entire Asia Pacific region. Japan and the for his leadership. United States have a global alliance, a part- Around the globe, Japan and America are nership based on shared interests and a addressing threats to our common security shared belief in the cause of freedom. and meeting our common responsibilities. We are partners in the war on terror. In

531 May 23 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Afghanistan, Japanese naval ships helped tougher measures from the intelligence refuel coalition vessels in the fight against community. the Taliban. Today we’re working together Finally, I assured the Prime Minister that to complete a major highway that will help the United States will stand squarely with unify Afghanistan, strengthen that country’s Japan until all Japanese citizens kidnaped economy, and weaken the grip of the war- by North Korea are fully accounted for. lords. I strongly condemn the kidnaping of Japa- Our two nations are committed to the nese citizens by the North Koreans. fight against global poverty, hunger, and Nearly 150 years have passed since the disease. We are committed to completing United States and Japan opened up diplo- the WTO global trade negotiations, so we matic relations. Since then, we have gone can advance prosperity around the world. from strangers to adversaries to the very The Prime Minister and I also discussed best of friends. I look forward to building his policies for reinvigorating the Japanese on our strong relationship to meet the chal- economy, including his plans for encour- lenge of our times. aging investment, corporate restructuring, Mr. Prime Minister. and banking reform. I support the Prime Prime Minister Koizumi. I’d like to ex- Minister’s efforts, and I support the Prime press my heartfelt appreciation to the Presi- Minister’s reforms. A vibrant, dynamic Jap- dent and the First Lady for their heart- anese economy is in America’s interest, and warming welcome and hospitality. We were it is in the world’s interest. able to have in-depth and very candid dis- Our two countries are also determined cussions in a warm and friendly atmos- to confront the threat from weapons of phere. mass destruction and the missiles used to In the 150 years since the arrival of deliver them. The Prime Minister and I Commodore Perry to the shores of Japan, agree that we will deepen and accelerate we have developed into strong allies, and our cooperation on missile defenses. we’ve been able to confirm those strong On the threat from North Korea’s nu- relations between our two countries, not clear program, the Prime Minister and I just in the context of a bilateral relationship see the problem exactly the same way. We but also in the global context. The Japan- will not tolerate nuclear weapons in North U.S. security arrangements are a pillar that Korea. We will not give into blackmail. We supports our alliance. We decided to fur- will not settle for anything less than the ther promote consultations between our complete, verifiable, and irreversible elimi- Governments and to make our cooperation nation of North Korea’s nuclear weapons in the security area even stronger. program. Ballistic missile defense is an important We discussed the fact that China has agenda in Japan’s defense policy, and Japan started to play an important role in our will further accelerate its consideration. In efforts to address this challenge. At talks addition, we concurred on the importance held in Beijing last month, China called of reducing the burden on the people of on North Korea to renounce nuclear weap- Okinawa. ons and live up to its agreements. The Now, the other pillar is the economy. Prime Minister and I agreed that we must The Japanese and U.S. gross domestic broaden these talks to include Japan and products together would account for 40 South Korea and, at sometime later, per- percent of global GDP. So it is vital for haps others. We are confident that our dip- the world economy, not just the Japanese lomatic approach will bring a peaceful solu- and U.S. economies but for the world econ- tion. Yet we agreed that further escalation omy, that the Japanese and—or rather, it of the situation by North Korea will require is vital for our two countries as well as

532 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 23 for the entire world economy that the Japa- The issue of North Korea’s nuclear weap- nese and U.S. economies are healthy. ons is a grave challenge to the entire world. And the most important mission of my We will not at all tolerate the possession, Cabinet is to revitalize the Japanese econ- the development, or the transfer of nuclear omy. And I have the support of President weapons by North Korea. North Korea Bush in my efforts to further accelerate must promptly and completely dismantle all structural reforms. And to achieve that goal, nuclear weapons development programs in I’ll tackle deflation. I shall never allow a a verifiable manner, and we agreed that financial crisis to occur. So, not just in the we would resolve this issue peacefully. security area but also in the economic area, Coordination among Japan, the United and others as well, I would like to promote States, and the Republic of Korea is crucial further cooperation between our two coun- to that end. Continuation of the multilateral tries on various issues, from the perspective talks is important, and participation by of Japan-U.S. alliance in a global context. Japan and the Republic of Korea is essen- We are determined in the pursuit of our tial. Further escalation of the situation by fight against terrorism and proliferation of North Korea would require tougher meas- weapons of mass destruction. Now, of ures. course, we have different roles and dif- In any event, Japan will crack down more ferent means to play out those roles. But rigorously on illegal activities, and the to root out terrorism, Japan and the United North Koreans will have to understand that States should continue with firm determina- threats and intimations will have no mean- tion to join their forces. ing whatsoever. It is extremely important Now, on Iraq, the President made a dif- for Japan to comprehensively resolve the ficult and brave decision for a just cause, various issues, including nuclear weapons, and I supported this, and our decision was missiles, and abduction, based on the right. With Memorial Day coming up, I Pyongyang Declaration. And without the would like to express my heartfelt condo- resolution of these issues, normalization of lences to the brave U.S. men and women relations will not occur. in uniform who sacrificed their lives for And I wish to express my sincere appre- the cause as well as to their families. ciation to the President for his strong sup- I welcome the adoption of Security port on the abduction issue. Council Resolution 1483. And I saw eye- In any case, I would like to take this to-eye with President Bush that we shall occasion to express my heartfelt respect to continue to cooperate with each other in the President for the strong leadership he order to build up international cooperation. has exerted since the 9/11 terror attacks Japan will actively support Iraq’s nation- the year before last as well as the strong building. determination he showed in addressing— And I believe that taking advantage of as a wartime President. And I would like this cessation of combat in Iraq, and to say that Japan will, as much as possible, through the reconstruction of Iraq, we strive with the United States for world should—the world, as a whole, should co- peace and stability. operate together in order to bring about Yesterday and today I spent many peace and stability in the Middle East. And hours—and I’ve never spent so many hours I would like to express my respect for the discussing various issues with a head of active efforts the President has been mak- state or head of government. And we dis- ing in the Middle East. I shall be visiting cussed all sorts of issues very candidly and Egypt and Saudi Arabia on this trip, and in-depth. I learned from the President that together with the Arab countries, I would the word ‘‘Texas’’ also means ‘‘friend.’’ So, like to engage in efforts to reconstruct Iraq. my appreciation, my heartfelt appreciation

533 May 23 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 goes to the President and Mrs. Bush for Japan’s Role in Iraqi Reconstruction their very warm hospitality and to the per- Q. I’d like to ask questions relating to sonal friendship that the President has the Japanese self-defense forces in connec- shown. tion with the assistance for Iraq’s recon- President Bush. Absolutely. struction. First question for President Bush. Listen, we’ll answer two questions a side, Would you expect Japanese contributions alternating. Please address—so don’t—one to the extent that the Japanese self-defense of these things where you ask me and ask forces would go into Iraq on the ground the Prime Minister or vice versa. Let’s just for supporting Iraq’s reconstruction? ask one question to one of us as we rotate And a question for Prime Minister. back and forth, if you don’t mind. Would you consider legislating new law to Scott [Scott Lindlaw, Associated Press], enable that? will you please set the example. President Bush. Let me answer first. I expect Japan to participate to the extent that the Prime Minister deems is necessary to fulfill the commitment. He tells me he’s Middle East Peace Process going to help in the reconstruction of Iraq. I believe him. Q. Thank you, Mr. President. I just have Prime Minister Koizumi. Well, this ques- one question, and that’s that Sharon em- tion related to the dispatch of Japanese braced the roadmap today. How significant self-defense forces. We are already consid- is that? Where do we go from here? And ering the dispatch of self-defense force air- will you meet with him and Abbas in Egypt lift capabilities in the countries neighboring or Europe? Iraq for humanitarian purposes. President Bush. Prime Minister Sharon More specifically, with regard to the accepted the roadmap, and that’s progress. question of sending self-defense forces into He accepted it because I assured him that Iraq for aiding Iraq’s reconstruction, now the United States is committed to Israel’s that the U.N. resolution has passed, upon security and that, since we’re committed return to Japan we shall study in detail to Israel’s security, as we move forward we what Japan can do for the reconstruction will address any concerns that might arise of Iraq. At any rate, the question of what regarding Israel’s security. Japan can do for helping Iraq reconstruc- I’m exploring the opportunities as to tion is a matter for Japan to decide. whether or not I should meet with Prime I also believe it is important that Japan Minister Abu Mazen, as well as Prime Min- make contributions for Iraq’s reconstruction ister Sharon. If a meeting advances in a prudent manner, in view of Japan’s progress toward two states living side-by- own strength. And we shall cooperate with side in peace, I will strongly consider such the United States; we shall cooperate with a meeting. the United Nations for the reconstruction I’m committed to working toward peace of Iraq. So we shall consider what Japan in the Middle East. Last week I talked can do as an initiative-taking country for to the Prime Minister of Israel as well as the reconstruction of Iraq. to the Prime Minister of the Palestinian President Bush. Randy [Randall Authority, and I met with the Finance Min- Mikkelsen, Reuters]. ister of the Palestinian Authority. I understand it’s going to be difficult to achieve North Korea peace, but I believe it can happen. Q. Mr. President, you said today that Do you want to call on a member of an escalation by North Korea of its nuclear the Japanese press? activities will require tougher measures. But

534 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 23 right now they possess nuclear weapons you stand, is that all options will remain avail- say you won’t tolerate. So at what point able, but the United States, or President would you need to increase pressure if they Bush was saying that he was confident that simply do nothing? a peaceful resolution can be achieved. President Bush. Well, the first step was Japan certainly will also seek a peaceful to convince China to participate in the resolution. And I would like to engage in process of saying to North Korea that ac- various ways to appeal to the North Kore- ceptance by the international community ans and make them understand that instead and potential help will come when they of becoming isolated from the international change their behavior and their attitude to- community, it is most important for them ward nuclear weapons. This message has to become a responsible member of the been delivered, and the North Koreans are community of nations, and that is most im- thinking about it. Should they choose to portant not just for North Korea itself but move forward, which we hope they do, for the peace and stability of the Korean then we will have the Japanese and South Peninsula and for the entire world. Koreans join the dialog so that there’s now President Bush. Thank you very much. five of us sitting around the table, all discussing how to see that the Korean Penin- Annika Sorenstam sula is nuclear-weapons-free. Q. A golf question, sir? And the importance of this meeting President Bush. Golf? today should say to the world that Japan Q. What do you think about Annika and the United States stand shoulder-to- Sorenstam? shoulder on the issue of North Korea’s nu- President Bush. I’m impressed by Annika clear weaponry. I believe that we can solve Sorenstam. I hope she makes the cut. I’m this peacefully. I believe that diplomacy can pulling for her, and I hope I’ll be watching work. And as importantly, Japan and the her on Saturday and Sunday. United States will not be blackmailed by Thank you all. North Korean threats, and that’s important for the North Korean leadership to know. NOTE: The President’s news conference Q. I’d like to ask this question of—to began at 11:30 a.m. at the Bush Ranch. In both leaders. On this—I understand that his remarks, he referred to former President in your meeting today you reconfirmed that Saddam Hussein of Iraq; Prime Minister you’ll seek peaceful resolution of this North Ariel Sharon of Israel; Prime Minister Korean nuclear issue. The question is, do Mahmoud Abbas (Abu Mazen) and Finance you think that North Korea, that regime Minister Salam Fayyad of the Palestinian Au- under the leadership of Kim Chong-il can thority; and Annika Sorenstam, a leading really be a counterpart in negotiations for golfer in the Ladies Professional Golf Asso- a peaceful resolution of the problem? ciation, who played in the Professional Golf Prime Minister Koizumi. On this point Association’s Bank of America Colonial tour- let me first say that President Bush was nament. A reporter referred to Chairman stating very clearly that our response to Kim Chong-il of North Korea. Prime Min- North Korea would be different from that ister Koizumi spoke in Japanese, and his re- to Iraq. Now, the U.S. position, I under- marks were translated by an interpreter.

535 May 23 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Statement on Congressional Action on Jobs-and-Growth Tax Relief Legislation May 23, 2003

I commend the House and Senate for business owners, will directly benefit from acting in a bipartisan fashion to bring tax this plan. A married couple with two chil- relief to American families, small busi- dren and household income of $40,000 will nesses, and entrepreneurs. In passing this see their taxes cut by 96 percent this year. jobs-and-growth plan, Congress has taken A growing economy is an urgent priority a major step forward in the effort to boost for all Americans, and I look forward to economic growth and create jobs. One hun- signing this bill and to seeing that tax relief dred thirty-six million taxpayers, including is felt in paychecks quickly. 12 million seniors and 23 million small-

The President’s Radio Address May 24, 2003

Good morning. This week Congress took A higher expensing allowance will help vital action to create jobs in America. Fol- small firms, including farms and ranches, lowing the outlines of a jobs-and-growth to buy new equipment so they can become package I announced in January, Members more productive and expand their oper- of the House and Senate reached agree- ations. They will also have more money ment on a bill to strengthen our Nation’s to add new employees. And reducing the economy by reducing income-tax rates, low- tax rate on dividends will help shareholders ering the marriage penalty, increasing the across America, from teachers invested in child credit from $600 to $1,000, increasing 401(k) accounts to seniors who depend on the expensing allowance for small-business dividends for their financial well-being. investment, and significantly reducing taxes I appreciate the leadership of Congress- on dividends. These tax cuts will go into man Bill Thomas of California and Senator effect immediately and some retroactively. Chuck Grassley of Iowa, who worked with their colleagues to hammer out a final About 25 million families with children agreement. This achievement is a victory will see their child credit increase and will for every family struggling to pay the bills, receive checks of up to $400 per child. every entrepreneur hoping to expand the And 136 million Americans who pay in- business and create new jobs, and every come taxes, including 23 million small-busi- American looking for work. I look forward ness owners who pay taxes at the individual to signing this jobs-and-growth legislation rate, will see their taxes lowered. in the coming week. By leaving American families with more I will also work with Congress to bring to spend, more to save, and more to invest, down the budget deficit that has resulted these reforms will help boost the Nation’s from war, recession, and terrorist attacks. economy and create jobs. When people Faster growth in the economy will bring have extra take-home pay, there’s greater more revenues into the Federal Treasury. demand for goods and services, and em- Yet moving toward a balanced budget also ployers will need more workers to meet requires that we hold Federal spending to that demand. a responsible level. Spending discipline is

536 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 26 crucial to my economic program. I urge lenge. Our economy continues to grow, and the Congress to set priorities and stick to inflation and interest rates remain low. the responsible budget plan they passed With new relief for the taxpayers, we have back in April. laid the foundation for even stronger By that measure, discretionary Federal growth in the years ahead and more jobs spending will rise by 4 percent, about the for American workers. same as the increase in the average Amer- Thank you for listening. ican family’s income. Governments should not grow faster than workers’ paychecks. NOTE: The address was recorded at 2:38 p.m. Governments should follow the example of on May 23 at the Bush Ranch in Crawford, American families by setting priorities and TX, for broadcast at 10:06 a.m. on May 24. staying with them. The transcript was made available by the Of- Our citizens and our economy have en- fice of the Press Secretary on May 23 but dured great challenges over the last 21⁄2 was embargoed for release until the broad- years. Yet this Nation’s workers and entre- cast. The Office of the Press Secretary also preneurs, who remain the most productive released a Spanish language transcript of this in the world, are rising to meet every chal- address.

Remarks at a Memorial Day Ceremony in Arlington, Virginia May 26, 2003

Thank you all very much for the warm Last month, in Section 60, First Lieuten- welcome. Mr. Secretary, thank you for your ant Rob Jenkins was buried, along with five leadership. Secretary Principi, Members of other members of a bomber crew. They the United States Congress, General Myers, were lost when their plane was shot down members of the Joint Chiefs, General over North Africa in 1942. Rob Jenkins had Jackson and Colonel Ray and Colonel joined the Army Air Corps after Pearl Har- Steedley, veterans, honored guests, and my bor, and he was 20 years old on his final fellow Americans, we come to this Memo- mission. Six decades later, his plane was rial Day with deep awareness of recent loss found and the remains of the crew were and recent courage. carefully identified, returned home, and Beyond the Tomb of the Unknowns, in buried with military honors. Rob’s sister, Section 60 of Arlington Cemetery, we have Helen, said, ‘‘We were very proud that the laid to rest Americans who fell in the battle Government would care that much. After of Iraq. One of the funerals was for Marine all, it was such a long time ago.’’ This Na- Second Lieutenant Frederick Pokorney, Jr., tion does not forget. of Jacksonville, North Carolina. His wife, On Memorial Day, Americans place flags Carolyn, received a folded flag. His 2-year- on military graves, walk past a wall of black old daughter, Taylor, knelt beside her granite in Washington, DC, and many fami- mother at the casket to say a final goodbye. lies think of a face and voice they miss An uncle later said of this fine lieutenant, so much. Today we honor the men and ‘‘He was proud of what he was doing and women who have worn the Nation’s uni- proud of his family, a hard-working guy— form and were last seen on duty. From the best guy you can ever know. I hope the battles of Iraq and Afghanistan to the the American people don’t forget.’’ This conflicts in Korea and Vietnam to the trials Nation does not forget. of World War to the struggles that made

537 May 26 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

us a nation, today we recall that liberty Americans like these did not fight for is always the achievement of courage. And glory but to fulfill a duty. They did not today we remember all who have died, all yearn to be heroes; they yearned to see who are still missing, and all who mourn. mom and dad again and to hold their And on this day, especially, our Nation is sweethearts and to watch their sons and grateful to the brave and fallen defenders daughters grow. They wanted the daily mir- of freedom. acle of freedom in America, yet they gave In every generation of Americans, we all that up and gave life itself for the sake have found courage equal to the tasks of of others. our country. The farms and small towns Their sacrifice was great but not in vain. and city streets of this land have always All Americans and every free nation on produced free citizens who assume the dis- Earth can trace their liberty to the white cipline and duty of military life. And time markers of places like Arlington National after time, they have proven that the moral Cemetery. And may God keep us ever force of democracy is mightier than the grateful. will and cunning of any tyrant. Almost 7 weeks ago, an Army Ranger, The widow of one of our marines in Iraq Captain Russell Rippetoe, was laid to rest made this point very simply. ‘‘There is good in Section 60. Captain Rippetoe’s father, and evil in the world,’’ she said. ‘‘That’s Joe, a retired lieutenant colonel, gave a what’s going on, and he was the good.’’ farewell salute at the grave of his only son. All the good people we honor today were Russell Rippetoe served with distinction in willing to die in the service of our country Operation Iraqi Freedom, earning both the and our cause. Yet all of them wanted to Bronze Star and the Purple Heart. On the live. And the images they carried with them back of his dog tag were engraved these at the end were the people they loved and words from the Book of Joshua: ‘‘Have not the familiar sights of home. I commanded thee? Be strong and of good Not long before his death last month, courage. Be not afraid, neither be thou dis- Army Captain James Adamouski of Spring- mayed, for the Lord thy God is with thee.’’ field, Virginia, wrote this to his wife, This faithful Army captain has joined a Meighan. ‘‘I do my job 110 percent and noble company of service and sacrifice gathered row by row. These men and don’t get distracted or discouraged when women were strong and courageous and I’m out flying on missions. However, when not dismayed, and we pray they have found I have some down time and get to really their peace in the arms of God. thinking, I realize that for all the good May God bless America. times we’re—all the good things we’re doing here, I just plain miss you.’’ In his last letter home from the Middle NOTE: The President spoke at 11:33 a.m. in East, Staff Sergeant Lincoln Hollinsaid of the Amphitheater at Arlington National Malden, Illinois, said how much he appre- Cemetery. In his remarks, he referred to Sec- ciated getting mail from his family. He retary of Defense Donald H. Rumsfeld; Maj. added, ‘‘I wish my truck and boat knew Gen. James T. Jackson, USA, commander, how to write.’’ [Laughter] ‘‘I sure do miss and Col. Kerry Steedley, USA, chaplain, them.’’ [Laughter] He went on, ‘‘Today Military District of Washington; and Col. would be a beautiful fishing day. I can see Harold Ray, USAF, 11th wing chaplain, it now: Drop my electronic anchors, kick Bolling Air Force Base. The Prayer for my feet up, three poles out with hooks Peace, Memorial Day proclamation of May in search for that elusive yet lovable cat- 22 is listed in Appendix D at the end of this fish.’’ volume.

538 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 27

Remarks Honoring the 2002 World Series Champion Anaheim Angels May 27, 2003

The President. Thank you all. Please be And I’m glad my friend Sandy Alderson seated, except for the players. [Laughter] is here. It’s good to see you, Sandy. He It’s my honor to welcome the world cham- used to be the general manager of the Oak- pion Anaheim Angels to the White House. land A’s, which was an unpleasant experi- Congratulations. ence for not only the Angels but the Texas I understand some of the players were Rangers, playing the A’s. But you’re doing so excited that, well, like David Eckstein, a great job as—running baseball operations. who actually went out and purchased a suit. Sandy served our country in the Marine [Laughter] Fine looking. [Laughter] I don’t Corps. He’s a guy that when the country know if David shared with the players here called, he served. And I know you’re as that I actually invited David for dinner. proud of the Marine Corps as I am, as George Will and I hosted a baseball dinner how they handled their business in Iraq here a while ago, and David came, and and freed the Iraqi people from the clutch- he didn’t take any silverware. [Laughter] es of a barbaric regime. So, welcome. I really want to congratulate the team I do want to congratulate Bill Stoneman, owners. First, I want to congratulate you, who’s a fine executive. He’s a good, steady Arte, for being an owner of the team. It’s fellow who did a great job. I called him pretty quick how things happen here in after you all won, to pass on my congratulations. I know you’re proud of the job he America. You buy the team; now you’re did, as well as all the business folks here, at the White House. [Laughter] But I think to make sure the operation runs well. you and Carole will love baseball. I know I want to congratulate Mike Scioscia. Laura and I really enjoyed our time with He’s turned out to be a pretty good fellow, the mighty Texas Rangers, although some- it looks like, you know—[laughter]—Man- what disappointed by the fact that we never ager of the Year, a good, steady guy. It’s actually got to come to the White House. hard to bring a team from being 41 games But at least we’re all in the American down the year before to become the world League West. How about that? So con- champs. It says something about focus and gratulations on becoming a new owner. desire and willingness to win. It speaks a I also want to pay homage to Gene lot about hope, and that always happens Autry. Gene was the owner of the team because you’ve got good management. when I was fortunate enough to be in base- Mike Scioscia is a—obviously, a good man- ball, and he’s an amazing guy. I know that ager. I want to congratulate Mike. he’s smiling down now here on the—look- I also want to say hello to my friend ing at the Rose Garden and realizing his Mickey Hatcher. Obviously, we didn’t do beloved Angels have finally won the world a very good job about checking the security championship. So I want to thank the play- of every person that came. [Laughter] I ers and the manager and the coaches for got to know Mickey when he was working working hard to see to it that Gene Autry’s for the Rangers. He was a breath of fresh dream came true. air. I suspect you’re still a breath of fresh I also want to give Jackie Autry my best, air—[laughter]—occasionally a bad breath a person I got to know during baseball of fresh air. [Laughter] It’s good to see as well. She’s a woman of strong opinions, you, Mick. Thanks for coming. but one of the things she did love most I want to thank all you all for being of all was the Angels. here. I particularly want to thank members

539 May 27 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

of my Cabinet, California fans Ann that you have to be willing to work for Veneman and Tony Principi, who are here something really greater than yourself. to celebrate with you. I didn’t realize we And so one of the reasons why we like had this many Anaheim Angel fans in the to host world champs here in the White White House. I see Ari Fleischer some- House is to be able to remind our fellow where around here. He’s not exactly an citizens that there are certain ingredients Anaheim Angel fan, but—as a matter of necessary to become a champion. One of fact, he’s a Yankee fan, and I appreciate the key ingredients is to serve the team the message you delivered him. [Laughter] and not the individual statistic, and that’s I want to congratulate the Texans who precisely what the members of the Cali- are on the team. [Laughter] You’ve got a fornia Angels did. boy from west Texas—no wonder you’re It also gives me a chance to remind peo- the world champs—from Abilene, I believe ple who come to the White House that Lackey is from. Good to see you, John. when you’re a champ, you have a responsi- And Weber—Weber is not from—— bility to the communities in which you live. Manager Mike Scioscia. We don’t know There are a lot of kids who look at the where Weber is from. world champs and wonder about the exam- The President. That’s right. [Laughter] ple you set. They look at you and say, ‘‘Is Manager Scioscia. Web, where you from it okay to curse or drink or carouse?’’ And in Texas? I hope the answer you give them, loud Ben Weber. Beaumont. and clear, is, in order to be a champ, you’ve The President. Yes, that’s good. got to make right choices in life. Where’s Benji Gil? Oh, there he is. Benji A champion is somebody who sets high Gil, I remember when he was fresh-faced standards and lives to those standards. A rookie. [Laughter] He came up with the champion is somebody who assumes re- Rangers. It’s amazing what facial hair does. sponsibility of a champion, which is to not [Laughter] But it’s good to see you, Benji. only set a good example but, when you’re Congratulations. in your community, use the spotlight that Where is the rally monkey? [Laughter] you’ve achieved to encourage our fellow Audience member. Woo-hoo! citizens to love a neighbor just like you’d The President. Oh, there he is. [Laugh- like to be loved yourself. I know many of ter] Keep your remarks short, please. you do that, because you’re not only cham- [Laughter] I want to—first of all, I hope pions on the field, you’re champions off the players here forgive me for being the the field as well. one owner who voted against the wild card Welcome to the White House. God bless system in baseball, if you know what I your talents, and may God continue to bless mean. [Laughter] There have been two America. teams in the history of Major League Base- Manager Scioscia. Mr. President, it took ball that have gone from the wild card to us 42 years to say this, but we’d like to the world champs, and Anaheim is one. present you with a World Champion Ana- I mentioned what that said to me. It heim Angel jersey that I know you’ll wear was something about character that can proudly, and we apologize for going overcome odds. The players here showed through your beloved Texas Rangers in the a lot of character. Baseball really is a team American League West. [Laughter] But sport. The capacity for people to work to- thank you very much. gether for 162 games, a long and grueling The President. Thank you, Mike. Good season, is an important part of being suc- to see you all. cessful, which means players have to be Manager Scioscia. Thanks for inviting us. willing to put aside their selfish interests, The President. Congratulations.

540 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 27

NOTE: The President spoke at 10:53 a.m. in operations, Major League Baseball; and vice the Rose Garden at the White House. In his president and general manager Bill remarks, he referred to columnist George Stoneman, manager Mike Scioscia, shortstop Will; Anaheim Angels owner Arturo Moreno David Eckstein, starting pitcher John Lack- and his wife, Carole; Jackie Autry, widow of ey, relief pitcher Ben Weber, and second former Angels owner Gene Autry; Sandy baseman Benji Gil, Anaheim Angels. Alderson, executive vice president of baseball

Remarks on Signing the United States Leadership Against HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria Act of 2003 May 27, 2003

Thank you all very much. I’m so pleased able death and suffering, we have a moral that so many could be here to witness this duty to act, and we are acting. historic moment, as our Nation sets forth I want to thank Tommy Thompson and a great mission of rescue. The United Colin Powell for their leadership on this States of America has a long tradition of crucial issue. There are no better people sacrifice in the cause of freedom, and we’ve than to trust in seeing that the great heart got a long tradition of being generous in and compassion of America is recognized the service of humanity. We are the Nation in our world through accomplishment. of the Marshall plan, the Berlin airlift, and I appreciate Tony Fauci, who’s here. the Peace Corps. And now we’re the Na- Tony has been on the frontline of the war tion of the Emergency Plan for AIDS Re- against HIV/AIDS for a long time. And I lief. appreciate you representing the National HIV/AIDS is one of the greatest medical Institute of Allergies and Infectious Dis- challenges of our time. The disease has eases. I appreciate Rich Carmona, who’s killed more than 20 million people. Today, the U.S. Surgeon General, for joining us. 42 million more are living with HIV. Across Thank you for being here, Rich. I want Africa, this disease is filling graveyards and to thank a member of my staff, the Direc- creating orphans and leaving millions in a tor of the Office of National AIDS Policy, desperate fight for their own lives. They Dr. Joseph O’Neill, for his leadership. will not fight alone, because they will have It is my honor to recognize Dr. Kenneth the help and the friendship of the United Kaunda; the former President of Zambia States of America. is with us today as well. The legislation I sign today launches an I’m grateful that the Ambassadors and emergency effort that will provide $15 bil- the senior officials from African and Carib- lion over the next 5 years to fight AIDS bean nations are with us. I appreciate their abroad. This is the largest single upfront leadership. Send a message back home that commitment in history for an international we are earnest and determined to help you public health initiative involving a specific wipe out AIDS in your country. disease. I want to thank all the faith-based and America makes this commitment for a community activists and leaders who are clear reason, directly rooted in our found- here who share our passion and desire to ing. We believe in the value and dignity help those who suffer. Your efforts took of every human life. In the face of prevent-

541 May 27 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 place long before we arrived here in Wash- now struggles to feed his two siblings and ington or, at least, I arrived here in Wash- two nephews. There is Leonora, the mother ington, and all we want to do is stand by of five in Kenya, who cares for five other your side as we march down the road of children she has taken into her home, all a hopeful tomorrow for people who suffer. of them AIDS orphans, all of whom would I want to thank the Members of the be on the streets without her love. There House and the Senate who are here. Bill is Ruth, a young mother dying of AIDS Frist has been a leader on this issue, and at 24, ostracized by her late husband’s fam- he, along with Senator Richard Lugar and ily, asking, ‘‘Who will take care of my chil- Senator Joe Biden, the Senate Foreign Re- dren?’’ lations Committee, delivered. Mr. Leader, This is the daily reality of a continent thank you. in crisis, and America will not look away. I appreciate my friend Congressman This great Nation is stepping forward to Tom Lantos for being here. He represents help. The fight against AIDS is difficult the House Foreign Relations Committee. but not hopeless. We know how to prevent Chairman Hyde is not here, but neverthe- AIDS, and we know how to treat it. The less, the two worked really well together. cost of effective medicines has fallen dra- I am pleased to see Senators Santorum matically. And we made progress here in and DeWine are here. Thank you all for our own country where we have increased coming, and thank you for your leadership spending for domestic HIV prevention and on this issue. I also want to thank the care and treatment by 7 percent in next Members of the House, Congressmen Pitts, year’s budget. We will also help the people Smith, King, and Congresswoman Barbara across Africa who are struggling against this Lee, for joining us as well. Thank you all disease and those who have proven on a for your interest, and thanks for coming. When I stood in front of the Congress day-by-day basis the battle can be won. 4 months ago, I was confident that the We see hope in the work of individuals U.S. Congress would respond. I was con- like the former President of Zambia who fident that they would hear the call for lost his son to AIDS, a son who left several a bold initiative, and they responded. And children to the care of their grandfather. they have my gratitude, and they have the The good President turned his grief to good gratitude of millions around the world for works and created the Kenneth Kaunda their leadership on this issue. And I want Children of Africa Foundation. His founda- to thank you all very much. tion pays for food and medical care and This Act of Congress addresses one of schooling for AIDS orphans. Mr. President, the most urgent needs of the modern we honor you for your service and for the world. Because of the AIDS pandemic, a example you have shown to others who live child born today in sub-Sahara Africa has on your ravished continent. Thank you for a life expectancy of 47 years. This disease coming today, sir. falls most heavily on women and children. We see hope in the many religious and Nearly 60 percent of those infected by HIV educational institutions that are doing effec- in sub-Sahara Africa are women. Three mil- tive work on the frontline of the AIDS lion African children under 15 have the crisis. The Catholic Medical Mission Board, AIDS virus—3 million. And the disease has for example, runs 15 clinics in southern left 11 million orphans, more children than Africa and Haiti, where more than 20,000 live in the entire State of California. pregnant women each year receive HIV Behind these numbers are names. There testing and counseling and drug therapy to is Mbongeni, a 15-year-old boy who lost prevent the transmission of the virus to both his mother and father to AIDS and their children.

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I want to thank Jack Galbraith for the tories. We will support the care of AIDS fine work of Catholic Medical Mission. And orphans by training and hiring childcare I want to thank all of you all who have workers. We’ll provide home-based care to heard that call to love a neighbor just like ease the suffering of people living with you’d like to be loved yourself. Thank you AIDS. for your service to those who suffer. May We’ll provide HIV testing throughout all God continue to bless your work. regions of the targeted countries. We’ll sup- We see hope in the actions of African port abstinence-based prevention education governments that are acting responsibly and for young people in schools and churches aggressively to fight AIDS. The nation of and community centers. We will assist Uganda is pursuing a successful strategy of faith-based and community organizations to prevention, emphasizing abstinence and provide treatment, prevention, and support marital fidelity as well as the responsible services in communities affected by HIV/ use of condoms to prevent HIV trans- AIDS. We are developing a system to mon- mission. The results in Uganda have been itor and evaluate this entire program, so remarkable. The AIDS infection rate has we can truly say to people, ‘‘We care more fallen sharply since 1990, and in some about results than words. We’re interested places the percentage of pregnant women in lives saved.’’ And lives will be saved. with HIV has been cut in half. The Uganda This comprehensive program has the po- plan is proving that major progress is pos- tential in this decade to prevent 7 million sible. new HIV infections, provide life-extending And now we must spread that progress drugs to at least 2 million infected people, to suffering nations throughout the world. give humane care to 10 million HIV suf- By the legislation I will sign today, the ferers and AIDS orphans. This is a massive United States of America will take the side undertaking, and the dedicated men and of individuals and groups and governments women of the United States Government fighting HIV/AIDS in Africa and other are eager to get started. parts of the world. We’ll provide unprece- To coordinate this effort, I will soon dented resources to the effort, and we will nominate a global AIDS coordinator who keep our commitment until we have turned will have the rank of ambassador. This co- the tide against AIDS. ordinator will work closely with the Depart- Under this legislation, America will pro- ments of State and Health and Human vide additional money for the Global Fund Services, as well as with USAID and the for AIDS Relief and additional funding for Centers for Disease Control, to direct the our efforts in many countries to prevent efforts in the worldwide fight against AIDS. mother-to-child transmission of the disease. I’m going to Europe here at the end And we will focus our efforts on 12 African of this week, and I will challenge our part- and 2 Caribbean countries where HIV/ ners and our friends to follow our lead AIDS is heavily concentrated. and to make a similar commitment made We will purchase low-cost antiretroviral by the United States of America so we can medications and other drugs that are need- save even more lives. ed to save lives. We will set up a broad I will remind them that time is not on and efficient network to deliver drugs to our side. Every day of delay means 8,000 the farthest reaches of Africa, even by mo- more AIDS deaths in Africa and 14,000 torcycle or bicycle. We will train doctors more infections—every day, 14,000 more and nurses and other health care profes- people will be infected. I’ll urge our Euro- sionals so they can treat HIV/AIDS pa- pean partners and Japan and Canada to tients. We will renovate and, where nec- join this great mission of rescue, to match essary, build and equip clinics and labora- their good intentions with real resources.

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The suffering in Africa is great. The suf- NOTE: The President spoke at 2:20 p.m. in fering in the Caribbean is great. The the Dean Acheson Auditorium at the U.S. United States of America has the power Department of State. In his remarks, he re- and we have the moral duty to help. And ferred to Representatives Christopher H. I’m proud that our blessed and generous Smith of New Jersey and Peter T. King of Nation is fulfilling that duty. New York; and John Galbraith, president and Now it is my honor and high privilege chief executive officer, Catholic Medical to sign this lifesaving piece of legislation. Mission Board. H.R. 1298, approved May 27, God bless you all. was assigned Public Law No. 108–25.

Letter to Congressional Leaders Transmitting a Report on the National Emergencies With Respect to the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia (Serbia and Montenegro) and Kosovo May 27, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. President:) Executive Order 12808 on May 30, 1992, As required by section 401(c) of the Na- and Kosovo in Executive Order 13088 on tional Emergencies Act, 50 U.S.C. 1641(c), June 9, 1998. and section 204(c) of the International Sincerely, Emergency Economic Powers Act, 50 GEORGE W. BUSH U.S.C. 1703(c), I am providing a combined 6-month report prepared by my Adminis- NOTE: Identical letters were sent to J. Den- tration on the national emergencies denis Hastert, Speaker of the House of Rep- clared with respect to the Federal Republic resentatives, and Richard B. Cheney, Presi- of Yugoslavia (Serbia and Montenegro) in dent of the Senate.

Remarks on Signing the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003 May 28, 2003

Thank you all very much. Good after- children who will receive immediate relief. noon, and welcome to the White House. By ensuring that Americans have more to Today we are taking essential action to spend, to save, and to invest, this legislation strengthen the American economy. With is adding fuel to an economic recovery. We my signature, the Jobs and Growth Tax Re- have taken aggressive action to strengthen lief Reconciliation Act of 2003 will deliver the foundation of our economy so that substantial tax relief to 136 million Amer- every American who wants to work will be ican taxpayers. able to find a job. We are helping workers who need more I want to thank the members of my team take-home pay. We’re helping seniors who who have worked so hard to get this bill rely on dividends. We’re helping small-busi- to this desk. [Laughter] I particularly want ness owners looking to grow and to create to thank Secretary John Snow and Secretary more new jobs. We’re helping families with

544 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 28

Don Evans for their tireless efforts to con- there are people out there that understand vince members of both political parties that with tax relief will come more jobs what we’re doing today is the right thing for the American people. to do on behalf of all Americans. I appreciate members of the roundtables I want to thank Steve Friedman for his we had all around America. I see a lot good work, and his staff. I want to thank of familiar faces from people that allowed Mitch Daniels, ‘‘the Blade.’’ [Laughter] I me to come and listen to their stories and want to thank members of my Cabinet who then translate those stories into the public are here, Secretary of Labor Elaine Chao arena so that our Congresspeople and citi- and Mel Martinez. Thank you both for zens knew that behind every number there coming. was a story to be told. I see small-business I particularly want to thank the Members entrepreneurs and taxpayers and people of the United States Congress who worked who need dividends to help with their re- closely with the administration to do what tirement. All of them stood up as we went was right for the American people. Speaker around the country and spoke clearly— Hastert—Speaker Denny Hastert isn’t with much more clearly than I can—about the us, but he put forth a monumental effort need for tax relief. And I appreciate you to get this bill done, as did Senate Majority all being here. And I want to thank you Leader Bill Frist. for your care for our country, and welcome I’m particularly pleased that not only did to the White House. the majority leader join me up here, but The Jobs and Growth Act reduces Fed- so does the chairman of the Ways and Means, Chairman Bill Thomas. He got the eral income taxes across the board. And job done along with Senator Chuck today the Internal Revenue Service will Grassley of Iowa, the Finance chairman in post new withholding tax tables so that em- the Senate. These two good men worked ployers can begin leaving more money in out differences in a quick period of time the paychecks of American workers, starting and got the bill to the respective bodies next month. quickly, where both Republicans and The Jobs and Growth Act increases the Democrats supported this major piece of per-child tax credit from $600 to $1,000. legislation. So today I’m directing the Department of I want to thank the Members from the Treasury to issue checks of up to $400 per United States House of Representatives child to 25 million eligible families. And who are with us today as well as Senator those checks will begin arriving in July. Thad Cochran, representing other Mem- This combination of income-tax rate re- bers of the Senate. We’re honored you all ductions, a higher child credit, and a reduc- are here. I want to thank all the Members tion in the marriage penalty will make a who voted for this bill. We had great sup- difference for families in every part of this port in the House. Senators Miller and country. A family of four with a total in- Nelson also supported the Republican ma- come of $75,000 will receive a 19-percent jority in the Senate, so that we can say reduction in Federal income taxes, saving loud and clear to the American people, $1,122 per year, per family. A family of ‘‘You got more of your own money to spend four with an income of $40,000 will see so that this economy can get a good wind their income taxes drop from $1,178 to $45, behind it.’’ a 96-percent tax cut. And under this new I want to thank Dirk and members of law, 3 million individuals and families will the Tax Relief Coalition who rallied the have their Federal income-tax liability com- grassroots all across the country to remind pletely eliminated. Altogether, 34 million Members of the House and the Senate that families with children, including 6 million

545 May 28 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 single moms, will receive an average tax seniors will receive an average tax reduction cut of $1,549 per year. of $1,401. Jenny Theisen, from Omaha, Nebraska, We’re delivering substantial tax relief to is here with us today. Jenny’s husband, small-business owners and entrepreneurs. David, is a staff sergeant based at Offutt Most small-business owners are Subchapter Air Force Base and right now on duty in S—own Subchapter S corporations or sole the Pacific and the Indian Ocean. Jenny proprietorships or limited partnerships, so and David work hard to provide for their the small business pays taxes at the indi- children, just like a lot of other Americans vidual tax rate. By cutting individual tax do as well, and right now Jenny says she rates and by delivering other incentives for tries to save $200 a month for her girls’ investment in new equipment, 23 million college savings account. But sometimes small-business owners will receive an aver- other bills have to be paid first, is what age tax cut of $2,209. This law reflects a she says. Under this proposal, under the commonsense economic principle: The best bill I sign, it’s going to be a lot easier way to have more jobs is to help the people for the Theisen family to save for the fu- who create new jobs, and those are the ture because they will keep an extra $1,300 small-business owners of America. a year of their own money. Scott Harding is with us today. He’s the CEO of a family-owned electrical con- Tax relief matters a lot to the average tracting business in Rockville, Maryland. citizen here in America. This tax bill will Scott’s company is a Sub S company. He make it easier for moms and dads to save spends more than $100,000 a year on new for their children’s education, and that’s vi- equipment. His savings under the tax relief tally important for the future of this coun- will let him keep $7,300 of his own money, try. and his business will save at least $12,000 The benefits of the Jobs and Growth Act because of this legislation’s increased ex- will also go to investors. The top capital pensing rules. His savings, plus those of gains tax rate will be reduced by 25 per- the other people who own this company, cent, which will encourage more investment will help this company buy more equip- and risktaking, and that will help in job ment for their 50 employees, which will creation. make the employees more productive, The bill also allows for dividend income which will make it more likely that he’ll to be taxed at a lower rate. This will en- be able to expand the number of employees courage more companies to pay dividends, who works for him. which in itself will not only be good for Scott says, ‘‘The more money we make, investors but will be a corporate reform the bigger bonuses there are for workers. measure. It’s hard to pay dividends unless It’s that simple.’’ No matter how com- you’ve actually got cashflow. The days when plicated tax policy may seem here in Wash- people could say, ‘‘Invest with me because ington, people like Scott understand it all the sky’s the limit,’’ will be changed by too well. If businesses keep more of their dividend policy. It’s hard to promote the own money, their workers benefit right sky being the limit and pay dividends unless away. By leaving families and entrepreneurs you’re actually profitable and have cashflow. more to spend, more to save, more to in- Getting—reducing the tax rate on dividends vest, these reforms will help boost the en- will also increase the wealth effect around tire economy and create jobs. America and will help our markets. And When people have more money, they can the good news is, a lot of senior citizens spend it on goods and services. And in our rely on dividend income to meet their daily society, when they demand an additional needs, and under this legislation, 12 million good or a service, somebody will produce

546 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 28 the good or a service. And when somebody Congress would address this issue. Our produces that good or a service, it means country must get a handle on rising health somebody is more likely to be able to find care costs, so we must pass reforms to end a job. Increased hiring happens gradually, the junk lawsuits that drive good doctors but we’re on the path to greater job cre- out of practice and drive the costs up for ation across this country. everybody. We know that tax relief is going to help The biggest threat to economic security this economy because it has done so in of our seniors is the affordability of pre- the past. The tax relief we passed in 2001 scription drugs. We must make available helped make the recession one of the a prescription drug benefit to all our sen- shallowest in American history. It gave mil- iors. And we must assure that the commit- lions of families needed relief during a dif- ments of Medicare are kept to every future ficult time for our country. It helped many generation of Americans. entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams. To enhance economic security for work- I recently got a letter from Rusty ing people throughout the economy, we Loiselle, who lives in Illinois. Rusty had must reduce the burden of regulation and seen some hard times, but he always had litigation on small businesses as well. Em- a dream to start his own business and to ployers don’t want to spend their time and be his own boss. He says the tax relief resources filling out forms or fighting junk in 2001 helped him create a small custom lawsuits. They want to be out on the shop painting business. He bought a computer, floor or behind the cash register creating some airbrushes, lights, and sanders, and profits and jobs. And that is why this ad- he’s done well. He’s done well enough to ministration has launched a task force to be able to buy himself a home for he and find ways to reduce paperwork for small- his son. He said, ‘‘It probably doesn’t sound business owners in America. We must enact much like—sound like much to you all, but regulatory and lawsuit reforms so that our it means a lot to my son and me.’’ business owners can do what they do best, That’s what America’s all about, pro- create jobs. viding opportunity. The bill I’m going to We must also help build economic secu- sign provides opportunity for millions of rity for workers by preparing citizens to Americans across this country. And the fill the new jobs this economy will create. more opportunity there is, the more likely We’re aggressively implementing higher it is somebody is going to find work in standards in our public schools so that this country. every child—every child—learns to read This legislation is a major step forward and write and add and subtract. We’ve in- in our economic agenda. Yet other steps creased funding for Pell grants, making are also needed. We must hold Federal higher education a possibility for more spending to a responsible level. Our budget young Americans. for this year calls for discretionary spending I’ve proposed innovative reemployment to rise only 4 percent, or as much as the accounts to help unemployed workers cover average household income will go up this the cost of job training or relocation. For year. Government should follow the exam- those currently unemployed, earlier today ple of American families by setting clear I signed legislation extending unemploy- priorities and by staying within them. ment insurance benefits for an additional We must act in other areas to ensure 13 weeks. And when we reauthorize wel- the economic security of American families fare reform, we must make sure that more and workers. There could be no economic and more Americans are set on the path security unless people can count on afford- of work, which is the path of dignity and able health care. Critical measures before independence.

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I’m confident we can make progress in lenges we have faced. Time after time, all these areas, because the Congress is Americans have shown a firm resolve and showing the good will and hard work that an unshakable faith in our future. makes progress possible. Already we’ve And now, with this bold legislation, we’re achieved many of the goals that I outlined sending a clear message to the doubters, last January. Congress passed a budget res- the doubters that Washington can respond. olution that follows my call to restore We can respond. We can respond in a posi- spending discipline to Washington, DC. We tive way. We’re building on the strengths passed a focused supplemental spending of our economy so that everybody who bill to support our brave men and women wants to work can find a job in this great in uniform. We passed a Global AIDS Ini- country. tiative to help millions of people fighting Congratulations to the Members of the for their lives. And now we have passed United States Congress for rising to the a bold package of tax relief for America’s challenge. May God bless America. families and businesses which will help turn our recovery into a lasting expansion that NOTE: The President spoke at 2:20 p.m. in reaches every single corner of America. the East Room at the White House. In his I believe in the future of this economy, remarks, he referred to Senator Ben Nelson in our Nation, because I know the char- of Nebraska; and Dirk Van Dongen, presi- acter of the American people. In 20 dent, Tax Relief Coalition. H.R. 2, approved months, Americans have been tested by a May 28, was assigned Public Law No. 108– national emergency, corporate scandals, 27. The Office of the Press Secretary also war, and recession. And time after time, released a Spanish language transcript of we’ve responded effectively to the chal- these remarks.

Letter to Congressional Leaders on Termination of National Emergencies With Respect to Yugoslavia and Modification of the National Emergency With Respect to the Western Balkans May 28, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. President:) altered by the peaceful transition to democ- Consistent with section 204(b) of the racy and other positive developments in International Emergency Economic Powers Serbia and Montenegro (formerly the Fed- Act, 50 U.S.C. 1703(b) (IEEPA), and sec- eral Republic of Yugoslavia (Serbia and tions 202(a) and 301 of the National Emer- Montenegro) (the ‘‘FRY (SaM)’’). gencies Act, 50 U.S.C. 1622 and 1631, I A series of Milosevic-era Executive Or- hereby report that I have today issued an ders, beginning with Executive Order Executive Order. The order terminates the 12808 of May 30, 1992, imposed sanctions national emergencies declared in Executive on the former Yugoslavia. The sanctions im- Order 12808 of May 30, 1992, and Execu- posed pursuant to Executive Order 12808 tive Order 13088 of June 9, 1998, with and related orders were suspended pursu- respect to the former Socialist Federal Re- ant to Presidential Determination 96–7, on public of Yugoslavia, and revokes those and December 27, 1995, in order to achieve all related orders. I have determined that a settlement of the conflict in Bosnia and the situations that gave rise to those na- Herzegovina. In Executive Order 13192 of tional emergencies have been significantly January 17, 2001, President Clinton lifted

548 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 29 sanctions on the Government of the FRY be subject to sanctions set forth under the (SaM) and the Governments of the Repub- national emergency declared in Executive lics of Serbia and Montenegro that had Order 13219 of June 26, 2001, with respect been imposed pursuant to Executive Order to persons who threaten international sta- 13088 and related orders. Since that time, bilization efforts in the Western Balkans, the United States Government has main- as discussed below. tained sanctions on Slobodan Milosevic, his I have amended Executive Order 13219 close associates, and other persons, because of June 26, 2001, with respect to persons of the illegitimate control over FRY (SaM) who threaten international stabilization ef- political institutions and economic resources forts in the Western Balkans to take addi- or enterprises exercised by these persons tional steps with respect to continuing, and their capacity to repress democracy or widespread, and illicit actions by certain perpetrate or promote further human rights persons that obstruct implementation of the abuses. Ohrid Framework Agreement of 2001 relat- I have now determined that the strong ing to Macedonia, or United Nations Secu- commitment to political and economic re- rity Council Resolution 1244 of June 10, form shown by senior officials in the Gov- 1999, relating to Kosovo, or the Dayton ernment of Serbia and Montenegro war- Accords or the Conclusions of the Peace rants the termination altogether of the na- Implementation Conference held in Lon- tional emergencies declared with respect to don on December 8–9, 1995, including the the former Socialist Federal Republic of decisions or conclusions of the High Rep- Yugoslavia. These national emergencies, resentative, the Peace Implementation and the sanctions that flowed from them, Council or its Steering Board, relating to though suspended or lifted, have been per- Bosnia and Herzegovina, including the har- ceived to be outdated and have been a boring of individuals indicted by the Inter- source of bilateral concern for the United national Criminal Tribunal for the former States and Serbia and Montenegro. In ter- Yugoslavia. These additional steps respond minating these national emergencies, this to the continuing actions of ethnic extrem- Executive Order also encourages the efforts ists in Bosnia, Kosovo, Macedonia, southern of reform-minded officials of the Govern- Serbia, and elsewhere in the Western Bal- ment of Serbia and Montenegro by remov- kans who engage in acts of violence, some- ing the vestiges of restrictions imposed dur- times targeting international personnel, or ing the Milosevic era. otherwise obstruct efforts to build peace Although I am terminating the Yugoslav and stability. The Executive Order under- emergencies and related Executive Orders, scores the support of the United States for pursuant to my authority under IEEPA, I the International Criminal Tribunal for the am continuing for the near future certain former Yugoslavia by sanctioning those indi- prohibitions with respect to property pre- viduals indicted by the Tribunal and those viously blocked pursuant to Executive Or- who aid and abet their efforts to escape ders 12808 and 13088. Such prohibitions justice. are necessary on account of claims involving The Executive Order blocks all property the successor states to the former Socialist and interests in property of the persons Federal Republic of Yugoslavia and others identified in the Annex to the order, which with respect to certain property and inter- supersedes a previous Annex attached to ests in property that have yet to be Executive Order 13219, as well as persons unblocked. In addition, certain individuals subsequently designated pursuant to the targeted with sanctions under Executive order by the Secretary of the Treasury, in Order 13088, as amended by Executive consultation with the Secretary of State. Order 13192 of January 17, 2001, will now The order further prohibits any transaction

549 May 29 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 or dealing by United States persons or son listed in or designated pursuant within the United States in property or in- to this order, or terests in property blocked pursuant to the — to be owned or controlled by, or act- order, including the making or receiving ing or purporting to act directly or in- of any contribution of funds, goods, or serv- directly for or on behalf of, any per- ices to or for the benefit of the persons sons designated in or pursuant to this designated pursuant to the order. order. Under the order, the Secretary of the In addition, the Secretary of the Treas- Treasury is authorized, in consultation with ury, in consultation with the Secretary of the Secretary of State, to designate addi- State, is also authorized to determine, sub- tional persons, and thereby block their sequent to the issuance of the Executive property and assets, that are determined: Order, that circumstances no longer war- — to be under open indictment by the rant inclusion of a person in the Annex International Criminal Tribunal for the to the order and that such person is there- former Yugoslavia, unless cir- fore no longer covered within the scope cumstances warrant otherwise, or of the Executive Order. The Secretary of — to have committed, or to pose a sig- the Treasury, in consultation with the Sec- nificant risk of committing, acts of vio- retary of State, is also authorized to issue lence that have the purpose or effect regulations in the exercise of authorities of threatening the peace in or dimin- under the International Emergency Eco- ishing the stability or security of any nomic Powers Act and the United Nations area or state in the Western Balkans Participation Act of 1945, as amended (22 region, undermining the authority, ef- U.S.C. 287c), to implement the measures forts, or objectives of international or- provided in the order. All Federal agencies ganizations or entities present in the are directed to take actions within their region, or endangering the safety of authority to carry out the provisions of the persons participating in or providing Executive Order. support to the activities of those inter- This Executive Order further dem- national organizations or entities, or onstrates the U.S. commitment to supporting reform throughout the Balkans and — to have actively obstructed, or pose recognizes the significant steps the coun- a significant risk of actively obstruct- tries of the region have taken, and are con- ing, implementation of the Ohrid tinuing to take, to root out corruption and Framework Agreement of 2001 relat- fight organized crime. ing to Macedonia, United Nations Se- I am enclosing a copy of the Executive curity Council Resolution 1244 relating Order I have issued. This order becomes to Kosovo, or the Dayton Accords or effective at 12:01 a.m. eastern daylight time the Conclusions of the Peace Imple- on May 29, 2003. mentation Conference held in London Sincerely, on December 8–9, 1995, including the decisions or conclusions of the High GEORGE W. BUSH Representative, the Peace Implemen- tation Council or its Steering Board, NOTE: Identical letters were sent to J. Den- relating to Bosnia and Herzegovina, or nis Hastert, Speaker of the House of Rep- — to have materially assisted in, spon- resentatives, and Richard B. Cheney, Presi- sored, or provided financial, material dent of the Senate. This letter was released or technological support for, or goods by the Office of the Press Secretary on May or services in support of, such acts of 29. The Executive order of May 28 is listed violence or obstructionism, or any per- in Appendix D at the end of this volume.

550 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 29

Interview With TV3 of France May 29, 2003

France-U.S. Relations have a responsibility to the process. In Q. Mr. President, are you going to for- other words, if they’re interested in the give the French attitude on Iraq? What achievement of peace, that they must cut are you going to tell President Chirac when off funding, for example, or work to cut you’re going to see him face to face? off the financing of money to terrorist The President. Sure. groups that would like to destroy the proc- Q. Are you still mad at him? Are you ess. going to take sanctions against France? Secondly, I believe that the Palestinian The President. No, no. No sanctions. I’m Authority—the new Prime Minister is firm- not mad. I mean, I’m disappointed, and ly committed to the defeat of terror and the American people are disappointed. But the advancement of a state and the institu- now is the time to move forward, and tions necessary to make a state viable. And there’s a lot of issues that we can work so I’m very encouraged by his emergence. together on. I know that Jacques Chirac And thirdly, I believe Israel recognizes feels strongly about Africa, and so do I. it’s in their self-interest to support the no- And therefore, we can work together, for tion of two states living side by side in example, on the AIDS pandemic in Africa. peace. I’m the first President to have ever I laid out a bit initiative here for the Amer- proposed that. I did so at the United Na- ican people, and the Congress passed a $15 tions, and I take that vision into the Middle billion, 5-year plan to work on HIV/AIDS East knowing that the process is going to in Africa. And there would be an oppor- be difficult. But I believe that people now tunity, for example, for America and the see the necessity of achieving that end re- French to work together to solve some big sult. problems. Iraq And I’m going to remind him, just like I’m going to remind a lot of people, that Q. Mr. President, what do you answer we can do a heck of a lot more together to the American press that are trying to than we can arguing with each other. And say that you have not released yet the proof I can understand why some didn’t agree of the existence of arms of massive destruc- with our policy in Iraq, but it’s now time tions in Iraq? What do you answer to to move forward. them? The President. Well, they must not be Middle East Peace Process paying attention, is what I answer, because Q. Considering the roadmap, peace in we’ve discovered mobile biological labora- Middle East—you are going to meet most tories, the very same laboratories that Colin of the protagonists next week—how do you Powell talked about at the United Nations, plan concretely to succeed where your the very same laboratories that were predecessors failed? banned by the resolutions of the United The President. Yes. Well, first of all, I Nations. appreciate the understanding of Jacques Q. The situation in Iraq is far from being Chirac and the administration about me stabilized. We have seen some American leaving a little early from Evian to go to soldiers killed. Do you fear the rise of Mus- the Middle East, where I will first meet lim fundamentalism in this region against with our Arab friends, some of the leaders the occidental world, against United States? in the neighborhood, and remind them they And do you fear at the same time the risk

551 May 29 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 of creation of an Islamic republic backed side of Iran and have made our concerns by neighboring Iran? very clearly. And this will give me a chance The President. No, I don’t fear that. I to do so again. To the extent that they think the Iraqi people want to run their have got Al Qaida in their country, we ex- own state. They don’t need to have an Ira- pect them to detain them and eventually nian-backed regime. I think the Iraqi peo- hand them over to their countries of origin. ple are plenty capable of managing their There’s no preoccupation. Our main focus own affairs. right now is to find Al Qaida wherever they Secondly, I fully recognize that democ- exist and bring them to justice, and we racy didn’t flourish overnight. But I didn’t will do that. We’ll continue to do that, and expect it to. This is a country which has we expect others to join us. been ravished by a brutal dictator who And I want to compliment the French murdered and tortured to stay in power. for joining in this fight against Al Qaida. And it wasn’t all that long ago that they The French intelligence service have been were liberated from Saddam Hussein. So very good to work with, and we’ve shared it’s going to take a while. intelligence which has made France more And therefore, I’ve told Jerry Bremer secure and America more secure. And for that our Government, my Government, will that I’m grateful. be patient, as he makes progress toward Q. Mr. President, I want to thank you improving the lives of the Iraqi people. And very much, and I definitely wish you all I say ‘‘he,’’ it’s not only Jerry Bremer and the best and great success for the future. the United States; there’s a lot of people The President. Thank you, sir. Thanks for that are involved with the reconstruction coming. of Iraq. And as life returns back to normal and as we get a hold of the situation— particularly in Baghdad—of the killers and NOTE: The interview was taped at 2:43 p.m. people that are wreaking havoc—in other in the Library at the White House for later words, as we bring security to the neighbor- broadcast. The transcript was embargoed for hoods, you’ll see a good, democratic gov- release by the Office of the Press Secretary ernment emerge. until 4:30 p.m. In his remarks, the President referred to President Jacques Chirac of Iran France; Prime Minister Mahmoud Abbas Q. Is Iran a preoccupation for you—the (Abu Mazen) of the Palestinian Authority; ayatollahs with Al Qaida, which might be former President Saddam Hussein of Iraq; in that country attacking the United States? and L. Paul Bremer III, Presidential Envoy The President. Well, we are concerned— to Iraq. A tape was not available for we are concerned that there’s Al Qaida in- verification of the content of this interview.

Interview With Nile TV of Egypt May 29, 2003

Upcoming Visit to Egypt/Meeting With and you are meeting with President Arab Leaders Mubarak and a number of other Arab lead- Q. Mr. President, thank you very much ers. What are you going to tell them? What for talking to Egyptian television. Mr. Presi- role do you see the Arab countries playing dent, you’re coming to Egypt next week, in the coming stage?

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The President. First, I want to thank an assessment of what was possible and President Mubarak for his hospitality. He realized that it was impossible to achieve has been telling me about the beauty of peace with Chairman Arafat. He’s failed the Sharm el-Sheikh for a long time, and now Palestinian people in the past. My I’m going to get to see it firsthand. predecessor tried hard, and I watched very Q. You will love it. carefully what was tried at Camp David. The President. I am looking forward to Now, having said that, I also was working it. with the parties to try to set the conditions The first thing I want to do is to make necessary for the emergence of a Pales- it very clear to the leaders in the neighbor- tinian government with whom we could hood that I am intent upon working toward work, so we wouldn’t waste time, so that a two-state solution in the Middle East— actually some progress could be made. two states, Israel and Palestine, living side So the people have got to know when by side in peace. In other words, I want I say something, I mean it. Hopefully by them to look me in the eye so they can now people have learned that, that when see that I am determined to work to make George W. commits America to a project, this happen. we mean that, we don’t have idle chit-chat, I’m also going to remind them the that we’re serious about our intentions. United States cannot do this alone. We ob- Q. So the Arabs, or the people in the viously need Israeli support. We obviously region shouldn’t really be worrying about need the new Prime Minister of the Pales- voices within your administration who are tinian Authority’s work and help. And we opposed to serious efforts by the United need countries like Egypt and Saudi Arabia States—— and Jordan and others to work together The President. Yes, they don’t have to to cut off funding for terrorist groups, to worry about that, because I’m going to put prevent the killers from moving around, to the effort forward. help provide security, and as a Palestinian Q. So you don’t listen to them? state emerges, to support Prime Minister The President. Well, it sounds like they Abbas’ regime with not only advice but, don’t listen to me, because when I say when necessary, development aid so an something, I mean it. And I think President economy can start to grow in a Palestinian Mubarak knows that. And I’m going to restate. fresh their memories about the kind of administration I try to run. When I say some- President’s Commitment to Peace Process thing, we actually go do it. And when I Q. Mr. President, let me follow up on say that I’m going to be involved in the that. You said you are determined to bring peace process, I mean I’m going to be in- peace, you are committed, personally com- volved in the peace process. mitted to the roadmap, and you are person- Now, I understand it’s going to be tough ally involved in the roadmap. That has sort and difficult, but I believe it can happen. of a different approach from the approach And I want to work toward achieving two that the administration had adopted at the states, so that the Palestinian suffering and beginning, which was a hands-off approach, humiliation ends. the peace process. The question is, how long would that Egypt-U.S. Relations commitment and involvement, personal in- Q. And Mr. President, how do you see volvement, last and how deep is it? the future of the Egyptian-American rela- The President. Well, first of all, I think tions, the strategical relations that binded it’s not a fair characterization to say we those two countries over the past two dec- were hands-off—quite the contrary. I took ades?

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The President. Strong, I think, a good to assure your listeners that when I come future. Listen, we have counted on Egypt, to the region, I come with peace in mind and Egypt counts on America. It’s a mutu- and the possibilities of peace between the ally beneficial relationship. Throughout my Palestinians and the Israelis is real in my Government, people deal with the Egyptian mind, and I’m going to work toward that authorities, and I think it’s in our interests, objective. our national interest to keep a strong relationship with Egypt, and I intend to do NOTE: The interview was taped at 2:48 p.m. so. in the Library at the White House for later Q. Right. We are looking forward to see- broadcast, and the transcript was embargoed ing you, Mr. President, in Sharm el-Sheikh. for release by the Office of the Press Sec- Thank you very much for your time. retary until 5 p.m. In his remarks, the Presi- The President. It’s going to be an exciting dent referred to President Hosni Mubarak trip, and I look forward to the hospitality of Egypt; and Prime Minister Mahmoud of the Egyptian people. And I want to as- Abbas (Abu Mazen) and Chairman Yasser sure the people of Egypt that the relation- Arafat of the Palestinian Authority. A tape ship is an important relationship between was not available for verification of the con- Egypt and the United States. And I want tent of this interview.

Interview With Al Arabiyya of the United Arab Emirates May 29, 2003

Upcoming Meeting With Arab Leaders I told a lot of the leaders that after the Q. Thanks again. We really appreciate Iraq situation, that I would work toward it, Mr. President. Sir, you will be discussing peace in the Middle East. I’m the kind with the Arab leaders in Egypt their re- of person who does what he says he’s going sponsibilities toward the peace process. to do, and now I’m working to achieve What are your expectations, practically that. And I think it’s possible. speaking, from leaders such as President Mubarak and Crown Prince Abdullah? Upcoming Meeting With Israeli and The President. Well, first of all, one, the Palestinian Authority Leaders willingness to join with the United States Q. Sir, you are known for your straight and other nations to cut off funding to ter- talk—some could even say, blunt talk. rorist organizations that can’t stand the [Laughter] Are you going to use that ap- thought of peace. In other words, we all proach in Aqaba with Prime Minister Abbas have got to work together to make security and Prime Minister Sharon? Are you going real, not only for Israel but for the Pales- to hold them accountable for their commit- tinian people. And that’s my expectations ments? And how far are you willing to go from them. in this regard? What I hope to achieve is to be able The President. I am going to hold people to look at these leaders in the eye and accountable for their commitments. And say, ‘‘I believe peace is possible, and I’m the good news is, is that Prime Minister going to work to peace.’’ And this isn’t just Sharon knows that. I have had very a visit in which you won’t hear from me straightforward conversations with him. I again. I believe peace is necessary and pos- think it’s in Israel’s best interests that there sible. be two states living side by side in peace.

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He too has embraced that idea. And I don’t I’m not surprised that there’s still some think there’s going to be any need for me pessimism and people are unsettled. After to hold him to account, but he’s agreed all, they have lived under a brutal regime to that vision. for a long time. But I’m confident we’ll I have not met Prime Minister Abbas achieve our objective, and I’m confident yet. I look forward to it. And he will— the Iraqi people will be better off. I did meet his Finance Minister, a man Iran and Syria who impressed me. And I will assure him that we will work together. But I’ll also Q. Sir, you’ve used tough language vis- assure him that security is essential to a-vis Iran and Syria in the last few weeks. achieve what we want, which is a viable Is the United States on a collision course Palestinian state. with Tehran? And what is the state of play with Syria, following Secretary Powell’s visit to Damascus? Iraq The President. Well, first, Secretary Q. Sir, you have held the removal of Powell had a good visit to Damascus. And President Saddam Hussein’s regime from yes, we used some tough rhetoric, because power as a harbinger for a new dawn in it looked like Ba’athists were trying to es- the Middle East. Yet, the day after in Iraq cape into Syria, and obviously, we didn’t has been marred, unfortunately, by chaos, want that to happen. And the Syrian Gov- some bloodshed, uncertainty. What is that ernment pledged that that wouldn’t be the going to do to your vision of a broader, case. We take people for their word until different, more liberal political landscape proven otherwise. in the Middle East? You’ve talked about In Iran, obviously, we’re nervous about it several times. the reporting now out that there’s some The President. Absolutely. Well, first of Al Qaida inside of Iran. We just want the all, we’re just starting in Iraq. And a lot Iranians to understand that if there are Al of Iraq is stable, and the life of the Iraqi Qaida loose in Iran, we expect them to people are better now than it was prior be detained. If there are Al Qaida in Iran to the war. I readily concede Baghdad is and they plot against the United States, still a relatively dangerous place. And there- that obviously we’re going to be displeased fore, first things first, which is to bring with that. security to Baghdad. But along with secu- My hope, of course, is that the Iranians rity, we’re bringing better electricity, more respond. And they’ve heard our message food, more medicine. And it’s not just loud and clear, and I suspect they will. America, by the way; the world is now in- Q. I have one more question, sir. volved with the reconstruction of Iraq. The President. Sure. I remind people that, for example, in the United States it took 13 years for us Arab Allies in the War on Terrorism to finally settle on a Constitution. And I Q. Who are your Arab allies in the war guess some expect us to do it in 13 days on terrorism? Sometimes we hear con- in Iraq, and it’s going—it’s just going to flicting reports, for instance, on Saudi Ara- take longer. And I talked to Jerry Bremer, bia—— and again, will see him when I go to the The President. Yes. region and will remind him that we’re pa- Q. ——sometimes they cooperate, we tient here in America, that we—you know, are told; sometimes they don’t cooperate. it wasn’t until March 19th that we actually What is the state of play? began operations. So there hasn’t been The President. That’s a good question. much time yet. Crown Prince Abdullah is a strong ally in

555 May 29 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 the war on terror. There’s no doubt in my NOTE: The interview was taped at 2:54 p.m. mind that he is moving within the Kingdom in the Library at the White House for later to bring the killers to justice and to prevent broadcast, and the transcript was embargoed other killing. King Abdullah is a strong ally for release by the Office of the Press Sec- in the war on terror. President Mubarak retary until 4 p.m. In his remarks, the Presi- is a strong ally in the war on terror. I dent referred to President Hosni Mubarak know this not only from my conversations of Egypt; Crown Prince Abdullah of Saudi with these men, but also because of the Arabia; Prime Minister Ariel Sharon of cooperation between our intelligence serv- Israel; Prime Minister Mahmoud Abbas (Abu ices. Mazen) and Finance Minister Salam Fayyad The Gulf Coast countries have been of the Palestinian Authority; L. Paul Bremer strong supporters in the war on terror, and III, Presidential Envoy to Iraq; and King I’m grateful for that support. Abdullah II of Jordan. A tape was not avail- Q. Mr. President, we really appreciate able for verification of the content of this it. Thanks again. There are so many ques- interview. tions, so little time. [Laughter] The President. Well, I’m sorry.

Statement on Signing Legislation Concerning Participation of Taiwan in the World Health Organization May 29, 2003

Today I have signed into law S. 243, President’s constitutional authority to with- an Act concerning participation of Taiwan hold information the disclosure of which in the World Health Organization. The could impair foreign relations, the national United States fully supports the overall goal security, the deliberative processes of the of Taiwan’s participation in the work of the Executive, or the performance of the Ex- World Health Organization, including ecutive’s constitutional duties. The Sec- observership. The United States has ex- retary of State will continue, of course, as pressed publicly its firm support for Tai- a matter of comity to keep the Congress wan’s observer status and will continue to appropriately informed of the matters ad- do so. The executive branch shall, as is dressed by the reporting requirement. consistent with the President’s constitu- GEORGE W. BUSH tional authority to conduct the Nation’s foreign affairs, construe the Act to be con- The White House, sistent with the ‘‘one China’’ policy of the May 29, 2003. United States, which remains unchanged. The executive branch also shall construe NOTE: S. 243, approved May 29, was as- the reporting requirement in section 1(c) signed Public Law No. 108–28. of the Act in a manner consistent with the

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Interview With Print Journalists May 29, 2003

The President. I’ve got a couple of open- tionship is strong and that we can move ing comments, and we’ll go around the together in positive ways. table a couple of times and answer your Then I go to the G–8. I know the press questions. corps is going to be—you know, they’ll be First, I’m really looking forward to my observing the G–8 as a great—you know, trip. We’re involved with a lot of interesting will this turn into a meeting—a initiatives that will help the world grow to- confrontational meeting? The answer is ab- ward peace and freedom, and this trip will solutely not. It’s an opportunity to talk with be an opportunity to not only to talk about some who agreed with us on Iraq and some American values but to talk with friends, who didn’t, about how we move forward. allies, important parties about how working And I’ve laid the groundwork for the trip together we can achieve grand goals, the by talking about some great goals that goals of peace, the goals of freedom, the wealthy nations can achieve. goals of hope and prosperity. One, of course, is to fight AIDS in Afri- I start off in Poland. It’s my second trip ca. Another which is to enhance trade, so to Poland since I’ve been the President. that people have a chance to rise out of poverty, and others address famine as well I’m going to Krakow; I’m going to Ausch- as to continue to keep our focus on dealing witz. I’m going to give a speech, which with those terrorists who would like to hold I’m still working on right now, but it’s a the world—blackmail the world as well as speech that reminds us that together we to kill innocents, take innocent life. can achieve the big objective. It’s a speech, I then go from there to the Middle East. really, to Europe that says that our com- It’s going to be a significant visit. One, it mon values are strong and that we welcome says that I am committed to the peace the emergence of countries like—free process; that I look forward to working with countries like Poland, and as well as we the new Palestinian leadership as well as must be reminded of the lessons of the Ariel Sharon to make it clear to the world past. that we have—as leaders, we have the in- I’m going to Auschwitz to see firsthand tention of working together to achieve one of the greatest lessons of the past, that peace, that there’s a commitment, a per- there’s evil in this world and that the only sonal commitment, not just by me but a way to deal with the evil is together. And personal commitment by Prime Minister we did so in the past, and now there’s— Abbas as well was Prime Minister Sharon, you know, terrorism and killing of innocent to work together to achieve peace; and that people is evil, and we’ve got to work to- there are responsibilities that all of us have gether to achieve the same objectives that as leaders, not only responsibility to the were achieved in the past, and that is peace new Prime Minister of the Palestinian Au- and freedom. thority, not only the responsibility of the And then I go on to St. Petersburg to Israeli Prime Minister, but a responsibility not only honor the great city of St. Peters- for the leadership in the Arab world to burg, their 300th anniversary, but also to fight terror, prevent killers from stopping have an important dialog with Vladimir the process from going forward. Putin. It’ll be a dialog that will really show And so the first stop will be in Sharm the world that in spite of our disagreements el-Sheikh, in Egypt. I’m really looking for- over what happened in Iraq, that our rela- ward to the visit. President Mubarak has

557 May 30 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 urged me, consistently urged me to come Issues of Trust in the Middle East Peace to Sharm el-Sheikh, and this is my chance Process to see this spectacular part of Egypt. And Q. Thank you, Mr. President. Mr. Presi- that’s where I’m going to meet with the dent, obviously your vision and your prin- Arab leaders, some of the Arab leaders, ciples are quite commendable. The trouble to talk about shared responsibility. I want is that so many people still have suspicions; them to hear from me firsthand the com- they are afraid. Why do you think people mitment of the United States of America remain suspicious and afraid of either your to move toward peace in the Middle East. staying power, sir, or whether, you know— And I want them also to hear from me well, please go ahead and then I’ll ask firsthand that I expect them to be partners my—— in the process. The President. No, I understand your And then I’m going to go to Jordan. Of question. Oftentimes, we live in a processed course, I’ll see the King of Jordan. I believe world—you know, people focus on the the King is going to be in Sharm el-Sheikh process and not results. What I’m going as well. And then I’ll have a bilateral meet- to say to people who are suspicious of our ing with the King. It will give me a chance motives: Let’s work together to achieve to thank him for his strong support on the positive results. liberation of Iraq. I’m sure he’ll want to And I fully understand, for example, the talk about matters of trade with the United Middle East—it’s a suspicious world. There States, and I’ll be fully prepared to do so. are suspicions of motives. And until people And then I’ll meet with the Prime Min- see the emergence of a Palestinian state, ister of both the Palestinian Authority and there will be suspicions; until I can prove of Israel, and I’m looking forward to these for the average Palestinian citizen, there meetings. I believe in the possibilities of will be suspicions. And so I fully understand the skepticism. I mean, after all, peace. I trust the Prime Minister of the we’re dealing in a world where there’s a Palestinian Authority when he condemns lot of heartbreak, a lot of death, a lot of terror. I believe that provides an opening sorrow, a lack of hope. And until there for the United States and others to expend is noticeable change, there is going to be the necessary energies to move the process suspicions. forward. I’ve got great confidence in what Amer- I will remind them that I was the first ica stands for. I have said to our country President ever to stand up and say I am and to the world many times that in order for two states, living side by side in peace. for there to be peace, there must be free- And I did so at the United Nations. I still dom. And I believe that a free Palestinian have that vision. I believe it’s possible. So Authority and a free Palestinian people will I will talk to these two leaders about our yield to peace in that part of the world. mutual desire to move the process forward. Therefore, we’re striving toward the devel- And then I go to Qatar, where I’ll meet opment of such a state. And until people with General Franks and Jerry Bremer to begin to see, however, the results of that talk about the reconstruction of Iraq. I’ll vision, people will be skeptical. also meet with Amir of Qatar and then And the only thing I can do is to con- speak to our troops, and head home. And tinue to speak out as clearly as I can about this is a trip I’m looking forward to. the values which motivate our foreign pol- Let me answer some questions. Why icy and motivate me personally and work don’t we start here? hard to achieve results, tangible results. And when people see results, when the

558 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 30 people see that the Iraqi people are more estinian state with borders and with land, free and that their economy begins to de- a viable Palestinian state? velop, when people see that the Iraqi peo- The President. Well, I believe that’s imple have control of their own oil for the portant that there be a viable Palestinian benefit of the Iraqi people, then some of state. I mean, it is the vision. I believe the suspicions will be turned aside. a viable Palestinian state with the institu- I’ll never win the hearts of the terrorists, tions necessary for democracy and freedom nor am I trying to, because the terrorists to prevail, the institutions bigger than the have got one thing in mind, murder to stop occupants of the offices which they hold, peace. And it stands in stark contrast to is very important to gain the confidence what I believe, which is freedom to bring not only of the neighborhood, the con- peace. fidence of the Israelis, the confidence of So, you know, there are some—I would other Arab nations, but the confidence of never try to win their hearts and minds the free world as well. over—that are absolutely bent upon stop- So I believe the emergence of a Pales- ping not only what the United States is tinian state is very important. I have con- trying to do but a lot of other nations as sistently said that the Israelis are going to well. So my answer to your question is: have to deal with the settlement issue and I understand skepticism; I understand the that there is a part of the process is going attitudes of some; but I refuse to be to be a focus on the settlements. I fully stopped in my desire to rally the world understand that settlement expansion is not toward achieving positive results for each in concert with the development of a state. individual. And we will deal with that. I have said many times that freedom and And I will also remind everybody, how- human dignity is not America’s gift to the ever, that the process—in order for the world; it is the Almighty God’s gift to each process to go forward, in order for there and every individual. And I firmly believe to be confidence of all parties, there must that. And it’s that principle which motivates be an absolute determined effort to fight my desire to see to it that the Palestinian off terror, to not allow the few to destroy mother or father can raise their child in the process. I believe we can make a comfortable environment, knowing that progress, otherwise I wouldn’t be going. their child can have a good education and France-U.S. Relations the possibility of a peaceful life. And I feel the same way about the Israeli Q. Yes. Well, since I’m French, I’ll ask citizen who grows up, a child who grows you a French question. up in an environment where they can go The President. In French or in Amer- to the market with their mother or father ican? [Laughter] and get blown away. We must stop that Q. Well, I’ll try to do it in American. kind of violence and provide hope for peo- [Laughter] A number of American high of- ple. ficials have repeatedly said that France would have to pay the price for its opposi- Palestinian State/Israeli Settlements tion to your policy in Iraq. So far, we didn’t Q. Mr. President, a followup on the see much as far as reprisals are concerned. skepticism. Of course there is a lot of con- Have you forgiven France? cern in the area, over and above the hope, The President. I look forward to working because of your strong commitment. So with France to achieve common objectives. what do you think will happen if the rush Listen, let me be realistic. There is a sense for the settlements continue? And how of frustration and disappointment amongst would it affect your vision of having a Pal- the American people toward the French

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decision. That’s realistic. People didn’t un- to know. Make sure the Russian people derstand the decisions by the French lead- know that. ership to thwart the desire for the Amer- Q. And this difference between your per- ican—the American desire and the desire sonal relations and the relations between of others to work on security and freedom, our countries creates negative feelings in security for our countries and freedom in the Russian public opinion and among Rus- Iraq. sian elites. And that’s why I think it some- However, that’s not going to influence how hinders President Bush for his—in his my policy. My decision is to go and to quest for further democratization and west- say the French Government: Let us work ernization of Russia. together for a Europe which is whole, free, My question is, what do you want to and at peace, a Europe in which countries undertake to upgrade the Russian-American are allowed to be friends of the United relations to the same level as your personal States and at the same time participate in relations with Mr. Putin, including, of institutions such as the European Union; course, the Jackson-Vanik amendment, that rivalry will end up weakening our ef- which became in Russia, unfortunately, the forts to jointly deal with issues like security litmus paper of our relations? and peace and AIDS and trade. The President. Right. So, no, I will have a good discussion with Q. And by the way, our Russian Jews Jacques Chirac, and I’m looking forward are a little bit indignant that they are re- to going to the G–8, not only talking to placed by the American chicken. And in- Jacques Chirac; I’ll talk with others who stead of, ‘‘Let my people go,’’ now they have not necessarily agreed with our Iraq say, ‘‘Let our chicken come.’’ [Laughter] policy. We’ve got a lot of work to do. And And we don’t understand in Russia how I’ve got work to do to convince the skeptics the genuine American eagle can defeat an in France that the intentions of the United artificial American chicken. [Laughter] States are positive. And the French leader- The President. Well, first of all, at least ship has got work to do to convince the we’re arguing about chickens and not about American people that they are concerned whether or not we’ve got enough missiles about the security of our country. And I pointed at each other. will look forward to conducting that work Q. Yes. [Laughter] By the way, Mr. with Jacques Chirac. President, before you start answering my question, you can already do something in Russia-U.S. Relations improving our relations. I brought two Q. Mr. President, please allow me in books. If you sign them, you will improve genuine Texan style to grab the bull by the relations. It is for my—— the horns. The President. Okay. I’m certainly not The President. Okay. [Laughter] going to try to influence your story. Q. It’s quite obvious that your personal [Laughter] relations with Mr. Putin are much more Q. Oh, no, no—[laughter]—for my Presi- developed, much more warm than the rela- dential library, which has all the signed tions between Russia and the United States. books and pictures of all American Presi- The President. That’s interesting. dents, beginning with Eisenhower and, of Q. At least there is no Jackson-Vanik course, your highly esteemed father. amendment between George and Vladimir. The President. You don’t look that old. The President. That’s right. [Laughter] [Laughter] Q. And this situation—— Q. Well, I’m 75. The President. We need to get rid of The President. Okay, well, you’re a young the Jackson-Vanik amendment, I want you 75. Thank you, sir, for your question.

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First of all, Vladimir Putin and I do have Now, I agree with Vladimir, we need a good relationship. And that is an impor- to get rid of Jackson-Vanik, and have talked tant beginning in order to make sure the to our—some of the folks on the Hill to relationship is positive throughout our re- deal with this issue. And I would like to spective Governments. If we had a poi- get rid of Jackson-Vanik. I think it’s an sonous relationship, it would be awfully dif- important symbol to say to the Russian peo- ficult to convince others in our Govern- ple, ‘‘The past is over. Now we move for- ments to work closely together. And so ward in a positive relationship.’’ that’s a positive beginning. Yes, sir. Secondly, I did take note that the Mos- cow Treaty was overwhelmingly approved Roles of NATO and the United Nations by both Houses in the Duma. That’s a posi- Q. Mr. President, a very quick question. tive sign. As a matter of fact, if you think What role, if any, you foresee for inter- back, people—if you put this in historical national organizations like the U.N. or context, this treaty is pretty darn good NATO in the future, for instance, in the progress early in our respective administra- war against terrorism and any other inter- tions. I mean, it happened quickly, which national conflict? is a positive sign. In other words, Vladimir The President. Yes, good question. and I made the decision that we’ll work NATO—I see a robust role for NATO, together to create better conditions and which says that NATO must reform herself. make the world a more peaceful place. NATO has got to be a military collaboration One way to enhance relations between that is modern, that can move quickly, our Governments is to have a meaningful that’s got the newest weapons. I will speak and real strategic dialog throughout our en- to NATO when I go to Poland. It’s part tire Government on key matters, so that of my speech in Krakow. And it’s—I’m a the participants in both our Governments strong advocate of NATO. As you know, recognize that we are willing to not only I, with Warsaw, talked about the expansion share information but to deal with issues of NATO, which, thankfully, came to fru- before they become problems and to work ition and had been ratified—the expansion together in a collaborative way to show the has been ratified in our United States Sen- world that we can handle and deal with ate, overwhelmingly so. some of the large issues, such as prolifera- NATO is now—its vision is beyond the tion, for example. old days of when the Soviet Union posed So therefore, we’ve got Spence Abraham, a threat to Europe. NATO is now willing our Secretary of Energy, working very to take on new assignments, all aimed at closely with his counterpart. Secretary creating the same conditions of the past, Veneman has got a task force set up to in other words, a peaceful and free world. work very—Agriculture Secretary—to work And that’s why NATO is now in Afghani- very closely with her counterpart not only stan. I welcome that. on chickens, but on other issues dealing NATO will play a supportive role for Po- with our farm communities. land in Iraq. I want to thank the Polish This dialog, this kind of strategic frame- people for their—and the Government— work was initiated at my request—and I for sending, I believe, 8,000 or 9,000 troops think at Vladimir’s request as well. But to run a sector in Iraq. And NATO has Condi, when she went over to Russia, agreed to help in that sector, help the Pol- began the setting in place this capacity for ish troops. I think that—my point to you our two Governments to relate on a variety is NATO is becoming more modern, and of issues in a consistent way. a more modern NATO is going to be very

561 May 30 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

useful for dealing with the true threats that Q. Then will you permit me the Pales- we face in the 21st century. tinian question? In terms of the United Nations, it’s going The President. Yes. And that you admit- to be important for all of us to work to ted you’ve got a flawed memory like I do. keep the United Nations a strong and via- [Laughter] ble institution. And I think a useful dialog First of all, you made a broad statement, at some point in time will be how to make ‘‘the security situation,’’ as if all of Iraq sure the United Nations has adapted to the is—there’s lawlessness in all of Iraq. That’s threats we face. simply not the case. A lot of Iraq is improv- Obviously, it was a frustrating experience ing from the pre-war conditions, and that’s to have gone to the United Nations and important to know. spent a lot of time and a lot of debate Now, there’s no question that there’s on whether or not United Nations resolu- lawlessness inside of Baghdad, for example, tions should be upheld. I believe they and regions north of Baghdad. And we are should. I believe in this world, when you dealing with that. And we will deal with say something, you’d better mean it. And that for the sake of the Iraqi people, who I gave the speech, as you might remember, want most—first and foremost, to have a on September the 12th, 2002, in the United secure life, food on the table, lights in their Nations, the day after the anniversary of house, running water, sewage that works. the attacks on our country. And I said to They want the conditions of life that every- the United Nations, ‘‘You have passed reso- body yearns for, which is a comfortable life- lution after resolution after resolution’’—I style so their families can be secure. They think is said it 12 times—and my point want to work. And we’re making progress was, ‘‘Do you mean it?’’ on all fronts. And my answer in a rhetorical—if that’s I fully understand the degree of dif- a rhetorical question, my answer to you ficulty, and it’s created by the fact that is, I hope they mean it, because I want these people have been enslaved by a tor- the United Nations to be an effective body. turous ruler for many, many years. And However, its effectiveness is undermined therefore, I don’t expect the conditions to when they say something and nothing hap- improve automatically after 70 days. And pens. And therefore, we’ve got to, all of it’s going to take a while. us who care about the United Nations, must figure out how to make it effective And therefore, to answer your question— in the future. I don’t view it as an occupation, by the Q. Mr. President, if you would permit way. I view it as a group of nations. You me a couple of detailed questions. said ‘‘British and Americans.’’ There are The President. Sure. Do I need to write many, many nations who are involved in these down, because my memory is getting the contribution of help so that the Iraqi somewhat—[laughter]. people are able to establish their own Gov- ernment and have comfortable lives and Iraq can be a free society. And it’s going to Q. I’m getting that too. [Laughter] take a while. Sir, on the issue of Iraq, it looks like And I remind you that it’s like the writ- a messy situation. Security is not estab- ing of the Constitution. America, after our lished. Are you worried about a lengthy revolution, did not write its Constitution American-British occupation of Iraq? And overnight. As a matter of fact, it probably on the Palestinian issue—— took, what, 11 years or so. From the Arti- The President. Let me answer that one cles of Confederation to the United States first. Constitution took 11 years. We live in a

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world now where everything has to happen society in which one person dominated and yesterday. killed and murdered people in order to stay Press Secretary Ari Fleischer. Thirteen. in power. The President. What? I mean, we’ve discovered an unbelievable Press Secretary Fleischer. Thirteen. amount of graves. And by the way, we’ve The President. Thirteen years. My man discovered weapons manufacturing facilities corrected—I’m sorry. He won’t be cor- that were condemned by the United Na- recting me much longer. [Laughter] He’ll tions; biological laboratories described by be a pundit. [Laughter] Don’t worry, he our Secretary of State to the whole world, will be correcting me, but on TV. Get him that were not supposed to be there, in di- on your TV show. [Laughter] rect violation of the U.N. resolution, have Anyway, 13 years, as my man corrected been discovered. me. Q. Thank you, sir. The process will take a while. I am in The President. Thanks for giving me a touch with Jerry Bremer. I mentioned to chance to say that, so the American press, you that I will see him when I go over in particular, could hear it—off the record, to Qatar. We get a report all the time. of course. [Laughter] And we are making progress, slowly but surely. And that’s—and it makes sense, Palestinian Authority/Middle East Terrorists given the conditions. Q. Sir, on the Palestinian issue, what if And it’s important we succeed. And so, the government of Mr. Abbas really be- therefore, our coalition of a lot of countries comes unable—no matter how much it puts will stay the course, until such time as the up an effort to produce—eliminating these Iraqi people—the life is improved and the operations, the suicide bombings—what if Iraqi people would be in a position to, you he fails? Is this a failure of the peace proc- know, run themselves. Freedom is going ess, of the roadmap? Would you then give to be a beautiful thing in this part of the it up? And then can you afford, really, sir, world. It’s a very powerful sentiment that to pressure Mr. Ariel Sharon in a pre-re- I believe all people feel. election stage? Can you really do that? And therefore, one of our ambitions and The President. Of course I can. I don’t one of our values is to create the conditions know about—listen, if I were afraid of mak- necessary for the Iraqi people to run their ing the decisions necessary, for political own Government. And you’ll see over time reasons, to move the process forward, I here that they’ll be getting—a group of wouldn’t be going. I believe peace is pos- people will be coming together to write sible, and I believe that I have a respon- a constitution. And you know, it’ll be a sibilities, now that the conditions are such, constitution written by the Iraqis, for the to move the process forward. Iraqis, and of the Iraqis. And we believe And what are those conditions? Well, that’s possible. there’s a new Palestinian leader who is Now, look, I recognize there are some openly, firmly committed to fighting terror. in the world who say Iraq can’t run them- And I believe he can be successful, particu- selves. I refuse to condemn people. I mean, larly when the Arab world helps him. I ‘‘They need a dictatorship in order for the believe the conditions are such that people country to survive.’’ Forget it. I don’t be- are so sick and tired of a hopeless situation lieve that. It’s just not in my makeup. in that part of the world that together we That’s just not what I think. I think peo- can defeat the forces of terror and dis- ple—I think the Iraqi people are plenty mantle the forces of terror. competent about running themselves. It’s That’s not to say that a suicider could just going to take a while to go from a slip through, and it’s possible, but we will

563 May 30 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 not allow the evil designs of a few to stop funding terrorism to the extent that—is to the process that can provide such hope for stop the funding of terrorism, make sure a lot of people. So I believe, with the right you get that right—is the work to cut off effort and the right focus and the leader- monies to terrorists whose design it is to ship, not only of the United States and stop any peace process. And that’s impor- Israel and the Palestinian Authority but the tant. To me, that’s the most fundamental leadership of Egypt and Saudi Arabia and task. other nations of concern, Jordan, that we Secondly, as conditions improve, it would can defeat terror, the forces of terror that be very helpful if those in the neighbor- would like to stop the process. hood provide financial resources to help the Yes, ma’am. economy of a new Palestinian state begin to grow. It’s going to be very difficult for Egypt-U.S. Relations/Cooperation With a Palestinian state to emerge unless there’s Arab Governments economic activity. Q. Okay. Mr. President, you mentioned I recently met with the finance minister today that you want to have commitment of the Palestinian Authority, was very im- from the parties about the peace process. pressed by his grasp of finances, by the Do you want to have, like, concrete steps? fact that he believes that in order for there Are you going to ask them for concrete to be confidence amongst the Palestinians steps, like what? and confidence in the world that they’ve The President. Well—— got to fight corruption. Listen, stories used Q. And—— to emerge out of the—in the old days, of The President. Pardon me, sorry to inter- the Palestinian Authority that much of the rupt you. Go ahead. aid went to enhance a few, as opposed Q. Yes. And then in Sharm el-Sheikh, to the people. And I don’t stand for that, what do you want—what do you look to at least from American perspective. We’re get from the Arabs? And you are meeting not going to let corrupt elites take aid that’s with President Mubarak also. Would it in- supposed to go help the people. clude something bilateral or—— And so when the institutions evolve and The President. Sure. confidence emerges that the develop aid Q. And what kind? will go to help the Palestinian people, The President. Well, listen, President which I want it to do, that will be a useful Mubarak and I have had a lot of meetings role for the Arab world. And I look forward and a lot of conversations. And I’m con- to working with them on it. But the main fident that he will bring up bilateral rela- thing is for them to see me and my com- tions. As you know, we’ve got a very strong mitment to the process. And it’s one thing commitment to Egypt, particularly a fund- to read about it in stories; it’s another thing ing commitment. And we want to look for- to look a person in the eye and tell them, ward to a—I will talk to him about eco- ‘‘Let’s work together.’’ And that’s what I’m nomic reforms. And there’s no telling what looking forward to doing. he’ll talk to me about. We’ve got such a I’ve got very good relations with Presi- good relationship that he doesn’t need to dent Mubarak and Crown Prince Abdullah pre-clear it with anybody. He can say and the King of Jordan, Gulf Coast coun- what’s on his mind. I’ll be glad to visit tries. I’ve worked very closely with them. with him about it. And a lot of them ask me, ‘‘Well, are you Yes, I mean, first of all, we have a road- going to move forward now that there’s map which talks about specific things peo- a new Palestinian Authority, a leader of ple need to do. The most constructive thing the Palestinian Authority, somebody that’’— that the Arab nations can do is to stop you see, the old leader of the Palestinian

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Authority is somebody who had a chance that condition as well, because they fully to lead and didn’t. He has been in power understand the consequences of terrorist a long time, and the life of the Palestinian groups of taking innocent life. people have gotten worse, not better. I re- Yes, sir. member what happened at Camp David Press Secretary Fleischer. Make this the during the tenure of my predecessor. It last question. was a good lesson. The President. I’ll answer shorter. So I’ve always said, we need to be able Q. All right. So, 30 years ago—— to work with somebody who is committed The President. Somebody very important, to peace. And I believe the new Prime very important is waiting. Minister is committed to peace. And there- Group of Eight fore, I want to share that with the leaders. Q. Okay. Thirty years ago, the G–7 or Israeli Security/Conditions for the Peace G–8—— Process The President. Oh, it’s only Condi. Well, Q. Sir, can you assure that the other I take it back. [Laughter] party is committed without reservations? Dr. Rice. Your TV people. The President. The Israelis? Yes, I be- The President. That’s later. Later. lieve—— Q. Thirty years ago, the G–7 or G–8 Q. Without reservations. It’s a big prob- summit was set up to coordinate the big lem to the Palestinians now. powers—— The President. Well, there’s a reservation, The President. It wasn’t 30 years ago, and there should be a reservation of all was it? Twenty—— parties, and that is the reservation of secu- Q. Twenty-five or—— rity. In other words, people aren’t going The President. Whatever. to go forward with a process unless there Q. He’ll know. [Laughter] is a full commitment to enhance the secu- Press Secretary Fleischer. Twenty-seven rity of all people. And remember, terrorist point two. [Laughter] killers not only affect the security of the Q. Well done. They were set up to co- Israelis; they affect the security of the Pal- ordinate the big powers, the economic estinian people. You can’t have a Pales- strategists. tinian state if people continue to blow up The President. Yes. the process. Q. Given the risk of deflation, will there And therefore, it’s in all our interest to be such a concerted plan in Evian? Or work together on security. And I’m con- will it be everyone for himself, with the vinced that as the area becomes more se- U.S. capitalizing on the slide of the dollar? cure, as the institutions necessary for a de- The President. Yes, that’s a great ques- mocracy to emerge, that we’ll have a position. It is very important that we do spend tive partner in Israel. I believe that. I be- time talking about our respective econo- lieve they want peace. Most Israelis under- mies. It is essential that the G–8 meeting— stand two states, side by side in peace, is remember why it was first started, because in their national interest. much of it—many of the grand goals that And so I think the ingredients for peace we have, together, are very difficult to are very possible. But you say, ‘‘Are there achieve if the economies, our respective conditions?’’ You bet. There’s conditions, of economies, aren’t strong. course. And the conditions are to work to- You just heard me talk about a hopeful gether to stop the killers from stopping the Palestinian state will require trade and process, and I share that condition too. And commerce. And if the wealthier nations I suspect a lot of the Arab leaders share aren’t generating cashflow and the capacity

565 May 30 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

to be able to trade with other countries, Q. The reprisals on the French. then it’s going to be difficult to achieve The President. No, I answered it. You our goals. see—what do you mean, didn’t exactly an- And so, absolutely, I will tell them that swer the question? You’ve got my answer here at home we are—have got sound mon- on your tape machine. etary and fiscal policies. After all, I just Q. So were reprisals? signed a tax bill yesterday that will cut the The President. No, you’ve got my answer taxes by $350 billion, which will help ener- on the tape machine. It’s an old trick they gize growth here in America. I will reiterate use in the American press corps too, ‘‘You our strong dollar policy. I will talk to— didn’t answer my question.’’ What are you listen to their plans and initiatives to reform talking about? I spent 15 minutes answer- their economies. ing your question. You might not like the I had a very good discussion with Prime answer but, nevertheless, I did answer it, Minister Koizumi of Japan about economic absolutely answered it. And I loved the matters. We want the Japanese economy question. [Laughter] I look forward to to be strong. As a matter of fact, we want working with the French. the European economies to be strong. We want there to be vibrant growth. It is more Russia, NATO, and the World Trade likely somebody in America will be able Organization to find a job if our closest trading partners Q. Mr. President, do you visualize Russia have got vibrant economies. as a member of the World Trade Organiza- So we need to spend a lot of time on tion, and in the future, the member of the this subject. And I will remind them that NATO? we have a great opportunity on the next The President. I think that the question round of the World Trade Organization to on NATO is a question that will be an- advance a free trade agenda, which I be- swered over time, but first things first. Let’s lieve will make it more likely people in deal with the framework we’ve now set up, our respective countries can work. But it which is a great advance and a tribute to will make it more likely that nations will Vladimir Putin’s leadership and our NATO be able to rise out of poverty. And so, leader’s desire to have a unique relationship yes, it’s a very good question. And we will with Russia. focus on the economy. In terms of the WTO, it is in our national interest that Russia join the WTO. France-U.S. Relations And Russia is going to have to make some Q. Just a followup, if I may. internal decisions as to whether or not The President. Yes—— they’re willing to conform to the guidelines Q. You got rid of the policy that—— of the WTO. But we—I strongly support The President. I’m a patient man. Russia’s admission in the WTO. [Laughter] Final question. Q. ——reprises against the French—— The President. My whole family laughed Religious Tolerance when they heard that. [Laughter] Go Q. Yes, sir. Thank you. Do you see the ahead. issue of restitution of Jewish property as Q. You didn’t exactly answer the ques- a problem in Polish-American relations? tion. And will you talk about this in—— The President. Especially my daughters. The President. You know, it has not made [Laughter] it to—it hasn’t made it to my desk. And I answered the question. I look forward so, therefore, if it is a problem, it is a to—— problem that hasn’t been brought to my

566 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 30 attention. In other words, a lot of Polish that kind of evil never happens again to Americans have yet to express themselves anybody. to the point where it has become an issue At any rate, I’m looking forward to going. here in the White House. I want to thank you all for your interest. I think it’s very important—let me speak Very good interview. Pass those books over to the broader issue of Jewish relations here. around the world. It is very important for 22d Amendment all of us to reject anti-Semitism wherever Q. Mr. President? it is found, just like it’s very important for The President. Yes. us to reject those who condemn Islam. Our Q. What do you think about a third pres- Nation is one that believes in freedom of idential term in the United States? religion, and we respect and tolerate peo- The President. Against it. [Laughter] I’m ple’s religious faiths, no matter what their only supportive of a second term these faith. days. [Laughter] And so my greater concern about Juda- ism and Europe is that society resist and NOTE: The interview was taped at 10:11 a.m. thwart a culture which would tolerate any on May 29 in the Roosevelt Room at the kind of antireligious fervor, anti-Semitism, White House for later broadcast. The tran- or an anti-Islamic bent. In other words, script was released by the Office of the Press one of the things I did I thought was most Secretary on May 30. In his remarks, the important was right after September 11th, President referred to President Vladimir went to a Islamic center here. I wanted Putin of Russia; Prime Minister Ariel Sharon to send a signal that the evil people who of Israel; Prime Minister Mahmoud Abbas hijacked a great religion should not con- (Abu Mazen) and Finance Minister Salam demn that religion. In other words, Ameri- Fayyad of the Palestinian Authority; Presi- cans shouldn’t hold Islam accountable for dent Hosni Mubarak of Egypt; King the deaths. Abdullah II of Jordan; Gen. Tommy R. And so one of the things we believe here Franks, USA, combatant commander, U.S. in America is religious tolerance. And I will Central Command; L. Paul Bremer III, Pres- continue to speak out on religious toler- idential Envoy to Iraq; Amir Hamad bin ances in a clear fashion. Khalifa Al Thani of Qatar; President Jacques As I said, I’m going to Auschwitz for Chirac of France; former President Saddam a reason. I want to go—I want to see Hussein of Iraq; Crown Prince Abdullah of Auschwitz. I’ve studied a lot of history. I’ve Saudi Arabia; and Prime Minister Junichiro been told it’s a powerful experience. But Koizumi of Japan. A tape was not available I also want to send a clear signal that all for verification of the content of this inter- of us must work together to make sure view.

Interview With TVP of Poland May 29, 2003

Upcoming Visit to Poland for our support and participation in the war Q. Mr. President, in a few hours you in Iraq? begin your quite unexpected visit to Poland. The President. That’s one reason I’m Are you going to Krakow just to thank us going to Krakow. I think it’s very important

567 May 30 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 for the Polish people to understand how member of the EU that people will wel- deeply Americans appreciate their sacrifice come Poland’s entry with open arms. and their courage and their willingness to No, I don’t think so. I think that was work with us in Iraq and in Afghanistan. a heated rhetoric of the moment. I’m also going to Auschwitz to remind Q. But thanks to your decision we are people that we must confront evil when going to run one of the zones in Iraq. And we find it, and there’s no better place to of course our EU partners do not want remind people that there has been evil in to be there with us. They say that we’re the world than at Auschwitz. I’m also going new, we’re unexperienced, and we simply to talk about the great spirit of the Polish do not deserve getting what we got. And people, and I’m looking forward to it. I aren’t you afraid that we may fail in Iraq, will have been to Poland now twice since— or are you absolutely sure that you made in my Presidency, and there’s a reason, be- the right decision? cause I have a special fondness for Poland. The President. I’m absolutely sure I made the right decision. European Response to Poland’s Role in Iraq Q. Why? The President. Because I’ve seen the Pol- Q. Mr. President, as you probably know, ish troops in action. And I know President we’ve been strongly criticized for our sup- Kwasniewski, and I know the spirit of the port to America. President Chirac started Polish people. And there’s no doubt in my by telling us that we lost our chance to mind that Poland will be able to accomplish sit quietly. German press called us Amer- the objectives we set out together. ican trojan donkey in Europe—not even And it was also—the critics need to a horse, American trojan donkey. How do watch very carefully what’s happening. you perceive these opinions from American NATO is going to support the Polish efforts perspective? inside of Iraq. Poland will not be alone. The President. I think it’s unfortunate Poland will have plenty of support. Poland that some of the countries in Europe will is a member of this coalition of the willing, try to bully Poland for standing up for what who stood up for freedom and stood up you think—what they think is right. And for peace and stood up for security. And I’m going to say in my speech, Poland Poland also recognizes that there’s more needs to be in the EU and Poland can work to do. And I’m—also I’m going to be a friend of the United States and the Poland to thank the Polish people for car- two are not in conflict. I’m also going to ing about freedom in other parts of the remind the countries of Europe that we world. must work together. We don’t need divides between us. We need to work together to Iraqi Weapons of Mass Destruction achieve big objectives, which is to fight ter- Q. But still, those countries who didn’t ror, to fight global poverty, to fight AIDS, support the Iraqi Freedom operation use and to promote freedom. the same argument, weapons of mass de- Q. But Mr. President, aren’t you afraid struction haven’t been found. So what argu- that, for our support to America, we might ment will you use now to justify this war? be isolated in the future united Europe, The President. We found the weapons which we are about to enter? of mass destruction. We found biological The President. No, I don’t think you will laboratories. You remember when Colin be isolated. I think Poland is too important Powell stood up in front of the world, and a country to be isolated. I think the days he said, ‘‘Iraq has got laboratories, mobile of harsh lecturing are over with. I think labs to build biological weapons.’’ They’re Poland is going to be such an important illegal. They’re against the United Nations

568 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 30 resolutions, and we’ve so far discovered Q. Thank you very much, Mr. President, two. And we’ll find more weapons as time and here’s something for you. They goes on. But for those who say we haven’t couldn’t come for a concert to play for found the banned manufacturing devices or you, the—the songs that you quoted, and banned weapons, they’re wrong. We found they wrote it here: ‘‘To Mr. President Bush, them. fond greetings from the mountains, and hope you enjoy it.’’ The President. Oh, thank you so very Poland-U.S. Relations much. I’m honored. I look forward to lis- Q. Mr. President, the last question. Com- tening to this. I’ve got just the CD player ing back to your trip to Warsaw. Two years to use, right upstairs in the residence here. ago you quoted a very popular song in Po- Q. That’s great. It’s number three on land, ‘‘On that wheat field I’m going to that CD. build my San Francisco, over the molehill, The President. Well, thanks. I’m going to build my bank.’’ And there Q. Thank you. are such places in Poland in which people believe they could build a little San Fran- NOTE: The interview was taped at 2:28 p.m. cisco, if, for example, they have American on May 29 in the Library at the White House military base in their neighborhood. What for later broadcast, and the transcript was would you tell these people today, Mr. embargoed for release by the Office of the President? Press Secretary until 1:30 p.m. on May 30. The President. Well, I’m telling them In his remarks, the President referred to that we’re looking at all options, of course. President Aleksander Kwasniewski of Po- I make no promises, but we will remember land. A reporter referred to President who our friends are. And the Polish people Jacques Chirac of France. A tape was not have been strong friends of the United available for verification of the content of this States. And for that, we are very grateful. interview.

Letter to Congressional Leaders Transmitting Documentation on the Extension of Normal Trade Relations Status for Vietnam May 29, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. President:) of the Act and my reasons for such deter- I hereby transmit the document referred mination. to in subsection 402(d)(1) of the Trade Act Sincerely, of 1974 (the ‘‘Act’’), as amended, with respect to the continuation of a waiver of GEORGE W. BUSH application of subsections (a) and (b) of section 402 of the Act to Vietnam. This document constitutes my recommendation NOTE: Identical letters were sent to J. Den- to continue in effect this waiver for a fur- nis Hastert, Speaker of the House of Rep- ther 12-month period and includes my de- resentatives, and Richard B. Cheney, Presi- termination that continuation of the waiver dent of the Senate. This letter was released currently in effect for Vietnam will substan- by the Office of the Press Secretary on May tially promote the objectives of section 402 30. An original was not available for verification of the content of this letter. The

569 May 30 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 related memorandum of May 29 is listed in Appendix D at the end of this volume.

Letter to Congressional Leaders Transmitting Documentation on the Extension of Normal Trade Relations Status for Belarus May 29, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. President:) the objectives of section 402 of the Act, I hereby transmit the document referred and my reasons for such determination. to in subsection 402(d)(1) of the Trade Act Sincerely, of 1974 (the ‘‘Act’’), as amended, with re- GEORGE W. BUSH spect to the continuation of a waiver of application of subsections (a) and (b) of NOTE: Identical letters were sent to J. Den- section 402 of the Act to Belarus. This doc- nis Hastert, Speaker of the House of Rep- ument constitutes my recommendation to resentatives, and Richard B. Cheney, Presi- continue this waiver for a further 12-month dent of the Senate. This letter was released period and includes my determination that by the Office of the Press Secretary on May continuation of the waiver currently in ef- 30. The related memorandum of May 29 is fect for Belarus will substantially promote listed in Appendix D at the end of this volume.

Letter to Congressional Leaders Certifying Actions Responsive to Ratification of the Joint Convention on Safety of Spent Fuel Management and on the Safety of Radioactive Waste Management May 29, 2003

Dear lllll: branch, and withhold information the dis- In response to sections 2(1) and 2(2)(C) closure of which could impair the foreign of the resolution of advice and consent to relations of the United States, the national ratification of the Joint Convention on Safe- security, the deliberative processes of the ty of Spent Fuel Management and on the Executive, or the performance of the Ex- Safety of Radioactive Waste Management, ecutive’s constitutional duties. adopted by the United States Senate on Sincerely, April 2, 2003, I hereby certify that the United States will take those actions speci- GEORGE W. BUSH fied in section 2(1) and that the Comp- troller General shall have the access specified in section 2(2)(C). The executive NOTE: Identical letters were sent to Richard branch shall implement the foregoing in a G. Lugar, chairman, and Joseph R. Biden, manner and to the extent consistent with Jr., ranking member, Senate Committee on the President’s constitutional authority to Foreign Relations; Henry J. Hyde, chairman, conduct the foreign affairs of the United and Tom Lantos, ranking member, House States, supervise the unitary executive Committee on International Relations. This

570 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 30 letter was released by the Office of the Press Secretary on May 30.

Letter to Congressional Leaders Transmitting a Report on the National Emergency With Respect to the Lapse of the Export Administration Act of 1979 May 29, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. President:) States caused by the lapse of the Export Consistent with section 204(c) of the Administration Act of 1979. International Emergency Economic Powers Sincerely, Act (50 U.S.C. 1703(c)) and section 401(c) GEORGE W. BUSH of the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1641(c)), I transmit herewith a 6-month re- NOTE: Identical letters were sent to J. Den- port prepared by my Administration on the nis Hastert, Speaker of the House of Rep- national emergency declared by Executive resentatives, and Richard B. Cheney, Presi- Order 13222 of August 17, 2001, to deal dent of the Senate. This letter was released with the threat to the national security, for- by the Office of the Press Secretary on May eign policy, and economy of the United 30. An original was not available for verification of the content of this letter.

Message on the Great American Cleanup, 2003 May 30, 2003

I send greetings to the participants of their lives to the service of others. Through the 2003 Great American Cleanup. I am the USA Freedom Corps initiative, my Ad- honored to serve as Honorary Chair of this ministration is mobilizing individuals and event. organizations and providing opportunities America is a land of majestic beauty, and for citizens to give back to their commu- Americans can be proud of the remarkable nities. Americans have responded with an progress we have made in protecting our outpouring of acts of kindness and volun- environment and natural resources. Today, teer service that is transforming our Nation, our air is cleaner, our waters are less pol- one heart and one soul at a time. luted, and our lands are better protected, I commend those involved with the better managed, and more accessible to the Great American Cleanup for answering the American people. Through volunteer serv- call to serve. I also applaud Keep America ice programs such as the Great American Beautiful for 50 years of encouraging Cleanup, we continue to preserve our nat- Americans to take responsibility for improv- ural heritage for future generations and ing the environment. make our communities more vibrant places Laura joins me in sending our best wish- to visit and live. es. I have called on every American to dedicate at least 4,000 hours over the rest of

571 May 31 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Interview With RTR TV of Russia May 29, 2003

Strength of the Dollar I was a person that went to the United Q. Let me start with the people’s ques- Nations on September the 12th in 2002 tion. In my country, for many people, and said, ‘‘Let’s work together.’’ And we America is associated first and foremost got a resolution out of the United Nations. with the U.S. dollar. You bring the muscle. Q. The 1441. What’s going on? Is it going to stay as The President. Fourteen-forty-one. Then weak as it is now? And what’s your fore- we tried to get a second resolution, which cast? obviously was a stalemate. We never had The President. The policy of my adminis- a vote. And then—but the point was, is tration is for there to be a strong U.S. that I tried everything we could do dip- dollar. lomatically to bring about a common solu- Q. Which is not at the moment. tion in dealing with Saddam Hussein and The President. Well, I understand that. his weapons of mass destruction. And the marketplace is making decisions And so, you know, people love to specu- as to whether the dollar should be strong late about U.S. intentions and our military. or not. Our policy is a strong dollar. And And I’m just telling you it’s idle specula- we believe that good fiscal and monetary tion. policy will cause our economy to grow and Iraq that the marketplace will see a growing economy and therefore strengthen the dol- Q. Coming back to the U.S. role, now lar. that the war in Iraq is over, there is still But you’re right, the market, at this point a new twist in this discussion about Amer- in time, has devalued the dollar, which is ica’s role, a natural leader or a self-pro- contrary to our policy. claimed leader which enforces its—— Q. You’re not going to launch a separate The President. A natural leader. dollar for the vendor states and a separate Q. Natural leader. dollar internationally, because there was a The President. Emerging in Iraq, you’re rumor like that. [Laughter] talking about the leadership of Iraq? Yes, The President. No, forget that. No, we’re the Iraqi people are plenty capable of pick- not going to do that. ing their own leadership. There’s a lot of work to do to create the conditions nec- Speculation About the War on Terror essary for a smooth political process. Q. Tell me about rumors. Is there any And the first thing is to improve the seriousness behind today’s press reports lives of the Iraqi people. I mean, make that America’s next target is Iran and that sure they’ve got food and electricity and your Armed Forces are going to use bases water and sewer. And in many parts of in the former Soviet republics Azerbaijan the country, life is improving. Baghdad is and Armenia? difficult. Baghdad—the security is tough in The President. We’ve had all kinds of Baghdad because—— reports that we’re going to use force in Q. Did you expect anything like that? Syria. And now some on the left, I guess, The President. Sure. I mean, this is a are saying force in Iran or force here and country that had been enslaved for years force there. You know, it’s pure specula- by Saddam Hussein. And as we’re discov- tion. And we used force in Iraq after a ering through the mass graves all around long, long period of diplomacy. Remember, the countryside, he used torture and killing

572 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 31 to stay in power. And therefore, it’s not The President. Well, first of all, Russia surprising that after—I forget how many is a fantastic country with a great history. days we’ve been there, 70 or 80 days— And I’m learning—I’m understanding the that democracy hasn’t sprung forth yet. It’s Russian mentality a little better. I will cer- going to take a while to improve conditions, tainly not be an expert. I fortunately do and it’s going to take a while to take care have experts on my staff, starting with of the security issues within Baghdad. But Condoleezza Rice, who has lived in Russia, life is improving, and that’s what’s impor- studied Russia, understands Russia well. tant. My main focus has been to deal with Vladimir Putin, leader to leader, because President’s Upcoming Visit to Russia I firmly believe that if we can establish Q. Now that you’re going to Russia, last trust between each other, then we can see time, I remember, when you were planning to it that others in our administration begin your first trip you read Dostoyevsky. Now to trust each other more. And trust is an you read Dostoyevsky, you’ve dealt with important concept. Mr. Putin, what are your expectations now? I never forget my first question I was Are you going to try anything in Russia, asked, after having met Vladimir Putin in in the sense of a new political initiative Slovenia, was from an enterprising U.S. re- or maybe taste something new? porter. He said, ‘‘Do you trust Vladimir The President. Well, I tell you, I think— Putin?’’ And I, without hesitating, said, first of all, I’m looking forward to going ‘‘Yes.’’ And he said, ‘‘How do you know?’’ to St. Petersburg for my third time since I said, ‘‘I looked in his eyes and saw his I’ve been the President. It’s a fantastic city. soul.’’ And Vladimir kindly invited Laura and me We had just come from a very long con- to go to the 300th anniversary of the city, versation where we talked about family and we’re looking forward to it. matters and we talked about our own per- I think the most important thing that sonal lives. And I found in Vladimir a very will come out the meetings with Vladimir genuine person, somebody with whom I Putin is the world will see that even though could place my trust. And that doesn’t we had some disagreement on Iraq, that mean we agree on every issue; don’t get we’re willing to continue to work together me wrong. But it does mean that we have for the good of our respective countries the platform necessary to have good, posi- as well as world peace. tive relations so we can move our relations Secondly, there will be a strategic—a for- throughout our Government forward. mal strategic dialog established not only be- Q. Mr. President, thank you so much, tween Vladimir and me but throughout our indeed. Have a nice trip to Russia. bureaucracies, our different agencies, so The President. I’m looking forward to it. that the Russian people and the American people know that we’re working in concert to work on common opportunities as well NOTE: The interview was taped at 2:36 p.m. as to deal with problems before they be- on May 29 in the Library at the White House come acute. for later broadcast. The transcript was embargoed for release by the Office of the Press President’s View of Russia Secretary until 1:30 p.m. on May 31. In his Q. Now that you’ve dealt with Putin, remarks, the President referred to former read Dostoyevsky, have been to St. Peters- President Saddam Hussein of Iraq and Presi- burg three times, do you think you under- dent Vladimir Putin of Russia. A tape was stand Russia better than you did in the not available for verification of the content past, or what’s your notion? of this interview.

573 May 31 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Remarks to Journalists in Auschwitz, Poland May 31, 2003

Laura and I have just toured Auschwitz May God bless the victims and the fami- I, and what they call Auschwitz II, a place lies of the victims, and may we always re- where millions were murdered. The sites member. are a sobering reminder that—of the power Thank you. of evil and the need for people to resist evil. This site is a sobering reminder that when we find anti-Semitism, whether it be in Europe or anywhere else, mankind must NOTE: The President spoke at approximately come together to fight such dark impulses. 9:30 a.m. following a tour of World War II And this site is also a strong reminder Nazi concentration camp sites. A tape was that the civilized world must never forget not available for verification of the content what took place on this site. of these remarks.

Remarks to the People of Poland in Krakow, Poland May 31, 2003

My friend, Mr. President, it’s really good rope, bound to America by close ties of to be with you again and, of course, the history, of commerce, and of friendship. I First Lady. Mr. Prime Minister, Your Emi- said that Europe must finally overturn the nence, distinguished guests, citizens of Po- bitter legacy of Yalta and remove the false land. I’m honored to be in the city of boundaries and spheres of influence that Krakow, where so many landmarks give wit- divided this continent for too long. We ness to Poland’s history and Poland’s faith. have acted on this commitment. Poland, From this castle, Polish kings ruled for the United States, and our Allies have centuries in a tradition of tolerance. Below agreed to extend NATO eastward and this hill lies the market square where southward, bringing the peace and security Kosciuszko swore loyalty to the first demo- of our Alliance to the young democracies cratic constitution of Europe. And at of Europe. Wawel Cathedral in 1978, a Polish cardinal As the Atlantic Alliance has expanded, began his journey to a conclave in Rome it has also been tested. America and Euro- and entered history as Pope John Paul II, pean countries have been called to confront one of the greatest moral leaders of our the threat of global terror. Each nation has time. faced difficult decisions about the use of In all the tests and hardship Poland has military force to keep the peace. We have known, the soul of the Polish people has seen unity and common purpose. We have always been strong. Mrs. Bush and I are also seen debate, some of it healthy, some pleased to make our second visit to this of it divisive. beautiful country, and we bring with us I have come to Krakow to state the in- the friendship and the good wishes of the tentions of my country. The United States American people. is committed to a strong Atlantic Alliance In Warsaw 2 years ago, I affirmed the to ensure our security, to advance human commitment of my country to a united Eu- freedom, and to keep peace in the world.

574 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 31

Poland struggled for decades to gain peased; they must be opposed early and freedom and to fully participate in life in decisively. Europe, and soon you will be a member We are striving for a world in which of the European Union. You also struggled men and women can live in freedom and to become a full member of the Atlantic peace, instead of fear and chaos. And every Alliance, yet you have not come all this civilized nation has a stake in the outcome. way, through occupations and tyranny and By waging this fight together, we will speed brave uprisings, only to be told that you the day of final victory. must now choose between Europe and One of the main fronts in this war is America. Poland is a good citizen of Eu- right here in Europe, where Al Qaida used rope, and Poland is a close friend of Amer- the cities as staging areas for their attacks. ica, and there is no conflict between the Europe’s capable police forces and intel- two. ligence services are playing essential roles America owes our moral heritage of de- in hunting the terrorists. And Poland has mocracy and tolerance and freedom to Eu- led the effort to increase antiterror co- rope. We have sacrificed for those ideals operation amongst Central and Eastern Eu- together, in the great struggles of the past. ropean nations, and America is grateful. In the Second World War, the forces of Some challenges of terrorism, however, freedom came together to defeat nazism. cannot be met with law enforcement alone. In the cold war, our transatlantic Alliance They must be met with direct military ac- opposed imperial communism. And today, tion. The Taliban regime in Afghanistan our alliance of freedom faces a new enemy, chose to support and harbor Al Qaida ter- a lethal combination of terrorist groups, rorists, and so that regime is no more. The outlaw states seeking weapons of mass de- dictator in Iraq pursued weapons of mass struction, and an ideology of power and murder, cultivated ties to terror, and defied domination that targets the innocent and the demands of the United Nations, so his justifies any crime. regime has been ended. This is a time for all of us to unite in In the battles of Afghanistan and Iraq, the defense of liberty and to step up to Polish forces served with skill and honor. the shared duties of free nations. This is America will not forget that Poland rose no time to stir up divisions in a great Alli- to the moment. Again you have lived out ance. the words of the Polish motto: ‘‘For your For America, our resolve to fight terror freedom and ours.’’ was firmly set on a single day of violence In order to win the war on terror, our and sorrow. The attacks of September the Alliances must be strong. Poland and Amer- 11th, 2001, changed my country. On that ica are proud members of NATO, and morning, the American people saw the ha- NATO must be prepared to meet the chal- tred of our enemies and the future of grief lenges of our time. This is a matter of they intend for us. The American Govern- capability and a matter of will. Our comment accepted a mission to strike and de- mon security requires European Govern- feat the terror network and to hold ac- ments to invest in modern military capabili- countable all who harbor it and all who ties, so our forces can move quickly with support it. a precision that can strike the guilty and For my country, the events of September spare the innocent. NATO must show re- the 11th were as decisive as the attack on solve and foresight to act beyond Europe, Pearl Harbor and the treachery of another and it has begun to do so. NATO has September, in 1939. And the lesson of all agreed to lead security forces in Afghani- those events is the same: Aggression and stan and to support our Polish Allies in evil intent must not be ignored or ap- Iraq. A strong NATO Alliance, with a broad

575 May 31 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 vision of its role, will serve our security suffering. And this sets a broad agenda for and the cause of peace. nations on both sides of the Atlantic. The greatest threat to peace is the spread In Africa, the spread of HIV/AIDS of nuclear, chemical, and biological weap- threatens millions and the stability of an ons, and we must work together to stop entire continent. The United States has un- proliferation. The countries of the G–8 dertaken a comprehensive, $15-billion ef- committed last year to aiding Russia and fort to prevent AIDS and to treat AIDS others in securing and eliminating deadly and provide humane care for its victims. weapons that remain from the Soviet era. I urge our partners in Europe to make I welcome Poland’s decision to join this a similar commitment, so we can work to- effort. And I call on America’s G–8 part- gether in turning the tide against AIDS. ners to follow through on their financial Global hunger is a chronic challenge, and commitments so that we can stop prolifera- we have a crisis in Africa. The United tion at one of its sources. States is establishing an emergency fund When weapons of mass destruction or so we can rush help to countries where their components are in transit, we must the first signs of famine appear. The na- have the means and authority to seize tions of Europe can greatly help in this effort with emergency funds of their own. them. So today I announce a new effort I hope European Governments will recon- to fight proliferation called the Proliferation sider policies that discourage farmers in de- Security Initiative. The United States and veloping countries from using safe bio- a number of our close allies, including Po- technology to feed their own people. land, have begun working on new agree- Wealthy nations have the responsibility ments to search planes and ships carrying to help the developing world and to make suspect cargo and to seize illegal weapons certain our help is effective. Through the or missile technologies. Over time, we will Millennium Challenge Account, I have pro- extend this partnership as broadly as pos- posed a 50-percent increase in America’s sible to keep the world’s most destructive core development assistance. This aid will weapons away from our shores and out of go to where it will do the most good, not the hands of our common enemies. to corrupt elites but to nations that are In the last 20 months, the world has ruled justly, nations that invest in the seen the determination of my country and health and education of their people, and many others to fight terror. Yet, armed nations that encourage economic freedom. force is always the last resort. And Ameri- If European Governments will adopt the cans know that terrorism is not defeated same standards, we can work side by side by military power alone. We believe that in providing the kind of development aid the ultimate answer to hatred is hope. And that helps transform entire societies. as we fight the forces of terror, we must One of the greatest sources of develop- also change the conditions in which terror ment and growth in any society is trade. can take root. America and Europe should lead the effort Terrorism is often bred in failing states, to bring down global trade barriers. A so we must help nations in crisis to build world that trades in freedom can bring mil- a civil society of free institutions. The ide- lions of people into a growing circle of ology of terror takes hold in an atmosphere prosperity. of resentment and hopelessness, so we And America and Europe must work must help men and women around the closely to develop and apply new tech- world to build lives of purpose and dignity. nologies that will improve our air and water In the long term, we add to our security quality and protect the health of the world’s by helping to spread freedom and alleviate people.

576 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / May 31

America and Europe are called to ad- and its innocent victims. One boy impris- vance the cause of freedom and peace, and oned there was branded with the number these two commitments are inseparable. It A70713. Returning to Auschwitz a lifetime is human rights and private property, the later, Elie Wiesel recalled his first night rule of law and free trade and political in the camp: ‘‘I asked myself, ‘God, is this openness that undermine the appeal of ex- the end of your people, the end of man- tremism and create the stable environment kind, the end of the world?’ ’’ that peace requires. We are determined to With every murder, a world was ended. demonstrate the power of these ideals in And the death camps still bear witness. the reconstruction of Afghanistan and Iraq. They remind us that evil is real and must And these ideals will provide the founda- be called by name and must be opposed. tion for a reformed and peaceful and inde- All the good that has come to this con- pendent Palestinian state. Today in the Middle East, the emer- tinent, all the progress, the prosperity, the gence of new Palestinian leadership which peace, came because beyond the barbed has condemned terror is a hopeful sign that wire, there were people willing to take up the parties can agree to two states, Israel arms against evil. and Palestine, living side by side in peace And history asks more than memory, be- and security. cause hatred and aggression and murderous Early next week, I will go to the Middle ambitions are still alive in the world. Hav- East to meet with the Palestinian and ing seen the works of evil firsthand on this Israeli Prime Ministers and other leaders continent, we must never lose the courage in the region. I will remind them that the to oppose it everywhere. work ahead will require difficult decisions. Through the years of the Second World I will remind them that for peace to pre- War, another legacy of the 20th century vail, all leaders must fight terrorism and was unfolding here in this city of Krakow. shake off old arguments and old ways. No A young seminarian, Karol Wojtyla, saw the leader of conscience can accept more swastika flag flying over the ramparts of months and years of humiliation and killing Wawel Castle. He shared the suffering of and mourning. I will do all that I can to his people and was put into forced labor. help the parties reach an agreement and From this priest’s experience and faith then to see that that agreement is enforced. came a vision, that every person must be To meet these goals of security and treated with dignity, because every person peace and a hopeful future for the devel- is known and loved by God. In time, this oping world, we welcome, we need the help, the advice, and the wisdom of our man’s vision and this man’s courage would European friends and allies. New theories bring fear to tyrants and freedom to his of rivalry should not be permitted to under- beloved country and liberation to half a mine the great principles and obligations continent. To this very hour, Pope John that we share. The enemies of freedom Paul II speaks for the dignity of every life have always preferred a divided Alliance and expresses the highest aspirations of the because when Europe and America are culture we share. united, no problem and no enemy can Europe and America will always be stand against us. joined by more than our interests. Ours Within an hour’s journey of this castle is a union of ideals and convictions. We lies a monument to the darkest impulses believe in human rights and justice under of man. Today I saw Auschwitz, the sites law and self-government and economic of the Holocaust and Polish martyrdom, a freedom tempered by compassion. We do place where evil found its willing servants not own these beliefs, but we have carried

577 May 31 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 them through the centuries. We will ad- his remarks, he referred to President vance them further, and we will defend Aleksander Kwasniewski of Poland and his them together. wife, Jolanta Kwasniewska; Prime Minister Thank you for your hospitality. Thank Leszek Miller of Poland; former President you for your friendship. May God bless this Saddam Hussein of Iraq; Prime Minister great nation, and may God bless the Polish Mahmoud Abbas (Abu Mazen) of the Pales- people. tinian Authority; Prime Minister Ariel Sharon of Israel; and Nobel prize winner and author NOTE: The President spoke at 12:18 p.m. in Elie Wiesel. the courtyard of the Wawel Royal Castle. In

The President’s Radio Address May 31, 2003

Good morning. This weekend I am be- many others to fight the forces of terror. ginning a journey to Europe and the Mid- Yet armed force is always a last resort, and dle East. My first stop is Poland, the home Americans know that terrorism is not de- of a proud people who have known both feated by military power alone. We believe the horror of tyranny and the hope of lib- that the ultimate answer to hatred is hope. erty. The ideology of terror takes hold in an On a visit to Warsaw 2 years ago, I af- atmosphere of resentment and despair, so firmed our Nation’s commitment to a we help men and women around the world united Europe, bound to America by close to build lives of purpose and dignity. ties of history, commerce, and friendship. In Africa and elsewhere, America is com- Today, we are striving for a world in which mitted to a comprehensive, $15-billion ef- men and women can live in freedom and fort to prevent and treat AIDS and provide peace instead of in fear and chaos, and humane care for its victims. I urge our every civilized nation has a stake in the partners in Europe to make a similar com- outcome. mitment, so we can work together in turn- Poland and America are proud members ing the tide against AIDS in Africa. of NATO, and our military Alliance must My administration has proposed an be prepared to meet the challenges of our emergency famine fund, so we can rush time. Our common security requires Euro- help to countries where the first signs of pean Governments to invest in modern famine appear. The nations of Europe can military capabilities so our forces can move greatly help in this effort with emergency quickly with a precision that can strike the funds of their own. I urge European Gov- guilty and spare the innocent. ernments to reconsider policies that dis- NATO must show resolve and foresight courage African farmers from using safe to act beyond Europe, and it has begun biotechnology to feed their own people. to do so. NATO has agreed to lead security I have also proposed a 50-percent in- forces in Afghanistan and to support Polish crease in America’s core development as- Allies in Iraq. A strong NATO Alliance, sistance to help spur economic growth and with a broad vision of its role, will serve alleviate poverty. This aid will go where our security and the cause of peace. it will do the most good, not to corrupt In the last 20 months, the world has elites but to nations with leaders that re- seen the determination of our Nation and spect the rule of law, invest in the health

578 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 1

and education of their people, and encour- of disease and hunger to the spread of age economic freedom. If European Gov- human liberty, we welcome and we need ernments will adopt these same standards, the help, advice, and wisdom of friends and we can work side by side in providing the allies. When Europe and America are kind of development aid that helps trans- united, no problem and no enemy can form entire societies. stand against us. America and Europe are called to ad- Thank you for listening. vance the cause of freedom and peace. Next week in the Middle East, I will meet NOTE: The address was recorded at 4:05 p.m. with the Palestinian and Israeli Prime on May 29 in the Cabinet Room at the White Ministers and other leaders in the region. House for broadcast at 10:06 a.m., eastern The work ahead will require difficult deci- daylight time, on May 31. Due to the 6-hour sions and leadership, but there is no other time difference, the radio address was broad- choice. No leader of conscience can accept cast after the completion of all other Presi- more months and years of humiliation and dential remarks for May 31. The transcript killing and mourning. For peace to prevail, was made available by the Office of the Press terrorism must end. All concerned must Secretary on May 30 but was embargoed for shake off the old arguments and the old release until the broadcast. In his remarks, ways and act in the cause of peace. And the President referred to Prime Minister I will do all I can to help the parties reach Mahmoud Abbas (Abu Mazen) of the Pales- an agreement and to see that agreement tinian Authority; and Prime Minister Ariel is enforced. Sharon of Israel. The Office of the Press Sec- This is America’s agenda in the world. retary also released a Spanish language tran- From the defeat of terror to the alleviation script of this address.

The President’s News Conference With President Vladimir Putin of Russia in St. Petersburg, Russia June 1, 2003

President Putin. We’ve just signed and The strategic reduction treaty also im- exchanged instruments of ratification of the proves the regime of nonproliferation. And Russian-U.S. treaty on strategic reductions. this is all the more appropriate in the con- The treaty has come into force. Yet again, text of the fight against international ter- we’ve demonstrated that the United States rorism, the terrorists who are trying to ac- and Russia are true champions of the mu- quire all kinds of weapons security, includ- tually advantageous cooperation on the ing weapons of mass destruction, to pursue basis of partnership, openness, and trans- their goals. We now must work on the im- parency. plementation of that treaty. Such a declaration is also conducive to The bilateral implementation commission greater strategic stability and international will be established. The already existing bi- security. Having committed themselves to lateral mechanism between Russia and the reduce their strategic capabilities by a fac- United States will continue their work on tor of three, our two countries reiterated the widest possible agenda of interaction, that they continue on the course of stra- including strategic weapons, nonprolifera- tegic reduction and improvement of station, and missile defense. The relevant in- bility. structions have been made to our experts

579 June 1 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 of the two countries in accordance with prove and establish an appropriate invest- the joint statements reached between the ment climate and improve our cooperation two countries on new and continued strain the international organizations, including tegic partnership. economic organizations. Space remains the Our meeting between the President of vital part of our cooperation, and we have the United States and myself is taking place confirmed this fact in our joint statement. at a very crucial juncture of the develop- Summing up, I would like to stress that ment of the world, where very dangerous the relations between the United States and and complex events develop. This current Russia is not an isolated but global political summit meeting yet again confirmed the event and phenomenon. It is important that fact that there is no alternative for the co- this cooperation serves bringing together operation between Russia and the United the world community in the face of global States, both in terms of ensuring our do- threats. And in conclusion, I would like to mestic national agendas and in terms of say that the nature of our conversation was cooperation for the sake of enhanced inter- quite frank and quite informative and com- national strategic stability. prehensive. We agreed with the President to con- I would like to thank President Bush for tinue our efforts in terms of enhancing coming to Russia and to St. Petersburg, international stability, fight against ter- especially in these festive days in St. Peters- rorism, and ensuring better strategic sta- burg. For me personally, this is a special bility. We also agreed to continue our bilat- sign, and I am very appreciative of that. eral cooperation in the area of economy Thank you. and other fields. President Bush. I’m honored to be here, Of course, we are aware of the questions Mr. President. I’m honored to be with my being raised as to whether the relations good friend Vladimir Putin. This is the between the United States and Russia will third time I’ve been to this beautiful city, withstand the test of time. Today we reiter- and I want to congratulate you on a suc- ated, together with President Bush, our re- cessful 300th anniversary celebration. Last solve to continue with our strategic partner- night’s celebrations were fantastic. It was ship for the benefit of our nations and the a beautiful evening. entire world. I must say that the fundamen- Today we mark an important achieve- tals of the relations between the United ment in the relations between the United States and Russia turned out to be stronger States and Russia. President Putin and I than the forces and events that tested it. have just exchanged instruments of the rati- President Bush and I formulated instruc- fication for the Treaty of Moscow, which tions that cover the specific and practical will reduce both our nuclear arsenals to aspects of furtherance of the dialog in all the lowest level in decades. This treaty re- areas of our comprehensive agenda. We flects the new strategic relationship that is agreed to expand our communication chan- emerging between our nations. This treaty nels, including through our Presidential ad- was founded on mutual respect and a com- ministrations and other agencies. We also mon commitment to a more secure world. discussed economic issues. Our experts are We are working closely to confront the in contact while discussing these issues, and challenges of our time. Both of our coun- we will facilitate such contacts and discus- tries have suffered greatly at the hands of sions. terror, and our Governments are taking ac- The task here is quite clear. What we tion against this threat. want is to create a solid economic basis We are going to win the war on terror for the continued political dialog and co- by cooperation as well as providing security operation. We discussed the need to im- and hope for innocent people. That’s why

580 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 1

I support the goals of ending the fighting In a recent address to the Russian and suffering in Chechnya and reaching a Duma, President Putin committed to work- lasting political settlement in that region. ing for a sustainable democracy in Russia The United States and Russia are also where human, political, and civil rights will determined to meet the threat posed by be fully ensured. That is the vision of a weapons of mass destruction and the means strong leader. With that vision, there’s no to deliver them. We strongly urge North question in my mind that Russia will fulfill Korea to visibly, verifiably, and irreversibly its potential for greatness. And as you do dismantle its nuclear weapons program. We so, Mr. President, you’ll have the friendship are concerned about Iran’s advanced nu- of the United States. clear program and urge Iran to comply in Thank you. full with its obligations under the Nuclear Moderator. Two questions on each side. Non-Proliferation Treaty. President Putin The first question goes to the U.S. side. and I intend to strengthen our own co- Moderator. Terry Hunt of the Associated operation on missile defense, which is es- Press. sential to the security of both our nations. Iraq The United States appreciates Russia’s Q. Thank you. Mr. President, are there recent support for lifting U.N. sanctions on any new developments in the search for Iraq, and we both agreed that the United weapons of mass destruction in Iraq? Have Nations must play a vital role in Iraq’s re- any actual weapons been found? And to construction. We discussed ways we can both of you leaders, can you say, do you work together to help build a better future see eye-to-eye on Iraq now and its oil? for the people of Iraq. President Bush. The first part of your President Putin and I also discussed the question is that—is whether or not—the growing economic relationship between our weapons of mass destruction question. countries. And these ties will expand signifi- Here’s what—we’ve discovered a weapons cantly as Russia opens to the world econ- system, biological labs, that Iraq denied she omy and qualifies for membership in the had, and labs that were prohibited under World Trade Organization. I assured the the U.N. resolutions. President that I will continue to work with Vladimir can speak to the issue of the Congress and firmly committed to remove future of Iraq, at least his opinion of the Russia from the provisions of the Jackson- future. But my opinion is, is that we must Vanik amendment. The United States and work together to improve the lives of the Russia are working together to ensure that Iraqi citizens, that we must cooperate close- Russia’s energy sector can fulfill its poten- ly to make sure that the Iraqi infrastructure tial in world energy markets. is in place so that the Iraqi citizens can Our relationship is broad. We greatly ap- live decently. preciate Russia’s support of the Inter- And as to the energy sector, the Iraqi national Space Station following the loss of people will make the decision which is in our Space Shuttle Columbia. We are com- their best interest. Russia has had a long mitted to continue to work together for history of involvement in Iraq, and the the good of the world. Iraqi authorities, when they are firmly in President Putin and I have agreed to ex- place, will make the decision based upon pand and strengthen high-level contacts that experience and based upon their coun- and communications between our two Gov- try’s best interests. ernments. I invited the President to come President Putin. As you are aware, Russia to the United States for a visit in Sep- has voted in favor of the latest U.N. resolu- tember, to visit at Camp David. tion on Iraq. It didn’t abstain. It didn’t

581 June 1 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 vote against it. We view it as a serious President Bush. Well, first of all, I don’t step forward in working in practical terms think we went around the United Nations. on these issues, including within the United I remind you we had what’s called Resolu- Nations and also, of course, together with tion 1441. We worked through the United the United States. Nations. As a matter of fact, I think this I must admit, our experts worked quite experience will make our relationship well and arrived at a solution acceptable stronger, not weaker. As we go forward, to all. I do believe that the cooperation we will show the world that friends can will continue to expand and develop, in- disagree, move beyond disagreement, and cluding in the area of disarmament. But work in a very constructive and important we also believe that we must go on in our way to maintain the peace. relationship. And we must also continue President Putin. Strange as it may sound, thinking in these terms, also including as but during—despite all the differences be- regards Iraq. I am in absolute solidarity tween our two countries around Iraq, we with what President Bush has said in terms did not only manage to preserve and main- of letting the people of Iraq decide their tain our personal relationship but also to own destiny and assisting them in achieving preserve our mutual cooperation and inter- better and more honorable conditions of action between our two countries and even living. strengthen it. Incidentally, the resolution also contains Given all the difficulty of the situation, language devoted to the future develop- we were trying to tread very carefully and ment within Iraq. Indeed, Russian compa- to cherish and preserve both international nies have a wealth of experience operating aspect to our cooperation and personal as- in Iraq. And we intend to continue our pect to our interaction and contacts. I saw cooperation in this area with Iraq and in it done by President Bush in a very ex- Iraq, and including with international com- tremely professional manner, with great re- munity, making available to the inter- spect of the opinion of the others and of national community all our expertise, expe- myself. I was trying to do the same. And rience, and resources. We cannot exclude today’s meeting is a proof of the fact that that our companies will be operational in we have succeeded in that. Iraq; it will all depend on its internal devel- Moderator. Steve Holland, Reuters. opment, including within the framework of Iran oil-for-food program. As for the future and the future develop- Q. Mr. President, you mentioned the Ira- ment of investment projects, well, indeed, nian nuclear program. Were you able to this is a matter for the future and for our persuade President Putin to stop assistance future cooperation with all the international to Iran’s nuclear program, and how big a community, with our U.S. friends, and of threat is Iran? course, with the future authorities in Iraq. President Bush. Russia and the United States have mutual concerns about the ad- Russia-U.S. Relations vanced Iranian nuclear program. We under- Q. First question is for two Presidents. stand the consequences of Iran having a Did the difference between Russia and nuclear weapon. And therefore, we want United States weaken the relationship and to work together as well as with the IAEA cooperation between the two countries? to insist that they not have a nuclear weap- And the question to President Bush is on. And I appreciate Vladimir Putin’s un- whether the United States will continue to derstanding of the issue and his willingness act in such a manner as it acted in Iraq, to work with me and others to solve this by going around the United Nations? potential problem.

582 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 1

President Putin. I’ll add a few words if mass destruction anywhere in the world, I may. including of course in Iran. President Bush. Sure. Moderator. And the final question. President Putin. The positions of Russia War on Terrorism and the United States on the issue are Q. First of all, this is a question directed much closer than they seem. We need no to President Putin. Do you believe that convincing about the fact that the weapons there are any questions that remain that of mass destruction proliferation should be are irresolvable? And what can we do more checked and prevented throughout the together, more cooperatively, in inter- world. It is true not only with regard to national way, to combat terrorism? Iran but also with regard to other regions President Putin. I don’t even think that of the world. We have full understanding we have ever had any insurmountable prob- on this with President Bush, similar to our lems that cannot be overcome. There are mutual understanding of many other inter- always problems. They become more or national development problems. less visible or obvious; much depends on We have many points of coincidence of us as to how do we address those problems our views on many issues. And it is pre- and issues. The most important thing is cisely these things that enable me to call the presence or absence of a will to address President Bush my friend, not only person- those. President Bush and I do have such ally—because personally I do like him a a will. And we will do our best to achieve lot—but as my counterpart and the Presi- such a state where the points of coinci- dent of a friendly nation. dence would grow in number, and we will To repeat, we have many points on have fewer points of divergence and prob- which we see eye-to-eye on many aspects lems and issues of content. And this trend of international development. As for Iran— will become even more efficient and effec- and I repeated that during today’s meeting tive should we have assistance and a help- and discussion—we are against using the ing hand from the mass media. [Laughter] pretext of nuclear weapon program of Iran Thank you. as a leverage in—as an instrument of unfair competition against us. And we will con- NOTE: The President’s news conference tinue working together with all, including began at 10:07 a.m. at Konstantin Palace. the United States, with the view to pre- President Putin spoke in Russian, and his re- venting proliferation of the weapons of marks were translated by an interpreter.

Joint Statement by President George W. Bush and President Vladimir V. Putin on U.S.-Russian Cooperation in Space June 1, 2003

The loss of the Space Shuttle Columbia (ISS) program remains strong. The extraor- has underscored the historic role of the dinary efforts of our countries continue. United States and Russia as partners in The United States is committed to safely space exploration, who have persevered de- returning the Space Shuttle to flight, and spite tragedy and adversity. During this the Russian Federation is committed to challenging time, our partnership has deep- meeting the ISS crew transport and logis- ened and the International Space Station tics resupply requirements necessary to

583 June 1 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 maintain our joint American astronaut and firm our commitment to the mission of Russian cosmonaut teams on board the ISS human space flight and are prepared to until the Space Shuttle returns to flight. take energetic steps to enhance our co- We confirm our mutual aspiration to en- operation in the application of space tech- sure the continued assembly and viability nology and techniques. of the International Space Station as a world-class research facility, relying on our NOTE: An original was not available for unprecedented experience of bilateral and verification of the content of this joint state- multilateral interaction in space. We reaf- ment.

Joint Statement by President George W. Bush and President Vladimir V. Putin on the New Strategic Relationship June 1, 2003

On May 24, 2002, we pledged to build Treaty on Strategic Offensive Reductions. a new strategic relationship between the The Treaty takes effect immediately. The United States of America and the Russian deep reductions of strategic nuclear war- Federation. We declared our partnership, heads that it codifies are another indication and our commitment to work together to of the transformed relationship between advance stability, security, and prosperity our two countries. for our peoples, and to work jointly to We will intensify efforts to confront the counter global challenges and help resolve global threats of terrorism, and the pro- regional conflicts. We also declared that liferation of weapons of mass destruction where we had differences, we would work and their means of delivery, that threaten to resolve them in a spirit of mutual re- our peoples and freedom-loving peoples spect. around the world. We have met again to reaffirm our Na- In this regard, we declare our intention tions’ partnership and our commitment to to advance concrete joint projects in the meet together the challenges of the 21st area of missile defense which will help century. deepen relations between the United States With the completion of the ratification and Russia. procedures by the United States Senate, and the two houses of the Russian Federal NOTE: An original was not available for Assembly, we have been able to exchange verification of the content of this joint state- instruments of ratification for the Moscow ment.

Letter to Congressional Leaders on Sanctions Under the Foreign Narcotics Kingpin Designation Act May 29, 2003

Dear lllll : foreign entities as appropriate for sanctions I transmit herewith my designation of the under section 804(b) of the Foreign Nar- following four foreign persons and three cotics Kingpin Act, 21 U.S.C. 1901–1908,

584 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 2 and report my direction of sanctions against Foreign Relations; John W. Warner, chair- them under that Act: man, Senate Committee on Armed Services; Juan Jose Esparragoza Moreno Charles E. Grassley, chairman, Senate Com- Jose Albino Quintero Meraz mittee on Finance; Pat Roberts, chairman, Hector Luis Palma Salazar Senate Select Committee on Intelligence; United Wa State Army Orrin G. Hatch, chairman, Senate Com- Leonardo Dias Mendonca mittee on the Judiciary; Henry J. Hyde, Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia chairman, House Committee on Inter- (Fuerzas Armadas Revolucionarias de national Relations; Duncan Hunter, chair- Colombia, ‘‘FARC’’) man, House Committee on Armed Services; United Self-Defense Forces of Colombia Christopher Cox, chairman, House Select (Autodefensas Unidas de Colombia, Committee on Homeland Security; Porter J. ‘‘AUC’’) Goss, chairman, House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence; F. James Sen- Sincerely, senbrenner, Jr., chairman, House Committee GEORGE W. BUSH on the Judiciary; and William M. Thomas, chairman, House Committee on Ways and NOTE: Identical letters were sent to Richard Means. This letter was released by the Office G. Lugar, chairman, Senate Committee on of the Press Secretary on June 2.

Remarks Prior to Discussions With President Jacques Chirac of France and an Exchange With Reporters in Evian-les-Bains, France June 2, 2003

President Bush. First of all, I want to meeting. So thank you, sir, for your hospi- thank Jacques Chirac for his warm hospitality. tality. We’ve had a really good meeting. This morning we talked about our common [At this point, President Chirac spoke in desires to grow our economies. I thought French, and no translation was provided.] it was a very interesting and fantastic meet- President Bush. We’ve agreed to take one ing; I really did. question apiece. Terry [Terry Moran, ABC Today I’m going to meet with Jacques News], do you want to ask a question? here in a little bit and ask his advice on the Middle East. He’s a man who knows President’s Upcoming Visit to Egypt a lot about the Middle East. He has got Q. Mr. President, can you tell us your good judgment about the Middle East, and expectations for the summit in Sharm el- we will spend some time discussing that. Sheikh? And what are you hearing from I know there’s a lot of people in both the region? our countries wondering whether or not we President Bush. Well, first let me talk could actually sit down and have a com- about my expectations for the G–8. They fortable conversation. And the answer is: have been met. I was hoping to come to Absolutely. We can have disagreements, but Europe and to say that a united Europe that doesn’t mean we have to be disagree- working with America can do a lot of good. able to each other. And so I’m very glad We can do a lot of good on issues such I came and would say absolutely that this as fighting terror or working on matters has been a very helpful and a positive such as proliferation. We can do a lot of

585 June 2 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 good to help those who suffer in the world. olution in the United Nations. Listen, we And so the expectations, at least as far as must be frank, we went through a difficult I’m concerned, have been met here. period. I understand his position. He made My expectations in the Middle East are it very clear to me in the very beginning. to call all the respective parties to their There was no question where Jacques responsibility to achieve peace, and to make Chirac stood, and I made it clear where it very clear that my country and I will I stood. And that’s why I can say we’ve put in as much time as necessary to achieve got good relations, because we’re able to the vision of two states living side by side be very honest with each other. in peace. But when it came time to focus on a I fully understand this is going to be free Iraq, a healthy Iraq, a prosperous Iraq, a difficult process. I fully understand we we’re in agreement, and we will move to- need to work with our friends, such as gether to ensure that the Iraqi people have France, to achieve the process. I know we now got the capacity to run their own won’t make progress unless people assume country. It’s going to take them time to their responsibilities. The first message is, get there. It’s a difficult situation in Iraq. I will dedicate the time and energy to move But we are committed to a free Iraq, and the process forward. And I think we’ll make together we can make that happen more some progress. I know we’re making quickly than if we were still at odds on progress. the issue. [A question was asked and answered in Thank you, Jacques, appreciate it. French, and no translation was provided.] Iraq and France-U.S. Relations President Bush. Yes, and I want to thank NOTE: The President spoke at 11:42 a.m. at President Chirac’s support in the latest res- the Hotel Royal.

Statement on the Detention of Aung San Suu Kyi in Burma June 2, 2003

I am deeply concerned by reports from ical prisoners and to offer their people a Burma of the detention of Aung San Suu better way of life, a life offering freedom Kyi and members of her political party as and economic progress. We welcomed the well as reports that military authorities have release of Aung San Suu Kyi from house closed her party headquarters in Rangoon. arrest more than a year ago. This step gave The military authorities should release the military regime an opportunity to enter Aung San Suu Kyi and her supporters im- into a substantive dialog with Aung San mediately and permit her party head- Suu Kyi and all political groups to promote quarters to re-open. national reconciliation and democracy. This The situation in Burma has long been is still the only path to peace and prosperity of concern to the United States. We have for all of Burma’s people. urged Burmese officials to release all polit-

586 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 3

Remarks at a Multilateral Meeting With Arab Leaders in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt June 3, 2003

Well, Mr. President, thank you very So this is an historic meeting. It’s the much for hosting this important meeting. beginning of a long process and a tough I want to thank the leaders for coming, process. But no matter how difficult it is, Your Majesties and His Royal Highness. you have my commitment that I will ex- Prime Minister Abbas, I want to thank you pend the energy and effort necessary to and your delegation for coming as well. move the process forward. I’m the kind of person who, when I say I believe that, as I told the Crown something, I mean it. I mean that the Prince, the Almighty God has endowed world needs to have a Palestinian state that each individual on the face of the Earth is free and at peace. And therefore, my with—that expects each person to be treat- Government will work with all parties con- ed with dignity. This is a universal call. cerned to achieve that vision. I believe now It’s the call of all religions, that each person must be free and treated with respect. And is the time to work to achieve the vision. it is with that call that I feel passionate All of us have responsibilities to achieve about the need to move forward, so that the vision. You, sir, have got a responsi- the world can be more peaceful, more free, bility, and you’ve assumed it. I want to and more hopeful. work with you, as do the other leaders Mr. President, thank you for convening here. We must not allow few people, a this meeting. Tomorrow we’ve got impor- few killers, a few terrorists to destroy the tant meetings as well. This is the beginning dreams and the hopes of the many. of a process where all of us must not allow Israel has got responsibilities. Israel must the few to destroy the hopes of the many. deal with the settlements. Israel must make May God bless our work. sure there’s a contiguous * territory that the Palestinians can call home. The leaders at the table have got a re- NOTE: The President spoke at 1:50 p.m. at sponsibility. The biggest responsibility that the Movenpick Conference Center. The fol- they have, it seems like to me, is to fight lowing leaders participated in the meeting off any source of funding to terror, is to with the President: President Hosni Mubarak prevent the terrorists from gaining a foot- of Egypt; King Abdullah II of Jordan; King hold. I know that is the commitment of Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain; Crown the leaders here; I have talked to them Prince Abdullah of Saudi Arabia; and Prime about that. It’s in their own self-interests Minister Mahmoud Abbas (Abu Mazen) of to fight off terror. It’s in their own self- the Palestinian Authority. A tape was not interests to enable the Palestinian state to available for verification of the content of emerge. these remarks.

* White House correction.

587 June 3 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Remarks With President Hosni Mubarak of Egypt in Sharm el-Sheikh June 3, 2003

President Mubarak. Today we have met We call on Israel to simultaneously fulfill with the President of the United States, its own responsibilities to rebuild trust and President George Bush, to affirm our com- restore normal Palestinian life and to carry mon commitment to seize this historic mo- out its other obligations under the road- ment to advance the peace cause forward. map, thus promoting progress toward the President Bush gave impetus to the President’s vision. peace process by his vision of two states, We affirm our position again against ter- Israel and Palestine, living in peace and ror and violence. We will continue to fight security. This vision means that, alongside the scourge of terrorism against humanity the existing state of Israel, a new state for and reject the culture of extremism and the Palestinians will emerge. violence in any form or shape, from what- We welcome the roadmap rising from ever source or place, regardless of justifica- this vision and adopted by the Quartet, es- tions or motives, being fully aware of their pecially since it has been accepted by both danger as a plague that threatens the peace the Israeli and Palestinian Governments. and stability of the whole world. We will We particularly express our appreciation for use all the power of the law to prevent President Bush’s strong personal commit- support reaching illegal organizations, in- ment for its full implementation. cluding terrorist groups. We reiterate our support for the Iraqi The roadmap provides for ending the oc- people as they rebuild their country. We cupation that began in 1967 and resolving affirm our commitment once more, the the Israeli-Palestinian conflict by 2005, independence and the territorial integrity through fulfillment of all sides to their own of Iraq under a Government that represents obligations. Peace obligations are built on the Iraqi people and emanating from its the foundations of the Madrid Conference, free will, where Iraqi people living in peace the principles of land for peace, and U.N. and harmony with its neighbors. And in Security Council Resolutions 242, 338, and this regard, we consider U.N. Security 1397, and the initiative of Saudi Crown Council Resolution 1483 as a useful means Prince Saud Abdullah bin Abd al-Aziz, to achieve these goals. which was unanimously endorsed by the As the countries of this region continue Arab League Summit in Beirut. their important endeavors to promote polit- We support the determination of the Pal- ical, economic, and social reforms, we wel- estinian Authority to fulfill its responsibility come the initiative by the United States to end violence and to maintain law and to open new economic opportunities for all order, as announced by Prime Minister the people in the Middle East. We shall Mahmoud Abbas. We will continue to sup- continue to work for a Middle East that port the Palestinian Authority’s efforts to is free of strife and violence, living in har- uphold these commitments in order to mony, without the threat of terrorism or allow it to consolidate its authority in dangers of weapons of mass destruction. democratic and accountable institutions. Thank you. We will ensure that our assistance to the President Bush. Thank you, Hosni. Very Palestinians goes solely to the Palestinian good job. Authority, and we will continue to support Mr. President, thank you for your hospi- efforts to improve the quality of life of the tality and for the invitation to this spectac- Palestinian people. ular location.

588 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 3

We meet in Sinai at a moment of prom- Terror threatens my Nation. Terror ise for the cause of peace in the Middle threatens Arab states. Terror threatens the East. We see the potential for unity against state of Israel. Terror threatens the emer- terror. We see the potential for the birth gence of a Palestinian state. Terror must of a new and Palestinian state. We see the be opposed, and it must be defeated. potential for broader peace among the peo- Tomorrow I will go to Aqaba for a meet- ples of this region. ing with Prime Minister Sharon, Prime Achieving these goals will require cour- Minister Abbas to discuss the responsibil- age and moral vision on every side, from ities of the Israelis and the Palestinians. every leader. America is committed and I And if all sides fulfill their obligations, we am committed to helping all the parties can make steady progress on the road to- to reach the hard and heroic decisions that wards Palestinian statehood, a secure Israel, will lead to peace. and a just and comprehensive peace. I want to thank Crown Prince Abdullah, We seek true peace, not just a pause King Hamad, King Abdullah, Prime Min- between more wars and intifadas but a per- ister Abbas for joining us today. I particu- manent reconciliation among the peoples larly want to thank President Mubarak. The of the Middle East. United States values its strong ties with In our meeting today we also discussed Egypt. By hosting this gathering, President the future of Iraq. I reaffirmed America’s Mubarak is acting in Egypt’s best traditions. commitment to helping the Iraqi people His predecessor, Anwar Sadat, was a leader achieve freedom and democracy in a uni- for peace who had the vision to see oppor- fied country, its borders intact, a country tunities and the bold heart to seize them. free of weapons of mass destruction and And this spirit, we need today. at peace with its neighbors and the world. Last year on June 24th, I put forth a America is fully committed to restoring proposal for two states, Israel and Palestine, security to Iraqi cities and helping the Iraqi living side by side in peace. I called on people rebuild their nation after decades Israel to respect the rights of Palestinians, of cruel and corrupt dictatorship. I wel- including the right to live in dignity in a come the support of all the nations rep- free and peaceful Palestine. I urged the resented here for these important goals and Palestinian people to embrace new leaders hope they will contribute to helping the who stand for reform, democracy, and for good people of Iraq. fighting terror. There’s a hopeful direction to recent I also said that progress toward peace events in the Middle East. In Iraq, a tyrant would require the active commitment and in support of terror has been removed. Re- support of neighboring states. And today form is taking hold in many societies that I’m pleased to stand with leaders of the are eager to join in the progress and pros- Arab world who are committed to these perity of our times. I urge nations through- principles. out the region to open their markets, to All progress towards peace requires the seek broader trade in the world, and to rejection of terror. The leaders here today join us in creating a U.S.-Middle East free have declared their firm rejection of terror, trade area within a decade. regardless of its justifications or motives. The leaders here today recognize the im- They’ve also committed to practical actions portance of representative, democratic insti- to use all means to cut off assistance, in- tutions to fulfilling the hopes of the Iraqi cluding arms and financing, to any terror and Palestinian people. And free institu- group and to aid the Palestinian Authority tions are critical to the hopes of people in their own fight against terror. everywhere. Allowing peaceful avenues for

589 June 3 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 the expression of different views and broad- Thank you very much, Mr. President. er political participation will unleash the talents of each nation. All Middle East countries that travel this challenging path NOTE: President Mubarak spoke at 3:50 p.m. will have the support and the friendship at the Four Seasons Resort. In his remarks, of the United States. President Bush referred to Crown Prince In this meeting we’ve made progress on Abdullah of Saudi Arabia; King Hamad bin a broad agenda, and we’re determined to Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain; King Abdullah II keep moving forward. I thank all the lead- of Jordan; Prime Minister Mahmoud Abbas ers here today, and may God bless our (Abu Mazen) of the Palestinian Authority; important work. and Prime Minister Ariel Sharon of Israel.

Remarks at the Red Sea Summit in Aqaba, Jordan June 4, 2003

King Abdullah II of Jordan. President end to the conflict. To the Palestinians, it Bush, Prime Minister Sharon, Prime Min- offers an end to the occupation, a viable ister Abbas, distinguished guests: We gather state, and the promise to live as a free today in Aqaba, this small city that symbol- and prosperous people. izes the immeasurable potential of bringing To be sure, the road to realizing this different peoples together. Not far from vision will not be straightforward or without here, Jordan and Israel signed a peace trea- obstacles. I’m aware that many in our re- ty in 1994. Nine years later, what brings gion and around the world view our gath- us here is the same dream, the dream of ering today through a lens marred with peace, prosperity, coexistence, and rec- skepticism and suspicion. The failures and onciliation. But dreams alone cannot fulfill frustrations of the past have left many dis- hopes. It is thanks to the efforts of Presi- believers in their wake. dent Bush and the commitments of Prime Today we have an opportunity and obli- Minister Sharon and Prime Minister Abbas gation to reinstate faith in the process and that we meet here today to transform these to reinvigorate hopes for a better tomorrow. dreams into real achievements on the We simply cannot afford the alternative. ground. The road to confrontation has shown its Mr. President, Prime Ministers, let us consequences: loss of innocent lives, de- have ambitions, ambitions to move beyond struction, and fear. Most costly, however, the violence and occupation to the day was the loss of hope. The most precious when two states, Palestine and Israel, can gift that you can present to your peoples live together side by side in peace and se- over the coming weeks is renewed hope curity. born out of tangible progress on the And in our hands today we hold the ground. And it’s not only your people who mechanism that can translate these ambi- will be watching and waiting. The eyes of tions into realities on the ground. It is a the entire world will be upon you. plan, the roadmap, that addresses the needs The nature of our new borderless world of both Palestinians and Israelis. To the means that we all have a stake in what Israelis, this plan offers collective security happens here today. Jordanians, Americans, guarantees by all Arabs, a peace treaty, and Europeans, and many around the world normal relations with Arab states, and an stand ready and willing to lend all their

590 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 4 support to ensure your success. But at the Egypt yesterday. I thank them for their end of the day, it is you, the Palestinians statements supporting our efforts. I also and the Israelis, who have to come together would like to thank the Israeli Prime Min- to resolve the many outstanding issues that ister Sharon for joining us here in Jordan. divide you. And many thanks especially to President Many will view the compromises that will Bush, who took the longest journey for be made during your negotiations as painful peace of all of us. concessions. But why not view them as As we all realize, this is an important peace offerings, ones that will provide in moment. A new opportunity for peace ex- return the priceless gifts of hope, security, ists, an opportunity based upon President and freedom for our children and our chil- Bush’s vision and the Quartet’s roadmap, dren’s children. It is only by putting your- which we have accepted without any res- selves in each other’s shoes that we can ervations. hope to achieve real progress. Our goal is two states, Israel and Pal- Thus, we reaffirm today our strong posi- estine, living side by side in peace and se- tion against violence in any form and from curity. The process is the one of direct whatever source. Blowing up buses will not negotiations to end the Israeli-Palestinian induce the Israelis to move forward, and conflict and to resolve all the permanent neither will the killing of Palestinians or status issues and end the occupation that the demolition of their homes and their began in 1967, under which Palestinians future. All this needs to stop. And we have suffered so much. pledge that Jordan will do its utmost to At the same time, we do not ignore the help achieve it. suffering of the Jews throughout history. Mr. President, you have stayed the It is time to bring all this suffering to an course. Your presence here today to witness end. the two leaders meeting together, agreeing Just as Israel must meet its responsibil- on common grounds to solve this conflict, ities, we, the Palestinians, will fulfill our provides a great impetus to move forward obligations for this endeavor to succeed. and a clear answer to all the skeptics. I We are ready to do our part. thank you, sir, for your leadership and your Let me be very clear: There will be no courage. military solution to this conflict, so we re- Prime Minister Sharon, Prime Minister peat our denunciation and renunciation of Abbas, I urge you today to end the designs terrorism against the Israelis, wherever they of those who seek destruction, annihilation, might be. Such methods are inconsistent and occupation. And I urge you to have with our religious and moral traditions and the will and the courage to begin to realize are dangerous obstacles to the achievement our dreams of peace, prosperity, and coex- of an independent sovereign state we seek. istence. And remember that in the pursuit These methods also conflict with the kinds of these noble goals, Jordan will always re- of state we wish to build, based on human main a true friend. rights and the rule of law. Thank you very much. And it is with We will exert all of our efforts, using great pleasure, if I may introduce Prime all our resources, to end the militarization Minister Abbas to say a few words. of the intifada, and we will succeed. The Prime Minister Mahmoud Abbas of the armed intifada must end, and we must use Palestinian Authority. I would like to thank and resort to peaceful means in our quest King Abdullah for hosting our meeting here to end the occupation and the suffering today. I would like also to thank President of Palestinians and Israelis. And to establish Mubarak and King Abdullah, King Hamad, the Palestinian state, we emphasize our de- and Crown Prince Abdullah, who met in termination to implement our pledges

591 June 4 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

which we have made for our people and us. And we also welcome and stress the the international community. And that is need for a U.S.-led monitoring mechanism. a rule of law, single political authority, Together, we can achieve the goal of an weapons only in the hands of those who independent Palestinian state, sovereign, are in charge of upholding the law and viable, in the framework of good neighbors order, and political diversity within the with all states in the region, including framework of democracy. Israel. Our goal is clear, and we will implement Thank you very much. it firmly and without compromise: a com- Prime Minister Ariel Sharon of Israel. plete end to violence and terrorism. And Thank you. I would like to thank His Maj- we will be full partners in the international esty King Abdullah for arranging this meet- war against occupation and terrorism. And ing and express Israel’s appreciation to we will call upon our partners in this war President Bush for coming here to be with to prevent financial and military assistance Prime Minister Abbas and me. Thank you. to those who oppose this position. We do As the Prime Minister of Israel, the land this as a part of our commitment to the which is the cradle of the Jewish people, interests of the Palestinian people and as my paramount responsibility is the security members of the large family of humanity. of the people of Israel and of the state We will also act vigorously against incite- of Israel. There can be no compromise with ment and violence and hatred, whatever their form or forum may be. We will take terror. And Israel, together with all free measures to ensure that there is no incite- nations, will continue fighting terrorism ment—[inaudible]—from Palestinian insti- until its final defeat. tutions. We must also reactivate and invig- Ultimately, permanent security requires orate the U.S.-Palestinian-Israeli Anti-In- peace, and permanent peace can only be citement Committee. We will continue our obtained through security. And there is now work to establish the rule of law and to hope of a new opportunity for peace be- consolidate government authority in ac- tween Israelis and Palestinians. countable Palestinian institutions. We seek Israel, like others, has lent its strong sup- to build the kind of a democratic state that port for President Bush’s vision expressed will be a qualitative addition to the inter- on June 24, 2002, of two states, Israel and national community. a Palestinian state, living side by side in All the PA security forces will be part peace and security. The Government and of these efforts and will work together to- people of Israel welcome the opportunity ward the achievement of these goals. Our to renew direct negotiations according to national future is at stake, and no one will the steps of the roadmap, as adopted by be allowed to jeopardize it. the Israeli Government, to achieve this vi- We are committed to these steps because sion. they are in our national interest. In order It is in Israel’s interest not to govern to succeed, there must be a clear improve- the Palestinians but for the Palestinians to ment in the lives of Palestinians. Palestin- govern themselves in their own state. A ians must live in dignity. Palestinians must democratic Palestinian state fully at peace be able to move, go to their jobs and with Israel will promote the long-term se- schools, visit their families, and conduct a curity and well-being of Israel as the Jewish normal life. Palestinians must not be afraid state. for their lives, property, or livelihood. There can be no peace, however, without We welcome and stress the need for the the abandonment and elimination of ter- assistance of the international community rorism, violence, and incitement. We will and, in particular, the Arab states to help work alongside the Palestinians and other

592 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 4 states to fight terrorism, violence, and in- people. I strongly support that cause as citement of all kinds. As all parties perform well. their obligations, we will seek to restore Each of us is here because we under- normal Palestinian life, improve the human- stand that all people have the right to live itarian situation, rebuild trust, and promote in peace. We believe that with hard work progress toward the President’s vision. We and good faith and courage, it is possible will act in a manner that respects the dig- to bring peace to the Middle East. And nity as well as the human rights of all peo- today we mark important progress toward ple. that goal. We can also reassure our Palestinian Great and hopeful change is coming to partners that we understand the importance the Middle East. In Iraq, a dictator who of territorial contiguity in the West Bank funded terror and sowed conflict has been for a viable Palestinian state. Israeli policy removed, and a more just and democratic in the territories that are subject to direct society is emerging. Prime Minister Abbas negotiations with the Palestinians will re- now leads the Palestinian Cabinet. By his flect this fact. We accept the principle that strong leadership, by building the institu- no unilateral actions by any party can pre- tions of Palestinian democracy, and by re- judge the outcome of our negotiations. jecting terror, he is serving the deepest In regard to the unauthorized outposts, hopes of his people. I want to reiterate that Israel is a society All here today now share a goal: The governed by the rule of law. Thus, we will Holy Land must be shared between the immediately begin to remove unauthorized state of Palestine and the state of Israel, outposts. living at peace with each other and with Israel seeks peace with all its Arab neigh- every nation of the Middle East. bors. Israel is prepared to negotiate in good All sides will benefit from this achieve- faith wherever there are partners. As nor- ment, and all sides have responsibilities to mal relations are established, I am con- meet. As the roadmap accepted by the fident that they will find in Israel a neigh- party makes clear, both must make tan- bor and a people committed to comprehen- gible, immediate steps toward this two-state sive peace and prosperity for all the peoples vision. of the region. I welcome Prime Minister Sharon’s Thank you all. pledge to improve the humanitarian situa- President Bush. King Abdullah, thank tion in the Palestinian areas and to begin you for hosting this event. Her Majesty, removing unauthorized outposts imme- thank you for your hospitality. It is fitting diately. I appreciate his gestures of rec- that we gather today in Jordan. King onciliation on behalf of prisoners and their Abdullah is a leader on behalf of peace families and his frank statements about the and is carrying forward the tradition of his need for territorial contiguity. As I said yes- father, King Hussein. terday, the issue of settlements must be I’m pleased to be here with Prime Min- addressed for peace to be achieved. In ad- ister Sharon. The friendship between our dition, Prime Minister Sharon has stated countries began at the time of Israel’s cre- that no unilateral actions by either side can ation. Today, America is strongly com- or should prejudge the outcome of future mitted, and I am strongly committed, to negotiations. The Prime Minister also rec- Israel’s security as a vibrant Jewish state. ognizes that it is in Israel’s own interest I’m also pleased to be with Prime Min- for Palestinians to govern themselves in ister Abbas. He represents the cause of their own state. These are meaningful signs freedom and statehood for the Palestinian of respect for the rights of the Palestinians

593 June 4 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 and their hopes for a viable, democratic, port for a new, restructured Palestinian se- peaceful Palestinian state. curity service. And we’ll place a mission Prime Minister Abbas recognizes that on the ground, led by Ambassador John terrorist crimes are a dangerous obstacle Wolf. This mission will be charged with to the independent state his people seek. helping the parties to move towards peace, He agrees that the process for achieving monitoring their progress, and stating clear- that state is through peaceful negotiations. ly who was fulfilling their responsibilities. He has pledged to consolidate Palestinian And we expect both parties to keep their institutions, including the security forces, promises. and to make them more accountable and I’ve also asked Secretary of State Colin more democratic. He has promised his full Powell and National Security Adviser efforts and resources to end the armed Condoleezza Rice to make this cause a intifada. He has promised to work without matter of the highest priority. Secretary compromise for a complete end of violence Powell and Dr. Rice, as my personal rep- and terror. In all these efforts, the Prime resentative, will work closely with the par- Minister is demonstrating his leadership ties, helping them move toward true peace and commitment to building a better future as quickly as possible. for the Palestinian people. The journey we’re taking is difficult, but Both Prime Ministers here agree that there is no other choice. No leader of con- progress toward peace also requires an end science can accept more months and years to violence and the elimination of all forms of humiliation, killing, and mourning. And of hatred and prejudice and official incite- these leaders of conscience have made their ment in schoolbooks, in broadcasts, and in declarations today in the cause of peace. the words used by political leaders. Both The United States is committed to that leaders understand that a future of peace cause. If all sides fulfill their obligation, cannot be founded on hatred and falsehood I know that peace can finally come. and bitterness. Thank you very much, and may God Yet, these two leaders cannot bring about bless our work. peace if they must act alone. True peace requires the support of other nations in NOTE: King Abdullah spoke at 3:30 p.m. at the region. Yesterday, in Sharm el-Sheikh, Beit al Bahar. Prime Minister Abbas spoke we made a strong beginning. Arab leaders in Arabic, and his remarks were translated stated that they share our goal of two by an interpreter. In his remarks, the Presi- states, Israel and Palestine, living side by dent referred to Queen Rania of Jordan; side in peace and in security. And they former President Saddam Hussein of Iraq; have promised to cut off assistance and the and Assistant Secretary of State for Non- flow of money and weapons to terrorist proliferation John S. Wolf. Prime Minister groups and to help Prime Minister Abbas Abbas referred to President Hosni Mubarak rid Palestinian areas of terrorism. of Egypt; King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of All sides have made important commit- Bahrain; and Crown Prince Abdullah of ments, and the United States will strive Saudi Arabia. A portion of these remarks to see these commitments fulfilled. My could not be verified because the tape was Government will provide training and sup- incomplete.

594 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 4

Interview With Members of the White House Press Pool June 4, 2003

The President. First of all, it’s progress. to work to prevent arms being smuggled Great success happens when there’s two from—out of Iraq and into the territories. states, living side by side in peace. And We also spent a lot of time talking about this is progress. I thought I would—since Syria and the mutual concern about Syria this is an historic trip, I thought I would and the desire to convince Syria to shut just have you up and share thoughts and down terrorist offices inside—in Damascus. answer questions. We’ll go around for a So there was a very helpful discussion. I while. think it was very helpful for Prime Minister First, I’m pleased with what happened Abbas to hear that. yesterday and today. The first signs of Then we come to today. The way the peace happen when people make up their day worked is that I met with the King mind to work toward peace. And that’s of Jordan. He is a wonderful man. He is what you saw. You heard some pretty firm obviously desirous of Palestinian statehood, statements yesterday. The statements yes- which would be very helpful to him. We terday by the Arab leaders were very strong talked about bilateral relations, economic— in public, and they were strong in private. matters of economic development, and it One of the things that we have made clear was a good conversation. to all parties is that there are terrorists And then I sat down with Prime Minister who have to blow up the process—you all Sharon. I assured him that security was at know that; it’s been an historic fact—and the top of our agenda, like security is at that these countries in the neighborhood the top of his agenda. One, we’re in a have the capacity to work to cut off money war against terror, or a war against terror to the terrorist groups and access and arms on the homefront; we’re chasing down deals. And they committed themselves to these people around. But we also recognize do that, which was a positive sign. that there are some who would like to blow It was also important for Prime Minister up the process and that we want to work Abbas to hear that. This is a man who to create the conditions for a Palestinian is a newly elected Prime Minister, new to state to emerge, which means jointly work- office. He gets sworn in, and the roadmap ing with all parties to work on the security gets released. All of a sudden now he finds issue. himself in a serious effort, the creation of I also told him, though, he’s got respon- a Palestinian state, which puts enormous sibilities. The fact that he showed up meant responsibilities on him. that he believes Prime Minister Abbas can And one of the things we’re saying is, deliver. And therefore, we’ve got to work you’re now responsible. But it helped a lot together to help the Prime Minister achieve to have the Arab leaders support him, and his stated objectives, which, one, he had not only support him but to support him a very clear statement on terror. The other through pledges of activity and action. The thing that was very interesting was his Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia was particu- statement on incitement. And it was a fact larly strong yesterday in private about the statement, for those who follow the process. need to chase down terrorists. They’ve had He needs time to get his security forces some recent experience with terrorism. And set up. And I reminded the Prime Min- I was really pleased with the strong com- ister—I also reminded him that I wasn’t mitment and the strong desire to not only caught by surprise by his statement on the deal with terrorists inside his country but outposts, the issue of the outposts. He said

595 June 4 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 he would dismantle them; we expect him And then after that, we gave our speech- now to dismantle them. es, and here we sit. I will tell you that People say, ‘‘Well, what’s the first step?’’ I’m pleased with the last 2 days. We have Well, you just heard the first step today made a good beginning. And I emphasize in the speeches. And the—you also heard beginning, because there’s a lot of work me say that we would help the Palestinian to do. Let me just review some of the Authority develop a security force. Minister work that must take place. Obviously, there Dahlan will be in charge of that security needs—there needs to be a focused, com- force. We intend to work with them. We plete, 100-percent effort to fight off the assured the Israelis we intend to work with terrorists. I believe the Palestinian—I know them. We want this man to be successful. the Palestinian leadership wants that, has The Prime Minister absolutely rejected ter- got that desire. And so, he must help them ror. In order for him to be effective in put the institutions in place to do that. rejecting terror, he’s got to have an effec- On the Palestinian side, there needs to tive security force. And so that’s what we be an emergence of a state, the institutions discussed. of which are larger than the participants. And then we met, all of us together, And that is essential. I assured the Prime our delegations. It was good. We had a— Minister of the Palestinian Authority—and this was when we were sitting out on the the discussion was very interesting is the lawn—that there is plenty of help coming. Prime Minister asked members of his At the G–8 meeting in Evian, there was Knesset to speak, Minister of Defense, the a lot of discussion about how we can help, Deputy Prime Minister, the equivalent of ‘‘What can we do?’’ I said, ‘‘Well, when the Attorney General, Minister of Justice. the time is right, there’s going to be need And then Prime Minister Abbas spoke; I for money and commercial development spoke. and enhancement of the entrepreneurial And then I suggested that the three of spirit.’’ us just go outside and visit, rather than There’s just a lot of things to be done— having the formal settings of the old round- better education systems. Israel has got to table discussion. And so we went out and recognize that Prime Minister Abbas is de- sat on the lawn there for about 30 minutes sirous for peace and, without compromising and discussed a lot of matters. What I security, must make decisions necessary to wanted to do is to observe the interplay help the Palestinian people. And they’re between the two; did they have the capacity doing that. Money is—more money is now to relax in each other’s presence, for start- in circulation. They collect revenues, Israel ers? And I felt they did. In other words, does, and now they’re—they’ve got great it was—the body language was positive. trust in the Finance Minister of the Pales- There wasn’t a lot of hostility or suspicion. tinian Authority, a guy who went to the There was a—it seemed like to me, from University of Texas, by the way, for a while. the conversation, that there was a mutual He came to Washington as an inter- desire to work toward the vision. And obvi- mediary on behalf of Prime Minister Abbas, ously I’m not going to betray confidences, and Condi and I met with him in the Oval but it was a very interesting and positive Office. I spent a lot of the time on Pales- conversation, is the best way to say it. I tinian finances, cashflow matters, making didn’t need, for example, to be Mr. Chat- sure that aid and money actually end up ty—you know, kind of, ‘‘Hey, fellows.’’ helping the people and not either bank ac- [Laughter] There was a natural tendency counts of individuals that—where it doesn’t to want to talk about common matters and belong. I’m absolutely convinced he’s an common desires. honest and upright man who believes in

596 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 4 the future of the Palestinian people, be- trative assistant. It’s Wolf and a team of lieves that a democratic Palestinian state people that the Secretary will be glad to is possible. explain to you. We have a security team It’s important for Prime Minister Sharon there to help the Dahlan. Their job is to to recognize that. I think he does. I’m con- find out what’s needed and to also hold fident he recognizes that. The $100 million people to account, both sides to account, that had been held in arrears was released, reminding people of promises made in and the process of talking about more meetings and insisting them that in order money going through, which—25,000 work- for progress to be made, people have got ers now that were not allowed in Israel to deliver it. now allowed in Israel. In other words, what And so, yes, I’ve cautious, but optimistic. I’m telling you is, is that it’s important for Perhaps we should say, cautiously opti- the life of the Palestinians to improve in mistic. [Laughter] measurable ways. Prospects for Peace/War on Terror And as confidence is built, as institutions are in place, I assured Prime Minister Q. Mr. President, previous efforts at Abbas—and this was important for Prime making peace in the Middle East did not Minister Sharon to hear as well—that there succeed. You believe you now have a is going to be a lot of help, financial help, chance. Did you—and you also mentioned from around the world. People want this that it’s historic—this was an historic meet- effort to succeed. ing. Could you try to put this in history? And so it’s—it’s a bit of—2 good days, What do you think has changed since you but there’s a lot to happen. took office, and how did we get to this Let me just go around the table. point? The President. I think a couple of things President’s Cautious Optimism have changed. One, I think there is—I Q. You sound cautious still. think Prime Minister Abbas is willing to The President. I am cautious, because— make the necessary decisions and take the and I’m cautious because history tells you necessary steps to fight terror and to de- to be cautious. I don’t know where you velop institutions necessary for a state to were in 2000. I guess it was—they were emerge, a genuine effort. I believe he is, close. There are killers lurking in the neigh- and that’s a change. borhood. There are people who have de- Secondly, there is a universal recognition clared their—openly declared their hostility that the war on terror is just that, a war to Israel and their desire to destroy Israeli on terror and not empty words, that Sep- citizens. There are people that, you know, tember the 11th or bombings in Riyadh would rather have chaos than a state. And or the terror that has plagued Israel, these so long as you know they’re there, you’ve are terrorist acts that must be defeated, got to be cautious. and they must be defeated at its source And on the other hand, we’ve now got as well. So there’s a different—frankly, a a partner in peace, Prime Minister Abbas, different attitude toward terrorism. It’s no who is—wants the tools necessary to chase longer isolated terrorism, it is terrorism that them down. It’s going to be one of the is beginning to affect a lot of people and accountability measures, by the way. That’s can affect a lot of people. So in other one of reasons why we put Wolf. words, the meeting yesterday, for example, The news today, of course, from our side with the Arab nations, it seemed like to was, besides having the meeting, was Am- me the new reality was reflected in their bassador John Wolf and his team. It’s not statements, which will make it easier for just Wolf. It is not Wolf and one adminis- a Palestinian state to emerge. There’s a

597 June 4 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 vested interest to fight terror. It’s people’s And we’re going to help them get after self-interest now. And so I think that’s been it. It’s a part of this war. One of the hardest one of the changes. things I knew that I would have to do I’m sure this is—other Presidents have as the President is to remind the American said this; other leaders have—but there is people, and for that matter, people around now battle fatigue. People are sick and the world, the nature of the war in which tired of it. People are sick and tired of we find ourselves. And it’s different. the death, suffering, of the humiliation. In There’s a couple battlefronts that are no- other words, there’s—hopefully history will ticeable, Afghanistan and Iraq, but this war show whether or not I’m right, but hope- goes on. I mean, today, as we speak, we’ve fully we have reached the point where a got intelligence sharing going on, we’ve got lot of good people have begun to realize people on the hunt trying to find them, that the immediate past will lead to nothing one at a time. It’s that same effort that but more suffering and humiliation and will take place in the Palestinian territories, death. And people are beginning to change but it requires the desire by all leaders their attitudes on the ground. to want to fight it. I think that’s changed Q. Do you think September 11th had some. I think it’s changed a lot mentality. an impact in the region, as well, in help- President’s Personal Diplomacy ing—did it just galvanize American views Q. Mr. President, you seem to value and about terrorism, or did it also carry through even enjoy the spontaneity and informality into—— that you brought in your meetings with The President. I think it—the terror at- these leaders. Could you dwell for a mo- tacks shocked the world. And it frightened ment on your personal style of diplomacy a lot of people, because they realized that and how you see it working? if America can be hit, they could be hit. The President. I try to tell the truth, put And then terror began to—I just said, the it right out there on the table for everybody attacks in Riyadh or the attacks in Indo- to understand what’s expected. I do; I like nesia, Bali, a nice secure resort community. people. The next thing is, people wake up the next You know, I remember, I think it was— day and realize—around the world realize Ron Fournier [Associated Press] asked me that there’s no such thing as a nice, secure the question, ‘‘Do you trust Vladimir resort when we have terrorists willing to Putin?’’ It was one of the really interesting kill innocent lives in the numbers they did. questions, to fire up the President standing So not just September the 11th. Sep- next to Vladimir Putin. Well, the answer tember the 11th made the world aware of is yes, I didn’t hesitate, because during my the new war. And then the other acts of meeting with him, I had developed an in- terror that have taken place since made teresting rapport. My instincts were such the issue come even closer to home for that, this is a guy I can trust. History will many countries. And then the combination prove me right. It doesn’t necessarily mean of that plus the terrorist activities in the he has to agree with everything that I say, Palestinian territories and in Israel made but trust his word. people realize the effects of terror. It kind I’ve spent enough time with Ariel Sharon of brought it all home, I think. So, yes, to know he’s the kind of guy when he says I think September the 11th mattered, but something, he means it. I’m getting the it wasn’t the only event that was—helped same sense about Prime Minister Abbas. galvanize thought. People are frightened And therefore much of the conversations, about terror in the Middle East, not just particularly as I get to know somebody, is in Israel. And they’ve got to get after it. to figure out whether or not you can—

598 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 4 whether or not, when they say something, Meeting With Arab Leaders they mean it. You can tell that, pretty Q. Is that what happened when you were much, during a conversation, which means in the the anteroom with the Arab leaders, trying to get people off their script, and you just decided that it was a more relaxed as you discuss things, make it as informal setting and that you prefer to keep talk- as possible, because I think people in an ing—— informal setting tend to show their heart The President. Exactly, yes. and/or their conscience in a lot better way. Q. Could you tell us a little bit about I’m not a very formal guy to begin with. that meeting and what went on in that Condi and the Secretary of State, Colin, meeting? can give you a better sense of what my The President. Sure, I’d love to. First style is like. I’m also not very analytical. of all, I understand that there was a little You know I don’t spend a lot of time think- bit of hard feelings. I was told last night ing about myself, about why I do things. about certain press wasn’t in. We had no The meetings are informal; they’re kind of idea. I’m available for any photo op. relaxed. I think one of my styles is trying [Laughter] But it was not an intention, if to relax people. that’s—that’s the meeting I think you’re National Security Adviser Rice. Direct, talking about, the informal meeting. I would say. Q. Multilateral. But we’d like to know The President. Yes, I am a direct person. what happened in the private meeting that I mean, there’s no—we don’t have a lot you had with the heads of state before you of time, and therefore I like to get to the came out. point. I like to ask people—I can challenge The President. Before we came out, the people. I believe I can do so in a way thing that was not supposed to be on TV, that’s not offensive to them. It’s about as that one. It was just a roundtable discussion encouraging as it was discouraging. And I about—let me make sure I get it right hope they sense my sense of optimism. I here. I told them, I said, look—all four mean, I’m an enthusiastic person when I of those leaders, except for Prime Minister believe that something is possible. Abbas, were—Prime Minister Abbas was I believe peace is possible. I know it’s there. The other four leaders are leaders going to be hard, but I think the fact that who I obviously talked to during the Iraq I’m representing a great country and am war. Before the Iraq war and after the Iraq willing to sit down with these leaders and war, I assured them that I was going to give them a sense, ‘‘We’re all in this to- be involved in moving the Middle East gether,’’ is helpful. The best way to do that peace process forward, particularly after the is in a more informal type setting where emergence of the Prime Minister, Abbas. there’s not a lot of prepared notes. I’ve This was my chance to go around the been in meetings where people read table and look him in the eye and say, speeches. It’s not as productive as a meet- ‘‘I’m here to make it happen, but I need ing in which people can sit down and actu- your help.’’ The first thing was to—is to ally—one of my jobs is to try to help relax let them know about the intent of this ad- people in a setting. I hope I’m pretty good ministration. I shared with them—well, you at that. How do you feel? Do you feel know Colin’s involvement and Condi’s in- relaxed right now? volvement. I didn’t share with them the Q. More relaxed than I should. Wolf—I knew they would read about it The President. It worked. today. There wasn’t any great secret. On the other hand, you occasionally try to hold

599 June 4 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 back some news—you’ve probably learned Q. I know, I know there was one place it before I did, anyway. where you were talking about it, figu- And then we listened to them, and ratively—— Crown Prince Abdullah. And they had a The President. Figuratively, that’s right. lot of interesting thoughts about different Just to see if you were paying attention. issues. Oh, and by the way, it wasn’t just— And it’s very useful to have those kind of the discussion wasn’t just on the Middle conversations. East peace process. The other thing I told them, I asked them, was to help Prime Palestinian Authority Leadership Minister Abbas. I directly said, ‘‘We need your help on this fellow. If he is to suc- Q. Mr. President, a big part of why you ceed, if peace is to succeed, he needs your were here, and you made clear, is because help.’’ And they were willing; they ex- Mahmoud Abbas is the person who is Pal- pressed their desire to help. And I went estinian Prime Minister, and Yasser Arafat to Iraq and talked about what was hap- is not the person who you chose to nego- pening there. tiate. But Palestinian leaders, some of their Then I encouraged them to continue on senior officials, made clear that they still their paths to reform and about how that think Yasser Arafat—they made clear that would make a significant difference in the they still think Yasser Arafat is somebody lives of their citizens. So it was more who needs to be dealt with, who needs than—and they commented on all that, dif- to negotiate. I’m wondering what kinds of ferent aspects. I’m not going to tell you conversations you had with the Arab lead- what they told me. If they want to tell ers and maybe with Mahmoud Abbas about you what—if they want to say what is Arafat’s role? theirs, they’ll put it in their own press. It The President. Well, it’s clear that I’m was a long discussion. It took a lot longer going to deal with Prime Minister Abbas, than we thought. so there wasn’t much conversation. And part of it had to do because a lot Q. Do you think it will come up? of it needed to be translated. Therefore, The President. Not really. The Secretary a normal conversation—all of it had to be of State is—— translated. The Crown Prince does not Secretary Powell. It didn’t come up in speak English very well, so therefore every any of the conversations with the President word that was spoken had to volleyed. And that I’m aware of. And they know our views so that’s—we had a good conversation, on this. again, not structured. People said what they Q. Do you have any concern that he felt like, and there was no—it wasn’t just, might be a hindrance to the process at ‘‘Okay, you speak; you speak; you speak, all? and then we’re through.’’ There was a lot The President. Not if he has the Pales- of interchange. That’s positive. tinian people’s interests at heart. We’ll see. And I met bilaterally with them as well. I certainly hope not. I met with—Colin and Condi and I went Secretary Powell. Can I just—— over to President Mubarak’s house that The President. Yes, please. night. We had a bilateral with him in the Secretary Powell. In conversations with morning, and afterwards we ate. I had a the Arab leaders, particularly the Foreign bilateral with the Crown Prince at the hotel Ministers, we made it clear to them that after the sauna bath. one of the things we expected them to help It was very hot outside when I spoke. with was to make sure that Mr. Arafat does [Laughter] Thank you for clarification. It not become an obstacle to the execution was hot. I’m sweating. I was really hot. of the roadmap.

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Q. Did they seem to say that they were I mean, so—let me—just because we willing to do that? haven’t had the summit doesn’t mean this Secretary Powell. They understood. They administration hasn’t been working toward will help. achieving the conditions necessary to move The President. I think they understand. forward. And that’s really an important— there has to be—I can remember saying Secretary Powell’s Role this to the press corps early on in my ad- Q. [Inaudible] ministration. People want to have to— The President. It really didn’t—I mean, peace, want peace. In order to move the he’s handled most of that. It did not come process forward requires a—there’s no up during my conversations with the Arab need to spend capital and energy and time leaders. What came up was, how do we if there is not a commitment to peace. And help Prime Minister Abbas? Now, Colin the conditions are such now that there is may have had different—with the Foreign a commitment to peace by a lot of people Ministers, since they have some frank dis- that are ready to see if we can’t make it cussions. A lot of times you’ll find out that happen. That’s what’s changed. the underbrush has been cleared by the— And therefore the timing of this summit and by the time the President arrives, ev- was really based upon the attitudes of the erybody kind of understands. And one of decisionmakers. We’re not the decision- his jobs is to clear out underbrush. That’s maker. Oh, the American President or the an old ranch term. [Laughter] In other American Secretary of State is—I wish we words—I don’t know what he told the For- were the decisionmakers. You know, ‘‘Okay, eign Ministers, but I just heard what he this is it.’’ That’s not the way it works. told the Foreign Ministers. There’s terrorists to deal with. If we could, Q. He’s watching the calluses on his we’d say, ‘‘All the terrorists, put down your hands. arms and become useful citizens, peaceful The President. Yes, that’s it. [Laughter] citizens.’’ But that’s not, unfortunately, re- Q. Can I ask you, just a followup? ality. The President. Sure. Banding together, though, we can deal with the ticket—you know, build up the Red Sea Summit will necessary to deal with the terrorists. Q. What do you consider sort of the im- And so what the role of the United States portance of the role of the President in is, is to lay out the vision, encourage people this kind of process? For example, this is to accept the vision, and then help imple- the first time—it’s been 21⁄2 years since ment the vision. In this case, we call it you’ve been President. It’s the first time a roadmap to achieve the vision. And that’s you’ve had this kind of summit, where exactly what we’re going to do. We can some of your predecessors had multiple be stewards of accountability. And we can summits by this time. say to somebody, ‘‘You said you’d do this. The President. Well, you know, first of You haven’t done it. You say you want to all, we’ve had a lot of meetings but not do this, and what do you need to get it summits. I’ve had a lot of discussions with done?’’ every one of the parties that have been So today we asked Dahlan, ‘‘What is it around the table, with the exception of you need? How can we help you? This Prime Minister Abbas, and he’s just showed is a security matter. What exactly can we up. He just emerged as a leader. I called do to help?’’ him immediately upon—I think imme- Secretary Powell. Mr. President, can I diately or soon after he became Prime Min- give four data points to show the Presi- ister. dent’s involvement? Just a couple of quick

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data points to show you how we got here of what might take place, because we and how the President caused us to be worked hard. These trips, obviously, don’t here. Twenty-four June speech you’re very just happen. The statement just doesn’t familiar with. On the 18th of July, the show up out of the blue. It requires— President had Arab Foreign Ministers in [laughter]—— the Oval Office—Muasher of Jordan, Saud National Security Adviser Rice. Oh, no, of Saudi Arabia, Maher of Egypt. And at they just appeared magically. that meeting, the President said to them, The President. I’m a great delegator; I’m we will now structure a way to go from a great delegator. And so they met expecta- my vision to reality. And that was the be- tions. However, the cordial atmosphere— ginning of the work on the roadmap. I’ll tell you what else was interesting, that Work went on all summer, all fall. And I would say met expectations or was pleas- then on the 20th of December, the Euro- ing to see, was the interface between the pean—the Quartet came together to final- Palestinian Cabinet and the Israeli Cabinet. ize it. The President met with the Quartet, When we went out to sit on the grounds— finalized it, and then we waited for the and I witnessed some of it but not all of Israeli elections to be over, which were just it since I was actually on the grounds— about finished at that time, and then we Colin and Condi told me that there was said, with the appointment of new leader- very interesting discussions and dialog going ship in the Palestinian Authority, the Presi- on. There was—people were frank with dent is ready to act, and he did. each other. They were able to joke with Q. Mr. President, in the events of the each other. They were able to kind of bring last 2 days, have they exceeded what you up a little history with each other. expected coming over here? But the main thing that came out of The President. That’s a good question. it, at least to our delegation, appeared to I’m supposed to say—that’s an interesting be the desire to work together. You two question. [Laughter] witnesses, maybe you want to—— Q. You’re supposed to say what you National Security Adviser Rice. That’s think. absolutely the case. The President. I’m the master of low expectations. I think they—we did what we Preparations for the Red Sea Summit wanted to—I think we—we accomplished Q. If I could follow up, Mr. President, what I hoped we would accomplish, but were there any time going into this that I don’t think we necessarily exceeded ex- you were hearing things, that you were pectations. I think ‘‘met expectations’’ is a thinking to yourself, uh-oh—— better way to put it. The President. Look, I wasn’t going if I was hoping to have honest dialogs. The we weren’t going to make progress. I mean, statements that came out—I think when there’s no need to go and stand up there you analyze the statements, you’ll find them by myself and say, ‘‘Let’s work for peace,’’ to be historic, I guess is the right word and look around, and nobody would be to use. Amazing things were said. The Pal- there with you. So I was—I think there estinian—the Prime Minister of the Pales- were some times where—we’ve had tinian Authority talked about the suffering some—in the runup to the process, there of Jewish people. It’s a strong statement. was some—there was a lot of work, let The Prime Minister of Israel talked about me put it to you that way, and a lot of a Palestinian state which was free. The frank discussion and a lot of convincing of statements were strong. parties that we need to get on this path, It’s hard to answer, exceeded expecta- and we need to work hard, and we need tions. I had a little bit of an understanding to make commitments. The speeches that—

602 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 4 there were some commitments made in of Presidents have tried. Every President those speeches which now put people on should try. We ought to use the prestige the record, not only on the record, all of America to try for peace. I fault no across the world. I mean, a lot of people President of the United States for trying were watching this today. And I guess it to achieve peace. Maybe history is such was live in America. So you had these lead- that now we can achieve it. I’m optimistic. ers stand up and say, ‘‘I commit’’—not just Israeli Security/War on Terror commit to—I mean, the Prime Minister of Israel saying, ‘‘I commit to knock down or Q. You were pretty blunt yesterday that get rid of illegal outposts.’’ That is a strong Israel must deal with the settlements. commitment. The President. Yes. So the process was really to work hard Q. Sharon made—I don’t think we were to get people to make commitments toward supposed to hear that. Sharon made his peace. And Condi’s staff and Colin’s staff pledge today. If there’s a suicide bombing, worked very closely together. And Colin does he reserve the right to move back went out to the region, as you may remem- into those settlements? ber. Part of what you saw today was his The President. Look, I think the opera- hard work. They always look at the Presi- tive statement from the Israeli Prime Min- dent, but the truth of the matter is that ister, not necessarily in this speech but re- there have been a lot of people working cently, was he wants to see a complete hard to work with all parties to get to effort to fight off terror. In other words, where we got today. I just happen to attract he wants an equal partner. He wants a more cameras than most of them. So I partner in the battle on terror, not some- stand up there, and everybody watches. body who will say they’re going to fight National Security Adviser Rice. We actu- terror and then turn a blind eye to terror, ally had a team in the region for almost somebody who wants to join him. And a week, Bill Burns and Elliot Abrams for that’s one of the things that came clear. almost a week. It should have been clear in my speech, The President. Elliot Abrams is her staff. too, that we will fight terror. Bill, of course, is an Under Secretary. And security is—we’ll never compromise Secretary Powell. Assistant Secretary. on Israel’s security. That’s one of the rea- The President. Runs the NEA, is very sons why I believe the Israeli Knesset capable. And then of course we—we had members over there, the Prime Minister, to make the decision on the man who is wants to follow us, work with us, because going to run the deal on the ground and they know I will never compromise Israel’s how his team was going to be formed. security. And I’ve made that clear. As Again, the Secretary had to move him in Condi said, one of the things about our his Department and had to come up with discussions, they’re frank. There’s no ques- the right structure and the right people so tion in the Palestinian Authority’s mind, ei- that when the Palestinians and Israelis see ther, I can assure you. who was sitting out there and what they Now having—so therefore—what the represent, they realize that it’s serious busi- Prime Minister of Israel has said is, he ness. All that took a while to get to where expects to see a complete effort by the we are. Palestinian Authority to fight off terror. To answer your question, I’m pleased Prime Minister Abbas said today in his with the start, is the best way to put it. statement, there is no place for terror. And I mean, this—we are going to go through he is going to put together a security forces a tough process, because we’re dealing with necessary fight off the terrorists, because a lot of history. And you’re right, a lot he knows that there will be no state if

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terror prevails. And he knows his people it, looking forward to getting to see my will suffer. The terrorists think they’re hurt- family. ing Israel, and they are when they kill Summit Photograph Israelis. But they’re also hurting their own people, and Prime Minister Abbas under- Q. What happened when you—the three stands that. of you walked out for the photograph, and Plus the people in the region know what did you hear the Israeli photographer terror now means. They’ve lived with terror screaming, ‘‘Are you going to shake hands?’’ in the region, but they’ve now begun to Did you hear that? put it in context. And that’s—I’m trying The President. No. Where was it? to put it as clearly as I can. The context Q. It was the photographer scream- of terror now has changed. The death ing—— hasn’t changed, but it’s now—it’s easier for The President. Oh, yes. How do you everybody to see how it fits into a larger shake hands with three people? I couldn’t scheme of things. And the larger scheme understand—first of all, I had a little trou- of things is the war on terror, because it’s ble hearing. My hearing is not as good as beginning to strike in lethal ways in unex- it used to be, and then sometimes I don’t pected places, which therefore means that want to hear anything to begin with, like your place could be next, I guess is one the questions you yell. [Laughter] way to put it. Q. Well, it was a pleasure to talk to you. The President. Yes, thanks for coming President’s Role in the Peace Process over. Q. What’s your role? What do you do? You talked about giving the Secretary and NOTE: The President spoke at 4:40 p.m. Dr. Rice specific obligations. What’s your aboard Air Force One en route to Doha, obligation? Qatar. In his remarks, he referred to Prime The President. I show up when they need Minister Mahmoud Abbas (Abu Mazen), me to call people to account, to praise, Minister of State for Security Affairs Moham- or to say, ‘‘Wait a minute. You told me med Dahlan, and Finance Minister Salam in Jordan that you would do this. You Fayyad of the Palestinian Authority; Prime haven’t done it, why? How come? What Minister Ariel Sharon, Defense Minister is it?’’ It’s to keep the thing moving, keep Shaul Mofaz, Deputy Prime Minister Ehud the processes moving. They’ve got the man Olmert, and Justice Minister Tommy Lapid on the ground that is going to—he’s just of Israel; Crown Prince Abdullah of Saudi going to—I used the expression ‘‘ride Arabia; King Abdullah II of Jordan; Assistant herd.’’ I don’t know if anybody understood Secretary of State for Nonproliferation John the meaning. It’s a little informal in diplo- S. Wolf; and President Vladimir Putin of matic terms. I said, ‘‘We’re going to put Russia. Secretary of State Colin L. Powell a guy on the ground to ride herd on the referred to Foreign Minister Marwan process.’’ See them all scratching their Muasher of Jordan; Foreign Minister Saud heads. al-Faysal al Saud of Saudi Arabia; and For- Q. Meanwhile, in Arabic and Hebrew, eign Minister Ahmed Maher of Egypt. Na- exactly how does that translate? tional Security Adviser Condoleezza Rice re- The President. Listen, I’ve got to make ferred to William J. Burns, Assistant Sec- a phone call, but I want to thank you all retary of State for Near Eastern Affairs; and for your interest. It’s been a great trip. Elliot Abrams, National Security Council Have a good day tomorrow, and then we’ll Senior Director for Near East, Southwest get to go home. I’m looking forward to Asian, and North African Affairs. A reporter

604 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 5 referred to Chairman Yasser Arafat of the able for verification of the content of this Palestinian Authority. A tape was not avail- interview.

Statement on House of Representatives Action on Legislation To Ban Partial-Birth Abortion June 4, 2003

I applaud the House for passing legisla- in America. I urge Congress to quickly re- tion banning partial-birth abortions. Passage solve any differences and send me the final of this important legislation is a shared pri- bill as soon as possible so that I can sign ority that will help build a culture of life it into law.

Memorandum on the Spectrum Policy for the 21st Century May 29, 2003

Memorandum for the Heads of Executive trum assets while ensuring that sufficient Departments and Agencies spectrum is available to support critical Subject: Spectrum Policy for the 21st Government functions. Century The existing legal and policy framework for spectrum management has not kept The radio frequency spectrum is a vital pace with the dramatic changes in tech- and limited national resource. Spectrum nology and spectrum use. Under the exist- contributes to significant technological in- ing framework, the Government generally novation, job creation, and economic reviews every change in spectrum use, a growth, and it enables military operations, communications among first responders to process that is often slow and inflexible, natural disasters and terrorist attacks, and and can discourage the introduction of new scientific discovery. technology. Some spectrum users, including Recent years have witnessed an explosion Government agencies, maintain that the ex- of spectrum-based technologies and uses of isting spectrum process is insufficiently re- wireless voice and data communications sponsive to the need to protect current crit- systems by businesses, consumers, and Gov- ical uses. ernment. Today there are over 140 million My Administration is committed to pro- wireless phone customers and, increasingly, moting the development and implementa- businesses and consumers are installing sys- tion of a U.S. spectrum policy for the 21st tems that use unlicensed spectrum to allow century that will: (a) foster economic wireless data, called Wireless Fidelity growth; (b) ensure our national and home- (WiFi), on their premises. The Federal land security; (c) maintain U.S. global lead- Government makes extensive use of spec- ership in communications technology devel- trum for radars, communications, opment and services; and (d) satisfy other geolocation/navigation, space operations, vital U.S. needs in areas such as public and other national and homeland security safety, scientific research, Federal transpor- needs. We must unlock the economic value tation infrastructure, and law enforcement. and entrepreneurial potential of U.S. spec- My Administration has already proposed

605 June 5 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 several legislative changes or program ini- certainty in the spectrum management tiatives to improve elements of the spec- process as it applies to incumbent users; trum management process. These proposals (c) develop policy tools to streamline the would greatly enhance the Government’s deployment of new and expanded ability to efficiently manage spectrum. To services and technologies, while pre- further promote the development and im- serving national security, homeland plementation of a U.S. spectrum policy for security, and public safety, and en- the 21st century, I hereby direct the fol- couraging scientific research; and lowing: (d) develop means to address the critical Section 1. Establishment. There is estab- spectrum needs of national security, lished the ‘‘Spectrum Policy Initiative’’ (the homeland security, public safety, Fed- ‘‘Initiative’’) that shall consist of activities eral transportation infrastructure, and to develop recommendations for improving science. spectrum management policies and proce- Sec. 3. Federal Government Spectrum dures for the Federal Government and to Task Force. There is hereby established the address State, local, and private spectrum Federal Government Spectrum Task Force use. The Secretary of Commerce shall chair (the ‘‘Task Force’’) to focus on improving and direct the work of the Initiative. The spectrum management policies and proce- Initiative shall consist of two courses of dures to stimulate more efficient and bene- spectrum-related activity: (a) an interagency ficial use of Government spectrum. The task force that is created by section 3 of Secretary of Commerce, or the Secretary’s this memorandum; and (b) a series of pub- designee under this section, shall serve as lic meetings consistent with section 4 of Chairman of the Task Force. this memorandum. The interagency task (a) Membership of the Task Force. The force and the public meetings shall be con- Task Force shall consist exclusively of vened under the auspices of the Depart- the heads of the executive branch de- ment of Commerce and used by the De- partments, agencies, and offices listed partment to develop spectrum management below: reform proposals. (1) the Department of State; Sec. 2. Mission and Goals. The Initiative (2) the Department of the Treasury; shall undertake a comprehensive review of (3) the Department of Defense; spectrum management policies (including (4) the Department of Justice; any relevant recommendations and findings (5) the Department of the Interior; of the study conducted pursuant to section (6) the Department of Agriculture; 214 of the E-Government Act of 2002) with (7) the Department of Commerce; the objective of identifying recommenda- (8) the Department of Transportation; tions for revising policies and procedures (9) the Department of Energy; to promote more efficient and beneficial (10) the Department of Homeland Secu- use of spectrum without harmful inter- rity; ference to critical incumbent users. The (11) the National Aeronautics and Space Department of Commerce shall prepare Administration; legislative and other recommendations to: (12) the Office of Management and Budg- (a) facilitate a modernized and improved et; spectrum management system; (13) the Office of Science and Technology (b) facilitate policy changes to create in- Policy; centives for more efficient and bene- (14) such other executive branch depart- ficial use of spectrum and to provide ments, agencies, or offices as the a higher degree of predictability and

606 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 5

Chairman of the Task Force may des- process as a whole. These meetings will ignate; and involve public events to provide an oppor- (15) subject to the authority of the Direc- tunity for the input of the communications tor of the Office of Management and industry and other interested parties. Par- Budget, the Office of Project ticipants may include spectrum users, wire- SAFECOM. less equipment vendors, financial and in- A member of the Task Force may des- dustry analysts, economists, technologists, ignate, to perform the Task Force functions and consumer groups. Interested Federal, of the member, any person who is a part State, and local government agencies will of the member’s department, agency, or of- be welcome to attend and participate. The fice, and who is a full-time officer or em- Federal Communications Commission is ployee of the Federal Government. also encouraged to participate in these ac- (b) Functions of the Task Force. The tivities and to provide input to the National functions of the Task Force are advi- Telecommunications and Information Ad- sory and shall include, but are not ministration at the Department of Com- limited to, producing a detailed set merce on these issues. of recommendations for improving Sec. 5. Reports. The Secretary of Com- spectrum management policies and merce, or the Secretary’s designee, shall procedures to stimulate more efficient present to me, through the Assistant to the and beneficial use of spectrum by the President for Economic Policy and Director Federal Government. The rec- of the National Economic Council and the ommendations shall be consistent with the objectives set out in section 2 of Assistant to the President for National Se- this memorandum. The Task Force curity Affairs, in consultation with the As- may hold meetings to obtain informa- sistant to the President for Homeland Secu- tion and advice concerning spectrum rity, two separate reports no later than 1 policy from individuals in a manner year from the date of this memorandum, that seeks their individual advice and one of which shall contain recommenda- does not involve collective judgment tions developed under section 3 of this or consensus advice or deliberation. memorandum by the Task Force and the At the direction of the Chairman, the other containing recommendations devel- Task Force may establish subgroups oped under section 4. consisting exclusively of Task Force Sec. 6. General Provisions. members or their designees under this (a) The heads of Federal Government de- section, as appropriate. partments and agencies shall assist the Sec. 4. Recommendations to Address Chairman of the Task Force estab- State, Local, and Private Spectrum Use. lished by section 3 and provide infor- Consistent with the objectives set out in mation to the Task Force consistent section 2 of this memorandum, the Depart- with applicable law as may be nec- ment of Commerce, separately from the essary to carry out the functions of Task Force process, shall, in accordance the Task Force. Each Federal depart- with applicable law, conduct public meet- ment and agency shall bear its own ings that will assist with that Department’s expense for participating in the Task development of a detailed set of rec- Force. To the extent permitted by law ommendations for improving policies and and within existing appropriations, the procedures for use of spectrum by State Department of Commerce shall pro- and local governments and the private sec- vide funding and administrative sup- tor, as well as the spectrum management port for the Task Force.

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(b) Nothing in this memorandum shall be departments, agencies, instrumentalities or construed to impair or otherwise af- entities, its officers or employees, or any fect the functions of the Director of other person. the Office of Management and Budg- Sec. 8. Publication. The Secretary of et relating to budget, administrative, Commerce is authorized and directed to or legislative proposals. publish this memorandum in the Federal Sec. 7. Judicial Review. This memo- Register. randum is intended only to improve the GEORGE W. BUSH internal management of the Federal Gov- ernment and is not intended to, and does NOTE: This memorandum was released by not, create any right or benefit, substantive the Office of the Press Secretary on June 5. or procedural, enforceable at law or equity This item was not received for publication by a party against the United States, its in the Federal Register.

Remarks Prior to Discussions With Amir Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani of Qatar in Doha, Qatar June 5, 2003

Amir Hamad. I would like to welcome have been a steadfast friend of the United His Excellency the President in Qatar. We States, and for that we are very grateful. are delighted to have him here with us You and your wife have been a leader in in Qatar. The President is the first sitting education reform and reforms leading to U.S. President ever to visit Qatar. However, freedom, and for that we are very grateful his father, President Bush, was actually as well and are impressed by your leader- here in Qatar in 1960, but perhaps the ship. And it is my honor to be the first President does not remember. He was sitting United States President to have vis- young then. [Laughter] ited this important country, and I want to So we are delighted to continue our dia- thank you for your hospitality. log with the President and continue the issues that we have discussed recently in NOTE: Amir Hamad spoke at 8:59 a.m. at Washington during my visit regarding the Amiri Diwan. In his remarks, the President bilateral relationship between the two coun- referred to Sheikha Mouza Al-Misnad, con- tries. sort of the Amir. Amir Hamad spoke in Ara- President Bush. Your Highness, thank bic, and his remarks were translated by an you so much for your grand hospitality. You interpreter.

Remarks to the Troops at Camp As Sayliyah, Qatar June 5, 2003

Thanks for coming out to say hello. tion for you: Can you hear me now? [Ap- Thanks for your introduction, Tommy. I applause] preciate this warm welcome. I have a ques- I’ve been on the road for a while, and I hope you didn’t mind us stopping by.

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We’ve seen a lot of fine sights, but there’s skill and daring that will stand for all time. no finer sight than to see the men and The very first strike in the liberation of women who wear the uniform of the Iraq started from right here, and many oth- United States of America. ers followed. Missions of mercy are di- I am happy to see you, and so are the rected from here. long-suffering people of Iraq. America sent Our actions sent along clear message that you on a mission to remove a grave threat our Nation is strong and our Nation is com- and to liberate an oppressed people, and passionate. And we also sent another clear that mission has been accomplished. message: Dictators can no longer shield Each one of you is a credit to the uni- themselves behind innocent people. Those form you wear, and I bring a message from who threaten the security of others now home: Your families are proud of you, and need to worry about their own. so is America. As you know, in the battle of Iraq, we I want to thank Tommy for his leader- had some fine, fine soldiers at our side. ship. I don’t know if you know this, but Great Britain, Poland, and Australia sent First Lady Laura Bush and Tommy Franks some of their finest to work with ours. went to high school together, Midland Lee America will always remember their service High School. She didn’t think he’d amount and their important role in our victory, and to much. [Laughter] He has done a fan- we’re grateful. tastic job. Neighbors in this neighborhood—nations I’m also honored to be traveling with in this neighborhood also gave critical as- a fantastic Secretary of State. sistance to this coalition, for which we’re I want to thank the allied forces. I want grateful: Of course, Qatar, the host to to thank the Brits, the Australians, and I CENTCOM, a great friend to the United want to thank our friends from Poland for States, and Kuwait always said yes when your service to your countries and to the we asked. They also kept their oil flowing cause of freedom and for your courage. when it looked like there wasn’t going to I want to thank the members of the be enough. Our friends in Bahrain and the Armed Forces of Qatar, and I want to UAE and the rest of the Gulf contributed thank the Amir of Qatar, with whom I just valuable assistance to our cause, for which met, for his hospitality and for his friend- we’re thankful. ship to the United States of America. It was from this place that our com- But most of all, I’m here to thank you. manders executed one of the most innova- We are in a war on global terror, and be- tive war plans in the history of armed con- cause of you, we’re winning the war on flict. And the man who designed those global terror. When we’ve sent you into plans was Tommy Franks. I want to thank combat, you’ve performed brilliantly. In Af- Tommy and his staff. I also want to thank ghanistan, forces directed from here—from Command Sergeant Major Dwight Brown. Qatar—and headquartered in Tampa, you I was going to say, ‘‘and his staff,’’ but delivered decisive blows against the Taliban you’re his staff. and against Al Qaida. And now the people Under Tommy’s leadership, CENTCOM of Afghanistan are free. forces have shown the true might of Amer- We have made it clear that we’ll hunt ica, the strength of our country. You’ve also the terrorists down. There’s no place they shown the humanity and decency of your can hide from the justice of the United country as well. You see, this country, our States of America and our friends. And country, does not seek the expansion of right now we’ve got—we’re on the hunt territory. We’re not interested in more ter- in the Horn of Africa. And of course, in ritory. Our goal is to enlarge the realm the battle of Iraq, you set an example of of liberty. We believe that liberty is God’s

609 June 5 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 gift to every individual on the face of the sters. It’s going to be used in a special Earth. We believe people have the right account on behalf of the people who own to think and speak and worship in freedom. the oil, the citizens of Iraq. That’s what we believe in America, and One thing else we’ve done is we made that’s what you showed the world. sure that Iraq’s not going to serve as an No, our military fights for the security arsenal for terrorist—for terrorist groups. of American people, and we fight for free- We recently found two mobile biological dom. And we sacrifice for freedom, and weapons facilities which were capable of we have lost some of our finest. And this producing biological agents. This is a man Nation will never forget and will always who spent decades hiding tools of mass honor their memories for the sacrifices they murder. He knew the inspectors were look- made. And it’s not only serving our Nation ing for them. You know better than me; but serving a cause greater than them- he’s got a big country in which to hide selves. May God rest their souls. them. We’re on the look. We’ll reveal the Not only does the war on terror go on, truth. but we’ve got a lot of work to do in Iraq. But one thing is certain: No terrorist net- And we’re going to stay the course until work will gain weapons of mass destruction the job gets done. We will stand with them from the Iraqi regime, because the Iraqi as they build a stable democracy and a regime is no more. peaceful future. As people who liberated Iraq, I know Our forces are taking aggressive steps to you’re proud of what you have done. You increase order throughout the country. We see, the world is now learning what many are moving those Ba’athist officials that are of you have seen. They’re learning about trying to hang onto power. There are still the mass graves, thousands of people just pockets of criminality. Remember, the summarily executed. They’re learning about former leader of Iraq emptied the jail cells the torture chambers. Because of you, a of common criminals right before the ac- great evil has been ended. Because of you, tion took place, and they haven’t changed the dignity of a great nation is being re- their habits and their ways. They like to stored. Because of you, America and our rob, like to loot. We’ll find them. Criminal friends and allies, those of us who love courts are now reopening. Day by day, the freedom are now more secure. You have United States and our coalition partners are justified the confidence that your country making the streets safer for the Iraqi citi- has placed in you. You’ve served your coun- zens. try well. Your Commander in Chief is We also understand that a more just po- grateful. And as importantly, more impor- litical system will develop when people tantly, millions of American citizens are have food in their stomachs and their lights grateful for what you have done. You be- work and they can turn on a faucet and lieve in America, and America believes in they can find some clean water, things that you. Saddam Hussein did not do for them. See, It is our tremendous honor to be here he spent more time building luxurious pal- today with you. Keep doing what you’re aces than he did in building an infrastruc- doing. You’re making a huge difference in ture to take care of the Iraqi citizens. And the peace and security and freedom in this the United States and our friends and allies world. May God bless you. May God bless will first take care of the Iraqi citizens. your families, and may God continue to And they’ll have some money to help them- bless America. Thank you. selves. After all, oil is now flowing, but this time the revenues are not going to NOTE: The President spoke at 10:25 a.m. In be used and skimmed off by greedy gang- his remarks, he referred to Gen. Tommy R.

610 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 7

Franks, USA, combatant commander, and Khalifa Al Thani of Qatar; and former Presi- Command Sgt. Maj. Dwight Brown, USA, dent Saddam Hussein of Iraq. U.S. Central Command; Amir Hamad bin

Remarks Prior to Discussions With Prime Minister Jose Manuel Durao Barroso of Portugal June 6, 2003

President Bush. Mr. Prime Minister, wel- things can be done without risks. You were come back. It’s such an honor to have you able to take great risks in Iraq; we sup- here. ported you. I have been most impressed by Jose’s Now you are taking great risks in the leadership style, his candor, and his hon- Middle East peace process. Let me con- esty. And I appreciate very much his gratulate you for that initiative, for reener- friendship. We have had a lot of dialogs gizing the peace process. I think the United over the past months. Of course, he wel- States of America and Europe—Portugal comed me and others to the Azores. And being a European country—we have a lot I value his advice. He’s a good, honest fel- to do together, and I am very much looking low who cares deeply about basic values. forward to this opportunity to discuss with He cares deeply about peace and freedom. you and, always with the spirit of friendship And I treasure my relationship with the that exists between the Portuguese and the Prime Minister. American people, discuss all these ideas. I’m really glad you came. I want to thank And we’ll stand by you, because I think you for being here. I look forward to a that what you have been doing is really good, candid discussion today and a good great achievement. We have won the war. lunch and, on behalf of the American peo- Now we all have to win the peace. And ple, welcome you back to the Oval Office. I think that we are going to reach that Prime Minister Durao Barroso. Thank goal. you very much, Mr. President, for this President Bush. Thank you. warm welcome. I believe that recent trials put our nations even closer. It was a great NOTE: The President spoke at 11:22 a.m. in European that once said that no noble the Oval Office at the White House.

The President’s Radio Address June 7, 2003

Good morning. This week the House and more choices and better benefits, including Senate will be working on one of the most help with the rising costs of prescription important issues facing Congress, improving drugs. Medicare to offer prescription drug cov- We have a tremendous opportunity to erage to American seniors. And on reform Medicare and help our seniors. The Wednesday I will travel to Chicago and talk budget I proposed and which the Congress about our responsibility to give seniors passed provides $400 billion in additional

611 June 7 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 funds over the next 10 years to strengthen Third, seniors who want the benefits of and improve Medicare, so we have the re- managed care plans, including prescription sources to make reform work. We’re also drug coverage, should be able to choose seeing a growing consensus, in both Houses from a range of plans that best fit their of Congress and both parties, that our sen- personal needs. iors need a strengthened Medicare system And fourth, we must provide extra help that includes prescription drug coverage. for low-income seniors, so that all seniors The time is right to make progress. will have the ability to choose the Medicare Our Nation has made a binding commit- option that serves them best, and every ment to bring affordable health care to our senior will have the option of a prescription seniors. We must honor that commitment drug benefit. by making sure Medicare stays current with In a Medicare system that reflects these the needs of today’s seniors. When Medi- principles, every senior in America would care was launched 38 years ago, medicine enjoy better benefits than they do today. focused on surgery and hospital stays, and And they would continue to benefit from that is mainly what Medicare covers. Today, the most important strength of American doctors routinely treat their patients with medicine, the ability to choose your own prescription drugs, preventative care, and doctor. We want seniors and doctors, not groundbreaking medical devices, but Medi- Government bureaucrats, to be in charge care coverage has not kept pace with these of the important health care decisions. changes. Our goal is to give seniors the Members of Congress are working hard best, most innovative care. This will require on this issue, and I encourage their efforts. a strong, up-to-date Medicare system that I also urge Americans to make their voices relies on innovation and competition, not heard. If we work together, Congress will bureaucratic rules and regulations. pass a strong Medicare bill, and our seniors My views on Medicare are clear. First, will finally get the prescription drug bene- those who like the Medicare system as it fits and choices they need and deserve. is should be able to stay just where they Thank you for listening. are and also receive prescription drug benefits. Second, those who want more coverage NOTE: The address was recorded at 9:40 a.m. for preventative care and other benefits on June 6 in the Cabinet Room at the White should be able to choose from multiple House for broadcast at 10:06 a.m. on June health plans under an enhanced Medicare 7. The transcript was made available by the program. This option would be similar to Office of the Press Secretary on June 6 but the health care coverage available to every was embargoed for release until the broad- Federal employee. If that coverage is good cast. The Office of the Press Secretary also enough for Members of Congress and Fed- released a Spanish language transcript of this eral employees, it is good for our seniors. address.

Remarks Following a Cabinet Meeting and an Exchange With Reporters June 9, 2003

The President. I just met with my Cabi- visit to Poland and to Russia, where we’ve net, had the opportunity to brief them got good friends in both those countries, about my trip overseas. I talked about the at least in terms of their leaders.

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And then I went to the G–8 in Evian, Medicare with the American people. Sec- France. The message there was, is that retary Thompson briefed us on the progress America and Europe can do a lot together. being made by the Congress, and I want We can make the world more peaceful. to thank the congressional leadership for We can make the world more free. We showing the determination that’s going to can work together to help fight the pan- be necessary to get a good Medicare pack- demic of AIDS in Africa. There’s a lot we age out for America’s seniors. can do together. We need to put our dif- I’m proud of my Cabinet. I want to ferences in the past and combine our ef- thank them for their good work and really forts. We can do—trade together so our proud of the team we have put together people can find work. And I left feeling here. very good about our relations in Europe. I’ll answer a few questions. Tom [Tom Then I went to the Middle East and Raum, Associated Press], and then Patsy started the—started the march to peace. [Patricia Wilson, Reuters]. And I’m optimistic about our chances to bring a peaceful, free Palestinian state in Middle East Peace Process existence, to live side by side with a secure Q. Mr. President, since you left the Mid- Israel. We’ve got a lot of work to do, but dle East, there’s been a new outbreak of I was pleased with the response of Prime violence; three main Palestinian militant Minister Sharon. He’s a courageous leader, groups have claimed responsibility for it. dedicated to the security of the Israeli peo- Prime Minister Abbas says he will not use ple, as are we, but also recognizing that force to control these groups, and Prime life can be better for the Palestinians. Minister Sharon has been criticized by And I appreciate the leadership of Prime rightwing members of his own party. Why Minister Abbas, the new Prime Minister are you so optimistic? of the Palestinian Authority, who spoke elo- The President. I’m optimistic because I quently and clearly about the need for the was able to listen to the Prime Ministers free world to fight off terror in order for of Israel and the Palestinian Authority talk a Palestinian state to emerge. about the need for peace and for a state. And then I went over to Qatar, had a Listen, I recognize there’s going to be very good visit with Ambassador Bremer extremes, particularly in the Palestinian ter- and General Tommy Franks, and we talked ritories, that want to blow up peace. But about the need for our coalition to continue I think people are sick of it. The average to make steadfast progress in Iraq so that Palestinian must understand that their lives the people of Iraq will be able to eventually will improve with the vision of Prime Min- run themselves. And we are making stead- ister Abbas. And the Arab neighborhood fast progress. understands that violence will lead to noth- Finally, we talked about domestic mat- ing except misery and the lack of hope. ters. Secretary Snow briefed us on the And so I’m optimistic that responsible lead- economy. And we’re optimistic about our ers have now got the message that we must economy, but we won’t rest until we’re cer- combine to work to fight off the terror tain that people who are looking for work attacks so that a peaceful Palestinian state and who want to work can find a job. The can emerge. jobs-and-growth package passed by the And I understand there’s going to be Congress can be very beneficial to those a lot of work to do, but I’m prepared to who look for work. lead. And we’re sending a team in place. We also talked about the possibilities of Ambassador Wolf will be on the ground Congress getting a good Medicare bill out. soon, holding people to account and work- I will spend time this week discussing ing to strengthen Prime Minister Abbas so

613 June 9 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 that he can deliver on his promise, a prom- Strength of the Dollar ise he made not only to me personally but Q. Sir, do you have anything for us on a promise he made to the Israeli officials. the dollar? It continues to slide. And the promise was, is that he will work The President. Yes. as hard as he can to fight off those ele- Q. The rhetoric continues to be that we ments within the territories that want to favor a strong dollar policy, but there use violence to destroy any hope for peace doesn’t seem to be much of anything help- and, therefore, use violence to destroy the ing to prop it up. hopes of the Palestinian people. The President. The policy of this Govern- Patsy. ment is a strong dollar policy. I spent time talking about the—our dollar policy at the G–8. And I reminded our G–8 partners that there is a difference in interest rates, Iraqi Weapons of Mass Destruction particularly between Europe and the Q. Sir, is U.S. credibility on the line over United States, and that interest rate dif- weapons of mass destruction in Iraq? ferential has caused people to sell dollars The President. I’m not exactly sure what to buy euros to get a higher return on that means. I mean, Iraq had a weapons investment. And that’s why you’re seeing program. Intelligence throughout the dec- pressure on the dollar. ade showed they had a weapons program. And of course, the European Union is— I am absolutely convinced with time we’ll like the United States, has got an inde- find out that they did have a weapons pro- pendent organization that sets monetary gram. The credibility of this country is policy. But you’ll see a—you’ll see different based upon our strong desire to make the behavior as interest rate spreads begin to world more peaceful—and the world is now narrow between Europe and the United more peaceful after our decision; the strong States. desire to make sure free nations are more But I’ll repeat as clearly as I can, the secure—our free nations are now more se- policy of the United States Government is cure; and the strong desire to spread free- a strong dollar policy. dom. And the Iraqi people are now free Thank you all. and are learning the habits of freedom and the responsibilities that come with freedom. NOTE: The President spoke at 10:45 a.m. in I read a report that somehow, you know, the Cabinet Room at the White House. In that there is no Al Qaida presence in Bagh- his remarks, he referred to Prime Minister dad. I guess the people who wrote that Ariel Sharon of Israel; Prime Minister article forgot about Al Zarqawi’s network Mahmoud Abbas (Abu Mazen) of the Pales- inside of Baghdad that ordered the killing tinian Authority; L. Paul Bremer III, Presi- of a U.S. citizen named Foley. And history dential Envoy to Iraq; Gen. Tommy R. will show, history—time will prove that the Franks, USA, combatant commander, U.S. United States made the absolute right deci- Central Command; Assistant Secretary of sion in freeing the people of Iraq from State for Nonproliferation John S. Wolf; Abu the clutches of Saddam Hussein. Musab Al Zarqawi, senior Al Qaida associate; Keil [Richard Keil, Bloomberg News], and former President Saddam Hussein of last question. Iraq.

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Letter to Congressional Leaders on the Deployment of United States Military Forces in Response to Security Concerns for United States Embassy Personnel in Liberia and Mauritania June 9, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. President:) the evacuation of American citizens from Clashes between Liberian government Mauritania if required. and rebel forces in the vicinity of the In addition to the forces noted above, United States Embassy in Monrovia, Libe- several fixed wing aircraft and their aircrew ria and the potential for further deteriora- have been pre-positioned in Dakar, Senegal tion of the security environment in Liberia in order to shorten the response time render the safety of the United States Em- should an evacuation of American citizens bassy and its occupants uncertain. from either Liberia or Mauritania be re- On June 7, 2003, an assessment team quired. and standby response and evacuation force Although in both cases the U.S. forces of approximately 35 U.S. military personnel are equipped for combat, these movements were undertaken solely for the purpose of from the U.S. European Command were protecting American citizens and property. pre-positioned in Freetown, Sierra Leone. United States forces will redeploy as soon On June 8, 2003, these forces moved into as it is determined that the threats to the Monrovia, Liberia to augment the Embassy Embassy compounds have ended or an security forces and to aid in the evacuation evacuation, if necessary, is completed. of U.S. citizens from Liberia if required. I have taken this action pursuant to my Additionally, on June 8, 2003, a coup constitutional authority to conduct U.S. for- attempt occurred in Mauritania. Fighting eign relations and as Commander in Chief has been reported in the vicinity of the and Chief Executive. I am providing this United States Embassy. This fighting con- report as part of my efforts to keep the tinued during the morning of June 9 in Congress informed, consistent with the War the center of Nouakchott, about three kilo- Powers Resolution. meters from the Embassy. At the request I appreciate the support of the Congress of the United States Embassy, an assess- in these actions. ment team and standby response and evac- Sincerely, uation force of an estimated 34 U.S. mili- GEORGE W. BUSH tary personnel from the U.S. European Command are being sent to Nouakchott, NOTE: Identical letters were sent to J. Den- Mauritania and are expected to arrive on nis Hastert, Speaker of the House of Rep- June 10, 2003. Their mission is to augment resentatives, and Ted Stevens, President pro the Embassy security forces and to aid in tempore of the Senate.

Remarks on Implementation of the No Child Left Behind Act June 10, 2003

Thank you all very much. Please be seat- House and the beautiful Rose Garden. I ed. Thanks a lot. Welcome to the White want to thank you for coming today to help

615 June 10 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 us mark progress, significant progress, to- ship. When we had our negotiations on the ward making sure our public schools meet bill and discussions on the bill, I can’t re- our objective, which is every single child member which one of the two said, ‘‘Are in America gets a high-quality education. you going to follow through?’’ I said, ‘‘Yes, Last year, I had the honor of signing we’ll follow through.’’ We’re following into law some historic reforms. The No through, just the way you wanted us to. Child Left Behind Act sets a clear objective And I thank you for being here. for American education. Every child in Of course, I see Chairmen Regula, Spec- every school must be performing at grade ter, Hatch, Alexander, Murkowski—I’d bet- level in the basic subjects that are key to ter stop. But anyway, thank you all for all learning, reading and math. The ambi- being here. tious goal is the most fundamental duty For too many years, education reform of every single school, and it must and it seemed like a losing battle. Fads came and will be fulfilled. fads went while students were passed from In order to ensure this goal is met, the grade to grade, no matter what they did No Child Left Behind Act requires every or did not learn. And as a result, national State in our country to submit an account- tests showed that fewer than 1 in 3 fourth ability plan that leads to measurable gains graders were reading well and that only in student performance. As of today, all 4 in 10 high school seniors were skilled of the States, plus Puerto Rico and the at reading. Because we were just simply District of Columbia, have now submitted shuffling kids through the system, we began those plans. And that’s why we’re meeting. The era of low expectations and low to pay a serious price. standards is ending; a time of great hopes But fortunately, we recognized the prob- and proven results is arriving. And together, lem, and we acted. I say ‘‘we’’—it’s not we are keeping a pledge: Every child in only Republicans but Democrats. All of us America will learn, and no child will be came together to focus on a significant left behind. problem for our country. We are now di- I want to thank our Secretary of rectly challenging the soft bigotry of low Education for his service to our country. expectations. Under the No Child Left Be- I first got to know him as a superintendent hind Act, every student in this country will in Texas. He was the superintendent of the be held to high standards, and every school Houston Independent School District, and will be held accountable for results. Teach- I figured if he could handle that—[laugh- ers will get the training they need to help ter]—he could handle whatever Washington their students achieve. Parents will get the threw his way. But he’s doing a great job, information and choices they need to make and so is his staff. I want to thank the sure their children are learning. And to- chief State school officers who are with us gether we will bring the promise of quality today. Thank you for your setting high education to every child in America. standards. Thank you for your care and Part of the answer is funding, and we concern for our Nation’s children. are meeting our obligations here in Wash- I want to thank the Members of Con- ington, DC. The Federal Government is gress who are here today. I see quite a investing more money in elementary and few Senators and House Members. I par- secondary education than at any other time ticularly want to pay my respects to the in American history. The budget for next two chairmen that made the bill happen, year boosts education funding to $53.1 bil- Chairman Judd Gregg, Chairman John lion and an increase of nearly $11 billion Boehner—Judd of the Senate, John of the since I took office. And it wasn’t all that House. I want to thank you for your leader- long ago that I took office. Funding for

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Title I, a program that helps our most dis- been skeptical of the tests—and I’m sure advantaged students, has increased 33 per- the State leaders here have heard of that cent to $11.6 billion. And since I took of- skepticism before—learned how to use test fice, we’ve tripled the amount we’re spend- results to tailor their lessons plans and to ing on effective reading programs to more make sure every child excelled. Morale than $1 billion. when up. Discipline problems went down. At the Federal level, we are putting And last year, Disney students scored at money into the system. It is also important the 58th percentile in reading comprehen- for our fellow citizens to understand that sion and the 71st percentile in math. And there is money available for States to put that is tremendous progress. in accountability systems, for States to train And let me tell you what Linda said. teachers in the methods that work, and for She said, ‘‘It is this constant assessment States to provide extra help to students who that tells us what to do next. Once we need it. have the test data and we know where the But it’s also important to recognize that gaps are, we go after the gaps. We know pouring money into systems that do not where every child is.’’ Linda is right. She teach and refuse to change will not help has shown what works in education. She our children. We help children by meas- is the model of education reform. I’m uring the educational progress of every sin- proud you’re here. Thank you for your gle child and by insisting on change when leadership, and thank you for your heart. progress is not made. We’re spending more The core of the No Child Left Behind money on schools, but the change is we’re legislation is that every child must be tested now asking for results. And those results on the basics, starting early, because testing must be proven, and those results must be shows what children are learning and where measured every single year. they need help. We also need to train the Success comes when we’ve got strong teachers in scientifically proven methods of leadership in our schools, leaders who seek teaching the basics so that their students the truth, leaders who are willing to con- can make progress. And if the basics are front reality, and leadership who believes not being taught and our children are not in the worth of every single child. And we meeting standards, schools must be held have such a leader with us today. Linda to account. There must be a consequence. Reksten is with us today. Linda is the prin- The status quo, if a school is mediocre, cipal of Disney Elementary School in Bur- is not acceptable. bank, California. It’s a Title I school where We’re making good progress in terms of half the students are not fluent in English the implementation of our accountability and nearly two-thirds come from low-in- systems. In the past 5 months, we have come families. approved the accountability plans of 33 Four years ago, her students scored at States, plus the District of Columbia and the 40th and 44th percentiles for reading Puerto Rico. And today we mark an historic comprehension and math on the State tests. milestone of accountability: This morning, And her school wound up on a list of Secretary Paige has approved the plans of underperforming schools. At first, Linda 17 more States, bringing us to a total of said she and her teachers felt powerless, 100 percent of the accountability plans in felt overwhelmed. But they overcame their place. discouragement and got to work. I want to thank the Secretary again and And here’s what Disney School did. They his staff and education chiefs for helping began a rigorous testing program to meas- this Nation make great progress when it ure the progress of every child several comes to education reform. Keep in mind times a year. Teachers who had initially that in January of 2001, only 11 States were

617 June 10 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 in compliance with a 1994 education law. in need of improvement before the start Every State, plus Puerto Rico and the Dis- of the school year. The schools on those trict, are now complying with the No Child lists are immediately eligible for State as- Left Behind Act after one year. sistance that can help them improve. The Educators are embracing a new level of school remains on the list for 2 years. Par- accountability, which is creating a new cul- ents will have the option of moving their ture for our Nation’s schools, a culture of children to other public schools in the same achievement, a culture of results over proc- district. If a school stays on the list for ess. In this new culture, accountability 3 years, a parent will be given a choice plans are driving reform. They contain of tutoring programs with proven track timelines and projections to show how the records, programs in which they can enroll States will bring all students up to grade their children at no cost. level in reading and math by the year 2014. All students will be tested—tests designed The No Child Left Behind Act gives par- by the States, not the Federal Government. ents and students alternatives when schools Schools are required to disaggregate the do not measure up. Some of those schools testing data, separating the results by race will undoubtedly have to make difficult and background to make sure all groups choices. That’s okay. Remember what’s at of children are learning. All schools must stake. When a student passes from grade release report cards with these results to to grade without knowing how to read and the parents and to the public, so we know write, add and subtract, the damage can which schools are succeeding and which last a lifetime. We must not tolerate a sys- schools are not. tem that just gives up on a child early. Though the plans have these common We must not tolerate tired excuses. We elements, each plan is unique because each must challenge persistent failure. And that State and its communities are unique. Local is precisely what this Nation is going to people are getting the tools they need to do. We are insisting on high standards and find out if children are learning and if their high achievement for every school in every schools are working. Local people are corner of America because we have a fun- charting the path to excellence, and that damental belief that every child can learn is important because local people know in this country. what is best for their own children and It’s an exciting time for American edu- their own schools. cation; it really is. We’re facing challenges, The development of these plans involved a lot of hard work. Governors stepped up but we have the blueprint for success. The to the line, along with their education No Child Left Behind Act charts the way chiefs. I also want to thank the principals for a better tomorrow. We’ve also got a and teachers and parents on the frontlines greater advantage than the law. We have who are working so hard to improve our got the will and the character of the Amer- public schools. Instead of throwing up your ican people. Parents and teachers and prin- hands in despair, you decided to challenge cipals and education chiefs are making good the status quo and to help each child. On on our promise to leave no child left be- behalf of the Nation, I want to thank all hind. We will continue to stand with them who are involved in America’s public as they help the next generation realize the schools, all who demand excellence, for greatness of our country. your service to our country. And we do live in a great country, a And now we look forward to the next country of great values, a country of hope, phase of school reform. The law requires a country that believes in the best for every every State to release a list of its schools single citizen who lives in our land.

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May God bless your work, and may God ing America’s Schools Act of 1994 (Public continue to bless the United States of Law No. 103–382), which amended Title I America. of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (Public Law No. 89–10). The NOTE: The President spoke at 2:10 p.m. in Office of the Press Secretary also released the Rose Garden at the White House. In his a Spanish language transcript of these re- remarks, he referred to Title I of the Improv- marks.

Remarks Prior to Discussions With President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni of Uganda June 10, 2003

President Bush. It’s my honor to wel- President Museveni. Thank you so much. come President Museveni back to the I’m very glad that I’m here. First of all, White House. Mr. President, you have I congratulate President Bush for his lead- shown extraordinary leadership on a lot of ership in fighting terrorism. Terrorism is issues, but the one issue that’s really cap- a very irresponsible way of expressing one’s tured the imagination and the hearts of the dissatisfaction. It uses indiscriminate vio- American people is your extraordinary lead- lence. They don’t discriminate between ership on HIV/AIDS in your country. combatants and noncombatants. That’s why You’ve shown the world what is possible, we oppose terrorism. and I want to congratulate you for that We fought with guns for the freedom leadership. of our countries. I fought for many years, I also want to thank you for your stead- but I’ve never used terrorist means. Free- fast support on the war against terror. And dom fighting is not the same thing as ter- I’m glad you’re here. rorism. If you must use violence, you Before we begin our discussions I do should assure that violence is targeted at want to say something on the Middle East. the combatants, not at the noncombatants. I am troubled by the recent Israeli heli- Secondly, I salute President Bush for his copter gunship attacks. I regret the loss decision a few years ago to open American of innocent life. I’m concerned that the markets to African value-added products. attacks will make it more difficult for the You hear so much of poverty in Africa, Palestinian leadership to fight off terrorist but in fact, Africa is a very rich continent. attacks. I also don’t believe the attacks help The only problem with that, we must— Israeli security. We have been in touch [inaudible]—lose value to the outside. We with all parties in the region. I am deter- export only raw materials; we don’t export mined to keep the process on the road value-added products. So I’m very glad that to peace. And I believe, with responsible President Bush opened the American mar- leadership by all parties, we can bring ket for our goods. peace to the region. And I emphasize, all I’m also glad that he set up the Millen- parties must behave responsibly to achieve nium Challenge Account. That money that objective. should be used to aid trade. I don’t believe So, Mr. President, I’m glad you’re here. in aid as an end in itself. I believe in trade. Welcome. I’d like for you to make a few Trade is the one that can lead to mutual comments, please, sir. benefits for all countries in the world.

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Therefore, aid should head up trade— President Bush. Thank you, Mr. Presi- should aid in order to trade. dent. Thank you for coming. And finally, I thank him for the money President Museveni. Thank you. set up for the AIDS fund, the 15 billion. So I really am glad I’m here. We shall NOTE: The President spoke at 3:20 p.m. in discuss more in our private discussion. the Oval Office at the White House.

Statement on the Death of Don Regan June 10, 2003

Laura and I are saddened by the death husband, father, and grandfather and will of Don Regan. He leaves behind a lifetime be sorely missed. We send our deepest of service and achievement, in both the sympathies to Ann and the entire Regan private and public sector. He served his family. country with distinction. Don was a devoted

Message to the Congress on Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to Weapons-Usable Fissile Material in the Territory of the Russian Federation June 10, 2003

To the Congress of the United States: material removed from Russian nuclear Section 202(d) of the National Emer- weapons pursuant to various arms control gencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)) provides and disarmament agreements is dedicated for the automatic termination of a national to peaceful uses, subject to transparency emergency unless, prior to the anniversary measures, and protected from diversion to date of its declaration, the President pub- activities of proliferation concern. The ac- lishes in the Federal Register and transmits cumulation of a large volume of weapons- to the Congress a notice stating that the usable fissile material in the territory of emergency is to continue in effect beyond the Russian Federation continues to pose the anniversary date. In accordance with an unusual and extraordinary threat to the this provision, I have sent the enclosed no- national security and foreign policy of the tice, stating that the emergency declared United States. For this reason, I have de- with respect to the accumulation of a large termined that it is necessary to continue volume of weapons-usable fissile material the national emergency declared with rein the territory of the Russian Federation spect to the accumulation of a large volume is to continue beyond June 21, 2003, to of weapons-usable fissile material in the the Federal Register for publication. The territory of the Russian Federation and most recent notice continuing this emer- maintain in force these emergency authori- gency was published in the Federal Register ties to respond to this threat. on June 20, 2002 (67 FR 42181). GEORGE W. BUSH It remains a major national security goal of the United States to ensure that fissile The White House,

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June 10, 2003. NOTE: The notice is listed in Appendix D at the end of this volume.

Message to the Congress Transmitting a Report on the National Emergency With Respect to Weapons-Usable Fissile Material in the Territory of the Russian Federation June 10, 2003

To the Congress of the United States: tion created by the accumulation of weap- As required by section 401(c) of the Na- ons-usable fissile material in the territory tional Emergencies Act, 50 U.S.C. 1641(c), of the Russian Federation that was declared and section 204(c) of the International in Executive Order 13159 of June 21, 2000. Emergency Economic Powers Act, 50 U.S.C. 1703(c), I transmit herewith a 6- GEORGE W. BUSH month periodic report prepared by my Ad- ministration on the national emergency The White House, with respect to the risk of nuclear prolifera- June 10, 2003.

Remarks to the Illinois State Medical Society in Chicago, Illinois June 11, 2003

Thanks for the warm welcome. It’s good country is secure, because the war on terror to be back in the Windy City. I’ll try not goes on. There are still terrorist networks to be too windy. [Laughter] which hate America because of what we The last time I was here, which was in love. They hate us because we love our January, I talked about big objectives of freedoms. And since we’re not going to my administration and big responsibilities change, we’re going to have to deal with we share, and I talked about the need to them. We will be strong; we will be dili- continue to fight the war on terror. I re- gent; and we will win. minded our citizens that this country would I also talked about economic security uphold the just demands of the world and when I was here last. I laid out a plan, confront the real threat posed to the free what I called a growth-and-jobs plan, that world by Saddam Hussein. Since I was recognized that so long as any of our fellow here, thanks to the bravery of our military citizens are looking for work, that we’ve and to friends and allies, the regime of got to be concerned about the fact they Saddam Hussein is no more; the world is can’t find a job. We need a—I reminded peaceful and free. Thanks to their bravery the country that we needed to grow our and their sacrifice, the world is more economy so people could find work. peaceful, America is more secure, and the The crux of the plan I laid out said that Iraqi people are now free. if a person has more money in their pocket, We have a lot more work to do in Iraq, they’re likely to demand an additional good and we’ll stay the course. And we’ve got or a service. In our type of economy, when a lot more work to do to make sure our you demand a good or a service, somebody

621 June 11 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 is going to produce the good or a service. ries and their concerns about the future And when somebody produces that good of health care in our country. or a service, it’s more likely a fellow citizen One thing is for certain about health care will find work. And the Congress acted, in our country, is that we’ve got the best and they passed substantial tax relief, which health care system in the world, and we will give more Americans their own money. need to keep it that way. We’ve got great Today I’ve returned to Chicago to discuss docs in America. We’re really good at re- another issue relating to our security, and search. We’re developing technologies and that’s the need for us to improve the health medicines which are extending lives not security of the American citizens. We have only in our country but all across the world. an unprecedented opportunity to give To make sure we’ve got a good health America’s seniors an up-to-date Medicare care system today and tomorrow, we’ve got system that includes more choices and bet- to make sure that no policy of the Federal ter benefits like prescription drug coverage. Government will undermine the system of And for the sake of health care for all private care in America. As folks who de- Americans, we must reform the medical li- liver that care, you know that we’ve got ability system. For years, leaders of both challenges in our system. We must address political parties have talked about these re- the challenges while not undermining the forms. Now is the time to get the job done. strengths of American medicine. I am very grateful for the Illinois State There are some hard-working folks in our Medical Society for hosting me today. This country who do not qualify for Medicaid distinguished organization was founded in and cannot afford to buy health insurance. 1840 in Springfield, the same time that So I sent a proposal to Congress for re- Abraham Lincoln was practicing law in that fundable tax credits to help low-income city on North 5th Street. Lincoln was a people purchase their own insurance. There lawyer who believed in discouraging unnec- are too many needy Americans who use essary litigation. I want to thank Dr. Ron emergency rooms as their main source of Ruecker for his hospitality, his introduction. health care. So I worked with Congress, I want to thank Tommy Thompson. and I want to thank Congress for increased Tommy used to be in this neighborhood. funding, for more community and migrant [Laughter] But he’s doing a fantastic job health care centers all across America. as our Secretary of Health and Human And we’ve got another challenge that Services. When we talk about tort reform we’re now dealing with in America, and in this administration, Tommy is the point that’s Medicare. It’s an essential commit- man up on Capitol Hill, working hard with ment of this Government, yet the system Senators and Members of the United States is not keeping pace. The system is not ad- Congress, some of whom traveled with us justing to the advances of modern medi- today. Senator Peter Fitzgerald is with us cine. This year we have an opportunity to today, and I want to thank the Senator seize and strengthen and—to strengthen for joining us. Congressmen Bobby Rush and improve Medicare for the sake of all and Luis Gutierrez, Rahm Emanuel, Danny our seniors. I’m here to urge Congress not Davis, Phil Crane, Mark Kirk, and Con- to miss the opportunity. I’m here to ask gresswoman Judy Biggert also traveled, and for your help in making sure that Congress I want to thank the Members of Congress does not miss the opportunity. for your interest and for joining us. Four decades—over four decades, the We have just had a roundtable discussion Government has made some improvements with fellow citizens, some docs, some peo- in Medicare. Notice I said ‘‘the Govern- ple on Medicare. I want to thank them ment’’ has made improvements in Medi- for joining me today and sharing their sto- care. Therein lies part of the problem.

622 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 11

[Laughter] We’ve expanded the program to sions, is behind the health plan enjoyed cover persons with disabilities, to cover kid- by every person on the Federal payroll, ney dialysis, to cover more home-based including every Member of Congress. All services to the bedridden, to cover some Federal employees get to choose their cancer screenings and vaccines. Yet, health health care plan. Health plans compete for care moves faster than bureaucracy. Health their business by offering good services and care is being transformed by drug therapies better choices at lower costs. It seems log- and active prevention. These are an in- ical to me that if Members of Congress creasingly important part of how docs treat and staffs get good choices and good serv- their patients, yet seniors with Medicare ice, so should the seniors of America. must pay for those treatments out of their Here are the principles of the plan that own pocket or go without them. I have submitted to Congress. Seniors who Medicine is changing; Medicare is not. want to stay in the current Medicare system As many as one-third of seniors on Medi- should have that option plus a prescription care have no drug coverage at all. It’s about drug benefit. Seniors who want enhanced 900,000—90,000 seniors in Chicago without benefits, such as more coverage for pre- any drug coverage. Because seniors don’t ventative care and other services, should have drug coverage for prescription drugs have that choice as well. Seniors who like and preventative care, we are creating a managed care plans should have that option health care system that is more expensive as well. And all low-income seniors should and less effective. receive extra help, so that all seniors will Let me give you two examples. Pro- have the ability to choose a Medicare op- longed hospital stays for ulcers can cost tion that includes a prescription drug ben- up to $28,000, which Medicare pays. But efit. Medicare does not pay the annual bill of That’s what we discussed at our round- $500 for drugs that can eliminate the cause table, the need for seniors to have a pre- of most ulcers. Medicare would pay many scription drug benefit. Dan and Barbara of the costs to treat a serious stroke, includ- Lee are with us today. He has leukemia, ing bills from the hospital and the rehab which is now under control, but he’s wor- center, doctors, home health aides, and out- ried about the future. He has affordable patient care. And those costs can total up- prescription drug coverage through a pre- wards of $100,000. Medicare will not pay vious employer, but he knows he’s eventu- for a year’s worth of treatment with blood- ally going to lose it. And then he will have thinning drugs that can prevent stroke, a monthly prescription drug bill of more drugs which cost less than $1,000. than $300, and the current Medicare sys- Time and time again, Medicare’s failure tem will not help him. Dan describes Medi- to pay for drugs means our seniors risk care this way: ‘‘There isn’t a lot of choice, serious illnesses, disease, and injuries, all and I think people ought to have choice.’’ of which Medicare would pay to treat after Congress needs to listen to Dan. the fact. America’s seniors deserve a mod- We also heard from Gene Preston. He ern system of health care, instead of a bu- and his wife, Dorothy, live on a tight budg- reaucracy that covers the latest medical et and do not have prescription drug cov- treatments slowly and sporadically. Our erage. To the Prestons, a full drug benefit seniors should have choices under Medi- would help a lot because they now spend care, so that affordable health care plans $300 a month on drugs. He says, ‘‘Every- compete for their business and, at the same thing is going up in price. Before, we could time, give them the coverage they need. save a couple of bucks at the end of the This principle of choice, of trusting peo- month. But right now, we’re just holding ple to make their own health care deci- even, if not going below even.’’ Gene says

623 June 11 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 it’s important to have good health care cov- doctors. It is important for our fellow citi- erage, and he’s right. And that’s exactly zens to understand the effects of junk law- what the plan I submitted to Congress will suits. It means that doctors and their insur- provide to Gene and his wife and a lot ance companies must fight every single of seniors around our country that need case, regardless of how frivolous. And help. therefore, liability premiums go up, and The need for Medicare reform is abso- that’s got two effects. One, it causes price lutely clear to me, and the opportunity for to patients to go up, and in some cases, Medicare reform is real. We’ve got a drives docs out of business. chance to get it done. We have set aside If one of the goals of health care is to the necessary resources to make reform have affordable and available health care, work. The budget I proposed, which Con- it makes no sense to have a system—be- gress passed, provides 400 billion additional cause of junk lawsuits—which drives up the dollars to modernize Medicare and provide costs and, in many States, makes health a prescription drug benefit—$400 billion. care less available. As well, it’s important We’ve also got a growing consensus in both for our fellow citizens to understand that Houses of Congress and in both political because of the threat of lawsuit, docs prac- parties, a consensus that our seniors need tice defensive medicine, ordering more more choices and better benefits including tests, doing more procedures than are nec- prescription drugs. And the time is right essary, in order to avoid a lawsuit or in to make progress. order to prepare a case for a potential law- The House of Representatives will take suit. And that causes costs to go up in up this issue in the coming weeks under America as well. Both higher premiums and the leadership of a man from Illinois, a defensive medicine drives up the cost to guy who I’ve got a lot of respect from, patients all across America, in every State. Speaker Denny Hastert. And I appreciate And both are hurting health care in this the leadership of Chairman Bill Thomas country, and we need to do something and Chairman Billy Tauzin. And in the about it now. Senate, Republican Senator Chuck Grassley Dr. Andrew Roth is with us today. Our of Iowa and Democrat Senator Max Baucus citizens must listen to the story of Andrew of Montana are working closely to add mo- Roth because it’s a—unfortunately, it’s a mentum for Medicare reform. With the typical story all around America. He went right spirit, I am confident that both the to high school at Hinsdale Central High. House and the Senate can act on historic He stayed in Chicago for college and med- Medicare improvements before the Fourth ical school. He and his practice deliver of July recess. about 200 babies a year. His insurance pre- In a strengthened and modernized Medi- miums are going up 50 percent next month, care system, every senior in America would to $170,000. And next January, he expects enjoy better benefits than they have today, another 40-percent increase. no matter what plan they choose. And all The interesting thing about his career is seniors would continue to benefit from the that he has never spent a day in court most fundamental choice of all, the ability as a defendant in a liability case, and he to choose your own doctor. has never settled a case. But because this It is that relationship between patient State has no medical liability reform, the and doctor which is the significant strength cost of him staying as a baby doc is getting of American health care. Everything we do out of sight. And he is now considering to improve Medicare should honor this re- leaving this vital State. And that hurts the lationship. And that relationship is being patients in this State, and it must hurt him hurt by junk lawsuits filed against many as well. He was raised here, educated here,

624 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 11 loves the Cubs. [Laughter] And yet, a You can make a difference. Not only flawed system is not only making it hard should the people of Illinois who care for him to practice medicine; it’s making about medical liability reform get involved, it hard for him to stay in an area he loves. people all over this country—if you want He said, ‘‘We’re all at the breaking point. a health care system that is available and Liability premiums are keeping us from affordable—need to get involved. You need doing what we love or forcing us to leave to let your Senators know how you feel our homes.’’ on this key issue. We have got a problem in America that I’ll be right there with you getting in- we must deal with. And this is not only volved. I want to sign this into law. I want a local problem, but because lawsuits and to sign Medicare reform into law, and I premium increases and preventative medi- want to sign medical liability reform into cine drive up the cost in Medicaid and law, so that we can look the American peo- Medicare and veterans health benefits, ple in the eye and say, ‘‘We have done medical liability is a national issue that re- our job; we saw a problem and we fixed it.’’ quires a national solution. There are challenges in the health care Every person with a legitimate claim de- system. We understand that in Washington. serves a day in court. Junk lawsuits make And we can answer those challenges with it hard to get into court. And bad doctors practical, sensible, compassionate reforms. must be held to account. I’m confident That is the charge before us, and that is that’s what the Illinois Medical Society be- the charge we must keep on behalf of the lieves as well. Yet, for the sake of afford- American people. able and available health care, we need a May God bless your work, and may God cap on non-economic damages, of continue to bless America. $250,000. Punitive damages should be limited to reasonable limits. NOTE: The President spoke at 10:32 a.m. in This health care system needs liability the ballroom at the Chicago Hilton. In his reform now. No one has ever been healed remarks, he referred to former President by a frivolous lawsuit. This past March, the Saddam Hussein of Iraq; and Ronald L. House of Representatives passed medical Ruecker, M.D., chair, board of trustees, Illi- liability reform. The Senate has not acted. nois State Medical Society. The Office of the I urge all of you to talk to your Senators. Press Secretary also released a Spanish lan- I know one of them is okay. guage transcript of these remarks.

Remarks in Chicago on the Terrorist Bombing in Jerusalem June 11, 2003

Today there was a terrible bombing in the desires of the Prime Minister of the Jerusalem. I send my heartfelt condolences Palestinian Authority and others of a peace- to those who suffered and lost life. ful state living side by side with Israel do It is clear there are people in the Middle not happen. East who hate peace. There are people who To the people in the world who want want to kill in order to make sure that to see peace in the Middle East, I strongly the desires of Israel to live in secure and urge all of you to fight off terror, to cut peace don’t happen, who kill to make sure off money to organizations such as Hamas,

625 June 11 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 to isolate those who hate so much that Thank you. they’re willing to kill to stop peace from going forward. I strongly condemn the killings, and I urge and call upon all of NOTE: The President spoke at 11:40 a.m. in the free world, nations which love peace, Grant Park prior to his departure from Chi- to not only condemn the killings but to cago. In his remarks, he referred to Prime use every ounce of their power to prevent Minister Mahmoud Abbas (Abu Mazen) of them from happening in the future. the Palestinian Authority.

Joint Statement Between the United States of America and the Kingdom of Thailand June 11, 2003

President George W. Bush and Prime road map for sustainable peace and security Minister Thaksin Shinawatra met on June in the region. 10, 2003 to reaffirm the strength and im- President Bush and Prime Minister portance of the alliance between the Thaksin expressed concern about the situa- United States and the Kingdom of Thai- tion on the Korean Peninsula. They re- land, built upon 170 years of close and affirmed their commitment to work with warm relationship between both the two other states in Asia to achieve the com- nations. In recognition of that long history plete, verifiable, and irreversible elimi- of cooperation, the President informed the nation of North Korea’s nuclear weapons Prime Minister that the United States is program, as is necessary for stability, peace, actively considering Thailand’s designation and security in the region. The President as a Major Non NATO Ally (MNNA). and the Prime Minister expressed concern The two leaders discussed developments for the people of North Korea and agreed in Iraq and reaffirmed their shared commit- on the importance of humanitarian food as- ment to help build a stable, prosperous, sistance and efforts to ensure that it gets and democratic Iraq. President Bush wel- to those who need it. comed Thailand’s offer to deploy a military engineering battalion and medical teams to President Bush and Prime Minister Iraq, and expressed appreciation for the hu- Thaksin expressed deep concern over re- manitarian assistance that Thailand has al- cent developments in Burma, in particular ready extended to the Iraqi people. The the violence that occurred on May 30, President further welcomed Thailand’s suc- 2003. The two leaders agreed on the need cessful deployment of an engineering bat- for the immediate release of Aung San Suu talion working with the Coalition in Afghan- Kyi and other National League for Democ- istan, noting that such cooperation high- racy (NLD) members. Prime Minister lights the continued vitality of the U.S.- Thaksin affirmed the Thai Government’s Thai alliance. readiness to do whatever possible to facili- Both leaders agreed that a lasting peace tate Burmese national reconciliation and in the Middle East is of vital interest to the return to democracy. Noting that a the international community. In this regard, democratic and prosperous Burma is im- Prime Minister Thaksin expressed his ap- portant to the stability and prosperity of preciation for the personal involvement by Southeast Asia, President Bush and Prime President Bush to secure a comprehensive Minister Thaksin called for an immediate

626 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 11 substantive political dialogue between Ran- forcement and counternarcotics. President goon and all domestic political elements, Bush appreciated Thailand’s leadership in consistent with the regime’s stated commit- hosting one of the largest and most success- ment to a peaceful transition to democracy. ful U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration The two leaders emphasized their contin- (DEA) operations in the world as well as ued support for a peaceful solution to the the U.S.-Thai International Law Enforce- conflict in Aceh and expressed hope that ment Academy (ILEA). President Bush rec- the parties would return to a negotiating ognized Prime Minister Thaksin’s deter- process that seeks a political settlement mination to combat transnational crime in which addresses the grievances of the peo- all its forms, including drug trafficking and ple of Aceh, while respecting the territorial trafficking in persons. Regarding recent integrity of Indonesia. press allegations that Thai security services The President commended Thailand’s carried out extrajudicial killings during a strong leadership in responding to the chal- counternarcotics campaign in Thailand, lenge of terrorism in Southeast Asia and Prime Minister Thaksin stated unequivo- its commitment to the international com- cally that the Thai Government does not munity to fight against all forms of terror. tolerate extrajudicial killings and assured The President also expressed appreciation President Bush that all allegations regarding for the close U.S.-Thai partnership on killings are being investigated thoroughly. counterterrorism. President Bush and President Bush and Prime Minister Prime Minister Thaksin discussed recent Thaksin celebrated the long U.S.-Thai part- developments in the war on terror in Southeast Asia, welcoming the enhanced nership on a wide variety of tropical and cooperation among ASEAN nations that has infectious diseases, including HIV/AIDs, helped disrupt terror plots and apprehend and agreed to strengthen that cooperation members of the Jemaah Islamiyah (JI) ter- to combat new threats, such as Severe rorist network. While noting that substantial Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). The progress has been made in eliminating ter- President commended Thailand’s leadership rorist threats from the region, the two lead- in hosting the ASEAN and China Summit ers agreed that the war on terror is far on SARS and offered continued U.S. sup- from over. The President and the Prime port and assistance. Prime Minister Thaksin Minister agreed on the need to further informed the President about his goals for strengthen bilateral and multilateral co- the Asian Cooperative Dialogue (ACD), operation to combat terrorism and looked noting his hope that it would help strength- forward to the upcoming APEC Leaders’ en regional cooperation across a range of Meeting in Bangkok as an important oppor- fields. tunity to advance important President Bush and Prime Minister counterterrorism objectives. The President Thaksin celebrated the robust economic praised Thailand for joining the Container ties between the United States and Thai- Security Initiative (CSI), designed to en- land and emphasized a desire to expand hance the protection of shipping against ex- trade and investment ties even further, as ploitation by terrorists, and welcomed the called for in the bilateral Trade and Invest- plan for Minister of Foreign Affairs ment Framework Agreement (TIFA). The Surakiart Sathirathai and Secretary of leaders expressed interest in moving for- Homeland Security Tom Ridge to sign the ward under the auspices of the President’s Declaration of Principles in Washington. Enterprise for ASEAN Initiative (EAI), The two leaders recognized the long, which sets forth a road map to promote successful history of cooperation between investment, growth, and free trade between the United States and Thailand on law en- the United States and ASEAN countries.

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The President and the Prime Minister com- The President congratulated Prime Min- mitted to making tangible progress on exist- ister Thaksin on his leadership of APEC ing commitments under the TIFA, includ- in 2003. The two leaders affirmed their ing in the areas of intellectual property commitment to making tangible progress in rights, investment, and customs, as a nec- APEC on both trade and investment liber- essary first step towards a possible free alization and counterterrorism objectives. trade agreement. Both leaders also com- The President looked forward to his State mitted to work together in the World Trade visit to Thailand before the APEC Eco- Organization’s Doha Development Agenda nomic Leaders’ Meeting and expressed ap- negotiations, emphasizing that progress on preciation for the gracious invitation of His agriculture will be key to a successful con- Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej to visit clusion of the Doha negotiations. Thailand. Prime Minister Thaksin expressed Both sides recognized that Life Sciences appreciation for the excellent arrangements will be one of the leading industry sectors being made for the forthcoming visit by in the new century, promising significant His Royal Highness Crown Prince human benefits and economic growth. In Vajiralongkorn to Washington. The leaders that regard, Thailand welcomed the U.S. agreed that these visits would further initiative to establish the Life Sciences In- strengthen the already warm friendship be- novation Forum under APEC. The Prime tween their two governments and between Minister expressed hope that such mutual the American and Thai peoples. cooperation would advance Thailand’s efforts to become a world class center for NOTE: An original was not available for research and development in Life Sciences verification of the content of this joint state- and related health fields. ment.

Remarks to Senior Citizens in New Britain, Connecticut June 12, 2003

Thanks for the warm welcome. I really stan and Iraq, there is still an enemy who want to thank the good folks of the New lurks, who hates America because of what Britain General Hospital for putting up we stand for. And we stand for freedom. with me and the entourage. [Laughter] But That’s what we believe. We believe in free- thanks for letting me come to talk about dom to worship, freedom to speak, freedom some important issues facing America. to succeed. And those freedoms are dear I’m on my way to Maine, where I’m to our heart. going to spend the weekend with one of And people don’t like the fact that we my favorite seniors. [Laughter] He is turn- stand for freedom and promote freedom. ing 79 today. I’m not going to tell you And therefore, they’re out there. But we’ll how old my mother is, because I want to find them, and we’ll bring them to justice. have a place to sleep. [Laughter] There’s no greater job for an administration Thanks for giving me a chance to come than to protect the security of the Amer- down. We face big challenges in this coun- ican people. And that’s precisely what this try. We’ve still got a challenge of making administration will continue to do. sure the Nation is secure and the world And we have got a challenge when it is more peaceful. Even though we’ve been comes to quality health care for our seniors. successful in two major battles in Afghani- We face a challenge because many seniors

628 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 12 face the high cost of prescription drugs. counseling services. She takes time out of It’s a challenge we’ve got to deal with here. her life to try to make somebody else’s Today I’m going to act on how to speed life better. That’s the strength of America. up the approval of generic drugs, to make It’s the willingness of people to serve some- sure that prescriptions are more affordable thing greater than yourself, to love a neigh- for all Americans, particularly our seniors. bor just like you’d like to be loved yourself. We also face a challenge because the So Ruth, I want to thank you and thank Medicare system is antiquated. Medicine is all who volunteer to make their commu- modernizing, and Medicare isn’t. And that’s nities a better place. And thank you for not right for our seniors. And so I’ve come coming. Where are you, Ruth? Oh, there here today to remind Congress that Con- you are. Stand up, Ruth. Thank you. Thank gress has an obligation and a responsibility you very much. to meet the needs of our seniors and to Our health care system is the best in make sure that Medicare is modern. the world, and we need to keep it that And there’s no more strong advocate for way. We’re great because we’ve got great making sure Medicare meets its promises docs. We’re great because we’ve got unbe- than Nancy Johnson. She is a tireless advo- lievable research; new technologies literally cate for quality health care all across Amer- save lives on a daily basis. I mean, we’re ica. And I want to thank her for her leader- really good at health care. But we’ve got ship. And I want to thank her for her problems we’ve got to deal with. friendship. And I want to thank her for And one of the problems is the cost of her introduction. prescription drugs. We live in an age of I was a Governor once, so I got to know miracle drugs. Millions of our citizens have the Governors—the Nation’s Governors. found healing and hope from medicines And the State of Connecticut has got a that were discovered and created in this great Governor in John Rowland. He’s been country, and it’s—but the treatment, the dealt a pretty tough hand this last year, use of drugs, has replaced major surgeries but he’s playing it like a pro. And the citi- as well. Treatment is changing. And this zens of this State are fortunate to have has been a blessing. It’s been a blessing him here. for a lot of seniors who are living longer I want to thank the mayors who are here. and better lives. But the challenge for The best politics, of course, is local politics. America is to make sure that lifesaving I want to thank you all for coming. I appre- drugs are both affordable and available to ciate you taking your time out of your day America’s seniors. for coming. Now, one way to make prescriptions I met Ruth Campanario when I got off more affordable is to ensure that generic the chopper. And you probably say, why drugs are not delayed in reaching the mar- would you mention her? Well, there’s a ket, are not delayed for consumers to be lot of focus on the great strength of Amer- able to purchase. In our system, when a ica these days. They talk about our military drug company develops a new medicine, might, and we’re plenty tough if we have the company is given a patent. And patents to be. They talk about our muscle, but the ensure that investment and innovation are true strength of the country is the heart rewarded, so we continue to get additional of the country because of the compassion lifesaving drugs as new discoveries are of the citizens who live here. made. It makes sense to have a system And Ruth is a volunteer; she volunteers that protects investment for a while. at the Friendship Service Center. It’s a Yet when a patent expires, other compa- local shelter that offers emergency and nies have the right to make a safe, lower transitional housing and job training and cost genetic version of the drug. However,

629 June 12 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 the system a lot of time doesn’t work be- prescription drug benefits. Every Federal cause the original inventor of the drug uses employee—including every Member of delaying tactics to avoid competition. They Congress—gets to choose the health cov- delay the process of patent expiration so erage that best fits their needs. If it’s good that consumers don’t have additional enough for the employees and the Mem- choices of generic drugs. bers of Congress to have choice, it’s good At my direction, today the Federal Drug enough for our seniors to have choice when Administration, the FDA, is taking action it comes to health care plans as well. to close loopholes that slow the movement And so here are the choices available. of generic drugs to the marketplace. First, If a senior wants to stay in the current we are limiting the amount of time that Medicare system, they should have that op- a drug company can delay the marketing tion. And that option should include a pre- of a generic competitor. Instead of letting scription drug benefit. If seniors want to them file one delay after another, the Gov- have enhanced benefits, such as more cov- ernment will allow a single 30-month stay erage for preventative care and other serv- while legal complexities are sorted out. In ices, they ought to have that choice as well. other words, the initial manufacturer of a And finally, seniors who like the afford- drug will not be allowed to use the legal ability of managed care plans should be process for endless delay, which hurts our able to enroll in managed care plans. They consumers in America. Secondly, we are shouldn’t be starved to death so seniors no longer allowing drug companies to block don’t have that option. And low income generics because of patents on minor fea- seniors should receive extra help in meeting tures, such as the color of the pill bottle whatever plan—the premiums of whatever or some combination of ingredients not re- plan they choose so that all seniors will lated to the effectiveness of the medicines. have the ability to choose a Medicare op- Thirdly, we are tightening the overall rules tion that includes the prescription drug on patent applications so that false state- benefit. ments to get a patent result in criminal These are the principles on the legisla- charges. tion that Nancy and I are working on. And By taking these actions, we will bring these are the principles that we believe will generic drugs to the market much more be incorporated in the bill, so long as you quickly—in some cases, years earlier. And let your Senators and others know that this should save the American consumers you’re interested in reform, that you want about $3.5 billion each year—savings that a modern Medicare system. will go, of course, to the consumers, to Sandra Sorensen—I just met with some our seniors, or to Medicaid programs ad- of your fellow citizens from the area, all ministered by the State, or to employer of whom are seniors. I listened to their health plans. stories. Let me share some of the stories The Senate is looking to write these re- with you. Sandra Sorensen is here. She is forms that we’re now implementing to ex- on a Connecticut special program called ecutive action in the law. And I support ConnPACE, a program that, Johnny, you their efforts. I want to work with both the probably helped design. It helps her on House and the Senate on this legislation her prescription drugs. to make certain that prescription drugs are The problem is, is that she wants to more affordable to the American people. move up to be with her daughter in New And then we’ve got to deal with the issue Hampshire. Her daughter is worried about of accessibility for our seniors. People on her at times, I guess is the right thing to Medicaid, Medicare need to have a choice say, Sandra, kind of worried about you. She of affordable plans, all of which provide wants you to make sure that, you know,

630 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 12 that you’re well taken care of. She wants There’s story after story after story all to be close by. The problem is, if she goes across America about people wondering to New Hampshire, she loses ConnPACE, whether or not they can afford lifesaving which means she won’t have the medicines drugs in their later years. And the Congress necessary to take care of her current ail- must act. That’s what the Congress must ments. We need to reform Medicare to do. The Congress must understand we’ve make sure people have got the capacity to got a problem with Medicare. They should go from one State to the other without not politicize the issue. They ought to focus losing prescription drugs. on what’s best for our fellow Americans The Rowlands are with us today, Ralph and get a package done. And the House and Bernice. They were quite outspoken needs to get it done, and the Senate needs about the need to make sure the Medicare to get it done prior to the Fourth of July system works properly. Ralph was won- break. dering out loud, ‘‘How come Medicare One of the important parts of a good doesn’t try to prevent disease before it hap- health care system is the relationship be- pens?’’ That seems to make sense. [Laugh- tween patient and doctor. And any good ter] It doesn’t. They pay now about $200 health care policy must recognize that rela- a month, and what they’re worried about tionship. But we’ve got a problem in Amer- is increasing drug costs will make it very ica that is affecting the relationship be- difficult for them to live out their older tween patient and doctor, and that is we years. got a medical liability system that is out The Humphreys are with us as well. of control. If we want affordable health Ginny spent her time working in the Con- care and available health care, we got to necticut health care system. She knows a make sure that junk lawsuits don’t run docs lot about health care. She claims she had out of business and run the cost of medi- a stroke; it’s certainly hard to tell it. She’s cine up so high that people can’t afford very articulate. But she understands—and medicine. she likes Medicare+Choice, but she sees And it’s an issue—it’s a real issue all that Medicare+Choice is slowly getting across America. And if people in America starved in the budgets of the Federal Gov- don’t think their bills are being affected ernment. The plan also doesn’t have a drug by these frivolous lawsuits, then they don’t coverage. They spend about $1,000 each really understand the system, in my judg- month on a variety of medicines. They ment. The cost drivers are high. Not only need a modern Medicare system so they are docs having to pay higher and higher can live out the rest of their years in com- premiums—I suspect we’d find some pretty fort. good testimony right here. I heard it yester- Lois Splain is here with us. She likes day from a baby doc in Chicago whose Medicare. She likes being able to choose premiums, annual premiums are $170,000 her doctor without a referral. But she a year. He anticipates they’ll go up 40 per- needs coverage for prescription drugs. cent next year, and he’s never been sued. Hilda Gandara is here from—Cuban Amer- The other cost driver is preventative ican is with us. And she is—lives in West medicine. If there’s a—if people are filing Hartford. Unfortunately, she lost her hus- lawsuits right and left in our society, which band recently. She’s on her own, like a they are, it’s natural that a doctor or a lot of seniors are. Her costs are—drug costs hospital will want to practice more medi- are about $700 a year. She’s worried about cine than is necessary to be able to defend whether or not she can afford prescription themselves in case they end up in a court drugs. of law. And that’s expensive.

631 June 12 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

This is a Federal issue, in my judgment, I believe we can get things done in because of the costs of litigation—how it Washington, DC, if we remember whose affects the Federal budget. It affects the time we’re on. We’re on the people’s time cost of Medicare. Lawsuits affect the cost in the Nation’s Capital. We spend—we’re of Medicaid. It affects the cost of veterans’ there to get the job done. By working to- health care. It is a national issue that re- gether, we can make sure this country is quires a national solution. And that national more secure and, I believe, the world more solution says people ought to have their peaceful. And by working together, we can day in court. But junk lawsuits make it make sure that our folks have got economic harder for somebody who’s actually been security and, as importantly, health security. hurt to have their day in court. It also I want to thank you for giving me the recognizes bad doctors need to be pun- chance to come today to talk about an ex- ished, something good doctors fully sub- citing opportunity for those of us who are scribe to. It recognizes that people ought honored to serve the American people— to be able to recover their economic dam- the opportunity to bring Medicare into the ages, but there needs to be a hard cap 21st century, so we can look our seniors of $250,000 on non-economic damages. in the eye and say we were called to solve And we need to make sure that we have a problem, and by working together, we a reasonable cap on punitive damages. were able to solve that problem, not only This is a necessary part of health care for this generation but for future genera- reform. It is necessary to keep docs in busi- tions to come. ness. It is necessary to keep consumers in Thanks for your time. May God bless a position where they can have affordable you. May God continue to bless America. and available health care. The House has passed the bill. The Senate needs to pass the bill. And if you’re interested in medical NOTE: The President spoke at 1:03 p.m. in liability reform, you ought to contact the the cafeteria at New Britain General Hos- United States Senators from the State in pital. In his remarks, he referred to Rep- which you live and let them know your resentative Nancy L. Johnson of Con- opinion. necticut.

Statement on the Death of David Brinkley June 12, 2003

David Brinkley was a pioneer of broad- that spanned more than a half century. cast journalism. He was respected for his Laura joins me in offering our heartfelt integrity, admired for his candor and wit, condolences to Susan and the entire and distinguished by an exceptional career Brinkley family.

632 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 13

Message to the Congress Transmitting a Report on Administration of the Coastal Zone Management Act June 12, 2003

To the Congress of the United States: The report provides an overview of the I am pleased to transmit the Biennial Coastal Zone Management Act and de- Report to Congress on the Administration scribes progress in addressing the major of the Coastal Zone Management Act by goals of the Act; partnerships to enhance the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource coastal and ocean management; and re- Management, National Ocean Service, Na- search, education, and technical assistance. tional Oceanic and Atmospheric Adminis- tration for fiscal years 2000 and 2001. This GEORGE W. BUSH report is submitted as required by section 316 of the Coastal Zone Management Act The White House, of 1972, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1451, et seq.). June 12, 2003.

Message to the Congress Transmitting a Report on Federal Drug and Substance Abuse Programs June 12, 2003

To the Congress of the United States: ventory of all such programs, indicating the Consistent with section 2202 of Public legal authority for each program and the Law 107–273, I hereby transmit a report amount of funding in the last 2 fiscal years. prepared by my Administration detailing the findings of a comprehensive review of GEORGE W. BUSH all Federal drug and substance abuse treatment, prevention, education, and research The White House, programs. The report also presents an in- June 12, 2003.

Letter to Congressional Leaders Transmitting a Report on Iraq June 13, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. President:) under section 7 of the Iraq Liberation Act Consistent with the Authorization for of 1998 (Public Law 105–338). Use of Military Force Against Iraq Resolu- Sincerely, tion of 2002 (Public Law 107–243), the Au- thorization for the Use of Force Against GEORGE W. BUSH Iraq Resolution (Public Law 102–1), and in order to keep the Congress fully in- NOTE: Identical letters were sent to J. formed, I am providing a report prepared Dennis Hastert, Speaker of the House of by my Administration. This report includes Representatives, and Richard B. Cheney, matters relating to post-liberation Iraq President of the Senate. An original was not

633 June 13 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 available for verification of the content of this letter.

The President’s Radio Address June 14, 2003

Good morning. June 14th is Flag Day, tunity to honor the flag and to thank the which commemorates the date in 1777 men and women who serve our country when the Continental Congress officially in uniform. As they continue to fight the made the Stars and Stripes the symbol of war on terror in lands far from home, our America. The Founders declared that the troops rely on the support of their fellow 13 stars gracing the original flag rep- citizens. I urge all Americans to participate resented ‘‘a new constellation,’’ just as in Flag Day celebrations honoring Amer- America represented a new hope and a new ican Armed Forces and recognizing our vet- light for mankind. erans. Over the past 226 years, our flag has Our Nation is strengthened every time been a symbol of freedom wherever it flies. a citizen steps forward to serve a cause It inspires hope in people suffering under greater than self-interest. And each of us tyranny or terror. It welcomes immigrants can serve and strengthen America by reach- from every land searching for a better life, ing out to neighbors in need. There are and it rallies our Nation in times of conflict so many ways to improve the lives of fellow and crisis. Americans, by answering the call to feed Whenever the flag is raised, Americans the hungry or caring for the elderly or are reminded of our unity in the great teaching a child to read or joining with cause of liberty and justice for all. Our neighbors to support the police, fire fight- Nation’s flag is hung proudly in homes and ers, and medics who respond to emer- schools, honored in parades and stadiums, gencies. Every action you take will flown on the field of battle, and folded strengthen the bonds of community that at the graves of heroes. unite all Americans and extend the promise When Francis Scott Key saw the Stars of American life to another citizen. and Stripes flying over Fort McHenry in Between now and the Fourth of July, 1814, he knew that liberty would persevere. Americans will reflect often on the founda- That same faith was affirmed by marines tions of our freedom. Our country’s found- who planted the flag at Iwo Jima and by ing generation established liberty and jus- the heroes of 9/11 who raised and saluted tice on this continent more than two cen- the flag at Ground Zero. turies ago, and every generation is expected By showing respect for our flag, we show to protect and defend those ideals. Our reverence for the ideals that guide our Na- duty as Americans is to serve our country, tion. And we show appreciation for the to defend the cause of liberty, and to ex- men and women who have served and sac- tend the realm of freedom across the rificed in defense of those ideals, from the Earth. Our generation can proudly say that early patriots of the Continental Congress we are answering that call. to the members of our military defending Thank you for listening. freedom around the world today. This weekend, in communities across the NOTE: The address was recorded at 10:05 Nation, Americans will have the oppor- a.m. on June 12 in the Cabinet Room at the

634 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 15

White House for broadcast at 10:06 a.m. on also released a Spanish language transcript June 14. The transcript was made available of this address. The Flag Day and National by the Office of the Press Secretary on June Flag Week proclamation of June 6 is listed 13 but was embargoed for release until the in Appendix D at the end of this volume. broadcast. The Office of the Press Secretary

Exchange With Reporters in Kennebunkport, Maine June 15, 2003

The President. Good morning. The President. I’ll let you know if we Q. How are you? decide to. Of course, we just got out— The President. Good. Ambassador Wolf * is there now, and he’s Q. Do you want to visit a bit? working the process. The President. Sure. Q. Are you willing to give money or arms to the Palestinian Authority to help them out with Hamas—— Situation in the Middle East The President. We would like for the Pal- Q. What’s your assessment of things in estinian Authority to set up a security force the Middle East? under Mr. Dahlan that will do the job that The President. My assessment is, is that Prime Minister Abbas assured me that there are people that want peace to go they’re interested in doing, which is to de- forward, and there are people that don’t. feat those terrorists who will do everything And for those of us who want peace to they can to deny the establishment of a go forward, we must combine our efforts peaceful Palestinian state. And a peaceful to prevent people like Hamas from sabo- Palestinian state is in the interests of the taging peace. Palestinian people. I’m confident we can achieve peace. It’s Q. [Inaudible]—have enough arms, going to be a tough road, but I am deter- enough money? mined to continue to lend the weight of The President. We are in the process of this Government to advance peace. helping them implement a strategy which Q. Sir, why haven’t you called Prime is—was described to us in Aqaba as to how Minister Sharon and Abbas? the Palestinian Authority want to reconsti- The President. We’re in touch with the tute a security force in order to make sure Governments. We’re in contact with the Israeli Government as well as the Pales- the terrorists, the haters of peace, those tinian Authority. The message is clear: who can’t stand freedom, do not have their Prime Minister Abbas wants peace; Prime way in the Middle East. Minister Sharon wants peace; America I believe peace is possible, and I believe wants peace; the European Union wants we’ve got a lot of work to do to get there. peace. But there are clearly killers who Q. Do see a break in the violence right don’t. And for those of us who are inter- not, in the last several days? ested in moving the process forward, we The President. It seems like it, but you must combine our efforts to cut off all know—but until these people are brought money, support for anybody who tries to to justice, those who are killing people in sabotage the peace process. Q. Will you send Dr. Rice to the region? * White House correction.

635 June 15 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

order to deny the establishment of a Pales- state. That’s what they can’t stand. And the tinian state, there will be violence. And so objective of this Government and my objec- the mission of the free world, those who tive as the President is to move the process care for peace, is to deny the people like forward so a state is established. It will Hamas the ability to destroy and to kill. be a peaceful state, a free state, a pros- And I believe that the agents of peace, perous state, so people have hope. And in the people who love, those who care about the meantime, before that state is estab- a decent future for the suffering Palestinian lished, it is clear that the free world, those people, and those who live in Israel, will who love freedom and peace, must deal prevail. But it’s going to take a lot of work. harshly with Hamas and the killers. And Listen, have a wonderful Father’s Day. that’s just the way it is in the Middle East. Iran But we’ve laid out the way forward, and I intend to keep the process moving. And Q. ——think of the unrest in Iran? I believe we can have a peaceful Palestinian The President. I think that freedom is state living side by side with the Israelis. a powerful incentive. And I am—I believe Have a great Father’s Day. We’ll be out that someday freedom will prevail every- there catching fish. where, because freedom is a powerful drive for people to—and it’s the beginnings of people expressing themselves toward a free NOTE: The exchange began at 9:50 a.m. out- Iran, which I think is positive. side Cape Arundel Church. In his remarks, the President referred to Prime Minister Hamas Ariel Sharon of Israel; Prime Minister Q. Sir, have the Israelis been justified Mahmoud Abbas (Abu Mazen) and Minister in going after Hamas—— of State for Security Affairs Mohammed The President. Wait for us to succeed Dahlan of the Palestinian Authority; and As- peace. Wait for us to have two states, side sistant Secretary of State for Nonprolifera- by side—is for everybody coming together tion John S. Wolf. A tape was not available to deny the killers the opportunity to de- for verification of the content of this ex- stroy. And that’s what they want to do. change. The Father’s Day proclamation of There are people in the Middle East who June 13 is listed in Appendix D at the end hate the thought of a peaceful Palestinian of this volume.

Remarks to the Business Community in Elizabeth, New Jersey June 16, 2003

Thanks for the warm New Jersey wel- I just came from Orange, New Jersey, come. Thanks for giving me a chance to and—went by the Andrea Foods pasta fac- come by and share some thoughts with you tory. That’s you. The Savignanos and the about the challenges that this country faces. Wilkinsons were there, Rose Marie and Mi- First, I’ll tell you it was good to be with chael. They’re the sons and daughters of my dad over Father’s Day. I hope you all Andrea and Dora, who started the business. had a good Father’s Day as well. Spent It’s so refreshing to see the American a lot of time fishing together and caught Dream alive and well, just like it is at An- a few fish. [Laughter] But thanks for letting drea Foods. me come by.

636 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 16

I was struck by the diversity of Orange, plan because they’re married, because they New Jersey. I saw a lot of different nation- pay taxes, and because they have children. alities as I drove through. It reminded me And I met the Memmelaars, father and of a couple of things about our country, son, of Royal Master Grinder, a small busi- one, that we are the land of opportunity ness company right here in this part of and the land of hope, and we will keep the world. I met Pat Mulhern of Mulhern it that way. We’re also a—part of being Belting * Company. We sat around the a land of opportunity means that we must table, and I listened to the concerns of continue to foster what I call the ownership both taxpayer employee as well as small- society, to encourage value and honor, own- business owner. And the concerns are ing—people owning their own business or great, but the concerns can be solved. owning their own home, maybe someday Probably the greatest concern about owning their own pension plan in the Social making sure that—that our country is con- Security system, having the right to make fident and optimistic is to make sure the choices in the health care sector. This thing country is secure. People want to have a that makes America strong and unique is secure environment in which to risk capital. not only are we a hopeful land and a di- And therefore, our biggest challenge, or verse land, but we’re a land that honors one of the biggest challenges, is to make ownership. sure that we continue to fight and win the Today I want to talk about the impor- war on terror. tance of small businesses. I want to herald In Washington, DC, and at the State the entrepreneurs. I want to say thanks to level and at the local level, we all have those who have taken risk. And I want to what I call a charge to keep, which is to remind our fellow citizens that in order do everything we can to protect the Amer- for our economy to recover, we must re- ican homeland. And that only—not only member the strength and the importance means making sure that we cooperate bet- of the small-business owner in America. ter at the Federal, State, and local level So I want to thank all the small-business and do a better job with our borders and owners who are here today. Thank you for our ports to communicate better, but it also taking risk. Thank you for employing a lot means that we’ve got to stay on the offen- of our fellow Americans. I want to thank sive. The best way to protect the homeland the associations who helped put this event is to hunt the killers down, one at a time, together. and bring them to justice, which is what I want to thank Hector Barreto, who is America will do. the Administrator of the Small Business On September the 11th, our country was Administration. I want to thank him for shocked—this part of the world was par- his kind introduction. I want to thank him ticularly shocked—at the violence, the sud- for his work in helping to create an envi- den violence done. We were shocked into ronment in which people from all walks recognizing that oceans can no longer proof life are willing to risk capital to own tect us from harm, and therefore we have their own business. the serious charge to keep. I want to thank the mayors who are join- And we acted. This Nation acted because ing us today. I want to thank the folks this Nation will not be intimidated. This that I had a chance to visit with at Andrea Nation will not be blackmailed by terror. Foods. I visited with entrepreneurs, visited This Nation will do what it takes to defend with taxpayers; I mentioned Michael and something we hold dear to our hearts, and Rose Marie. I also talked to John Cicero that is our freedom. And we acted. We and the Harveys, Paul and Lisa. These are people who will benefit from the tax relief * White House correction.

637 June 16 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 acted on a doctrine that says, ‘‘We will deal with an economic slowdown is to let bring you to justice because of what you people have more of their own money, is did to the American citizens. And if, by let people spend their own money, increase the way, if you harbor a killer, if you feed demand for goods and services, which is a killer, if you hide a killer, you’re just exactly what we did. And we had one of as guilty as the killer.’’ We acted, and the the shallowest recessions in our Nation’s Taliban no longer is in power in Afghani- history as a result of the tax relief plan. stan, which is not only good for the security But then the terrorists hit us. September of the free world; it is incredibly good for the 11th was a shock not only to our na- the people who suffered in Afghanistan tional conscious; it hurt our economy. And under barbaric rule. we began to get our bearings and get our This Nation acted to a threat from the feet on the ground, and then another shock dictator of Iraq. Now, there are some who happened to America. We discovered that would like to rewrite history; revisionist his- some of our corporate citizens forgot what torians is what I like to call them. Saddam it meant to be a responsible leader. Some Hussein was a threat to America and the of our corporate leaders didn’t tell the free world in ’91, in ’98, in 2003. He con- truth, tried to fudge the facts, weren’t hon- tinually ignored the demands of the free est with the shareholders and their employ- world, so the United States and friends and ees. And that hurt the confidence of our allies acted. And one thing is for certain— economy. By the way, they will pay a price and this is for certain: Saddam Hussein is for not telling the truth. no longer a threat to the United States But we needed more action, so I went and our friends and allies. in front of the Congress this year and I We’ve got a lot of brave troops still on said, ‘‘Let’s come together. Let’s set aside the move, still looking for terrorists. We’re all the party politics and partisan bickering cooperating with our friends and allies. and remember why we’re in Washington We’re sharing intelligence. We’re running in the first place. We’re there to do what’s down their money trails. But one thing is right for the American people. We must certain for the American people to know, care about how to help somebody find that this Government will use whatever work. That’s what we ought to be focused technologies and skill is necessary to secure on, not partisanship but what’s right for America by hunting down those who would the American people.’’ And thankfully, harm us, one person at a time. It is a enough of us got together and passed a charge we have been given, and it is a tax relief plan that will allow the American charge we will keep. people to have more money in their pocket, We also had to deal with an economy that will encourage businesses to make which was not as strong as it was—that more investment, and that says to investors, we wanted it to be. My attitude is, if some- ‘‘We want you to invest more.’’ body is looking for work and they can’t The tax relief proposal was based on a find a job, we got an issue. And therefore, simple principle. It starts with, the money we acted. I went in front of the United we spend in Washington is not the Govern- States Congress when I first got elected ment’s money; it’s the people’s money. And and said, ‘‘This Nation is—looks like it’s when you’ve got additional money in your in recession. We need to let people have pocket, you’re going to demand a good or more of their own money in order to stall a service. And when you demand a good off the recession.’’ or a service in this economy, somebody is You see, when the economy is grinding going to meet that demand. Somebody will down, when it’s not as strong as it should produce the good or a service. And when be, when demand is lax, the best way to that happens, somebody is more likely to

638 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 16

find work. That’s the basis of the tax relief you can get a better return on dollars plan, the jobs-and-growth package that I spent. proposed and that was passed. These good folks at Andrea make 1,200 And here’s what was accomplished. pounds of pasta every minute. I saw a lot We’ve lowered taxes all across the board, of calories grinding through. [Laughter] so that people have more take-home pay. Yet, Rose Marie and Michael are not satis- And that’s important, not only for the indi- fied with the production level of their com- vidual consumer and the taxpayer, but pany. They want to expand. They want to that’s equally important for small busi- make more jobs available in the neighbor- nesses. And the reason it’s important for hood in which they work. They want to small business is most small businesses are be able to compete better. And so they’re Subchapter S or sole proprietorships, which now contemplating a new—buying a new means they pay taxes at the individual level. pasta cooker and a new flash freezer, which So when you hear me talk about reducing will expand their production by 50 percent. individual tax rates, the American people They took a look at the tax relief plan; have got to understand that means capital they calculated the benefits; they said, ‘‘It infusion into the small businesses of Amer- makes sense for us to buy new machinery ica, which means somebody is more likely so that we can expand.’’ to find work when small businesses have And that’s really important. It’s not only more money to invest and more money to important for their business. It’s likely that spend. if this—if all goes well, they’ll add 20 more The child tax credit has been expanded employees. But it’s pretty darn important from $1,000—to $1,000 from $600, and the for the person who’s going to manufacture $400 differential will be in the mail by July. their machine and sell it to them. In other I was going to say, ‘‘Check’s in the mail.’’ words, their decision has more to—has [Laughter] Better be in the mail. [Laugh- much more to do than just inside their ter] Somebody might be looking for work own business. Their decision affects other in Washington. [Laughter] people as well, and that’s why this part We reduced the marriage penalty, which of the law is so important. helps a million New Jersey couples. We And so when Michael turns around and have cut the top rate of taxes of dividends orders a pasta cooker, he may talk to John and capital gains to 15 percent. Small busi- at MBC Food and Machinery in Hacken- nesses under the bill that I signed can de- sack, New Jersey. After all, they’ve been duct up to $100,000—up from $25,000— doing business with each other for quite in new equipment from their taxes. And a while. At least their dads have been doing if they invest more than $100,000, they business with each other for quite a while. qualify for a 50-percent bonus depreciation They’ve had a history of working together. that further reduces the cost of investment. But would—John has seven employees These are important incentives for eco- busy on the—would keep seven more em- nomic vitality and growth. These are so im- ployees busy if this machine order comes portant that people like Andrea Foods is in. And he’s excited about it, obviously. now contemplating new capital investment. He’s hoping Michael makes the right deci- They’re contemplating buying new ma- sion. [Laughter] Maybe we can arrange a chines that will make their business more contract right here. [Laughter] productive. Productivity is an important But it all happened as a result for Con- part of any small business. It enables you gress coming together and asking the fun- to better compete. It means it’s more likely damental questions, ‘‘How do we get this you’ll have a stable workforce. It means economy going again? What can we do

639 June 16 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 that’s wise enough to encourage invest- I’m concerned about the fact that we ment, particularly at the small-business don’t have a national energy policy. You level?’’ The ability to expense capital dollars know, this country has made a wise deci- more quickly for small businesses and in sion to protect our air and water, and that’s greater amounts for small businesses is an good. In order to protect our air, many incredibly important part of economic of the powerplants have switched to natural growth because small businesses provide gas. Natural gas is a clean-burning fuel. most of the new jobs created in America. The problem is, we don’t have a policy And that was the common story I heard that encourages the exploration for natural this morning by the small-business owners, gas. So demand is going up for natural ‘‘We intend to take advantage of the smart gas, and supply isn’t. And that’s why you’re things you did in the Tax Code in order seeing the price rise. to increase employment and to make sure We need commonsense energy policy in our businesses are more productive.’’ America. We need an energy policy that We’ve also got other problems that we makes us less dependent on foreign sources need to deal with here in America to make of energy, and we need an energy policy sure our small businesses grow. One of that uses our technologies in such a way those problems is too many lawsuits. People that we can explore, in environmentally safe ways, for additional supplies of natural gas. are getting sued too often. We’ve had some When demand for a product goes up and abuse in the class action lawsuits, which supply doesn’t follow that demand, prices make life more expensive here in America. will rise. And I appreciate very much the House of The Congress must act. I have proposed Representatives dealing with this issue. And commonsense, reasonable energy policy for I strongly support the measures they took, America. The House has passed a bill. The the reform on class action, which makes Senate is debating the bill. For the sake the—easier for class action suits to end up of American consumers and small busi- in Federal court. This has got better re- nesses, we need a national energy policy. straint on the excesses that sometimes take I understand the cost of health insurance place as a result of class action lawsuits. to small businesses. I understand the need In other words, in order—if you get into for us to put good policy in place that Federal court, it makes it easier to stop doesn’t nationalize health care, that doesn’t lawyers from shopping around the country make the Federal Government the end-all looking for a favorable court. Because gen- for health care, but a policy that addresses erally what happens is, in a class action concerns. For example, health clinics for suit, the people who are suing get very the poor all across America are necessary little and the lawyers filing the suit get to take the strain off of small businesses a whole lot. And that doesn’t seem fair as well as community hospitals. We need to the Congress, and it doesn’t seem fair to have—associate health care plans to to me, and the Senate needs to act. allow small businesses to come together I’m concerned and mindful about what and pool risk, which will take the pressure paperwork and regulations do to small busi- of rising premiums. nesses. So I put out an Executive order We need to help our docs. If one of that requires all Federal regulatory agencies the things we need is accessible and afford- to minimize the burden on our small busi- able health care, it makes sense to push nesses. And I expect Hector to make sure for medical liability reform. We got too that the burden is minimized on the small many junk lawsuits that cause docs—in a businesses. If you’ve got an issue, e-mail litigious society, particularly for doctors, him. doctors and hospitals will practice what’s

640 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 16 called preventative medicine. They will do a plan that best meets their needs. Listen, tests—ask for tests, perform tests, just to if choice in health care is good enough protect themselves in a court of law. And for Members of the United States Congress that’s expensive, and that becomes expen- and their employees, it ought to be good sive for consumers. And then, of course, enough for the seniors of the United States these lawsuits will cause doctors’ premiums of America. to go up, and that causes the consumers We’ve got issues, but we’re going to deal to have to pay more. Or in some cases, with them. We’ve got challenges, but it causes doctors not to practice medicine. there’s no doubt in my mind we can over- It drives them out of business. If you’re come them. There’s been a lot of talk interested in having a health care system around the world about the muscle of the that is—provides affordable and accessible United States of America, and we’re pretty health care, you ought to join the efforts strong. But our military muscle is not the to have medical liability reform. true strength of America. I mean, there’s Now, when I came to Washington, DC, no question about it, we’ve got the capacity I took a look at the issue, and I said, well— to fight and win war and therefore make you know, having been a Governor, I said, the world more peaceful. There’s no ques- ‘‘Well, maybe these issues ought to be tion about it, because of our technologies solved at the State level.’’ Then I looked and the skill and bravery of our troops, at the impact on our budgets. Preventative we can now target the guilty and protect medicine and the high cost of litigation the innocent. But those who focus only on drives up the cost of Medicaid, drives up that don’t really understand America. The the cost of Medicare, drives up the cost strength of America is the heart of the of providing veterans with health care. American people. The strength of this I’ve come to the conclusion that all these lawsuits are a national issue and therefore country is the great compassion of the peo- require a national solution, and I’ve sent ple who live here. up an idea to the United States Congress Today when I got off the Air Force One, that says that people ought to have their I met Marisa Fountainhas. You probably day in court; bad docs certainly ought to never heard of Marisa. She is a graduate be punished; people ought to recover eco- of New Jersey Institute of Technology. But nomic damages, but there ought to be a the reason I bring her up is because she hard cap on noneconomic damages and volunteered at the St. John’s soup kitchen. there ought to be a reasonable cap on puni- She decided that a patriotic American is tive damages. In order to be able to get somebody who does more than just put a handle on the cost—rising cost of health their hand over their heart and pay taxes care, we ought to let our docs practice or—hopefully less taxes now—[laughter]— medicine without fear of a junk and frivo- but somebody who is willing to serve some- lous lawsuit. thing greater than themselves. Finally, when I get back to Washington At the same time, Scott Stevens was here in an hour, I’m going to start again there. You probably heard of old Scott. He working on the Medicare reform package. just happened to win the Stanley Cup. The I believe that this Nation can set aside the reason the two go together is because old-style politics and come together and Marisa was recognized by the New Jersey make sure our seniors have got a health Devils Foundation for her desire to make care system that is modern, that includes a difference in somebody’s life and, there- prescription drugs, and that allows our sen- fore, was awarded a college scholarship. iors the same opportunity that Federal em- Marisa, thank you for coming. I’m glad ployees have, which is the ability to choose you’re here.

641 June 16 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

But Scott volunteers as well. He’s knock- just like they’d like to be loved themselves, ing heads on the ice, and then he’s trying and it happens every day in America. to save lives off the ice. [Laughter] He Thank you all for coming. May God bless volunteers at the School Assembly Program. you, and may God continue to bless Amer- In other words, he’s using his position to ica. make a difference in somebody’s life. There are people who hurt in America, people who wonder whether or not the NOTE: The President spoke at 11:47 a.m. in American Dream is meant for them, people the Grand Ballroom at the Wyndham New- who hear the word ‘‘entrepreneurship’’ and ark Airport Hotel. In his remarks, he referred not sure what the heck that means. Our to Rose Marie Wilkinson and Michael attitude—or my attitude is, so long as one Savignano, co-owners, Andrea Foods, and of us hurt, we all hurt. And therefore, we their parents, Andrea and Dora Savignano; have a responsibility as Americans to put John Cicero, machinist, MBC Food Machin- our arms around somebody who hurts. And ery; Paul Harvey, manager, Royal Master each of us can make a difference. The true Grinder, and his wife, Lisa; John strength of this country is the fact that Memmelaar, Sr., president and chief execu- there are millions of Marisas all across tive officer, and John Memmelaar, Jr., sales- America, who without a Government law person, Royal Master Grinder; Pat Mulhern, or without the President picking up the owner, Mulhern Belting, Inc.; former Presi- phone and saying, ‘‘Would you help some- dent Saddam Hussein of Iraq; Marisa body in need,’’ are doing it on their own. Fountainhas, New Jersey Nets and Devils And as a result, this society is and can Foundation scholarship recipient; and Scott and will continue to change, one heart, one Stevens, team captain, New Jersey Devils. soul, one conscience at a time, so that the The Office of the Press Secretary also re- bright lights of hope of this great country leased a Spanish language transcript of these will be able to shine in every neighborhood, remarks. The Father’s Day proclamation of in every part of our land. June 13 is listed in Appendix D at the end No, listen, we’re tough, which will make of this volume. The Executive order of Au- the world a more peaceful place and a gust 13, 2002, on proper consideration of more free place. But the true strength of small entities in agency rulemaking was pub- the country, the true strength of America, lished in the Federal Register at 67 F.R. happens when a neighbor loves a neighbor 53461.

Remarks at Northern Virginia Community College in Annandale, Virginia June 17, 2003

Thanks for the warm welcome. It’s a stage. And then the Northern Virginia pleasure to be here at Northern Virginia Community College wised up and invited Community College. I am not the first per- my mother—[laughter]—who gave the son named Bush to come to this place, graduation speech here. And as I explained at least not the first person from my family to the President, they’re now working their named Bush to come to this place. It turns way down the food chain. [Laughter] But out my dad was here. President Templin thanks for having me. was describing to me that he signed an I appreciate the opportunity to come and important piece of legislation here on this talk about the fantastic opportunities that

642 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 17 people can find in our community college the skills necessary to fill the jobs of the system across the country; about the idea 21st century. of the need to have flexibility to make sure I want to thank Elaine Chao for her serv- that training programs actually work to help ice to our country. She is a member of people for jobs that exist; to thank the my Cabinet. And she’s doing a really fine teachers not only here at this community job on behalf of the American people. And college but around our country for being I want to thank you, Elaine, for your serv- a part of a necessary and fine profession; ice. to tell the students there are better days I want to thank the attorney general of ahead when it comes for finding work. the State of Virginia for joining with us. And to thank the Congress—Congress- General Jerry Kilgore is with us. I appre- man Tom Davis is with us—and to thank ciate your concern; and I appreciate your Members of the Congress for coming to- interest; and thank you for coming. gether to pass a piece of legislation which I’ve already mentioned Tom Davis, and will encourage job growth in our economy. now I’ve mentioned him twice. We just As Elaine said, that I am concerned when had our discussion with people that—peo- I hear that anybody who wants to work ple who are either helping people find can’t find a job. And therefore, it was in- work, or people who needed to find work cumbent upon us, because too many of our and have found work, or people still looking to find work. fellow citizens were looking for work, to And I want to thank those roundtable figure out ways to create an environment participants. Yvonne Golden is with us. She in which people would be willing to risk is a lady who is working, got laid off, didn’t capital and expand the job base. quit, and is now an independent book- And we did that by passing a really im- keeper. I appreciate your willingness to portant piece of legislation. The jobs-and- never give up hope and to be willing to growth bill will pass back money to the retrain so that the skills that you have are people who sent the money to Washington honed to find—to find the work which ex- in the first place. And it will help with ists. a—it helps because when people have more Connie Mitchell is with us. She used to money in their pocket, they’re going to de- work at the postal service. She left, strug- mand an additional good or a service. And gled for a while, went to—is now a—wants we need an increased demand in a sluggish to become a nurse. It turns out, as Elaine economy. And when somebody demands an said, there’s a lot of people that are looking additional good or a service in our econ- for nurses, a lot of institutions looking for omy, somebody’s going to produce that nurses around America. Connie and Andrea good or a service. And when that happens, Weeks, who is with us as well—that’s her someone is likely to find work. little squirt making some noise over there. The jobs-and-growth bill came at the [Laughter] She’s a single mom, which right time, and I want to thank the Con- means she’s got the toughest job in Amer- gress for passing that bill. And as we ex- ica, being a single mom. Yet she hasn’t pand the number of jobs in our economy, given up hope. She’s here at Northern Vir- we better make sure that we have retrained ginia Community College. She wants to be people or trained people to fill those jobs. a nurse. To the extent possible, the com- And that’s what I want to talk about today. munity college is providing courses for And that’s why I’m grateful for President would-be nurses. Templin for opening up this hall for me The president explained to me there is to speak, because it’s here at our commu- a bottleneck when it comes to the training nity colleges that people are likely to find programs. We need to do something about

643 June 17 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 it. We need to make sure that when there’s where we made it clear that if you harbor demand for talent, people willing to acquire a terrorist, you’re just as guilty as the ter- the skills necessary to meet that demand, rorist. And the Taliban paid a price for that there is a smooth transition. And evi- harboring and training Al Qaida. And as dently there’s a bottleneck in our commu- a result of the actions of the United States nity college system, which I’ve asked Elaine and our coalition, the people of Afghanistan to look into and Congress must address are now free from the clutches of a bar- when it comes to providing flexibility for baric regime. And many young girls now worker trainer money—worker training go to school for the first time, thanks to money. the United States of America. Ralph Orlandella is with us. He was gain- And we acted in Iraq as well. We made fully employed. September the 11th of it clear to the dictator of Iraq that he must 2001 affected his employment picture; he disarm. We asked other nations to join us was laid off shortly thereafter. He went to in seeing to it that he would disarm. And a One-Stop program run by Dai Nguyen he chose not to do so, so we disarmed who is with us; he’s the program manager him. And I know there’s a lot of revisionist of the Falls Church SkillSource Center. He history now going on, but one thing is cer- walked in the place; he found help from tain: He is no longer a threat to the free one of Dai’s fellow workers. He’s now a world, and the people of Iraq are free. teacher at Hayfield Secondary School. He The world is still a dangerous place, but didn’t give up. He went for help; help was America will rise to the challenge. The se- available; the system worked. And now he’s curity of our country is of paramount im- practicing a noble profession. And I want portance. And no matter how long it takes, to thank you very much for doing that. And I want to thank Dai and his fellow no matter what the sacrifices may be, that coworkers for making the One-Stop worker the United States of America will fight for training center effective. After all, that’s freedom and will defend the security of what we’re interested in, is effective pro- our people. It is a charge that we have gramming and effective use of taxpayers’ been given, and it is a charge that we will money to help willing worker find a job keep. and to have relevant skills for the 21st cen- We’ve also got a challenge here at home tury. with our economy. As I mentioned to you, We faced challenges. The biggest chal- anytime anybody is looking for work, we’ve lenge we faced in order to get this econ- got an issue. And the tax relief plan is omy going was for people to have con- going to have a positive effect on the out- fidence in the future. And there had been look of the American investor and the some uncertainty. September the 11th cre- American consumer. After all, starting in ated a lot of uncertainty in America. After July, there will be checks sent to American all, it changed how we—our strategic out- families with children reflecting the dif- look. Oceans could no longer protect us ference between the $600 child credit from an enemy which hates what we stand today and the $1,000 child credit that the for. And we made a determination as a Congress passed into law, which I signed. country that no matter how long it took, As we say in America, the check is in the we would hunt down those who hate free- mail—[laughter]—soon. dom, the terrorists, and bring them to jus- The point is, people will have more tice, which is precisely what this country money in their pocket. And that’s impor- has done and will continue to do. tant. After all, it’s not the Government’s We have engaged in two major battles money we’re talking about. It’s your money. in the war on terror, one in Afghanistan, It’s the people’s money. And the Congress

644 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 17 did the right thing in passing back the peo- we can actually help the people we’re try- ple’s money. And in so doing and reducing ing to help?’’ individual rates, we also provided impetus In this current economy, in spite of slow for growth in the small-business sector of times, there are industries such as health America. After all, most small businesses care and high technology manufacturing are sole proprietorships or Subchapter S that are looking for well-trained employees. corporations, which means they pay tax at That’s a fact. The Department of Labor the individual income-tax rate. has got a program called High-Growth Job And when you reduce all rates on people Training Initiative. What that means is who pay taxes, you’re providing capital infu- we’re forming partnerships with businesses sion into the small-business sector of Amer- to train unemployed workers in the skills ica. And when you couple that with the— that are in demand. increasing the amount of money that can Connie Mitchell is a person who is in- be deducted for capital expenditures in the volved in one such program. As I men- year of expenses from $25,000 to $100,000, tioned to you, she lost her job. She was there is tremendous incentive for small- at Dulles Airport. And this year she applied business growth. And that’s vital, because to a job training program funded by the 75 percent of new jobs are created by the Hospital Corporation of America, which is small businesses of America. working in concert with the Department of Labor. If anybody here is from HCA, And the bill I signed is going to be posi- I want to thank you for being a good cor- tive for job growth. And that’s the whole porate citizen in America. I know you’re focus of the legislation, is how do we create working in your self-interests to find people the number of jobs around our country so to fill the slots you’re looking for, but it’s people can find work. And if one of those also helpful to team up with the Depart- jobs are created, we must have a system ment of Labor to provide a partnership to which trains people for the jobs which actu- help people find work—you’re pointing at ally exist. We invest $15 billion each year that; thank you. on job training and employment services, The program is paying for Connie’s class- which Americans can now access through es at Northern Virginia Community Col- the more than 1,900 One-Stop Career Cen- lege. She will have a job with HCA when ters around the country. And that’s positive. she graduates with her nursing degree. And That’s a consumer-oriented system where she said she will have a career with really we take the opportunities to people in good training and a really good income. 1,900 different places for people to go and And that’s important. We want Connies all get help. People can check job listings across the country to have the same experi- there. They can get help to prepare a re- ence that she has had. sume. And equally important, they can sign The administration is combining Federal up for job training programs. resources with private funding to support And we’re taking other measures to im- these kinds of job training partnerships, and prove people’s chances of finding work. we intend to expand them into new areas. First, we’re working to train Americans for Right now, Secretary Chao is developing jobs that exist—I’ve said that twice. That’s partnerships with companies in bio- not the way it used to be. It used to be, technology and information technology. ‘‘Are you training people?’’ And it didn’t And these industries are growing rapidly, matter what you were training people for; and as they do so, they need well-trained the question was, ‘‘Are you training peo- workers. And that’s our mission, is to help ple?’’ Now we’re asking the question, ‘‘Are more Americans to get the training nec- you training people for jobs that exist, so essary to qualify for the new jobs.

645 June 17 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

The second way we’re helping people ence in banking and accounting. She want- build careers is to direct aid for education ed to get extra training quickly to qualify at schools like this school right here. Com- for additional jobs. She knew what she munity colleges make it possible for people wanted to do, yet she had to wait a long to brush up on skills or to develop new time. The Personal Reemployment Account skills. I mean, this is a place where you would have given her monies to meet cer- can get—can take your talents and convert tain needs in order to get into the job them to meet the jobs of the 21st century. market a lot quicker, in order to get the And so, therefore, helping students attend training necessary to achieve her dream, community colleges like Northern Virginia which was to work and to get her own Community College is good for the stu- business going. dents; it’s good for the colleges; and it’s Now, these accounts are important ac- good for the economy. counts. I hope Congress takes them up More than 1.8 million community college soon. It is a way to help those who are students rely on Pell Grants to help pay supposedly tough to employ develop the for their education and training. Pell Grants skills necessary and to give them the flexi- are very important for the future of this bility necessary to meet their dreams. country. And therefore, I have asked for The idea of trusting people and giving more than $12.7 billion of Pell Grants in— people flexibility to become better prepared for the ’04 budget. This is a 45-percent for a—in a complex society makes eminent increase in funding since I took office. I’ve sense. That’s why I’ve asked Congress to asked for that increase so more benefit— provide $3.6 billion for this initiative. The students can benefit from the opportunities money would go to the States, and the made possible by Pell Grants. Third, I’m asking Congress to establish States would be able to set the criteria for what we call Personal Reemployment Ac- those who could qualify. And we believe counts for unemployed Americans. Ameri- that more than a million unemployed men cans who face the greatest difficulty finding and women across America would be work under this vision will receive up to helped by this amount of money. Congress $3,000 to use in their job search. Different needs to pass the proposal right away, be- workers have different needs, so the con- cause we’ve got people looking for work cept is to provide flexibility to help those who need help. workers meet those needs. A person will The other thing is that Elaine and I are be able to use the account for job training working with Congress to make sure that or for child care or for transportation or the monies we actually spend are used ef- money to help relocate to a city where fectively. Right now the Federal Govern- there is a job. If a worker finds a new ment funds adult employment and training job quickly, within 3-week—13-week pe- programs through three different sources, riod, he or she will be able to keep the all of which have got different rules and balance in the account as a reemployment regulations. These funding sources ought to bonus. be streamlined into one source and one The idea is to empower the person, not set of rules and regulations. And the States the system. The idea is to focus money ought to be given flexibility to expand serv- on each individual and to give that indi- ices for people looking for work. vidual the opportunity to use additional In other words, the system needs to be monies to help meet needs. simplified and focused on the consumer, Yvonne Golden, who I just talked about, who happens to be the person we’re trying is a person who could have benefitted from to help find a job. A complex system makes such a program. She had 20 years of experi- it much harder for people to succeed. A

646 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 17 complex system makes it hard to get re- be a responsible citizen. People didn’t tell sults, the results we want, which is an edu- the truth. They were not responsible to cated workforce, people educated to meet their shareholders and employees. They will the needs of the 21st century. be held to account for their irresponsible The House of Representatives—and behavior. And that was a shock to our sys- Davis was very much involved in this— tem. We’ve been through war. passed a bill that includes the reforms I’m And yet we’re a strong nation and we’re talking about. And the Senate must act so a confident nation, because we’re a nation that we can better get unemployed people full of people who are hard-working and back to work in America, so that we can dedicated, people who love freedom, peo- make sure as our economy changes, the ple who love our country, people who are workforce changes with it. responsible citizens. Technologies race through our economy, But most importantly, we’re a nation that and as they do so, the workforce can be- is made up of compassionate people who come much more productive. But the prob- care deeply when one of us hurts. There’s lem is, is that unless there is a concerted, a lot of people in this Nation who want focused effort to help our citizens stay up to help those who are looking for work. with technological change, people will be The Federal Government has a role. The left behind. And that’s not what we want people who are involved in education have in America. We want an educated work- a role. Employers have a role. But the force to keep this country the most produc- thing that gives me most heart is that the tive in the world. And with the right focus nature of the American person—the Amer- and the right policies out of the United ican people is such that when we face a States Congress, this is an objective that challenge, we will rise to that challenge on I’m confident we can achieve, because I an individual basis and a collective basis. believe this country can achieve every- This is a fabulous country called Amer- thing—anything we set our mind to. I be- ica, and I’m proud to be your President. lieve in the greatness of America. And our Thank you. greatness is not just our military might. We’re great at that, by the way, but that’s not our greatness. Our greatness is the abil- NOTE: The President spoke at 10:27 a.m. in ity for the American people to rise to any the Ernst Community Cultural Center. In his challenge. That is our greatness. remarks, he referred to Robert Templin, Look what we’ve been through. We’ve president, Northern Virginia Community been through a terrorist attack and a na- College; and former President Saddam Hus- tional emergency; we’ve been through a re- sein of Iraq. The Office of the Press Sec- cession; we’ve been through corporate scan- retary also released a Spanish language tran- dals where CEOs forgot what it means to script of these remarks.

Remarks Honoring NCAA Winter Champion Teams June 17, 2003

Thanks for coming to the White House I first want to say that, obviously, you on Champions Day, the day we honor our know how to play hoops in the East— Nation’s champs. [laughter]—as our Texas teams found out.

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[Laughter] And it seems like Minnesota is It’s a great tribute to Jim Boeheim, who pretty good at hockey too. is a heck of a guy and a great leader of I now know why we’ve got all these Sen- men. Congratulations, Coach. I know ators from New York and Minnesota and you’ve worked hard for this. If it wasn’t Connecticut, as well as Members of the the University of Texas, I’m glad it was House from those three States. Welcome, you. [Laughter] You’ve got some great play- and thank you all for honoring these fine ers on your team. I’m sure some of us student athletes. We’re glad you’re here. are going to be asking Carmelo Anthony I want to welcome the University of for a loan one of these days—[laughter]— Connecticut women’s basketball team back so keep the interest rates low. [Laughter] to the White House. Geno told me last But congratulations on winning a tough time that—last time I greeted them here— tournament. You’re a great credit to the that they would be back. He really didn’t sport. say it that way; we’ll play like he said it I also want to welcome Mike Tirico, who that way—makes a better story. [Laughter] is here. Where are you, Mike? Oh, there At any rate, congratulations to you all. I you are. Congratulations on being a Syra- appreciate Jeffrey Hathaway coming as cuse grad. I know you were objective in well. These ladies can flat play basketball, your analysis of the—[laughter]—of the and they are a great credit to women’s ath- tournament. But thanks for coming. letics and to sport. They’ll probably be back I—one of the things I really appreciate next year too. We’re really glad you’re here, about these days is that, when you welcome and I’m glad Diana has given me the jer- these champs, is that it reminds people of sey. She is—thank God I don’t have to the basics of life, the need to serve some- guard her. [Laughter] thing greater than yourself in life. Cham- I also want to welcome the University pionship teams don’t win because of a star. of Minnesota-Twin Cities men’s hockey Championship teams win because people team back here again as well. I appreciate are willing to work together for a greater Don Lucia. I want to thank the athletic good, in this case, the team. Championship director, Joel Maturi, as well for coming. teams win because people are willing to It’s good to see these men back. They also work hard and sacrifice for something im- know how to play hockey really well. They portant. These are values that are really told me they’d be back again next year. important not only in sport but in life as Senator Dayton was a heck of a goalie in well. his day, but I don’t know if he could stop The other thing that’s important about these guys or not. [Laughter] I know the a championship team is to—for people to State of Minnesota is proud of your accom- understand that you can be a champ on plishments. We’re really glad you’re here. the court or on the ice as well as off the And we’re also glad that the ladies’ hock- court and off the ice. ey team from the University of Minnesota- I’ve asked Dr. Martin if she remembered Duluth is here. It’s good to see Dr. Martin. what I said last year about people serving Thank you for coming back—as well as their communities in which they live. She Shannon Miller. She’s been the coach for said, ‘‘You bet. We’ve got girls on our team 4 years and has won three national cham- who are mentoring.’’ One girl said she pionships. It sounds like to me, Dr. Martin, works for the Boys and Girls Club. you’d better give her a raise. [Laughter] My call to the champs is to be a champ It’s a State issue, of course. [Laughter] But off the playing—when you’re not playing congratulations to you all. as well. You’ve got a chance to make a I also want to congratulate Syracuse for difference in somebody’s life. There’s al- winning their first national championship. ways some little kid draped over the—

648 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 17

draped over the ice, looking at the star somebody just like you’d like to be loved Minnesota players, wondering what it’s like yourself, and America will be a better place to be a star. And a star is somebody who for it. sets a good example. A star is somebody Welcome to the White House. May God who says, ‘‘I’ve got some God-given talents, bless your talents, and may God continue and I want to help somebody else utilize to bless our great country. Thank you very his or her talents so they can realize the much. American Dream.’’ There’s always some little guy hanging around or some girl hanging around courtside watching champs, NOTE: The President spoke at 3:23 p.m. in watching behavior. And you have a chance the East Room at the White House. In his as champions to set such a good example remarks, he referred to Geno Auriemma, for America’s young, so that the next gen- women’s basketball head coach, Jeffrey eration of athletes will know what it means Hathaway, athletic director-designate, and to be a champ on the court or on the Diana Taurasi, player, University of Con- rink as well as off the court and off the necticut; Don Lucia, men’s hockey head rink. coach, University of Minnesota; Kathryn A. And so I’m here today to congratulate Martin, chancellor, University of Minnesota- you for setting such a good example. Now Duluth; Carmelo Anthony, men’s basketball that the spotlight is on you, assume respon- player, Syracuse University; and Mike Tirico, sibility. Do your job as an American. Love sports commentator for ESPN and ABC.

Remarks at a Bush-Cheney Reception June 17, 2003

Thank you all. I would say take a seat, helping spread the positive message of this but—[laughter] Thanks for coming. There’s administration. nothing like having a few friends over for The political season will come in its own a cocktail or two. [Laughter] time. Right now, this administration is fo- I appreciate you all being here. I had cused on the people’s business. We’ve got an uneventful ride over from the White a lot on the agenda. We will continue to House; nobody got hurt, and my Segway earn the confidence of the American peo- is parked outside. [Laughter] ple by keeping this Nation prosperous, I do want to thank you all for coming. strong, and secure. Your support is laying the groundwork for I want to thank Marv and Doro for read- a strong nationwide effort next year. Your ing the introductions just like I wrote them. support is going to help us achieve a strong [Laughter] I really am sorry that one mem- nationwide victory. ber of our family is not here, the great I want to thank you for your help to- First Lady of the United States. She sends night. I want to thank you for what you’re her best. Now that she’s not here, I can going to do as well. I want to thank you tell you I am incredibly proud of the job for helping to invigorate the grassroots all she is doing. She is a strong, steady, gra- across this country. I want to thank you cious First Lady. And I say, ‘‘Now that for the phone calls you’ll make, for the she’s not here’’—she’d probably be angry signs you’ll put up in the yard, and for with me for bragging on her.

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I want to thank the chairman of our cam- we acted. We passed tough new laws to paign-to-be, Marc Racicot. I want to appre- hold corporate criminals to account. We got ciate Marc for his service to our country. the economy going again because we I appreciate so very much my friend Mer- worked with the United States Congress cer Reynolds’ willingness to be the chair- to pass historic tax relief, not once but man of the Bush-Cheney National Finance twice. Committee. This is our first event, as Marv This administration stood on principled and Doro indicated. It also happens to be ground. We understand that when Ameri- Mercer’s 58th birthday. He doesn’t look a cans have more take-home pay to spend year older than 58. [Laughter] or invest, the economy grows and people I want to thank Julie Finley, Shelly are more likely to find a job. We’re return- Kamins, Jim and Sandy Langdon, Dwight and Martha Schar, and Dick Hug for being ing more money to American families to the cochairmen of this event. I want to help pay their bills. We’re reducing taxes thank all the folks who worked hard to on dividends and capital gains to encourage put it on. Mostly, I want to thank you all investment. We’re giving small businesses for your generous contributions. incentives to expand and to hire new peo- You know, in the last 21⁄2 years, our great ple. With all these actions, we have laid Nation has faced some great challenges. the foundation for greater prosperity and, And we have acted decisively to confront more importantly, more jobs all across them. I came to this office to solve prob- America so our fellow citizens have a lems, not to pass them on to other Presi- chance to live the American Dream. dents and other generations. I came to Two-and-a-half years ago, there was a lot seize opportunities and not let them slip of talk about education reform but not away. We are meeting the tests of our time. much action. So I called for and Congress Terrorists declared war on the United passed the No Child Left Behind legislation States, and war is what they got. We have with a solid bipartisan majority, delivering captured or killed many key leaders of the the most dramatic education reforms in a Al Qaida network, and the rest of them generation. We’re bringing high standards know we’re on their trail. In Afghanistan, and accountability to every public school in Iraq, we gave ultimatums to terror rein America. Every child can learn the basics gimes. Those regimes chose defiance, and of reading and math, and every school must those regimes are no more. Fifty million teach those basics. This administration is people in those two countries once lived challenging the soft bigotry of low expecta- under tyranny, and now they live in freedom. tions. The days of excuse-making are over. Two-and-a-half years ago, our military We now expect results in every classroom was not receiving the resources as needed, so not one single child in America will be and morale was beginning to suffer. We left behind. increased the defense budget to prepare We have reorganized the Government for threats of a new era. And today, no and created a Department of Homeland one in the world can question the skill and Security to safeguard the borders and ports strength and spirit of the United States of America and to protect our people. We military. passed trade promotion authority to open Two-and-a-half years ago, we inherited new markets for America’s farmers and an economy in recession. Then the attacks ranchers and manufacturers. We passed a on our country, scandals in corporate budget agreement that is helping to main- America, and war affected the people’s contain spending discipline in Washington, fidence, and that hurt our economy. But DC.

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On issue after issue we acted on prin- danger to the free world is removed. Yet, ciple. We kept our word, and we made our national interest involves more than progress for the American people. eliminating aggressive threats to our safety. And I want to thank the United States Our greatest security comes from the ad- Congress for joining in these achievements. vance of human liberty, because free na- We will continue to work together to tions do not support terror. Free nations change the tone in Washington, DC, by do not attack their neighbors. Free nations showing good will and by focusing on re- do not threaten the world with weapons sults. of mass destruction. One of the reasons this administration As Americans, we believe that freedom has been successful is because I have sur- is the deepest need and hope of every rounded myself with really fine men and human heart. And we believe that freedom women who serve the people of America. is the right of every person. And we believe They’re task-oriented people. They know that freedom is the future of every nation. their job is to get results on behalf of the I also understand that unprecedented in- people. fluence brings tremendous responsibilities. There is no finer member of my adminis- We have duties in the world, and when tration then our Vice President, Dick Che- we see disease and starvation and hopeless ney. He’s a great friend, a great adviser, poverty, we will not turn away. On the con- a steady hand. He is the finest Vice Presi- tinent of Africa, America is now committed dent our Nation has ever had, even though to bringing the healing power of medicine Mother may not agree. [Laughter] to millions of men and women and children The Vice President and the members of now suffering with AIDS. We will lead the the Cabinet and all who work in this ad- world in this great work of rescue. ministration have formed a great team of We face challenges at home, and our true public servants who put the interests actions prove that we are equal to those of the American people first. In 21⁄2 years, challenges. We have a duty to keep our we’ve come far, yet our work is only begin- commitment to America’s seniors by ning. We have great goals worthy of this strengthening and modernizing Medicare so great Nation. they have more choices and better access First, America is committed to expanding to prescription drugs. The time has arrived the realm of freedom and peace for our for Congress to pass Medicare reform, and own security and for the benefit of the that reform must give seniors good options world. And second, in our own country, that meet their needs. Members of Con- we must work for a society of prosperity gress and their staffs currently get a choice and compassion so that every citizen has of health care plans, and seniors ought to a chance to work and succeed and realize have the same kind of choices, including the promise of America. the choice to keep their Medicare coverage Across this world, it has never been more the way it is. If choice is good for Members clear that the future of freedom and peace of the United States Congress, it is good depend on the actions of America. This for America’s seniors. Nation is freedom’s home and freedom’s And for the sake of our health care sys- defender. We welcome this charge of his- tem, we need to cut down on frivolous tory, and we will keep this charge of his- lawsuits which increase the cost of medi- tory. cine, lawsuits which increase the cost of The war on terror continues. The en- medicine and force good doctors to shut emies of freedom are not idle, and neither down their practices. People who have are we. The country will not rest; we will been harmed by doctors deserve their day not tire; and we will not stop until the in court. Yet, the system should not reward

651 June 17 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 lawyers who are fishing for a good settle- millions of men and women who want to ment. The medical liability issue is a na- end their dependence on Government and tional problem that requires a national solu- become independent through work, so we tion. No one has ever been healed by a must build the success of welfare reform frivolous lawsuit. The health care system to bring work and dignity to the lives of needs Federal liability reform now. more Americans. And we have other measures to do to Congress should complete the ‘‘Citizen make sure our legal system is fair. I strong- Service Act’’ so more Americans can serve ly support the class action reform bill their communities and our country. And passed by the House of Representatives last both Houses should reach agreement on week, a bill which will ensure more settle- the faith-based bill to support the armies ment money goes to real victims, not to of compassion that—who are mentoring to trial lawyers. our children, caring for the homeless, and Speaking about legal matters, I have a offering help to the addicted. responsibility as President to make sure the A compassionate society must promote judicial system runs well. And I have met opportunity for all of us, including the that duty. I have nominated superb men independence and dignity that come from and women to the Federal courts, people ownership. I believe strongly in promoting who will interpret the law, not legislate an ownership society. We want more fami- from the bench. lies to own their own home. We want peo- Some Members of the Senate are trying ple to have a—own a piece of their retire- to keep my nominees off the bench by blocking up-or-down votes. Every judicial ment. We want Americans to own their nominee deserves a fair hearing and an up- own health care plan. And we want people or-down vote on the floor of the United to be able to start their own business. As States Senate. It is time for Members of Republicans, we understand that when the Senate to stop playing politics with somebody owns something, they have a American justice. vital stake in the future. An ownership soci- The Congress needs to pass the com- ety is a hopeful society in America. prehensive energy plan I submitted. This In a compassionate society, people re- Nation must promote energy efficiency and spect one another and take responsibility conservation. We must work to develop for the decisions they make in life. My cleaner technology. And we need to hope is to change the culture from one produce more natural gas here at home. that has said, ‘‘If it feels good, do it; if We’ve got a problem with supply of natural you’ve got a problem, blame somebody gas. And sure, conservation will help with else,’’ to one in which every single Amer- that problem. But we’ve got the technology ican understands that he or she are respon- necessary to explore for natural gas without sible for the decisions that you make. damaging the environment. For the sake You’re responsible for loving your children of economic security and for the sake of with all your heart and all your soul. You’re our national security, we must make Amer- responsible for being involved with the ica less dependent on foreign sources of quality of the education of your children. energy. You’re responsible for making sure the Our strong and prosperous Nation must community in which you live is safe. You’re also be a compassionate nation. I will con- responsible for loving your neighbor just tinue to advance our agenda of compas- like you would like to be loved yourself. sionate conservatism, applying the best and I will continue to work to see that the most innovative ideas to the task of helping responsibility era arrives in America. And our fellow citizens in need. There are still we can see it beginning to happen, as a

652 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 18 result of the culture of service that is aris- strong country, and we will use that ing around us. I proposed and started the strength to defend the peace. We’re an op- USA Freedom Corps to encourage people timistic country. We’re confident in our- from all walks of life, all across America, selves, and we’re confident in ideals bigger to extend a compassionate hand to neigh- than ourselves. We seek to lift whole na- bors in need. And the response has been tions by spreading freedom. And at home, strong. Our faith-based charities across we seek to lift up lives by spreading oppor- America are also strong, and they’re vi- tunity to every corner, to every person of brant, bringing hope and healing to our this great country. fellow Americans. Policemen and fire- This is the work that history has set be- fighters, people who wear our Nation’s uni- fore us. We welcome it, and we know that form are reminding us what it means to for our country, better days lie ahead. sacrifice for something greater than your- May God bless you, and may God con- self. And once again, the children of Amer- tinue to bless America. Thank you all. ica believe in heroes because they see them every day. In these challenging times, the world has NOTE: The President spoke at 6:46 p.m. in seen America’s resolve and courage. And the International Ballroom at the Wash- I have been privileged to see the compas- ington Hilton. In his remarks, he referred sion and the character of the American to his brother, Marvin Bush, and sister, people. All the tests of the last 21⁄2 years Dorothy Bush Koch; and Republican Na- have come to the right nation. We’re a tional Committee chairman Marc Racicot.

Remarks Prior to a Meeting With Congressional Leaders and an Exchange With Reporters June 18, 2003

Medicare Reform I’ll answer a couple of questions. Scott The President. I want to thank the Mem- [Scott Lindlaw, Associated Press]. bers of the United States Senate for coming to discuss the issue of Medicare. I want United Kingdom Prime Minister Tony Blair to congratulate Leader Frist as well as Q. Mr. President, Tony Blair is in a bit Chairman Grassley and Ranking Member of trouble at home. He’s got a couple of Baucus for really fine work on the Finance ex-Cabinet officials contending he may have Committee to get a important piece of leg- exaggerated information on weapons of islation moving. We’re committed to re- mass destruction. He stood by you. Do you forming the Medicare system so America’s plan on saying anything to back him up seniors get the health care they need. at home? These Senators around the table have The President. Yes, I’ll say something worked together to see that we get a good right now: He operated on very sound in- plan. I asked them to come so I can figure telligence, and those accusations are simply out ways that our administration can con- not true. tinue to help the process move forward. The work has been really strong thus far. Iran And I want to congratulate you all for fine Q. Mr. President? leadership. Welcome to the White House. The President. Yes.

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Q. Are you hoping the protesters in Iran The President. I’ll let you know when will topple the Iranian Government? And we decide to do so. We, of course, have now that the IAEA report is out, how are got Ambassador Wolf in the region now, you going to stop them from getting a nu- and he’s working hard with both parties. clear weapon? And I called President Mubarak today to The President. Well, the international ask him to work with the Palestinian Au- community must come together to make thority to consolidate their security forces it very clear to Iran that we will not tolerate under Prime Minister Abbas so that the the construction of a nuclear weapon. Iran Prime Minister can achieve the goals that would be dangerous if they have a nuclear he set out, which is for the dismantlement weapon. I brought this subject up in the of terror and what hopefully will be a G–8; we had a good discussion on the sub- peaceful Palestinian state. ject with near universal agreement that we Thank you all. all must work together to prevent Iran from Q. You do anticipate sending—— developing a nuclear weapon. The President. I said, I’ll let you know And secondly, I appreciate those coura- when we send her. geous souls who speak out for freedom in Iran. They need to know America stands squarely by their side. And I would urge NOTE: The President spoke at 2:23 p.m. in the Iranian administration to treat them the Cabinet Room at the White House. In with the utmost of respect. his remarks, he referred to Assistant Sec- Stretch [Richard Keil, Bloomberg News]. retary of State for Nonproliferation John S. Wolf; President Hosni Mubarak of Egypt; Middle East Peace Process and Prime Minister Mahmoud Abbas (Abu Q. Mr. President, do you plan to send Mazen) of the Palestinian Authority. A por- Dr. Rice to the Middle East soon, particu- tion of these remarks could not be verified larly given the situation—— because the tape was incomplete.

Statement on House of Representatives Action on Estate Tax Legislation June 18, 2003

I commend the House of Representatives Permanently eliminating the death tax is for acting to permanently eliminate the an important step toward increasing fair- death tax. The death tax results in unfair ness in the Tax Code and promoting eco- double taxation of income and it hurts nomic security. I urge the Senate to act America’s small businesses, which are the on this important matter so that we can engine of job creation. Today’s vote is a eliminate this unfair tax once and for all. victory for fairness, job creation, and certainty for family businesses, farmers, and ranchers.

654 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 19

Remarks at the Congressional Picnic June 18, 2003

The President. Listen, thank you all for I want to thank all the Members of Con- coming. Laura and I and Dick and Lynne gress from both political parties for doing are so happy you all are here. And we’re such a fine job on behalf of the United really happy it’s not raining. [Laughter] States of America. You know what I know: Audience member. [Inaudible] We’re blessed to live in a great country. The President. I bet you are. And one of the things that makes us great First, we’re so thrilled that Dennis is we’ve got tremendous values. We believe Edwards and the Temptations Review has in freedom, respect for others, personal re- joined us tonight. We expect to see some sponsibility. And today is a day for us all serious rug-cutting or, in this case, grass- to come together and to celebrate those cutting. [Laughter] fantastic values and for us—for Laura and We do want to thank the families who me and for Dick and Lynne—to thank you are here. We’re so grateful for the wives on behalf of a grateful nation for serving and husbands of the Members of the Sen- our country so well. ate and the Congress for being so patient May God bless you and your families, with your loved ones and for supporting and may God continue to bless the United them in their service to the United States States of America. of America. We want to thank the sons Enjoy yourselves. and daughters as well for understanding your dad and your mom are serving some- NOTE: The President spoke at 6:10 p.m. on thing greater than themselves in life. the South Grounds at the White House.

Remarks in Fridley, Minnesota June 19, 2003

Thank you all very much. Forget the them. It’s an honor to have met them. They Spam; I like coming to Minnesota because told me I’m going to see them next year, of the people. [Laughter] Thanks for com- so—[laughter]—just like I saw them last ing today, and I appreciate the warm wel- year. [Laughter] come. But it’s great to be here. I also want Speaking about sports teams, I had the to thank the Hamiltons, Harold and Elea- honor of hosting some sports teams there nor, for opening up their business to—[ap- in the White House this week, two of plause]. Harold told me that he started his which happened to be from the great State business at the kitchen table. It’s really of Minnesota. It seems like the folks up what America is all about, when you think here know how to play hockey. I welcomed about it. Thirty years ago, Harold and Elea- the men’s and women’s hockey national nor sat down at the kitchen table—it might champs from the University of Minnesota- have been before lunch or after lunch, I Twin Cities and University of Minnesota- don’t know which one—but they said, Duluth. And I’ve got to tell you, I was ‘‘Why don’t we see if we can’t create an impressed by the character of the people opportunity for not only our family but for on those teams. I know you’re proud of others, an opportunity to work.’’

655 June 19 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

That’s what we call the entrepreneurial most important responsibility is to love spirit. That’s the spirit that enables Ameri- their children with all your heart and all cans to realize if they work hard, they can their soul. achieve a dream. Good government recog- I met Deborah Simonet. She’s an appli- nizes the importance of the entrepreneurial cation developer for 3M. She’s a single spirit, and good government creates an en- mom. That’s the hardest job in America, vironment in which the entrepreneur can being a single mom. And she is saving for flourish. And that’s why I worked with the her son’s college education. She gets pretty United States Congress to cut the taxes not good tax relief, over $1,000 worth of tax only on the working people but on the en- relief, money that she gets to decide how trepreneurs of America, so they can better to use, money she can allocate according realize their dreams. to her needs. I want to thank Governor Tim Pawlenty I met the Steins, Jennifer and Terry. for doing in office what he told you he They’ve got five kids. They’re a young fam- was going to do. I appreciate your State ily. He’s working three jobs. She works a auditor. She, along with Tim, traveled from job at home, so she can not only put a the airport. There was no road rage today. little extra money on the table but take [Laughter] If you got caught—if you got care of her kids as well. They’re going to caught in the motorcade, I’m sorry. [Laugh- get good, substantial tax relief. For the sake ter] But we made it in record time from of their children, they will have additional the airport. [Laughter] money. They get to decide to do with the I appreciate other State leaders—the money. It’s their money, after all, to begin Lieutenant Governor is here; the speaker with. is here; the majority leader of the State And this tax relief plan that I worked house is here. Thank you all for coming. with Congress to pass recognizes that when I’m honored you’re here. you’ve got an economic issue, you’ve got I just had a chance to not only visit with a people issue. And the more money peo- the owner of this fine company, but I had ple have in their pocket, the more likely a chance to visit with other entre- this economy is going to grow. preneurs—some of whom I’ll mention in There’s been a lot made about the mili- my address—and some of the good folks tary might of the United States of America, who work for the companies, good, hard- and we’re plenty tough. And we’re plenty working Minnesota folks who are going to tough and plenty strong because we have receive significant tax benefit, significant tax a job to do, and that job is to protect relief. America from the designs of terrorists who See, one of the things that I understand hate what we stand for. That is a charge is, in Washington, DC, when we talk about we have been given. Protecting America money, we are not talking about the Gov- is a charge we have been given, and it ernment’s money. We’re talking about the is a charge we will keep. And we have people’s money. And I had a chance to made it clear to people: If you harbor a visit with some of the people whose money terrorist, if you provide aid for a terrorist, we’re talking about, and what they intend you’re just as guilty as any terrorist, and to do with it. The message I heard over the United States of America will hold you and over again from moms and dads was to account. that they intend to save it for their chil- We’re bringing Al Qaida to justice. And dren’s future, and that’s really important. for those we haven’t brought to justice yet, It means people in this part of the world we’re hot on their trail. We’re close by. understand that a responsible society is one We’ve got them on the run, and we’ll keep in which moms and dads understand their them on the run. We sent a clear message

656 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 19 to the Taliban in Afghanistan: ‘‘If you har- there’s all kinds of ways for you to serve bor and train terrorists, you will be held our Nation. No, this country is militarily to account.’’ The Taliban is no more, and strong, but our true strength is the heart the people of Afghanistan are free, thanks of our fellow citizens. to America and our friends and allies. We have faced challenge in this Nation. We sent a clear message to Saddam Hus- We faced challenges to our security; we sein: ‘‘Disarm. The world has asked you faced challenges to our economic security to disarm for 12 solid years, and now is as well. I mean, starting in early ’01, this the time, for the security of America and Nation was in recession, which is three our friends and for peace in the world, quarters of negative growth, a recession for you to disarm.’’ And we gave him plenty which affected the Treasury of the United chance to do so, and he chose to defy the States of America but, more significantly, United States and our friends and allies. a recession which affected the pocketbooks The regime of Saddam Hussein is no more. of our American citizens. Too many people America is more secure; the world is more who wanted to work couldn’t find a job. peaceful; and the long-suffering people of And things started to get kind of righted, Iraq are now free. a little better. Then all of a sudden the This Nation is plenty strong militarily, terrorists hit us, and the attacks of Sep- but it’s not the true strength of America. tember the 11th, 2001, affected the econ- The true strength of America is the fact omy of the United States. It hurt our econ- that we’ve got millions of fellow citizens omy. But we were strong, and we were who are willing to love a neighbor just like resilient. they would like to be loved themselves. And then we found out some of our fel- That’s the real strength of this country, below citizens were not responsible citizens cause we’re a deep and compassionate na- because they cooked the books. They had tion. When we see suffering, whether it a responsibility to shareholder and em- be here at home or abroad, we care. ployee, and they didn’t tell the truth. They So today when I landed, I met a fellow had positions of responsibility as CEOs in named Ron Strauss. He is a—works for corporate America, and they didn’t assume Cargill Cares Volunteer Council. He’s just those positions responsibly. And the cor- one of thousands of people here in the porate scandals affected the psychology of State of Minnesota that understand their the country, kind of shook our confidence job is to help somebody who hurts. He a little bit. volunteers time to make a difference in And then we had war. And when you somebody’s life. He is willing to serve his hear about war all the time on your TV country and his community by helping screens, the speculation of war and the dis- mentor a child, or by starting a Boys or cussion of war, it’s not conducive to a con- Girls Club, or being a Scout leader amongst fident tomorrow. young kids, setting a good example, teach- But we acted. We acted by holding cor- ing somebody to read. There’s all kinds of porate scoundrels to account. We said loud ways in which you can help serve your Na- and clear, if you cheat the shareholder and tion by loving somebody like you would your employees, you will be held respon- like to be loved yourself. I want to thank sible for those decisions. Ron for coming. And I want to thank all The world is now more peaceful because who are volunteering to make Minnesota we acted. a compassionate State. But we also acted in concert with many And if you’re interested in serving, just in the United States Congress by passing go to USA Freedom Corps on the com- two significant tax relief packages. You see, puter, pull it up on the Internet, and we understand that when things are slow

657 June 19 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

in the economy, you’ve got to increase de- most small businesses pay tax at the indi- mands for good and services. And the best vidual income-tax rate. If you’re a Sub- way to increase demand for good and serv- chapter S or a sole proprietorship, you pay ices, so that somebody will produce a good tax based upon what the individual pays. or a service—and when somebody produces And so therefore, when I talk about tax a good or a service, somebody is more like- relief, really what I’m talking about is more ly to find work—is to let people keep more money into the treasuries of small busi- of their own money. That tax relief package nesses. And after all, that’s important be- we passed 2 years ago helped make the cause 75 percent of the new jobs in Amer- recession one of the shallowest in our Na- ica are created by small businesses all tion’s history. And then I just finished sign- across this country. ing another tax relief package, and that This tax relief package allowed for higher package is going to be good for a lot of expense deduction for small businesses, folks. And I believe it’s going to put wind from $25,000 a year to $100,000 a year. at our back as this economy recovers from And if a small firm invests more than what has been a very tough period of time. $100,000, it will then qualify for a 50 per- Right here in Minnesota, companies are cent bonus depreciation. Let me tell you adjusting withholding tables so that the what all that means. It means people are working folks of this State will see more more likely to buy equipment. If there’s take-home pay. Tax relief not only means an incentive for capital expenditure and more take-home pay, but if you happen confidence is coming back, people are more to be a mom or a dad with young children, likely to make that expenditure. you’ll see the child credit go up from $600 Just ask the Hamiltons. Here at Micro a child to $1,000 a child. And a lot of Control, they’ve got 140 employees—up those checks are going to be in the mail from 2, 30 years ago. And so the funda- to you for the differential this July. As some mental question is, can those folks stay of them like to say in Washington, the working, or can he add jobs? One of the check’s in the mail. [Laughter] In this case, ways you add jobs is to make the workforce it better be—[laughter]—or somebody’s more productive. And one of the ways you going to be looking for work. [Laughter] make the workforce more productive is you As well, Congress is debating further re- add equipment, which makes your workers lief for a family with children, further ex- more productive. tension of the child credit. I urge them And so I asked Harold, I said, ‘‘You’ve to complete the work on this legislation seen the tax bill; you’ve seen what—I’m soon and get it to my desk. sure you’ve looked at the consequences of As well, tax relief means a reduced mar- what this means for your company.’’ He riage penalty. You see, we want the Tax said, ‘‘Yes, it means it’s more likely we’re Code to encourage marriage, not discour- going to hire a mechanical shaker.’’ I didn’t age marriage. Tax relief means lower rates know what it meant. [Laughter] But I do on dividends and capital gains, now at 15 know this, somebody is going to have to percent, to help more than a half a million manufacture the mechanical shaker, which Minnesota savers. means somebody in some other plant is Tax relief means a lot for small business. likely to find a job. He assures me the You hear all the rhetoric coming out of mechanical shaker makes his workforce Washington, DC, kind of class warfare rhet- more productive, which means not only the oric. But let me tell you why this tax relief workers here are going to be likely to stay is really good for American economy, be- at work, but it may just mean he has to sides encouraging more consumer spending hire additional people to make that ma- and better consumer confidence: because chine work. The Tax Code, the tax relief

658 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 19 plan, has encouraged Harold and his wife stands the significance of small business in to make additional investment, which is our society. The tax bill we passed is really good for the economy. good for the American economy and will I met Brian Dahl. He and his business make it more likely somebody is going to partners purchased Capital Wood Products find a job. 12 years ago, and they moved it to St. In order to make sure this country is Paul in the year 2000. What he wants to hopeful and the economy expands and peo- do to stay competitive is to purchase addi- ple feel secure, we need to deal with health tional software. The tax bill that I signed care. We’re on the verge of doing some- provides incentives for Brian to purchase thing really important for our seniors. software so that his company is more pro- We’re going to make Medicare a modern ductive. As he purchases the software, system. And it’s been hard to do in the somebody has got to make it and sell it past. But in the year 2003, it can be done. to him, and that somebody—means that I believe it can be done. they’re more likely to stay at work. I met yesterday with a group of United You see, when you provide incentives to States Senators from both political parties. the Tax Code and people make rational The spirit is good there. The issue used decisions because of those incentives, it has to be called ‘‘Medi-scare’’ because people an effect beyond the wall of the company were afraid to talk about the issue because just making the decisions. It ripples of the political ramifications. I hope we’ve throughout the economy. If you’re inter- put all that needless party politics aside and ested in job creation, which is what I’m focused on doing what we want to do for interested in, I want to see good public our seniors and to have a health care sys- policy that encourages jobs to be created tem that is modern, a health care system in the private sector. And that’s exactly which includes prescription drugs, and a what we have done. health care system which gives seniors dif- Tim Rashleger is with us, with ferent choices so they can tailor their health Milltronics Manufacturing. I met a couple care plans after their own needs. After all, of his employees. He wants them to keep Members of the Congress and their staffs working; that’s what he wants. He’s a little have got the capacity to have choice in worried about his company’s future. He their health care systems. And my attitude analyzed the tax bill and said—in his words, is, if choice is good enough for the Mem- not mine—he said, ‘‘This could save our bers of the United States Congress, it’s company.’’ And not only that, he’s going good enough for the seniors of the United to make additional investments this year; States of America. I think he told me $250,000 worth of addi- The other issue regarding health care is tional investments. The tax bill saves his whether or not health care is affordable company $26,000. That’s a lot for Tim. It’s and available, and one reason it’s not in good news for his employees. But there’s certain communities is because there’s too a lot of Tims across the country, just not many lawsuits. We’ve got too many junk the Tim right here in this building. There lawsuits that are running up the cost of are Tims all across America who are the health care. entrepreneurs of this country, the job cre- Listen, we want to make sure anybody ators of this country, who are more likely who is honestly injured ought to have their going to expand their job base. day in court, of course. And bad doctors Listen, I’m interested in one thing. I’m ought to be held to account. But medical interested in helping people find work. I liability is like a lottery, and they’re filing want people who want to work to be able lawsuit after lawsuit after lawsuit, which to find a job. The tax bill we passed under- causes premiums to go up, which means

659 June 19 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 your bills go up. And it means many doc- There’s been a lot of false science put out tors in hospitals practice preventative medi- about what exploration for natural gas cine, which means they prescribe more would do to certain parts of our country. than is necessary in order to make sure We’re a technologically capable nation. they cover themselves in case of a lawsuit, We can explore for natural gas and protect which causes your costs to go up. And in our environment. We need a energy policy. a lot of places, docs just quit practicing, We need an energy policy that not only which is not good for America. helps the economic security of the United Medical liability is a national issue—it States; we need an energy policy that helps drives the Medicaid budget; it drives the our national security, an energy policy Medicare budget; it drives the veterans which makes us less reliant on foreign budget—and it requires a national solution. sources of energy. We’ve got a good bill out of the United And we’ve got a lot ahead of us to do, States House of Representatives. We need but I’m anxious to do the job that you to get it out of the United States Senate. want me to do. And I believe we can get And I would urge you to contact your that done. I believe it. Listen, I’ve seen United States Senators, one of whom I this great spirit of this country. I’ve seen think is a pretty good vote on this issue. the determination of the American people, We’re worried about regulation on small the fierce courage of those who wear our business in Washington, DC. We under- uniform, the love and compassion of those stand what regulation does to our small who are neighborhood healers and helpers. businesses. I believe in associated health Now, we’re lucky people to live in America. care plans for small businesses, to allow There is no challenge that we can’t over- small businesses to pool risk across jurisdic- come. There’s nothing we can’t do when tional lines so as to reduce the cost to we put our mind to it. And I firmly believe small businesses and their employees. The because of the character of the American House is taking this bill up today—timely people, this world will be more peaceful; subject. I hope they pass it. And when they America will be more secure; and the peo- do, the United States Senate must act for ple that live in this country will be more the sake of affordable health care for the hopeful. employees of small businesses all across this I want to thank you all for coming today. country. May God bless you, and may God continue And finally, we’ve got another issue, and to bless the United States. that’s the issue of energy. For the sake of this economy, we need an energy plan. Listen, I came to this good State and laid out an energy plan for Congress to consider. It was a plan that said we can do NOTE: The President spoke at 1:11 p.m. in a better job of conservation, and we need the warehouse at Micro Control Co. In his to do that. We need to unleash new tech- remarks, he referred to Harold Hamilton, nologies. owner, Micro Control Co., and his wife, El- But we’ve got a—we’ve got a problem eanor; State Auditor Patricia Awada and Lt. with natural gas here in America. The de- Gov. Carol Molnau of Minnesota; Steve mand for natural gas is going up, but the Sviggum, speaker, and Erik Paulsen, majority supply isn’t. And any time the demand for leader, Minnesota House of Representatives; a product is going up and the supply is former President Saddam Hussein of Iraq; not going up, the price goes up. And our Brian Dahl, owner, Capital Wood Products; policy thus far on exploration for natural and Tim Rashleger, owner, Milltronics Man- gas has not been very consumer-friendly. ufacturing.

660 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 20

Statement on Congressional Action on Legislation To Strengthen AmeriCorps June 19, 2003

I commend Congress, particularly Sen- benefit the nonprofit organizations that ators Bond and Mikulski and Representa- count on AmeriCorps members to offer tives Boehner and Hoekstra, for working help and hope to people in communities with my administration and taking swift ac- across the country. tion to pass the ‘‘Strengthen AmeriCorps I hope Congress will continue to show Program Act.’’ The bill establishes account- strong support for my effort to help every ing guidelines for the Corporation for Na- American answer the call to volunteer serv- tional and Community Service that will ice and act quickly to strengthen and ex- help put AmeriCorps on a sound financial pand national service by passing the ‘‘Cit- footing. It is also the essential first step izen Service Act.’’ toward maximizing enrollment this year to

Message on the Observance of Juneteenth, 2003 June 19, 2003

I send greetings to those celebrating celebrate the end of slavery and the joy Juneteenth. of freedom. On this day, I encourage all In 1863, President Abraham Lincoln citizens to learn more about the rich herit- issued the Emancipation Proclamation, de- age of African Americans and their many claring ‘‘that all persons held as slaves’’ contributions to our Nation. With knowl- within the rebellious states ‘‘are, and hence- edge and understanding, we will continue forward shall be, free.’’ This news reached our efforts to ensure that our society pro- slaves slowly as word was passed by Union vides the opportunity for every person, of soldiers and individual plantation owners. every race, to realize the promise of Amer- Almost two years later, on June 19, 1865, ica. Major General Gordon Granger arrived in Laura joins me in sending our best wish- Galveston, Texas, to declare the end of the es for a memorable celebration. Civil War and the freedom of the slaves. GEORGE W. BUSH Juneteenth commemorates General Granger’s announcement and provides an NOTE: An original was not available for opportunity for people across America to verification of the content of this message.

Remarks Prior to Discussions With President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva of Brazil June 20, 2003

President Bush. It’s my honor to wel- to the Oval Office. This is the third meet- come the President of our friend Brazil ing I will have had with the President. It

661 June 20 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 shows how important our relationship is. most profitable relationship with the United Brazil is an incredibly important part of States. And this relationship between Brazil a peaceful and prosperous North and South and the United States should be on the America. I can say that from the perspec- basis of sincerity between people, on the tive of the United States, this relationship reliability that the leadership must have, is a vital and important and growing rela- and not just build up a spectacle for the tionship. press and for the public. On a personal perspective, I’m very im- I learned during my past life to—I pressed by the vision of the President of learned how to deal with people on the Brazil. He’s a man who clearly has deep basis of trust. And I believe that Brazil concerns for all the people of Brazil. He is and can continue to be a good partner not only has a tremendous heart, but he’s of the United States. We have many things got the abilities to work closely with his in common. And certainly, this meeting Government and the people of Brazil to that we are accomplishing today, this is a encourage prosperity and to end hunger. novelty. It’s not a summit meeting with two And today the people of both our countries Presidents, but it’s a meeting that has Cabi- will see a series of initiatives on a variety net members of both Governments, so that of fronts, which indicate that this relation- from this meeting onwards, our ministers ship is a mature relationship and an impor- can continue to work together independ- tant relationship. ently of the two Presidents. And without And Mr. President, I’m honored you’re any question, I believe that we can surprise here with us today. Welcome. Thank you, the world in terms of the relationship of sir. Brazil and the United States. President Lula da Silva. I think that it’s And I hope that soon we will have a very important in our third meeting that meeting in Brazil so that President Bush we should make it clear to the public opin- can personally see the dimensions and size ion—to Brazilian and American public of our country, that Brazil is not just Car- opinion—about the relationship between nival and it’s not only soccer. We have Brazil and the United States. It is a very other marvelous things in the country. strong relationship; it has been in existence President Bush. Thank you, sir. Thank for a long period. I always believe that it you all for coming. Thank you. is possible to even improve more these relationships. Since the last time I was here, NOTE: The President spoke at 10:50 a.m. in on December the 10th of last year, still the Oval Office at the White House. Presi- as President-elect, I went back to Brazil dent Lula da Silva spoke in Portuguese, and with a certainty that Brazil and the United his remarks were translated by an inter- States do have the possibility—can have the preter.

Joint Statement Between the United States of America and the Federative Republic of Brazil June 20, 2003

The United States and Brazil resolve to tion in our relationship, guided by a shared create a closer and qualitatively stronger vision of freedom, democracy, peace, pros- relationship between our two countries. It perity, and well-being for our peoples, in is time to chart a newly purposeful direc-

662 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 20 order to promote hemispheric and global We have built creative, entrepreneurial cooperation. societies. Regionally as well as globally, we We are among the most populous de- have important responsibilities in areas mocracies in the world. Forged from di- such as commerce, science and technology, verse cultures, proving that diversity is our energy, environmental protection, edu- strength. Continental in size and immigrant cation, and health. The currents of com- in origin, we share the fundamental belief merce and culture that link our societies that freedom, democracy, and social justice run strong and deep. Our partnership of are universal aspirations, essential for peace shared values leads us to seek a natural and prosperity and unconstrained by either partnership of shared endeavors. culture or level of economic development. As two nations recognizing both the Our commitment to human rights for all promise and desperate poverty of Africa, people in every nation is strong and unwav- and the strong ties and African heritage ering. of many of our citizens, we commit our- We agree that representative democracy selves to working together for an African and the rule of law are indispensable to continent that lives in liberty, peace, and building modern economies and political growing prosperity. We intend to pursue systems that promote growth, account- this goal through our diplomacy and the promotion of projects that reinforce eco- ability, transparency, and stability, and en- nomic, commercial, social, and cultural ties courage economic opportunity without with the countries of Africa. favor or prejudice. Democracy is essential Therefore, the United States and Brazil to sustainable development. In the same will engage in regular consultations, work- way, reducing inequality and improving so- ing together for prosperity, democratic gov- cial justice contribute to stability and inter- ernance, and peace in the hemisphere and national security. beyond. Reaffirming our commitment to We affirm that countries should embrace advance common values, we will continue policies that promote growth and social in- to work together to protect and advance clusion, which are the key to increasing democracy, human rights, tolerance, reli- incomes, improving standards of living, and gious freedom, free speech and inde- ending poverty and hunger. We share the pendent media, economic opportunity, and conviction that governments should work to the rule of law. empower their people through good gov- We will cooperate on issues of mutual ernance, fighting corruption, ensuring per- interest that contribute to the defense and sonal security, encouraging enterprise, and security of the hemisphere, bolstering joint providing all citizens access to high-quality efforts to counter terrorism, narcotics traf- education, adequate health, and nutritional ficking and consumption, trafficking in per- care. sons, and other transnational criminal chal- We agree that free trade furthers pros- lenges to regional peace. perity and development, contributes to the Our strength lies in the ability of our promotion of entrepreneurial initiative and people to shape their destiny and to realize to the strengthening of the private sector, their aspirations for a better life. That is with positive social impact. We also agree why the United States and Brazil are and that trade liberalization can contribute to will remain allies in the cause of democ- dynamic growth, technological innovation, racy. We will share our experience in nur- and to individual and collective advance- turing and strengthening democratic institu- ment over the long term. We therefore re- tions the world over, thereby fighting chal- affirm our commitment to fighting protec- lenges to the democratic order from pov- tionism. erty, illiteracy, intolerance, and terrorism.

663 June 20 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Moreover, we recognize that successfully a successful completion of the WTO nego- addressing the hemisphere’s challenges re- tiations of the Doha Development Agenda quires collaborative and cooperative efforts by January 2005. and, to that end, we will work together Today, we pledge to deepen the U.S.- to strengthen the Organization of American Brazilian partnership in mutually positive States, the bulwark of regional cooperation, ways, always seizing opportunities to ad- including through implementation of the vance the diversified interests we have in Inter-American Democratic Charter. We common, always seeking to reconcile dif- need to reinforce the U.N. system, espe- ferences through dialogue and engagement. cially by exploring ways to make the Secu- Our constructive partnership is not an end rity Council and other U.N. bodies more in itself, but a means to all these ends. effective and more responsive to current It is reinforced by, inter alia, academic, cul- international challenges and realities. tural and commercial ties, and increasing We have much to learn from each coun- kinship among our people. In this process try’s unique experience in modernizing our of further enhancing our bilateral relations, economies; achieving advances in science, we have decided to give special attention technology, and medicine; finding solutions to the following areas: science and tech- to pressing environmental problems; ad- nology, energy, education, health, economic dressing energy challenges and needs; and growth, and agriculture. advancing quality education and expanding As further indication of our close ties, enrollments in primary education. We are U.S. and Brazilian advisors will consult committed to working together to find con- often, maintaining a dialogue on these mat- crete ways to extend the benefits of these ters of mutual interest. We have also reforms to all our people. agreed on a framework for high-level con- We will cooperate, including through di- sultations and joint working groups across rect contacts between the business commu- the broad spectrum of areas in which we nities of our countries, to advance U.S.- are determined to institutionalize our en- Brazilian economic, trade, and investment hanced cooperation. relations; and recognizing our responsibility For the United States and Brazil, this as co-chairs of the negotiations, to success- is a day marked by the crossing of a new fully conclude the negotiations for a Free threshold into a higher stage in our rela- Trade Area of the Americas by January tionship. We have before us the possibility 2005. to realize the full potential of such a rela- We will work together to preserve and tionship. We will work to seize that oppor- promote stability and growth in the global tunity, for our benefit and for all those economy. Opening trade and resisting pro- with whom we share this increasingly inter- tectionism are essential for meeting that dependent world. challenge. We support an open, equitable, transparent, and rules-based multilateral NOTE: An original was not available for trading system, and we will work together verification of the content of this joint state- to strengthen it, especially by working for ment.

664 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 20

Remarks on the Appointment of Scott McClellan as White House Press Secretary June 20, 2003

The President. I am, one, sad that Ari’s a tremendous amount of progress in the leaving. He’s done a fabulous job for my last 21⁄2 years, and I look forward to doing administration. I appreciate his friendship, my small part as part of an outstanding his ability to handle a very tough job, and White House team, to help him build upon that is dealing with you. that record of accomplishment. Fortunately, I’ve got a good man to take It is also a special privilege to be fol- his place in Scott McClellan. I’ve known lowing my good friend Ari Fleischer, who Scott for a long time. I look forward to has served the President exceptionally well working closely with him to make sure that and served the American people exception- the American people and, of course, the ally well. I look forward to working with press corps gets the information that’s the White House press corps, at least most needed to reflect the philosophy and the of you, anyway, as we do our part to keep decisionmaking of this administration. He’s the American people informed about the able to do the job like Ari did, with the decisions that are being made here in highest amount of professionalism and Washington, DC. class, and I’ve got the full confidence in So Mr. President, thank you for this op- my new Press Secretary. portunity, and I look forward to it. Deputy Press Secretary McClellan. Mr. The President. Thank you very much. President, I’m honored. Thank you for your Ari, thank you, buddy. You’ve done a support and confidence. great job. Four-and-a-half years ago, I went to work Thank you all. Have a great weekend. for the President because I believed in his See you in Georgia. leadership and I believed in his agenda. I knew that the President was a results- oriented, inclusive leader who governed NOTE: The President spoke at 3:39 p.m. on from clear principles and compassionate the South Lawn at the White House prior conservative philosophy. And we have made to his departure for Greensboro, GA.

Statement on the Death of Larry Doby June 20, 2003

Larry Doby was a good and honorable Cleveland Indians to their last World Series man and a tremendous athlete and man- title in 1948, became a nine-time All-Star, ager. He had a profound influence on the and was voted into the Baseball Hall of game of baseball, and he will be missed. Fame in 1998. Laura joins me in sending As the first African American player in the our condolences to Larry’s family during American League, he helped lead the this difficult time.

665 June 20 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Letter to Congressional Leaders Transmitting a Report on United States Individuals Involved in the Antinarcotics Campaign in Colombia June 20, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. President:) The report indicates that as of May 13, Consistent with section 3204(f), title III, 2003, the end of this reporting period, chapter 2 of the Emergency Supplemental there were 358 temporary and permanent Act, 2000 (the ‘‘Act’’), as enacted in the U.S. military personnel and 308 U.S. civil- Military Construction Appropriations Act, ians retained as individual contractors in 2001, Public Law 106–246, I am submitting Colombia involved in supporting Plan Co- a report prepared by my Administration lombia. This report further indicates that that provides ‘‘the aggregate number, loca- during March, April, and May 2003, these tions, activities, and lengths of assignment figures never exceeded the ceilings estab- for all temporary and permanent U.S. mili- lished in section 3204(b) of the Act, as tary personnel and U.S. individual civilians amended. retained as contractors involved in the Sincerely, antinarcotics campaign in Colombia.’’ GEORGE W. BUSH This report is classified because of force protection considerations and the high level NOTE: Identical letters were sent to J. Den- of terrorist threat in Colombia. However, nis Hastert, Speaker of the House of Rep- the aggregate numbers given below are un- resentatives, and Richard B. Cheney, Presi- classified. dent of the Senate.

Letter to Congressional Leaders Transmitting a Report on Cyprus June 20, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. Chairman:) of State Powell, Under Secretary of State Consistent with section 620C(c) of the Marc Grossman, Special Cyprus Coordi- Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, as amend- nator Thomas G. Weston, Ambassador to ed, I am providing a report prepared by Cyprus Michael Klosson, Ambassador to my Administration on progress toward a ne- Turkey Robert Pearson, and Ambassador to gotiated solution of the Cyprus question Greece Thomas Miller provided intensive covering the period April 1 through May diplomatic support to this process. 31, 2003. The previous submission covered Sincerely, February 1 through March 31, 2003. The United States remains committed to finding a just and lasting settlement for Cy- GEORGE W. BUSH prus. Serious efforts continued during this reporting period to persuade the two sides on Cyprus to resume negotiations under the auspices of the United Nations Good NOTE: Identical letters were sent to J. Den- Offices Mission for Cyprus, on the basis nis Hastert, Speaker of the House of Rep- of United Nations Secretary-General Kofi resentatives, and Richard G. Lugar, chair- Annan’s proposed settlement plan. As in man, Senate Committee on Foreign Rela- the past, U.S. officials, including Secretary tions.

666 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 20

Message to the Congress on Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to the Western Balkans June 20, 2003

To the Congress of the United States: of June 10, 1999, in Kosovo, that led to Section 202(d) of the National Emer- the declaration of a national emergency on gencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)) provides June 26, 2001, has not been resolved. Sub- for the automatic termination of a national sequent to the declaration of the national emergency unless, prior to the anniversary emergency, acts obstructing implementation date of its declaration, the President pub- of the Ohrid Framework Agreement of lishes in the Federal Register and transmits 2001 in the former Yugoslav Republic of to the Congress a notice stating that the Macedonia, have also become a concern. emergency is to continue in effect beyond All of these actions are hostile to U.S. inter- the anniversary date. Consistent with this ests and pose a continuing unusual and ex- provision, I have sent the enclosed notice, traordinary threat to the national security stating that the Western Balkans emergency and foreign policy of the United States. is to continue in effect beyond June 26, For these reasons, I have determined that 2003, to the Federal Register for publica- it is necessary to continue the national tion. The most recent notice continuing this emergency declared with respect to the emergency was published in the Federal Western Balkans and maintain in force the Register on June 25, 2002, 67 Fed. Reg. comprehensive sanctions to respond to this 42703. threat. The crisis constituted by the actions of persons engaged in, or assisting, sponsoring, GEORGE W. BUSH or supporting, (i) extremist violence in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, The White House, and elsewhere in the Western Balkans re- June 20, 2003. gion, or (ii) acts obstructing implementation of the Dayton Accords in Bosnia or United NOTE: The notice is listed in Appendix D Nations Security Council Resolution 1244 at the end of this volume.

Message to the Congress Transmitting a Report on the National Emergency With Respect to the Western Balkans June 20, 2003

To the Congress of the United States: tion on the national emergency with respect Consistent with section 401(c) of the Na- to the Western Balkans that was declared tional Emergencies Act, 50 U.S.C. 1641(c), in Executive Order 13219 of June 26, 2001. and section 204(c) of the International GEORGE W. BUSH Emergency Economic Powers Act, 50 U.S.C. 1703(c), I transmit herewith a 6- The White House, month report prepared by my Administra- June 20, 2003.

667 June 20 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Remarks at a Bush-Cheney Reception in Greensboro, Georgia June 20, 2003

The President. Thank you all very much. The political season will come in its own Thanks a lot for coming out tonight. So time. But right now, I am focused on the I’m walking up on the stage, and Saxby people’s business in Washington, DC. says, ‘‘If you keep it short, we might be We’ve got a lot on the agenda. We’ve got able to get a round of golf in.’’ [Laughter] a lot to do before the political season. But I want to thank you all for being here. I can assure you that we will keep earning I came without my wife, unfortunately. the confidence of Americans by keeping Audience members. Aw-w-w. this Nation secure and strong and pros- The President. I know it. There’s a lot perous and free. of good, discerning people out here in the Along with Sonny, there’s a lot of State crowd who understand who the real star officials here, and I want to thank you all of our family is. She was in Chattanooga for coming. today working. You drew the short straw. And along with Saxby came a—members [Laughter] But I can’t tell you how proud of one of the finest congressional delega- I am of the job she is doing. She is a tions in Washington, DC: Congressmen Jack Kingston, Johnny Isakson, Mac Collins, fabulous First Lady for our country, and Charlie Norwood, Max Burns, and John she sends her best and her thanks. Linder, and I want to thank you all for Standing up on the stage here with coming. I appreciate you being here. Sonny and Saxby reminded me about what I want to thank my close friend Mercer it means to offer a hopeful and optimistic Reynolds for agreeing to be the national vision, because that’s precisely what we did finance chairman of the Bush-Cheney cam- last fall. In this State, we said, ‘‘If you elect paign. I want to thank Jamie—that would these good people, you’ll get good govern- be Jamie Reynolds—for hosting this event ment for everybody.’’ And thanks to your tonight. I want to thank all the cochairmen hard work and your efforts, you elected who have helped. I want to thank Harold the first Republican Governor in 130 years. Reynolds. I want to thank my friend Fred And he’s doing the job you expect him Cooper. But most of all, I want to thank to do. He’s a straight shooter. He does you all. You put the wind at my back. You in office what he said he would do. give me a lot of confidence to take on And that’s the same with Saxby. I’ve got the task ahead. And I appreciate you com- no stronger ally in the United States Senate ing. than Saxby Chambliss, and I want to thank In the last 21⁄2 years, our Nation has you acted decisively to confront great chal- And thanks to your help, starting tonight, lenges. I came to the office of the Presi- we’re going to build on what you did last dency to solve problems instead of passing fall and deliver a strong nationwide victory them on to other Presidents or other gen- next fall. And I’m getting loosened up. erations. I came to seize opportunities in- [Laughter] I’m getting ready, but I’m going stead of letting them slip away. to have to count on you all to energize We are meeting the tests of our time. the grassroots, to make the phone calls, Terrorists declared war on the United to put the signs in the yard, and to spread States of America, and war is what they our message, which is a positive and hope- got. We have captured or killed many key ful message for every single citizen who Al Qaida leaders, and the rest of them lives in this country. know we’re on their trail. In Afghanistan

668 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 20 and in Iraq, we gave ultimatums to terror forms in a generation. We’re bringing high regimes. Those regimes chose defiance, and standards and strong accountability meas- those regimes are no more. Fifty million ures to every public school in America. people in those two countries once lived Every child can learn the basics of reading under tyranny, and now they live in free- and math. And we believe every school dom. should teach those basics. We are chal- Two-and-a-half years ago, our military lenging the soft bigotry of low expectations was not receiving the resources it needed, in American schools. The days of excuse- and morale was beginning to suffer. We’ve making are over. And now we can expect increased the defense budget to prepare results in every single classroom so that for the threats of a new era. And today, not one child in America is left behind. no one in the world can question the skill We reorganized the Government and and the strength and the spirit of the created the Department of Homeland Se- United States military. curity to safeguard the borders and ports Two-and-a-half years ago, we inherited and to protect the American people. We an economy in recession. Then the attacks passed trade promotion authority to open on our country occurred, and then scandals up new markets for America’s farmers and in corporate America and war affected the ranchers and manufacturers. We passed a people’s confidence. But we acted. We budget agreement that is helping to main- passed tough new laws to hold corporate tain spending discipline in Washington, criminals to account. And to get the econ- DC. omy going again, we have twice led the On issue after issue, this administration United States Congress to pass historic tax has acted on principle, has kept its word, relief for the American people. and has made progress for the American Here’s what we believe, and here’s what people. And the United States Congress has we know: When Americans have more take- shared in these achievements, and I appre- home pay to spend, to save, and to invest, ciate the hard work of the Members of the whole economy goes, and people can the United States Congress. We will con- find work. tinue to work together. We will continue We understand whose money we spend to work to change the tone in Washington, in Washington, DC. It’s not the Govern- DC, by focusing on the people’s business, ment’s money. It is the people’s money. by focusing on results. And we’re returning more money to people And that’s the nature of the people I’ve who are trying to raise their families. We’re asked to serve America in my administra- reducing taxes on dividends and capital tion, people who are willing to set aside gains to encourage investment. We’re giving all the partisan bickering, people who are small businesses incentives to expand and willing to serve the American people. I’ve to hire new people. With all these actions, put together a fabulous team. We’ve had we are laying the foundation for greater no greater Vice President in the United prosperity and more jobs all across America States than Richard B. Cheney, although so every person, every single person in this my mother may have a different view. country, can have the chance to live the [Laughter] American Dream. In 21⁄2 years, we have come far—21⁄2 Two-and-a-half years ago, there was a lot years, we’ve come a long way. But our work of talk about education reform, but there is only beginning. We have great goals wor- wasn’t much action. So I called for and thy of a great nation. First, America is com- Congress passed the No Child Left Behind mitted to expanding the realm of freedom Act. With a solid bipartisan majority, we and peace for our own security and for delivered the most dramatic education re- the benefit of the world. And second, in

669 June 20 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 our own country, we must work for a soci- pass Medicare reform. And that reform ety of prosperity and compassion so that must give our seniors good options that every citizen has a chance to work and meet their needs. Members of Congress to succeed and to realize the great promise and their staffs currently get choice of of America. health care plans. And seniors ought to It has never been more clear that the have the same kind of choices, including future of freedom and peace depend on the choice to keep their Medicare coverage the actions of America. This Nation is free- the way it is. If choice is good for the dom’s home and freedom’s defender. We Members of the United States Congress, welcome this charge of history, and we are it is good for America’s seniors. keeping it. And for the sake of our health care sys- On the war on terror, continues—the war on terror continues. The enemies of tem, we need to cut down on frivolous freedom are not idle, and neither are we. lawsuits which increase the cost of medi- This country will not rest; we will not tire; cine. People who have been harmed by and we will not stop until this danger to a doctor deserve their day in court. Yet civilization is removed. the system should not reward lawyers who Yet our national interest involves more are simply fishing for a rich settlement. Be- than eliminating aggressive threats to our cause frivolous lawsuits drive up the cost safety. Our greatest security comes from of health care, medical liability is a national the advance of human liberty, because free problem, and it requires a national solution. nations do not support terror; free nations No one has ever been healed by a frivolous do not attack their neighbors; free nations lawsuit. We need medical liability reform do not threaten the world with weapons now. of mass terror. Americans believe that free- I have a responsibility to make sure the dom is the deepest need and hope of every judicial system runs well, and I have met human heart, and we believe that freedom that duty. I have nominated superb men is the right of every person and the future and women to the Federal courts, people of every nation. who will interpret the law, not legislate America also understands that unprece- from the bench. Some Members of the dented influence brings tremendous re- United States Senate are trying to keep my sponsibilities. We have duties in the world. nominees off the bench by blocking up- And when we see disease and starvation or-down votes. Every judicial nominee de- and hopeless poverty, we will not turn serves a fair hearing and an up-or-down away. On the continent of Africa, America is now committed to bringing the healing vote on the Senate floor. It is time for power of medicine to millions of men and some of the Members of the United States women and children now suffering with Senate to stop playing politics with Amer- AIDS. This great land is leading the world ican justice. in important work of human rescue. The Congress needs to pass a com- I will continue to work on our economy prehensive energy plan. Our Nation must until anybody who wants to work and is promote energy efficiency and conservation, not working today can find a job. develop cleaner technology. But we need And we have a duty at home to keep to produce more energy at home. We need our commitment to America’s seniors by to produce more natural gas. For the sake strengthening and modernizing Medicare so of economic security and for the sake of that they have more choices and better ac- national security, we must make America cess to prescription drugs. The time has less dependent on foreign sources of en- arrived for the United States Congress to ergy.

670 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 20

Our strong and prosperous Nation must A responsibility society says to CEO also be a compassionate nation. I will con- America, loud and clear, ‘‘You’re respon- tinue to advance our agenda of compas- sible to your shareholders, and you’re re- sionate conservatism, applying the best and sponsible to your employees.’’ And in our most innovative ideas to the tasks of help- responsibility society, each of us are respon- ing our fellow citizens in need. There are sible for loving our neighbor, just like we’d still millions of men and women who want like to be loved ourselves. to end their dependency on Government We can see the culture of service and and become independent through hard responsibility growing around us. I started work. We must build on the success of what I call the USA Freedom Corps to welfare reform to bring work and dignity encourage Americans to extend a compas- into the lives of more of our fellow citizens. sionate hand to a neighbor in need, and Congress should complete the ‘‘Citizen the response has been strong, just like the Service Act’’ so that more Americans can response is strong in America for faith- serve their communities and their country. based charities that bring hope and healing And both Houses should finally reach to a fellow citizen. agreement on my Faith-Based Initiative to Policemen and firefighters, people who support the armies of compassion that are wear our country’s uniform, are reminding mentoring children and caring for the us what it means to sacrifice for something homeless and offering hope to the addicted. greater than yourself. And once again, the A compassionate society must promote children of America believe in heroes be- opportunity for all, including the independ- cause they see them every day. ence and dignity that come from owner- In these challenging times, the world has ship. This administration will constantly seen the resolve and courage of America. strive to promote an ownership society in And I’ve been privileged to see the com- America. We want more people owning passion and character of the American peo- their home. We want people to own their ple. All the tests of the last 21⁄2 years have own retirement accounts. We want more come to the right nation. We’re a strong small-business owners in America. We want country, and we use our strength to defend people to have control and own their own the peace. We’re an optimistic country, health care plan. We understand that when confident in ourselves and in ideals bigger a person owns something, he or she has than ourselves. a vital stake in the future of this country. Abroad, we seek to lift whole nations In a compassionate society, people re- by spreading freedom. At home, we seek spect one another and take responsibility to lift up lives by spreading opportunity for the decisions they make. We’re chang- to every corner of America. This is the ing the culture of America from one that work that history has set before us. We has said, ‘‘If it feels good, do it,’’ and ‘‘If welcome it. And we know that for our you’ve got a problem, blame somebody country and for our cause, the best days else,’’ to a culture in which each of us lie ahead. understand we’re responsible for the deci- May God bless you all, and may God sions we make in life—that each of us are bless America. Thank you. responsible, that if you’re fortunate enough to be a mother or father, you’re responsible NOTE: The President spoke at 6:33 p.m. at for the well-being of that child. And if the driving range of the Oconee Course at you’re griping about the quality of edu- the Ritz-Carlton Lodge, Reynolds Plantation. cation in the community in which you live, In his remarks, he referred to Gov. Sonny you’re responsible for doing something Perdue of Georgia; Jamie and Harold Rey- about it. nolds, co-owners, Reynolds Plantation; and

671 June 20 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Fred Cooper, Georgia State finance chairman, Bush-Cheney ’04, Inc.

The President’s Radio Address June 21, 2003

Good morning. Ten weeks have passed that he possessed chemical and biological since the fall of the Iraqi regime. Since weapons and that he used chemical weap- that time, our work in Iraq has focused ons in the past. The intelligence services on two goals. First, we are working to make of many nations concluded that he had ille- Iraq secure for its citizens and our military. gal weapons, and the regime refused to Second, we are working to improve the provide evidence they had been destroyed. lives of the Iraqi people after three decades We are determined to discover the true of tyranny and oppression. extent of Saddam Hussein’s weapons pro- Making Iraq secure is vitally important grams, no matter how long it takes. for both Iraqi citizens and our own forces. To date, the United States has provided The men and women of our military face Iraq with more than $700 million in hu- a continuing risk of danger and sacrifice manitarian and reconstruction assistance. in Iraq. Dangerous pockets of the old re- This month, the World Food Program is gime remain loyal to it, and they, along distributing food rations to about 25 million with their terrorist allies, are behind deadly Iraqis. America and our partners are also attacks designed to kill and intimidate coali- repairing water treatment plants to provide tion forces and innocent Iraqis. more clean water. Each week, through our Our military is acting decisively against efforts, more electricity is made available these threats. In Operation Peninsula Strike to more people throughout the country. and Operation Desert Scorpion, our forces And after years of neglect, Iraq’s 4.2 million have targeted Ba’ath party loyalists and ter- children under the age of 5 are receiving rorist organizations. In Baghdad, more than vaccinations against diseases such as polio, 28,000 American combat forces and mili- measles, and tuberculosis. tary police are enforcing the law and arrest- Iraq’s long-term success also depends on ing criminals. We are also training Iraqis economic development. Our administrator to begin policing their own cities. in Iraq has announced a $100 million fund As we establish order and justice in Iraq, to pay Iraqis to repair buildings and utili- we also continue to pursue Saddam ties. Billions of dollars taken from Iraqis Hussein’s weapons of mass destruction. by a corrupt regime have been recovered Military and intelligence officials are inter- and will be spent on reconstruction viewing scientists with knowledge of Sad- projects. Iraq is already in the process of dam Hussein’s weapons programs and are selling oil on world markets, which will poring over hundreds of thousands of docu- bring in much-needed revenue to help the ments. Iraqi people. This week, the port at Umm For more than a decade, Saddam Qasr opened to commercial traffic, and Hussein went to great lengths to hide his Baghdad International Airport is expected weapons from the world. And in the re- to reopen next month. gime’s final days, documents and suspected For the first time in over a decade, Iraq weapons sites were looted and burned. Yet will soon be open to the world. And the all who know the dictator’s history agree influence of progress in Iraq will be felt

672 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 23

throughout the Middle East. Over time, a Thank you for listening. free Government in Iraq will demonstrate that liberty can flourish in that region. American servicemembers continue to NOTE: The address was recorded at 10 a.m. risk their lives to ensure the liberation of on June 20 in the Cabinet Room at the White Iraq. I’m grateful for their service, and so House for broadcast at 10:06 a.m. on June are the Iraqi people. Many Iraqis are expe- 21. The transcript was made available by the riencing the joys and responsibilities of Office of the Press Secretary on June 20 but freedom for the first time in their lives. was embargoed for release until the broad- And they are unafraid. As one Iraqi man cast. In his remarks, the President referred said, ‘‘We are ready to rebuild our coun- to former President Saddam Hussein of Iraq; try.’’ For the people of free Iraq, the road and L. Paul Bremer III, Presidential Envoy ahead holds great challenges. Yet at every to Iraq. The Office of the Press Secretary turn, they will have friendship and support also released a Spanish language transcript from the United States of America. of this address.

Remarks to the Biotechnology Industry Organization Conference June 23, 2003

Thanks a lot. Welcome to the Nation’s I want to thank Carl Feldbaum for invit- Capital, and thanks for having me drop by. ing me and inviting you. I want to thank I knew Tommy was here when I saw the—and welcome the Premiers and Min- his Harley Davidson parked out front. isters and Ambassadors and distinguished [Laughter] So I just put my Segway right guests from around the world who are here next to it. [Laughter] today. I want to thank the Members of It is a pleasure to be with so many lead- Congress who are here. Some of our Na- ers in such a vital industry. Each of you tion’s Governors have joined us today. is carrying on the incredible work began I understand the Mayor is here. I always some 50 years ago by Doctors Watson and like to see the Mayor and remind him that Crick. Since then, biotechnology is advanc- potholes in front of the White House need ing knowledge and relieving suffering. In to be repaired on a regular basis. [Laugh- the years to come, the contributions of your ter] industry will help us to win the war on I appreciate my Commissioner, the man terror, will help us fight hunger around the I named to head the Food and Drug Ad- world, and will help us to save countless ministration, Mark McClellan, for his serv- lives with new medicines. ice to the country. My administration is committed to work- The biotechnology industry finds itself on ing with your industry so that the great the frontlines of some of the great chal- powers of biotechnology can serve the true lenges of our time. The first challenge is interests of our Nation and mankind. the need to fight terror. All of us know Tommy Thompson is the Secretary of the great possibilities of modern science Health and Human Services. He is the when it is guided by good and humane point man for this administration on bio- purposes. We understand as well the ter- technology and other matters of national health. And he is doing a fantastic job for rible harm that science can do in the hands America. Thank you, buddy. of evil people.

673 June 23 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

On September the 11th, 2001, the world tional security. Our labs will be able to saw what terrorists could do with commer- hire the right experts, to buy the right cial airliners turned into weapons of mass equipment, and to speed the construction murder. We know that our enemies have of the right facilities to accelerate urgently ambitions to acquire and use biological, needed discoveries. chemical, and nuclear weapons. We will not Like other great scientific efforts, Project sit idly by as these threats gather, and we BioShield will have applications beyond its will continue to act before dangers are immediate goals. As scientists work to de- upon us. The most direct way, the best feat the weapons of bioterror, I know they way of removing threats to our country, will gain new insights into the workings of is to eliminate them at their source. And other diseases. And this will also break new that’s what the United States of America ground for the search for treatments and has done and we will do by waging a fo- cures. And this, in turn, can provide great cused, relentless effort to hunt down any benefits for all humanity, especially in de- terrorist that would harm the United States veloping countries, where infectious dis- of America and our citizens. eases often go uncontrolled. And we’re making progress. We have Your industry must stay involved with captured or killed many key leaders of Al this issue. If you’re interested in seeing Qaida, and the other one knows we’re hot more flexibility and more research dollars on their trail. In Afghanistan and Iraq, we for the sake of national security, I need gave ultimatums to terror regimes. Those your help in lobbying the Members of the regimes chose defiance, and those regimes United States Congress. And the message are no more. is clear: For the sake of our national secu- As we take the battle to the enemy, we rity, the United States Congress must pass must always remember where the battle the BioShield legislation as soon as pos- began: here in our own country. So we’ve sible. reorganized Government to defend the Your industry is also helping this country homeland, with greater security at our bor- and the world to meet a second great chal- ders and ports, with more screeners at air- lenge, sparing millions of people from star- ports, and the Nation’s first environmental vation. America and other wealthy nations sensors, a network of labs to quickly detect have a special responsibility to combat hun- a biological attack. ger and disease in desperate lands. We A key part of our all-out effort to prepare meet that responsibility with emergency for the threat of bioterror is what this ad- food in times of crisis. Next year, the ministration has called Project BioShield. United States will devote more than a bil- I have proposed that our Government lion dollars, providing food and aid to the spend nearly $6 billion over the next 10 hungry. But for the long term, we must years to speed the research, production, help troubled nations to avert famine by and availability of effective vaccines and sharing with them the most advanced treatments against smallpox and anthrax, methods of crop production. botulinum toxin, Ebola, plague, and other Through the work of scientists in your possible agents of bioterror. field, many farmers in developed nations Under Project BioShield, the Govern- are now able to grow crops with high resist- ment will have the spending authority to ance to drought and pests and disease— ensure that the most advanced vaccines and enable farmers to produce far greater yields treatments are available to our people. per acre. In our own country, we see the Project BioShield will give our scientific benefits of biotech every day with food leaders greater authority and more flexi- prices and good land conservation practices. bility in decisions that may affect our na- Yet, the great advantages of biotechnology

674 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 23 have yet to reach developing nations in Af- Americans, especially our senior citizens. rica and other lands where these innova- The Medicare system has served seniors tions are now most needed. well for nearly four decades. Yet, while Acting on unfounded, unscientific fears, medicine has dramatically advanced, Medi- many European Governments have blocked care hasn’t. The program was designed at the import of all new biotech crops. Be- a time when hospital stays were common cause of these artificial obstacles, many Af- and drug therapies were rare. Thanks to rican nations avoid investing in bio- your efforts, there are drugs and other technology, worried that their products will treatments that can dramatically reduce be shut out of important European mar- hospital stays which, in turn, improves qual- kets. For the sake of a continent threatened ity of care and quality of life. We have by famine, I urge the European Govern- a responsibility to improve and strengthen ments to end their opposition to bio- Medicare by making modern medicine an technology. We should encourage the integral part of the Medicare system, and spread of safe, effective biotechnology to that includes prescription drugs for all our win the fight against global hunger. seniors. Finally, your industry is in the forefront This is a goal you have supported for of improving health care for all Americans, several years. And if we finally put aside and we are grateful. Thanks to bio- partisan politics and focus on what’s right technology, we may soon be able to grow for American seniors, I believe we can life-saving therapies and useful chemicals achieve the goal this year. The debate is in plants. Biotechnology might allow sci- on in the United States Congress, and I’ve entists to produce large amounts of submitted a framework for reforms that in- monoclonal antibodies, which target spe- sists that our seniors have choices under cific, disease-causing molecules without at- Medicare so that affordable health care tacking healthy cells. We’re closing in on plans compete for their business and give the ability to protect and fight against a them the coverage they need, not the cov- range of illnesses, including cancer and erage that a Washington bureaucrat thinks HIV and heart disease. they need. In coming years, we will see further in- The principle of choice, of trusting peo- novations, like insulin that can be inhaled ple to make their own health care deci- rather than administered by a needle. Men sions, is behind the health plan enjoyed and women in your field are at work on by every person on the Federal payroll, synthetic blood that is free from infections including the Members of the United and capable of being administered to all States Congress. All Federal employees get blood types. New therapies are nearing to choose their health care plan. Health which will enable doctors to look at dis- care plans compete for their business. eases for genetic markers and then give Members of Congress have got excellent patients individualized treatments. The fu- choices. If the choice idea is good enough ture of medicine in the United States of for the lawmakers, it ought to be good America is incredibly bright because of enough for the seniors of the United States your work and your skill and your research. of America. Our biotechnology industry is the strongest Seniors who want to stay in the current in the world, and we need to keep it that Medicare system should have that option, way. plus a new prescription drug benefit. Sen- And now we have a challenge to make iors who want enhanced benefits, such as sure that many of the advances you have more coverage for their preventative care made in making sure our health care sys- and other services, should have that choice tem can be world-class is extended to all as well. Seniors who like the affordability

675 June 23 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 of managed care plans should be able to balanced legal system, we need tort reform enroll in them. And low-income seniors in Washington, DC. And I call upon the should receive extra help, so that all seniors United States Senate to act, to pass mean- will have the ability to choose a Medicare ingful liability and class action suit reforms option that includes prescription drug ben- now. efits. These are times of great challenge for As we pursue Medicare reform, we must this country. Our country must continue make sure that whatever system evolves to meet the grave dangers of bioterrorism. does not undermine America’s bio- We’ve got to continue to work to help re- technology industry. We need to keep re- lieve suffering around the world. And we’ve warding innovation and protecting competi- got to continue to seek cures to terrible tion without unnecessary intervention by diseases. the Government. When the Government In all of this, we’re relying on the skill determines which drugs are covered by and conscience of scientists in the field of health insurance and which illnesses are biotechnology. As men and women of treated, patients face delays and inflexible science, you have accepted a moral calling limits on coverage. That is a fact. Medicine to improve lives and to save lives. That works best when doctors and their patients calling also requires a deep respect for the decide what treatments to pursue. value of every life because even the most We’re making progress on this important noble ends do not justify any means. This issue. The House committee has marked Nation is counting on you to serve the true up legislation. The Senate is now actively interests of all humanity. You face great debating the issue on the floor. We have challenges, yet you’re an industry who wel- a chance to finally modernize Medicare, comes challenge. Your hard work and inspi- and I ask for your help. Please contact your ration have produced incredible successes. Senators and Members of the United States You have made us all proud. After all, mil- House of Representatives. Ask them to take lions of people are in your debt. The Amer- a tough vote, if need be, to modernize a ican people are grateful for your many system which needs to be saved. achievements, and we look forward to the And as you make your voices heard on many achievements yet to come. necessary reform for Medicare, make sure May God bless your work, and may God you make your voices heard on making sure continue to bless America. that we have legal reform in America as well. We sue each other too much in the NOTE: The President spoke at 1:08 p.m. at United States of America. We passed a the Washington Convention Center. In his medical liability reform bill and a class ac- remarks, he referred to Carl Feldbaum, tion reform bill out of the House of Rep- president, Biotechnology Industry Organiza- resentatives. These bills are stuck in the tion; and Mayor Anthony A. Williams of United States Senate. For the sake of a Washington, DC.

Statement on the Supreme Court Decision on the Michigan Affirmative Action Cases June 23, 2003

I applaud the Supreme Court for recog- campuses. Diversity is one of America’s nizing the value of diversity on our Nation’s greatest strengths. Today’s decisions seek

676 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 23

a careful balance between the goal of cam- natives. I agree that we must look first to pus diversity and the fundamental principle these race-neutral approaches to make cam- of equal treatment under the law. puses more welcoming for all students. My administration will continue to pro- Race is a reality in American life. Yet mote policies that expand educational op- like the Court, I look forward to the day portunities for Americans from all racial, when America will truly be a colorblind ethnic, and economic backgrounds. There society. My administration will continue to are innovative and proven ways for colleges work toward this important goal. and universities to reflect our diversity without using racial quotas. The Court has made clear that colleges and universities NOTE: The Office of the Press Secretary also must engage in a serious, good faith consid- released a Spanish language version of this eration of workable race-neutral alter- statement.

Remarks at a Bush-Cheney Reception in New York City June 23, 2003

Thank you all very much. It’s nice to My only regret tonight is that First Lady be back in this great city of New York Laura Bush didn’t come. I know, you drew City. Thank you for your warm hospitality. the—you drew the short straw. [Laughter] I’m going to come back. [Laughter] And I’m proud of her. I love her. She is a I look forward to having the Republican fabulous First Lady for America. Convention right here in the great city of I want to thank Governor George Pataki New York. for not only being a friend but being a Thank you all so very much for your great Governor for the State of New York. help in the campaign. You’re laying the I appreciate so very much that my Sec- foundation for what will be a national vic- retary of Commerce, Don Evans, is with tory come November of 2004. I’m getting us tonight. I appreciate him coming. loosened up. [Laughter] I’m getting ready. I had a chance to visit with the mayor. [Laughter] But I’m going to need your I want to thank Michael Bloomberg for help. I’m going to need your help not only the job he’s doing on behalf of the citizens to lay the foundation at the grassroots, but of this great city, and I want to thank him I need your help to pass our message, our for his friendship as well. He probably said inclusive, positive, hopeful message for all he’s going out to throw a first pitch out American citizens. at the minor league park. I know something I say I’m ready—the political season will about throwing out pitches. [Laughter] And come in its own time. There will be plenty I would suggest he goes with a fastball, of time for politics. Right now I’m focused not his slider. [Laughter] on the people’s business in Washington, I want to thank Congressman Vito DC. We have a lot on the agenda, and Fossella for coming as well. He’s part of we will continue to work hard to earn the that New York delegation that’s making a confidence of our fellow citizens by keeping difference. this Nation secure, keeping this Nation I want to thank people from the state- strong, keeping this Nation prosperous, and house who are here. The Lieutenant Gov- keeping this Nation free. ernor, Mary Donohue, is with us today.

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Mary, thank you for coming. Senate Major- And today, no one in the world can ques- ity Leader Joe Bruno and Assembly Minor- tion the skill and the strength and the spirit ity Leader Charlie Nesbitt are with us as of the United States military. well. Thank you for coming. Two-and-a-half years ago, we inherited I’m proud that my friend Mayor Jim an economy in recession. Then the attacks Garner from Hempstead, New York, who on our country and scandals in corporate is the new president of the U.S. Con- America and the war affected our people’s ference on Mayors, is with us. Thank you, confidence. But we acted. We passed tough Mr. Mayor. new laws to hold corporate criminals to ac- I want to thank my friend Rudy Giuliani count. for being the cochairman of this—[ap- And to get our economy going again, we plause]. Rudy and I and his new bride trav- have twice led the Congress to pass historic eled from the helicopter pad together, and tax relief for the American people. Here it’s clear, like me, he married above him- is what we believe and here is what we self. [Laughter] know: When Americans have more take- It’s good to see former Senator Alphonse home pay to spend, to save, or to invest, D’Amato here. Thank you for coming, Al- the whole economy grows, so people can phonse. I appreciate Mr. Chairman, Sandy find work. We understand whose money Treadwell, for being here. Sandy, thank you we spend in Washington, DC. It is not for your leadership and your help. And the the Government’s money. It is the people’s chairman of the New York Conservative money. Party, Mike Long, is with us as well. Mi- chael, thanks for coming. Most importantly, We’re returning more money to the peo- thank you all for being here. It means a ple who are raising their families. We’re lot. I really appreciate your help and your reducing taxes on dividends and capital support. gains to encourage investment. We’re giving In the last 21⁄2 years, our Nation has small businesses incentives to expand and acted decisively to confront great chal- hire new people. With all these actions we lenges. I came to the office of the Presi- are laying the foundation for greater pros- dency to solve problems, not to pass them perity and more jobs across America, so on to future Presidents and future genera- every single person in this country has a tions. I came to seize opportunities instead chance to realize the American Dream. of letting them slip away, and we are meet- Two-and-a-half years ago, there was a lot ing the tests of our time. of talk about education reform, but there Terrorists declared war on the United wasn’t much action. So I called for and States of America, and war is what they the Congress passed the No Child Left Be- got. We have captured or killed many key hind Act. With a solid bipartisan majority, leaders of Al Qaida, and the rest of them we delivered the most dramatic education know we’re hot on their trail. In Afghani- reforms in a generation. We’re bringing stan and Iraq, we gave ultimatums to terror high standards and strong accountability regimes. Those regimes chose defiance, and measures to every public school in America. those regimes are no more. We believe every child can learn the basics Fifty million people in those two coun- of reading and math, and we believe that tries once lived under tyranny, and now every school in America must teach those they live in freedom. Two-and-a-half years basics. We are challenging the soft bigotry ago, our military was not receiving the re- of low expectations. The days of excuse- sources it needed, and morale was begin- making are over, and now we expect results ning to suffer. We increased the defense in every classroom in America so that not budget to prepare for threats of a new era. one single child is left behind.

678 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 23

We reorganized the Government and Yet, our national interests involves more created a Department of Homeland Secu- than eliminating aggressive threats to our rity to safeguard the borders and ports and safety. Our greatest security comes from to protect the American people. We passed the advance of human liberty, because free trade promotion authority to open new nations do not support terror. Free nations markets for America’s farmers and ranchers do not attack their neighbors, and free na- and manufacturers. We passed a budget tions do not threaten the world with weap- agreement that is helping to maintain ons of mass terror. spending discipline in Washington, DC. On Americans believe that freedom is the issue after issue, this administration has deepest need and hope of every human acted on principle, has kept its word, and heart. And we believe that freedom is the has made progress on behalf of the Amer- right of every person and the future of ican people. every nation. The United States Congress has shared America also understands that unprece- in these great achievements. And I do want dented influence brings tremendous re- to thank the Members of the Congress who sponsibilities. When we have—we have du- have worked hard on behalf of the people. ties in this world. And when we see disease We’ll continue to work together, work to- and starvation and hopelessness and pov- gether to change the tone in Washington, erty, we will not turn away. On the con- DC, by focusing on results. That’s been tinent of Africa, America is now committed to bringing the healing power of medicine the nature of the folks that I’ve asked to to millions of men and women and children serve the United States of America. I’ve now suffering from AIDS. This great land assembled a fantastic Cabinet and an ad- is leading the world in the important work ministration, people who understand their of human rescue. job is to represent all of America. There We face challenges at home, and our has been no greater Vice President for the actions prove that we’re equal to those United States of America than Dick Che- challenges. I will continue to work hard ney. Mother might have a second opinion. on our economy until everybody who wants [Laughter] to work and can’t find a job today can 1 In 2 ⁄2 years, we have come far, but our find work. work is only beginning. We have great goals We have a duty to keep our commitment worthy of this great Nation. First, America to America’s seniors by strengthening and is committed to expanding the realm of modernizing Medicare so they have more freedom and peace. And secondly, in our choices and better access to prescription own country, we must work for a society drugs. The time has arrived for Congress of prosperity and compassion so that every to pass Medicare reform, and that reform citizen has a chance to work and succeed must give seniors good options that meet and realize the great promise of America. their needs. Members of Congress and It is clear that the future of peace and their staffs get a choice of health plans. freedom depend on the actions of America. Seniors ought to have the same kind of This Nation is freedom’s home and free- choices, including the choice to keep their dom’s defender. We welcome this charge Medicare coverage the way it is. If choice of history, and we are keeping it. Our war is good enough for Members of the United on terror continues. The enemies of free- States Congress, it is good enough for the dom are not idle, and neither are we. This seniors in America. country will not rest; we will not tire; and And for the sake of our health care sys- we will not stop until this danger to civiliza- tem, we need to stop the frivolous lawsuits tion is removed. which increase the cost of medicine. People

679 June 23 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 who have been harmed by a bad doctor children, caring for the homeless, and offer- deserve their day in court. Yet, the system ing hope to the addicted. should not reward lawyers who are simply A compassionate society must promote fishing for rich settlements. Because frivo- opportunity for all, including the independ- lous lawsuits drive up the cost of health ence and dignity that come from owner- care, at the Federal level, liability reform ship. This administration will constantly is a national issue that requires a national strive to produce an ownership society in solution. Our fellow citizens must under- America. We want more people to own stand that no one has ever been healed their own homes. We want more people by a frivolous lawsuit. We need medical to own and control their retirement ac- liability reform today. counts. We want more small-business own- I have a responsibility as President to ers in America, and we want people to make sure the judicial system runs well, own and manage their own health care and I have met that duty. I have nominated plan. We understand that when somebody superb men and women for the Federal owns something, he or she has a vital courts, people who will interpret the law, stake—a vital stake—in the future of this not legislate from the bench. Some Mem- country. bers of the Senate are trying to keep my In a compassionate society, people re- nominees off the bench by blocking up- spect one another and take responsibility or-down votes. Every judicial nominee de- for the decisions they make. We’re chang- serves a fair hearing and an up-or-down ing the culture of America from one that vote on the Senate floor. It is time for said, ‘‘If it feels good, do it, and if you’ve some Members of the Senate to stop play- got a problem, blame somebody else,’’ to ing politics with American justice. a culture in which each of us understands The United States Congress needs to that we are responsible for the decisions pass a comprehensive energy plan. Our Na- we make in life. tion must promote energy efficiency and If you’re fortunate enough to be a moth- conservation and develop cleaner tech- er or father, you are responsible for the nologies. But for the sake of our national well-being of your child. If you’re con- security, we must produce more energy at cerned about the quality of education in home. your community, you are responsible for Our strong and prosperous Nation must doing something about it. If you are a CEO also be a compassionate Nation. I will con- in America, you have a responsibility to tinue to advance our agenda of compas- tell the truth to your shareholders and your sionate conservatism, applying the best and employees. And in a responsibility society, most innovative ideas to the task of helping each of us is responsible for loving our our fellow citizens in need. There are still neighbor just like we’d like to be loved millions of men and women who want to ourselves. end their dependence on Government and We can see the culture of service and become independent through hard work. responsibility growing around us here in We must build on the success of welfare America. I started the USA Freedom Corps reform to bring work and dignity into the to encourage Americans to extend a com- lives of more of our fellow citizens. passionate hand to a neighbor in need. And Congress should complete the ‘‘Citizen the response has been strong. Our faith- Service Act’’ so more Americans can serve based charities all across the country are their communities and their country. And strong and vibrant, and bringing hope and both Houses should finally reach agreement healing to our fellow citizens. Policemen on a Faith-Based Initiative to support the and firemen and people who wear our Na- armies of compassion that are mentoring tion’s uniform are reminding us what it

680 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 24 means to sacrifice for something greater to lift up lives by spreading opportunity than yourself. Once again the children of to every corner of our country. This is the America believe in heroes, because they see work that history has set before us. We them every day. welcome it. And we know for our country In these challenging times, the world has and for our cause, better days lie ahead. seen the resolve and the courage of Amer- Thank you for coming. May God bless ica. And I have been privileged to see the you. And may God bless America. compassion and the character of the Amer- ican people. All the tests of the last 21⁄2 NOTE: The President spoke at 6:28 p.m. in years have come to the right Nation. We’re the Imperial Ballroom at the Sheraton New a strong country, and we use our strength York Hotel. In his remarks, he referred to to defend the peace. We’re an optimistic Mayor Michael Bloomberg of New York country, confident in ourselves and in ideals City; former Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani of bigger than ourselves. New York City and his wife, Judith; and Alex- Abroad, we seek to lift whole nations ander F. ‘‘Sandy’’ Treadwell, chairman, New by spreading freedom. At home, we seek York Republican State Committee.

The President’s News Conference With President Pervez Musharraf of Pakistan at Camp David, Maryland June 24, 2003

President Bush. Good day, Mr. President. Today, both our countries are working Thank you so much for coming. Laura and with the Afghan Government to build a I are honored that you and Mrs. Musharraf stable, democratic Afghanistan with secure are joining us here at Camp David. border regions that are free from terror President Musharraf is a courageous and free from extremism. Pakistan and the leader and a friend of the United States. United States also share a determination America has a strong relationship with Paki- to bring the security—the benefits of secu- stan, and we have benefited from the in- rity and freedom to the people of Iraq. dustry and the talents of Pakistani Ameri- And I look forward to working with Presi- cans. dent Musharraf on this critical goal. Today, our two nations are working to- The friendship between the United gether closely on common challenges. Both States and Pakistan is vital to the security and stability of South Asia. I’m encouraged the United States and Pakistan are threat- by the progress President Musharraf and ened by global terror, and we’re deter- Indian Prime Minister Vajpayee may have mined to defeat it. Pakistan’s support was made in easing tensions between Pakistan essential in our campaign against the and India. I’m hopeful that the two coun- Taliban. tries will deepen their engagement on all Since September the 11th attacks, Paki- issues, including Kashmir. stan has apprehended more than 500 Al In our meeting, we discussed the need Qaida and Taliban terrorists, thanks to the to address extremism and cross-border infil- effective border security measures and law tration, and I assured the President that enforcement cooperation throughout the the United States will do all we can to country, and thanks to the leadership of promote peace. President Musharraf has set President Musharraf. out on an important mission. He’s working

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to build a modern Pakistan that is tolerant relationship that Pakistan today enjoys with and prosperous. Achieving this vision of the United States. moderation and progress will require move- We have talked not only about our bilat- ment toward democracy in Pakistan. The eral ties and the immediate situation pre- United States currently provides over $31 vailing in our region in South Asia but have million for initiatives in Pakistan aimed at also reflected upon and shared ideas of our broadening political participation and ex- common vision of a peaceful and pros- panding educational opportunities, espe- perous world. We have reviewed in depth cially for women and girls. with President Bush how to strengthen and Greater economic development is also expand the Pakistan-U.S. bilateral relation- critical to fulfilling the hopes of the Paki- ship and to give it greater depth and mean- stani people. Since we met last year, the ing. United States has canceled $1 billion of Both sides have reaffirmed that our ties debt Pakistan owed our country. And today should be made more broadbased and I’m pleased to announce that our nations multifaceted and placed on a long-term and are signing a Trade and Investment Frame- predictable basis. The United States has ac- work Agreement, which creates a formal cordingly agreed on a multiyear economic structure for expanding our economic part- and defense-related package for Pakistan. nership. In addition, I will work with the This exemplifies the U.S. commitment to United States Congress on a $3-billion as- remain involved with us for a long term. sistance package to help advance security We look forward to diverse programs of and economic opportunity for Pakistan’s cooperation in the economic, commercial, citizens. For more than 50 years, the United political, and the defense sectors. We also States and Pakistan have worked together expect greater people-to-people contacts for the security and prosperity of South and close interaction between the par- Asia. Today we reaffirm a friendship that liaments of the two countries to promote has brought great benefits to our people. the cause of democracy. Mr. President, I’m honored you are here. As a result of this commitment, two im- President Musharraf. Thank you. Thank portant agreements will be signed during you very much, Mr. President. I am ex- my visit to the United States. One relates tremely grateful to President Bush for his to the Trade and Investment Framework gracious invitation to me to visit the United Agreement, the TIFA, which would help States. I am particularly honored and move towards an eventual Free Trade touched by his special gesture in arranging Agreement, the FTA. our meeting in Camp David. The other relates to an agreement on This is my fourth visit to the United cooperation in the field of science and States, and as always, the United States’ technology, which would provide impetus hospitality has been warm and exemplary. to growth and development. Our two coun- This special gesture by the President to tries have many common bonds and link- come to Camp David and invite me here ages. Our relationship is of longstanding on a Tuesday is certainly a typical example and in the interest of the people of our of his warmth and cordiality towards me two countries. We have cooperated closely as a person and towards Pakistan. in the global fight against terrorism, and We had wide-ranging and extensive dis- we stand determined to rid the world of cussions with President Bush in a congenial this menace. and most informal ambiance. These discus- We abhor terrorism in all its forms and sions have been highly productive, reflec- manifestations. There is no cause that can tive of the very close and, indeed, special be justified or promoted through terrorist

682 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 24 acts, and Pakistan is moving against ter- Usama bin Laden? Is he back in business rorism in its own national interest. in Pakistan? And what about Saddam Hus- We also believe that our relations with sein? Is he back in Iraq? the United States are a factor of stability President Bush. Well, let me start off. in South Asia. We are grateful to the There’s more than two principals at large. United States for its constructive engage- There are terrorists who are—still have de- ment in our region and for its untiring ef- signs on destabilizing the Pakistan Govern- forts in diffusing tension and bringing about ment and are destroying innocent life. a dialog process between Pakistan and You’ve named two. There are others around India aimed at the resolution of all out- too, and we’re just on the hunt. And we’ll standing issues, including the core issue of find them. It’s a matter of time. Jammu and Kashmir. President Bush has Thanks to President Musharraf’s leader- assured me that he personally, and the ship, on the Al Qaida front we’ve disman- United States, would remain firmly engaged tled the chief operators of Al Qaida. If in South Asia towards the end of bringing Usama bin Laden is alive—and the Presi- peace and harmony in the region. dent can comment on that if he cares to— We also reviewed the situation prevailing but the people reporting to him, the chief in Afghanistan. We reiterated our firm sup- operators, people like Khalid Sheikh Mo- port to the Bonn process and to the Gov- hammed, are no longer a threat to the ernment of President Karzai, which needs United States or Pakistan for that matter. to be strengthened. It is important that the As I said in my opening remarks, thanks world community remains engaged in Af- to the leadership of this man and his Gov- ghanistan and lives up to its commitment ernment, over 500 Al Qaida and Taliban towards the reconstruction and develop- terrorists are detained. They’re no longer ment of this devastated country. a problem. So slowly but surely, we’re dis- We also discussed a number of other im- mantling the networks, and we’ll continue portant issues, such as the situation in Iraq on the hunt. It doesn’t matter how long and the Middle East peace process. I it takes. It could take a day, or it could have—I would like to, in front of this gath- take a month. It could take years. It doesn’t ering, extend a very warm invitation to the matter how long it takes, Mr. President, President and Mrs. Laura Bush, may I say, we will stay on the hunt, and we want to visit Pakistan and do us this honor and to thank you for your cooperation. give us this opportunity of reciprocating the President Musharraf. Thank you very warmth and the cordiality that myself and much. All that I would like to say is that my wife always receive very well when we in search of all the Al Qaida operatives visit United States. who are non-Afghan, non-Pakistani, pretty President Bush. Thank you, Mr. Presi- easy to identify, we have entered on the dent. Pakistani side an area known as the FATA, President Musharraf. Thank you very the Federally Administered Tribal Areas, much. areas where the Government never entered President Bush. We will take two ques- for over a century. This is the first time tions from each side, and we’ll start with that the Pakistan army and our civil armed Tom Raum [Associated Press]. forces have entered this region. And we are in the process of opening up this re- War on Terror gion. Q. For both Presidents, the war on terror Now, if at all any Al Qaida operative that you’re both engaged in, there are two is hiding in this region, we are after them. principals that are still at large. Could you Now, whether Usama bin Laden is here tell us anything about the whereabouts of or across the border, your guess, sir, will

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be as good as mine. So I wouldn’t like There needs to be a 100-percent effort on to venture into a guess. But the possibility all parties’ side; every party involved with of his, maybe, shifting sides on the border this issue must focus on not allowing a few is very much there. But as I said, we are to undermine the hopes of many. And the fully inside the areas where—which are President knows that I will remain engaged. treacherous areas. We have an ingress I have—stand by, ready to help. But the there. And there is no doubt in my mind truth of the matter is, for there to be a that the military, with every passage of final agreement, it’s going to require lead- time, will be able to locate any Al Qaida ership from both the Pakistani Government members hiding in this area. and the Indian Government. President Bush. Do you want to call on Q. May I have one more question? somebody from your press? President Bush. No, you can’t. Thank President Musharraf. Yes, indeed. I think you. I’ll take—[inaudible]. India-Pakistan Relations Democracy in Pakistan Q. Mr. President Bush, it’s a very posi- Q. Mr. President, you mentioned you’d tive statement for bringing peace into like to see a movement toward democracy South Asia, which is already nuclearized, in—— but during the 20 years of honeymoon pe- President Bush. What now? riod of India with Soviet Union, India is Q. You mentioned that you would like the one who launched nuclear program, to see a movement toward democracy in and insecure and a smaller Pakistan, in Pakistan. What would you like to see hap- search of its security, did the same thing. pen? There’s a report that he might dis- Now, when you are starting a stable rela- solve the Parliament there. tionship with India, what kind of security President Bush. Well, the President and concerns you are going to address about I talked about the reforms that he’s putting the territorial integrity of Pakistan and sein place and the democracy to which he curity concerns, because Pakistan is much is committed. One of the things that he smaller in the conventional weapons, and has done that is most impressive for the that’s why they have gone nuclear? long-term stability of Pakistan is to address President Bush. I think—look, we’ve education reform. A good education system spent a lot of time on this subject, not is one that is going to mean more likely only today but during previous meetings. for any country, including ourselves, to be I assured President Musharraf that the a freer country and a more democratic United States wants to help toward achiev- country. ing a peaceful solution. What you’ve just And he is taking on the issue in a way described is the reason why there needs that is visionary and strong. He’s dealing to be a peaceful solution on this issue and with the Madrassahs in a way that is pro- other issues. Our role will be to be a— ductive and constructive. He is working on to aid the process forward. The decision- a national curriculum that will focus on makers will be the Pakistani Government basic education. I’ll let him describe his and the Indian Government. Those are the vision. But this country is committed to Governments that have to decide how to democracy, and we’re committed to free- resolve this issue, which is a—which has dom. We’re also committed to working with been a thorn in both people’s sides. our partner to fight off the influences of One thing is for certain, that we all must terrorism. And we’ve had no better partner work together to fight off terrorists who in our fight on terror than President would like to prevent a peaceful solution. Musharraf.

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President Musharraf. Thank you, Mr. not be provided with F–16s. This contrasts President. I would like to say a word on sharply with the positive relationship that the previous question, also, before I address Pakistan currently enjoys with the United your—answer your question. Pakistan very States. The Pakistani public sets great score clearly, obviously, is concerned—any coun- by the F–16s. So, Mr. President, should try is concerned about its security. Pakistan the Pakistani public believe Mr. Advani? follows a strategy of minimum deterrence. President Bush. Well, the—— We are not into any arms race, but we President Musharraf. You are never do maintain forces to ensure this strategy going to escape this. of minimum deterrence. President Bush. No, I know. [Laughter] And that is what we will keep doing to Let me just say—first, let me say, the Presi- guard our honor and dignity. We have, as dent is not afraid to bring up the issue far as India is concerned, our sovereign of F–16s. He has been a strong advocate equality to guard vis-a-vis India. And this for the sale of F–16s to Pakistan. In the is what we pursue whenever we are talking package that we discussed, the 5-year, $3- of any defense-related issues. billion package, half of that money goes Coming to your question, sir, about de- for defense matters, of which the F–16 mocracy, let me assure you—it may sound won’t be a part. Nevertheless, we want to rather odd that I, being a military man, work closely with our friend to make sure am talking of democracy. But let me assure that the package meets the needs of the you that I am extremely concerned about Pakistan people. introducing sustainable democracy in Paki- Thank you very much, Mr. President. stan. We’re honored you’re here. Over the last 50 years, five decades, we President Musharraf. Thank you. have had dysfunctional democracy in Paki- President Bush. It’s been a great meet- stan. And what I am doing, really, is to ing. introduce sustainable democracy. Let me President Musharraf. Thank you, Mr. assure you, all the constitution changes, all President. the political restructuring that we have done, is in line with ensuring sustainable democracy in Pakistan. We will continue NOTE: The President’s news conference with this process to ensure that democracy began at 11:49 a.m. In his remarks, he re- is never derailed in Pakistan. This is my ferred to Begum Sehba Musharraf, wife of assurance. President Musharraf; Prime Minister Atal President Bush. Final question, that Bihari Vajpayee of India; Usama bin Laden, you’d like to call? leader of the Al Qaida terrorist organization; President Musharraf. [Inaudible]—yes, and Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, senior Al please. Qaida leader responsible for planning the September 11, 2001, terrorist attack, who F–16 Sales to Pakistan was captured in Pakistan on March 1, 2003. Q. This is to President Bush. During the President Musharraf referred to President Indian Deputy Prime Minister Advani’s Hamid Karzai of Afghanistan. Reporters re- visit last week, there were press reports ferred to former President Saddam Hussein of his claiming to have received assurances of Iraq; and Deputy Prime Minister Lal from your administration that Pakistan will Krishna Advani of India.

685 June 24 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Remarks at a Celebration of Black Music Month June 24, 2003

I’m feeling pretty energized. [Laughter] We’ve got a lot of other great musicians Thank you all. Welcome to the White with us today, and I want to thank you House. Laura and I are thrilled you’re here all for gracing the White House. Thanks as we celebrate Black Music Month. for coming back. This is an annual event, and we always The artists with us today are known and try to celebrate it in style. And we did. admired for high achievement in many mu- Thank you all so very much for coming. sical forms. And the commemoration of this The White House is feeling pretty joyous month expresses our Nation’s pride in the right now. [Laughter] music that Black Americans have created We’ve got some wonderful guests here and have shared with the world. today. We’ve got a lot of educators and Some of the finest performances by athletes and got the mayor of Hempstead, Black Americans have been heard right New York. We’ve got the President—my here in the White House and in this room. friend the President of Panama is with us Lionel Hampton played here many times today. Madam President, thank you for over half a century. Laura and I were hon- coming. We’re honored you’re here. We ored to host him on his last visit to the want to thank your Minister of Foreign White House in 2001. Duke Ellington performed in the East Room in 1969. He was Relations and your Ambassador for coming familiar with the place because, after all, as well. his dad worked here as a butler. The Of course, joining us as well are two Steinway grand piano in the foyer has been members from my Cabinet: a fabulous Sec- played by Ellington and Earl Hines, by retary of State, Colin Powell—thank you, Hank Jones and by Billy Taylor. And when Mr. Secretary—the Secretary of Education, Franklin Roosevelt wanted to show the Rod Paige. Thank you for coming, Mr. Sec- King and Queen of England the finest retary. Condoleezza Rice is with us. Condi, music in America, he brought them to this thank you for coming. We’ve got other room to hear Marian Anderson sing ‘‘Ave members from my administration. I want Maria.’’ to thank you for coming. I know Sam Those White House performances were Brownback is here, the Senator from Kan- moments of triumph for artists who loved sas. this country, even when this country did I want to thank so very much Stanley not make them feel fully welcomed. And Crouch. It’s wonderful to see you again, the grace and dignity of their lives is part sir. We’re honored you’re here. He bright- of the story of black music in America. ened up one of the book festivals that In so many different ways, the artistry of Laura gave a while ago. It’s a joyous time black musicians has conveyed the experi- to hear him read. You haven’t lost your ence of Black Americans throughout our touch. [Laughter] history. From the earliest generations of I want to thank so very much the cast slaves came music of sorrow and patience, of ‘‘Harlem Song’’ for coming. You’re fan- of truth and righteousness, and of faith that tastic artists. Loren, thank you very much shamed the oppressor and called upon the as well, sir, for you being here, and the justice of Almighty God and praised His Harlem Jazz Museum Artists. You really are holy name. great. Thanks for coming—appreciate you Out of this heritage has come a tremen- coming. dous variety of music, expressed in gospel

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and jazz, in rhythm and blues, and in rock to the men and women who have shared and roll. Lyrics first heard in the country this gift with us all. And so today I’ve churches in the Mississippi Delta and songs signed a proclamation designating June first played in the clubs of Harlem and 2003 as Black Music Month in the United Chicago and Memphis are now recognized States of America. and loved in every part of America and May God bless your talents, and may throughout the world. The music we honor God continue to bless the United States this month could have only come from the of America. Thank you for coming. unique experience of Black Americans. Yet, at its best, this music speaks to every NOTE: The President spoke at 5:38 p.m. in heart. Your day is a little better when you the East Room at the White House. In his hear Nat King Cole sing ‘‘Unforgettable,’’ remarks, he referred to Mayor James A. Gar- or Aaron Neville ‘‘Tell it Like it Is’’— ner of Hempstead, NY; President Mireya [laughter]—or Diana Ross singing ‘‘Reflec- Elisa Moscoso, Foreign Minister Harmodio tions,’’ or B.B. King lamenting, ‘‘The Thrill Arias, and Ambassador to the United States is Gone.’’ [Laughter] Or how about when Roberto Alfaro of Panama; writer and jazz James Brown proclaims, ‘‘I Feel Good’’? critic Stanley Crouch; jazz musician Loren [Laughter] Or Mahalia Jackson praising our Schoenberg; and the Harlem Jazz Museum ‘‘Precious Lord.’’ Artists musical group. The Black Music This is some of the greatest music Amer- Month proclamation of June 24 is listed in ica has ever produced. America is thankful Appendix D at the end of this volume.

Statement on the Death of Bob Stump June 24, 2003

Congressman Bob Stump lived a distin- who served as chairman of both the House guished life of service as a World War II Veterans’ Affairs Committee and the veteran, an Arizona State legislator, and a Armed Services Committee, he was ad- United States Congressman. He was a gift- mired for his tireless efforts on behalf of ed leader who remained true to his prin- the men and women in uniform. Laura ciples and made an indelible mark on those joins me in sending our thoughts and pray- who were fortunate enough to know him. ers to Nancy and the entire Stump family As one of the few Members of Congress during this difficult time.

Statement on House of Representatives Action on Homeland Security Legislation June 24, 2003

I commend the House of Representatives supports my request to help train, equip, for acting quickly to approve funds for our and prepare first-responders across our Na- continued effort to strengthen homeland tion. The bill also supports important core security and protect the American people. functions of the newly created Department I’m particularly pleased that the House bill

687 June 24 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 of Homeland Security, including border security, infrastructure protection, and information analysis.

Remarks Prior to a Meeting With Congressional Leaders on Medicare Reform June 25, 2003

The President. Thank you all for coming. a common objective. And I want to thank I’ll take some questions at the end of the the Members. I look forward to working EU Summit. I’m so honored that members with you. Whatever amount of energy and of both political parties from the House effort is required from the White House, of Representatives have come to discuss we will provide it, to get a bill done this our mutual desire to get a Medicare reform summer, one that I can sign, and then we package passed. Members of both parties can all go back to our districts—in my case, have made up their minds that we can do tour the country—and say we have accom- a good job on behalf of seniors by making plished a major objective. Together—we sure that Medicare is a modern system. work together. We are making great progress on this Thank you all for coming. Now you’re issue. We have an historic opportunity to supposed to yell a question so I know what seize the moment and get a good bill done. you’re going to ask later on. [Laughter] There’s good momentum on the side of Q. What are you going to tell the unde- those of us who believe that we have an cided Republicans this afternoon? obligation to serve something greater than The President. Wrong question. [Laugh- ourselves or our political parties. And I ter] want to thank, again, members of both par- Q. The economy? ties who are working hard to reach a con- The President. The economy? Okay, sensus on behalf of our country’s seniors. good, yell about that. [Laughter] We’ve got Nancy Johnson and Congress- man Israel here, who are very competent NOTE: The President spoke at 9:53 a.m. in spokesmen for what is necessary to achieve the Cabinet Room at the White House.

The President’s News Conference With European Union Leaders June 25, 2003

President Bush. Thank you all for com- Since the end of World War II, the ing. We’ll have opening statements; each United States has strongly supported Euro- of us will answer one question apiece. pean unity as the best path to European It’s my pleasure to welcome Prime Min- peace and prosperity. We believe as well ister Simitis and President Prodi here to that strong ties between America and Eu- the White House. We’ve had constructive rope are essential to peace and the pros- discussions. We had a nice lunch. perity of the world.

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Both the United States and the EU are the parties earlier this month at the Red threatened by global terror, and we are de- Sea Summit. termined to defeat it. Today we have Progress toward this goal will only be signed new agreements to increase our possible if all sides do all in their power legal cooperation in the war on terror and to defeat the determined enemies of peace, to speed the extradition of terrorists. Under such as Hamas and other terrorist groups. these agreements, we will form joint inves- Nearly every hopeful moment in the re- tigative teams and share information on gion, nearly every sign of progress toward suspect bank accounts and expand the peace is followed by more murders in the range of offenses that qualify for extra- guise of martyrdom, as those who oppose dition. peace do all they can to destroy the hopes Today the United States and the EU and aspirations of those who desire to live have also taken new steps to help stop the in peace. I urge the leaders in Europe and gravest threat to our security, the prolifera- around the world to take swift, decisive action of nuclear, biological, and chemical tion against terror groups such as Hamas, weapons. We have signed—we have agreed to cut off their funding and to support— to work together and with others to cut funding and support, as the United strengthen export controls on dangerous States has done. materials. We also seek new methods, in- We also had a good discussion today cluding active interdiction, to stop illicit about the vital trade relationship that brings trade in weapons of mass destruction. growth and job creation to America and to all the nations of the EU and to the The United States and the EU are work- world. Today we are launching negotiations ing closely to meet the proliferation chal- on a comprehensive air services agreement, lenges posed by North Korea and Iran. The better known as Open Skies, that will ben- recent report by the International Atomic efit our consumers, our airlines, and our Energy Agency clearly describes Iran’s fail- communities. We’ve also agreed to accel- ure to meet its obligations to the world erate the commercial use of clean and and to provide access for agency officials. abundant hydrogen energy. We’re working America and the EU agree that Iran toward a multilateral agreement to ban must cooperate fully with the IAEA. We market-distorting steel subsidies. And we agree that Iran must sign and comply with agree on the importance of making the up- an additional protocol giving the IAEA new coming World Trade Organization meeting tools to investigate clandestine nuclear of trade ministers in Cancun a success, so weapons activities. Iran has pledged not to that we can energize the global trade nego- develop nuclear weapons, and the entire tiations. international community must hold that re- We meet at an important moment, a gime to its commitments. time when the EU is taking in new mem- The United States and the EU are deter- bers and writing a new constitution and mined to make the world not only safer a time when both Europe and America are but also better. We will work together to facing new challenges in the world’s peace help the people of Iraq build a future of and prosperity. We are united in common security, prosperity, and freedom. We’ll values, and we will seek common solutions work together to confront global poverty, to our shared challenges. disease, and oppression. And Europe and We’ve had a great meeting. Mr. Prime America will stand together for a Middle Minister, welcome. East so—that will have a just and com- President Simitis. Thank you, Mr. Presi- prehensive peace. We’ll work together to dent. We had a very fruitful, very friendly achieve the two-state solution endorsed by meeting with President Bush. This is our

689 June 25 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 first meeting after the crisis in Iraq. I want that the European Union signs with a third to stress, because many people said that country. there was a serious period of strain, that The United States and the European the transatlantic relationship does work. It Union cannot possibly have and share on produces results, and it is important for foreign policy or trade interests in all areas both of us. It’s been of fundamental impor- the same opinions. There will be issues and tance, I would say. times where we will differ. But friendship The economic interdependence between presupposes that we will have to agree to Europe and the United States is inescap- differ, to accept to differ. And friendship able and is of vital importance—vital im- presupposes that we must be disciplined portance to jobs and economic growth on and manage our differences. We should al- both sides of the Atlantic and for the global ways act on the basis that what unites us economy. Our economic relationship sus- will always outweigh any issue that divide tains our security and prosperity. Coopera- us. tion with the United States in the security I think that meeting today was a very and defense field is unavoidable as it is good meeting because it allowed us to dis- desirable. A solid and productive trans- cuss matters where we differ, trade matters, atlantic relationship is essential for inter- matters where we agree, and matters where national order. we can cooperate in order to have a com- Europe and America share a common mon result—I think, a common result that attachment to the fundamental values of will be good for not only Europe and the freedom and democracy and the rights of United States but for all those that are man, though they sometimes differ in their interested in peace, security, and growth. appreciation as how to best implement the Thank you. principles. President Bush. Thank you, Mr. Prime As President Bush said, we discussed Minister. how to strengthen our relationship. We Romano. identified issues which we have common President Prodi. I have not to add that objectives, shared interests, and where we it was a very good meeting, because it was can both contribute. The Middle East and a very good meeting atmosphere. We con- the application of the roadmap remains at centrated on concrete decisions because we the top of the list. We have the same inter- have not to waste our energy in talking est that there is peace in the Middle East. about difference, because we shouldn’t get Counterterrorism is certainly a common nowhere and the difference are shrinking. issue, and that’s why we also agreed on So we are growing together. a declaration on nonproliferation on weap- And we have, first of all, launched the ons of mass destruction. talks for the creation of a transatlantic open The development issues in Africa and aviation area. This will change the industry elsewhere are ripe for a more detailed dia- of transport—aviation transport and will log. Economic affairs and the justice and provide better service, lower price, and home affairs agenda are also subjects that more choice for the 11 million people who can be pursued in the mutual benefit of cross the Atlantic every year and even more both of us and the wider international com- in the future. munity. From the agreements and declara- Second, and this is a joint—we are start- tions that we agreed today, I want to men- ing a major joint research effort on hydro- tion the mutual legal assistance and extra- gen energy. And this is important for the dition agreement is the first agreement on future and show that we can work together legal cooperation in the fight against crime even on issue where—that touch there on

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the border of other issue which we have Hamas disagreement, like Kyoto. Q. Mr. President, thank you. There are Third, we have decided to have a joint reports that there is a cease-fire agreement responsibility making the Doha develop- among Hamas and a few other Palestinian ment round a success. And without close organizations, that they’ve promised to stop cooperation between Europe and U.S., the violence for at least 3 months. What there will be no success. And we cannot do you know about that? And what—if afford to fail because a trade war will be true, what do you expect to happen next heavy, heavy damage. On this aspect, we from both sides, both Israelis and Palestin- also exchanged our views on the reform ians? of the—big, big, big reform of the common President Bush. As I was walking in, agricultural product that Europe is trying somebody told me about the report. I’ll to do, and that are discussed in this hour believe it when I see it, knowing the history when we are here, you know? And I hope of the terrorists in the Middle East. But that we can arrive to Doha with really a the true test for Hamas and terrorist orga- new picture of our agriculture. nizations is the complete dismantlement of And you know, therefore, I fully agree their terrorist networks, their capacity to blow up the peace process. That’s the true with the President when he recently detest. It’s one thing to make a verbal agree- clared it important that when Europe and ment. But in order for there to be peace the U.S. are united, no problem and no in the Middle East, we must see organiza- enemy can stand against us. This is the tions such as Hamas dismantled, and then real lesson. I would only add that if we we’ll have peace. Then we’ll have a chance fail to unite, every problem may become for peace. a crisis and every enemy a gigantic mon- I like to remind people that there are ster. three parties involved directly in the terri- I say to end this with this brief analogy: tories there. There’s the Israeli Govern- Many people have said that Europe is too ment. I believe the Israeli people want old. Maybe, but the old age helps us to peace, and I believe their Government understand our strength and our weakness when they say they want a peaceful state, and the reality of the world. And so, I living side-by-side Israel. Secondly, there say that we—if we stay alone, President, are the people of the Palestinian world who Europe is too old and the United States are tired of failed leadership, tired of ter- too young—[laughter]—to be able to bring rorism destroying their hopes, tired of liv- peace in this world. And it is our duty ing in poverty, and they too want a peaceful to stick together to bring peace to the state. And then there are the terrorists, like world. Hamas, who do not want a peaceful state, Thank you. and they’re willing to use terrorist means President Bush. Well, thank you, Ro- to destroy it. In order for there to be mano. You’re looking pretty young these peace, Hamas must be dismantled. days. [Laughter] European Union Defense and Security President Prodi. I am not. [Laughter] Policy President Bush. Here’s what we’ll do. President Simitis. [Inaudible] We’ll call upon—each of us will call upon Q. Mr. Prime Minister, in the last few a member of the press. We ask you to weeks and months, we heard from both limit your questions to one question, to one sides of the Atlantic some opinions, some person. politicians expressing concern about the Dana Bash, CNN. European community policy on defense

691 June 25 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 and security. Did you—they say, for exam- cerning the problem of the continental ple, that it is going to undermine the shelf, it’s a—with Turkey, that the inter- NATO, generally speaking, that it’s going national court of justice has to decide. to be a kind of threat to the United States, So the European development in con- be worse in other things. Did you discuss cern with defense cannot be a threat to this kind of thing today, and may I have anyone. It’s, I would say, a decisive step your opinion of this? And I would really for peace. like to hear the President’s opinion. President Bush. Romano. President Bush. You’re trying to violate Iran’s Clandestine Nuclear Weapons the one-question-per-person rule. [Laugh- ter] It’s okay. Nice try, though. Activities President Simitis. We discussed with Q. Mr. Prodi, when you discussed Iran President Bush—this is not a subject of with President Bush, did you raise the discussion. I explained what we are doing question of what would happen if Iran does in the European Union, why this is nec- not comply to sign up to enhanced inspec- essary, and, I think, why it’s in the interest tions? of both of us. Europe should be capable President Prodi. We discussed deeply to deal with security problems at its borders about Iran, but I didn’t ask him what he or elsewhere in the world. And we have would do, you know. I tell my opinion. a very good example now: There is a Euro- [Laughter] pean force in FYROM, and this European President Bush. Iran must comply. It’s— force took the place of a NATO force. And the free world expects Iran to comply. Just we discussed about having a European leave it at that. They can—— force also in Bosnia-Herzegovina, and—in- Q. And if it doesn’t? stead of a NATO force. This will be also President Bush. We expect them to. See, positive for the Balkans. you’re assuming they won’t. We believe I think it’s a big mistake to believe that they will when the free world comes to- the development of a European and secu- gether. rity policy takes place in adversity with the President Prodi. I tell you that the dialog United States. I think that both the United is—— States and us have an interest to have a President Bush. And if they don’t, we’ll strong defense, because a strong defense deal with that when they don’t. in our case will help the United States and President Prodi. The dialog with Iran is a strong defense of the United States helps going on daily and deeply. And we push us also. And a good example again I’ll bring that they accept all the inspections, even is Afghanistan. We discussed about Afghan- the non—let’s say, planned inspections be- istan. As you know, there is—there are cause we have to be sure that doesn’t con- German soldiers in Afghanistan. There are stitute a danger to future peace. We have United States soldiers in Afghanistan. We to be absolutely sure. have a common policy in order to have President Bush. Yes. If the world speaks more peace and security in Afghanistan. together, they’ll comply. And also the question that this security Thank you all very much for coming. We policy is a threat to anybody, I think it’s enjoyed it. ridiculous because we have a very clear policy in these questions. If there is a con- NOTE: The President’s news conference frontation, then international law must be began at 1:20 p.m. in the East Room at the applied. And the United Nations Security White House. The President met with Prime Council has to decide on differences. As Minister Konstandinos Simitis of Greece, in for example, Greece has always said, con- his capacity as President of the European

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Council, and President Romano Prodi of the tocol to the United Nations Framework Con- European Commission. In his remarks, vention on Climate Change. President Prodi referred to the Kyoto Pro-

Joint Statement by President George W. Bush and European Council President Konstandinos Simitis and European Commission President Romano Prodi on Hydrogen Cooperation June 25, 2003

We affirm our commitment, on behalf We agree to: of the United States and the European • further the goals of sustained eco- Union, to collaborate on accelerating the nomic growth; development of the hydrogen economy as • strengthen our cooperation to work for part of our broadening cooperation on en- universally compatible codes, stand- ergy. We aim to enhance the security of ards, and regulations; energy supply, increase diversity of energy • strengthen our cooperation on research sources, and improve local and global envi- and development; and ronmental quality. Our cooperation will lay • work together to foster public-private the technical, legal, and commercial basis collaboration. needed to accelerate the commercial pene- tration and trade of emissions-free hydro- This effort will enable us to leverage re- gen technology worldwide, in cars, build- sources; bring to bear the expertise of the ings and power generation, to secure to public and private sector to solve the com- our citizens and our posterity the abundant, plex challenges surrounding the hydrogen secure, and clean energy required to sus- economy; establish sound, universally com- tain growth, ensure security, and protect patible codes, standards, and regulations for the environment. hydrogen fuel utilization; and provide a In this context we see the potential of strong and broad foundation for the Inter- the hydrogen economy in establishing a se- national Partnership for the Hydrogen cure energy supply through clean and envi- Economy and other partnerships in support ronmentally sound systems. We will seek of the hydrogen economy. to build on complementarities in our research efforts in exploring actively all tech- NOTE: An original was not available for nology options, including a major focus on verification of the content of this joint state- renewable energy sources, for boosting the ment. development of hydrogen energy.

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Joint Statement by President George W. Bush and European Council President Konstandinos Simitis and European Commission President Romano Prodi on the Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction June 25, 2003

Proliferation of weapons of mass destruc- State and Government at Thessaloniki and tion (WMD) and their delivery systems the G8 Declaration of the Non-Prolifera- constitutes a major threat to international tion of Weapons of Mass Destruction. We peace and security. The threat is com- reaffirm our joint commitment to relevant pounded by the interest of terrorists in ac- treaties and agreements, in particular the quiring WMD. This would undermine the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty. We will foundations of international order. We work together in all areas to stop and re- pledge to use all means available to avert verse proliferation. WMD proliferation and the calamities that In particular: would follow. • We will explore ways to make the • We will work together to strengthen International Atomic Energy Agency’s the international system of treaties and (IAEA) Safeguards Agreements and regimes against the spread of WMD. Additional Protocols a standard for nu- This implies the development of new clear cooperation and nonproliferation. regimes, as appropriate, and reinforce- We urge all States with nuclear facili- ment of existing regimes. We will pur- ties or activities to ratify and imple- sue the goal of universal membership ment these Agreements and Protocols of relevant multilateral treaties and without delay. Furthermore, on an ur- agreements. gent and exceptional basis, taking ac- • We will seek to ensure strict imple- count of the increase in the Agency’s mentation and compliance. We are workload in this area, we will support willing to work with all those who rean adequate increase in the IAEA safe- spect international nonproliferation guards budget to ensure the credibility norms; we are committed to dealing of the IAEA’s verification system. effectively with those who ignore them • We will strengthen both export con- or cheat. trols on materials and technologies re- • We will support, when necessary, non- lated to WMD and their delivery sys- routine inspections. tems as well as their enforcement and • We recognize that, if necessary, other implementation. We believe that na- measures in accordance with inter- tional controls should include criminal national law may be needed to combat penalties for the illegal export, trans- proliferation. shipment or brokering of weapons of • We will work together to deploy our mass destruction, missile delivery sys- combined political and diplomatic in- tems, and materials or technology for fluence most effectively in support of use in WMD or missile programs. We our nonproliferation objectives. will work together with like-minded • We will work together to develop fur- partners to tighten export controls, ther a common assessment of global where necessary providing assistance to proliferation threats. create and improve effective, enforceable national export control systems. We welcome the statement on non- We agree to introduce catch-all provi- proliferation by European Union Heads of sions, where appropriate. We will

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share information so as to identify new • We express our continuing serious con- patterns of procurement by State and cern at Iran’s nuclear program, in par- non-State actors. We will seek new ticular as regards the pursuit of a full methods to stop the proliferation trade nuclear fuel cycle, as announced by to and from countries and entities of President Khatami. We are troubled proliferation concern. by the information in the IAEA’s re- • We will work together in the frame- port detailing Iran’s failures to meet work of the Biological and Toxin its safeguards obligations, and we fully Weapons Convention (BTWC) to support ongoing investigation by the strengthen national control over patho- IAEA to answer the unresolved ques- genic micro-organisms and toxins and, tions and concerns identified in that in the framework of the Chemical report. Iran must cooperate fully with Weapons Convention (CWC), to foster the IAEA, remedy all failures and an- the elimination of all chemical weap- swer all questions. It must also sign ons. and implement an Additional Protocol, • We will strengthen identification, con- without delay or conditions, as a sig- trol and interdiction of illegal ship- nificant first step towards addressing ments, including national criminal those concerns. sanctions against those who contribute • We remain concerned at the pursuit to illicit procurement efforts. of nuclear, biological and chemical • We emphasize the importance of coop- weapons, and missiles for their delivery erative threat reduction programs with by a number of other States. We will third countries. continue to monitor these closely and We will cooperate actively to address to exchange information, including specific proliferation challenges. In par- with other concerned States. ticular: Proliferation is a threat not only to our • We condemn North Korea’s nuclear security, but also to the wider international weapons program and its failure to system. We call for a halt to proliferation comply with the IAEA safeguards activities in a way that is demonstrable and agreement, which undermine the non- verifiable. Nonproliferation is a global chal- proliferation regime. We call on North lenge which requires a multifaceted solu- Korea to refrain from any action that tion. We need to tackle it individually and would further aggravate the problem. collectively—working together and with We strongly urge North Korea to visi- other partners, including through relevant bly, verifiably, and irreversibly dis- international institutions, in particular those mantle that program and to come into of the United Nations system. full compliance with international nonproliferation obligations, as a funda- NOTE: An original was not available for mental step to facilitate a comprehen- verification of the content of this joint state- sive and peaceful solution. ment.

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Joint Statement by President George W. Bush and European Council President Konstandinos Simitis and European Commission President Romano Prodi on Transatlantic Aviation Negotiations June 25, 2003

We are pleased to announce our agree- lines, and communities on both sides of ment to begin comprehensive air service the Atlantic. The United States and the negotiations between the United States and European Union will work together in a the European Union in early autumn, fol- spirit of cooperation to develop a mutually lowing the early June decision of the Coun- beneficial approach to this crucial economic cil of the European Union to approve a sector in a globalized economy. negotiating mandate for the Commission. This is an historic opportunity to build upon the framework of existing agreements NOTE: An original was not available for with the goal of opening access to markets verification of the content of this joint state- and maximizing benefits for consumers, air- ment.

Statement on Congressional Action on the Keeping Children and Families Safe Act of 2003 June 25, 2003

I commend Congress for passing the help us keep children safe by requiring Keeping Children and Families Safe Act criminal background checks for foster and of 2003 and am pleased to sign it into adoptive parents. It also provides additional law. resources to increase the number of older The act will allow us to strengthen State children placed in adoptive families. and community-based programs that prevent child abuse and family violence and NOTE: S. 342, approved June 25, was as- treat victims. In addition, the legislation will signed Public Law No. 108–36.

Remarks at the Corporate Council on Africa’s United States-Africa Business Summit June 26, 2003

Please be seated. Thanks for the warm All of us here today share some basic welcome. It is my honor to be here with beliefs. We believe that growth and pros- the entrepreneurs and scholars who are perity in Africa will contribute to the committed to building a hopeful future for growth and prosperity of the world. We Africa. I’m honored to be with so many believe that human suffering in Africa cre- distinguished African leaders who know ates moral responsibilities for people every- that market reforms and open trade can where. We believe that this can be a dec- lift every nation on every continent. ade of unprecedented advancement for

696 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 26 freedom and hope and healing and peace mies of all of Africa. And I look forward across the African Continent. That’s what to my trip. we believe. I’ll go to Senegal and see west Africa’s In 11 days, I leave for Africa, and I will longest standing democracy, a country with carry this message: The United States be- a vibrant civil society and a growing inde- lieves in the great potential of Africa. We pendent media. I look forward to going to also understand the problems of Africa, and South Africa, where I’ll meet with elected this Nation is fully engaged in a broad, leaders who are firmly committed to eco- concerted effort to help Africans find nomic reforms in a nation that has become peace, to fight disease, to build prosperity, a major force for regional peace and sta- and to improve their own lives. bility. I’m looking forward to my trip to I want to thank Stephen for his invita- Uganda, where the Government’s visionary tion. And I want to thank those involved policies have brought about the most dra- with the Corporate Council on Africa. I matic decline in the rate of HIV infection appreciate so very much Frank Fountain, of any country in the world. And finally, the chairman; Anita Henri, the vice presi- I’ll be going to Nigeria, a multiethnic soci- dent. I want to thank all the board mem- ety that is consolidating civilian rule, is de- bers who are here. I want to thank you veloping its vast resources, and is helping and your—if you’re not a CEO, thank your its African neighbors keep the peace. CEOs of the companies you represent for My trip should signal that I am optimistic not only serving our Nation by helping to about the future of the continent of Africa. create jobs but serving our Nation by help- After all, there’s a generation of leaders ing creating more compassionate and hope- who now understand the power of eco- ful countries in the continent of Africa. nomic liberty and the necessity for global I want to thank very much Ambassador commerce. And I also understand that free- Robert Perry, who is a special adviser to dom and prosperity are not achieved over- the President on these matters. I want to night. Yet the 48 nations of sub-Saharan thank the senior African government offi- Africa have an historic opportunity to grow cials here, but I particularly want to wel- in trade and to grow in freedom and sta- come the African heads of state and the bility and, most importantly, to grow in heads of government who are with us hope. On the path to freedom and with today. It was my honor to have the tradi- the friendship of the United States and tional photo op. But besides smiling for other nations, Africa will rise, and Africa the cameras, I was smiling to see people will prosper. who I had known before, and I was so This is a long-term commitment, and I appreciative that you all took time to fly know there are serious obstacles to over- here to our country. And our country ex- come. Introducing democracy is hard in any tends a warm welcome, and we hope you society. It’s much harder in a society torn have a great stay. by war or held back by corruption. The I’m honored that President Chissano of promise of free markets means little when Mozambique is here. After all, he is the millions are illiterate and hungry or dying incoming President of the African Union. from a preventable disease. It is Africans And I’m pleased to see President Mogae who will overcome these problems. Yet the of Botswana. The reason so is that he has United States of America and other nations graciously extended me and my delegation will stand beside them. We will work as an invitation to visit his country, an invita- partners in advancing the security and the tion I have accepted. Botswana is a stable health and the prosperity of the African democracy, was one of the strongest econo- peoples.

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The first great goal in our partnership peace agreement, and the world must sup- with Africa is to help establish peace and port it. security across the continent. Many thou- I’ve asked my Special Envoy for Peace sands of African men and women and chil- in Sudan, former Senator John Danforth, dren are killed every year in regional wars. to return to the region in 2 weeks. He These wars are often encouraged by re- will make clear that the only option on gimes that give weapons and refuge to the table is peace. Both sides must now rebel groups fighting in neighboring coun- make their final commitment to peace and tries. The cycle of attack and escalation is human rights and end the suffering of reckless. It is destructive, and it must be Sudan. ended. The United States supports efforts by Af- In Congo, nine countries took part in rican governments to build effective peace- a 5-year war that brought death to millions. keeping forces. America is providing re- Now the parties to the conflict are moving sources and logistical support to African to form a government of national unity, Union peacekeeping forces in Burundi and holding out the real possibility of peace. ECOWAS forces in the Ivory Coast. Dur- President Mbeki of South Africa deserves ing my visit to South Africa, U.S. military credit for his efforts to broker a peace forces will participate in a joint humani- agreement. All the Congo’s neighbors have tarian and disaster relief training exercise officially withdrawn their forces. Now I with South African defense forces. Skilled urge these Governments to actively support and well-equipped peacekeeping forces are the creation of an integrated national army essential, because in the long run, Africans and the establishment, by June 30th, of will keep the peace in Africa. a transitional government. The United The United States is also working with States is working with the Congo and its African nations to fight terrorists wherever neighbors to ensure the security and integ- they are found. Africans from Casablanca rity of their borders. To encourage progress to Nairobi to Dar es Salaam have experi- across all of Africa, we must build peace enced firsthand the pain and the evil of at the heart of Africa. terror. Kenya and other nations of eastern In Liberia, the United States strongly Africa are suffering under a particularly se- supports the cease-fire signed earlier this rious threat, and we’re working closely with month. President Taylor needs to step those nations to end this threat. down so that his country can be spared Today I announced that the United further bloodshed. All the parties in Liberia States will devote $100 million over the must pursue a comprehensive peace agree- next 15 months to help countries in the ment. And the United States is working region increase their own counterterror ef- with regional governments to support those forts. We will work with Kenya and Ethi- negotiations and to map out a secure transi- opia and Djibouti and Uganda and Tan- tion to elections. We are determined to zania to improve capabilities such as air help the people of Liberia find the path and seaport security, coastal and border pa- to peace. trols, computer databases to track terrorists, The United States is also pressing for- intelligence-sharing, and the means nec- ward to help end Africa’s longest running essary to cut off terrorist financing. Many civil war in Sudan, which has claimed an African governments have the will to fight estimated 2 million lives over 20 years. the war on terror, and we are thankful for Progress over this past year, aided by the that will. We will give them the tool and leadership of Kenya, has brought us to the the resources to win the war on terror. edge of peace. Now the north and south The second great goal of our partnership must finalize a just and comprehensive with Africa is to make the advantages of

698 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 26 health and literacy widely available across signs of famine appear we can move quickly the continent. And that work begins with and save lives. the struggle against AIDS, which already Yet the problem of hunger requires more affects nearly 30 million Africans. than emergency measures. To help Africa As former President Kenneth Kaunda of become more self-sufficient in the produc- Zambia has said, ‘‘We have conquered slav- tion of food, I have proposed the Initiative ery, colonialism, and apartheid. We must to End Hunger in Africa. This initiative now fight HIV/AIDS, the most deadly will help African countries to use new high- enemy we have ever faced.’’ And he is yield biotech crops and unleash the power right. And many others are fighting against of markets to dramatically increase agricul- this enemy. Yet my message today and my tural productivity. message when I go to the continent is, you are not alone in the fight. But there’s a problem. There’s a prob- Under the law I signed last month, the lem. At present, some governments are United States Congress has authorized $15 blocking the import of crops grown with billion over the next 5 years to fight AIDS biotechnology, which discourages African abroad. That money will be used to support countries from producing and exporting the Global AIDS Fund as well as specially these crops. The ban of these countries is focusing on 14 African and Caribbean unfounded; it is unscientific; it is under- countries where the crisis is most severe. mining the agricultural future of Africa. Overall, this expansion of Americans’ efforts And I urge them to stop this ban. will prevent 7 million new HIV infections, Nigeria’s former Minister of Agriculture treat at least 2 million people with life- and Rural Development Hassan Adamu extending drugs, and provide humane care speaks for many in Africa. He speaks the for 10 million HIV-infected individuals and truth. Here’s what he says: ‘‘To deny des- AIDS orphans. This is one of the largest perate, hungry people the means to control public health projects in history. America their futures by presuming to know what is proud to be a part of this cause, and is best for them is not only paternalistic, we are absolutely determined to see it it is morally wrong.’’ through until we have turned the tide Africa’s progress also depends on the against AIDS in Africa. education of Africa’s children. Forty-two My administration is ready to start this million boys and girls across sub-Saharan vital work. Now the Congress must appro- Africa are not even enrolled in schools. If priate the money it promised. In 2004, this Africa is to meet its full potential, these effort will require $2 billion, including $200 million for the Global Fund for AIDS and children must have the chance to study and other infectious diseases. Having passed the learn. My administration is committing 200 Emergency Fund for AIDS Relief, Con- million new dollars over 5 years to train gress must now fully fund this lifesaving more than 420,000 teachers in Africa, to initiative. provide scholarships for 250,000 African The health of Africa also depends on the girls, and to partner with Historically Black defeat of hunger. Forty million Africans are Colleges and Universities in America in now at risk of starvation. They face severe bringing more than 4 million textbooks to food shortages or lack of clean drinking African children. water. This year the United States will pro- Every country, every business, every pri- vide more than $800 million to address vate organization that cares about this con- food emergencies in Africa. I’ve also asked tinent must unite to give Africa’s children Congress to provide 200 million new dollars the literacy and skills they need to build for a Famine Fund, so that when the first Africa’s future.

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The third great goal of our partnership powerful combination of trade and open with Africa is to help African nations de- markets is history’s proven method to develop vibrant, free economies through aid feat poverty on a large scale, to vastly im- and trade. Wealthy nations have a responsi- prove health and education, to build a bility to provide foreign aid. We have an modern infrastructure while safeguarding equal duty to make sure that aid is effective the environment, and to spread the habits by rewarding countries that embrace re- of liberty and enterprise that lead to self- form and freedom. Too often in the past, government. development assistance has been squan- Trade is the great engine of economic dered or used to prop up corrupt regimes. progress, the great engine of human The world needs a new approach to foreign progress. Yet sub-Sahara Africa, with 11 aid, and America is leading the way with percent of world’s population, has less than the Millennium Challenge Account. 2 percent of the world’s trade. The peoples Under my proposal, money will go to of Africa have been left out long enough. developing nations whose governments are The United States is committed to making committed to three broad strategies. First, the transforming power of trade available they must rule justly. Second, they must to all Africans. invest in the health and education of their Three years ago, Congress passed the Af- people. And third, they must have policies rican Growth and Opportunity Act, which that encourage economic freedom. To fund gave greater access to American markets this account, I’ve proposed a 50-percent infor African products. AGOA is proving the crease in America’s core development as- power of trade. Even with a weak global sistance over the next 3 years. And I urge economy, AGOA countries’ duty-free ex- the United States Congress to give full supports to the United States in 2002 were port to the Millennium Challenge Account. $9 billion. That’s a 10-percent increase Corrupt regimes that give nothing to from 2001. From countries all across the their people deserve nothing from us. Gov- continent of Africa, AGOA is helping to ernments that serve their people deserve reform old economies, creating new jobs; our help, and we will provide that help. is attracting new investment; most impor- Many African leaders are currently tantly, is offering hope to millions of Afri- pledged to the path of political and eco- cans. nomic reform. That shared commitment is We must build on AGOA’s success. expressed in the standards of NEPAD, the Today I call on the United States Congress New Partnership for Africa’s Development. to extend AGOA beyond 2008. We must Yet those standards are mocked by some extend AGOA beyond 2008 to give busi- on the continent, such as the leader of nesses the confidence to make long-term Zimbabwe, where the freedom and dignity investments in Africa. At America’s urging, of the nation is under assault. I urge all the World Bank will provide more than nations, including the nations of Africa, to $200 million over the next 3 years to sup- encourage a return to democracy in port loans to small businesses in 10 African Zimbabwe. countries. These loans will give African en- We can add to the prosperity of Africa trepreneurs the capital they need to achieve through development assistance that en- their dreams. courages your reform. Yet aid alone is not Here’s what we believe in America, and enough. President Museveni of Uganda has it’s true elsewhere: Ownership and inde- put it well. ‘‘By itself,’’ he says, ‘‘aid cannot pendence are the hopes of men and women transform societies. Only trade can foster in every land. the sustained economic growth necessary To expand commerce between America for such a transformation.’’ He’s right. The and Africa, we’re working towards a free

700 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 26 trade agreement with the Southern African ests; I believe we have a calling. For a Customs Union. And in the global trade century, America has acted to defend the negotiations, we are pushing to open agri- peace, to liberate the oppressed, and to cultural markets, reduce farm subsidies in offer all mankind the promise of freedom wealthy nations, and to create new opportu- and a better life. And today, as America nities for African farmers. fights the latest enemies of freedom, we I also urge African nations to lower their will strive to expand the realm of freedom own trade barriers against each other’s for the benefit of all nations. products. Just as America can do more to The members of this council, with your open its markets, so can the nations of Afri- energy and optimism, are bringing new op- ca. Together we can ensure that all our portunities to millions. I want to thank you citizens have access to the opportunities of for your efforts. I want to thank you for markets around the globe. your heart. I want to thank you for your The measures I’ve outlined today—ac- vision. tions on security and health, education, May God bless the people on the con- hunger, foreign aid, and global trade—continent of Africa. And may God continue stitute a major focus of American foreign to bless the United States of America. policy. America is committed to the success Thank you. of Africa because we recognize a moral duty to bring hope where there is despair NOTE: The President spoke at 12:13 p.m. in and relief where there’s suffering. America the International Ballroom at the Wash- is committed to the success of Africa be- ington Hilton Hotel. In his remarks, he re- cause we understand failed states spread ferred to Stephen Hayes, president, Cor- instability and terror that threatens us all. porate Council on Africa; Deputy Assistant America is committed to the success of Af- Secretary of State for African Affairs Robert rica because the peoples of Africa have Perry; President Joaquim Alberto Chissano every right to live in freedom and dignity of Mozambique; President Festus and to share in the progress of our times. Gontebanye Mogae of Botswana; President The responsibilities we have accepted in Thabo Mbeki of South Africa; President Africa are consistent with the ideals that Charles Taylor of Liberia; President Robert have always guided America and the world. Mugabe of Zimbabwe; and President Yoweri Our Nation has more than a set of inter- Kaguta Museveni of Uganda.

Statement on the United Nations International Day in Support of Victims of Torture June 26, 2003

Today, on the United Nations Inter- Freedom from torture is an inalienable national Day in Support of Victims of Tor- human right. The Convention Against Tor- ture, the United States declares its strong ture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrad- solidarity with torture victims across the ing Treatment, ratified by the United States world. Torture anywhere is an affront to and more than 130 other countries since human dignity everywhere. We are com- 1984, forbids governments from delib- mitted to building a world where human erately inflicting severe physical or mental rights are respected and protected by the pain or suffering on those within their cus- rule of law. tody or control. Yet torture continues to

701 June 26 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 be practiced around the world by rogue great courage in outlasting one of history’s regimes whose cruel methods match their most brutal regimes, and it reminds us that determination to crush the human spirit. similar cruelties are taking place behind the Beating, burning, rape, and electric shock closed doors of other prison states. are some of the grisly tools such regimes The United States is committed to the use to terrorize their own citizens. These worldwide elimination of torture, and we despicable crimes cannot be tolerated by are leading this fight by example. I call a world committed to justice. on all governments to join with the United Notorious human rights abusers, includ- States and the community of law-abiding ing, among others, Burma, Cuba, North nations in prohibiting, investigating, and Korea, Iran, and Zimbabwe, have long prosecuting all acts of torture and in under- sought to shield their abuses from the eyes taking to prevent other cruel and unusual of the world by staging elaborate decep- punishment. I call on all nations to speak tions and denying access to international out against torture in all its forms and to human rights monitors. Until recently, Sad- make ending torture an essential part of dam Hussein used similar means to hide their diplomacy. I further urge govern- the crimes of his regime. With Iraq’s libera- ments to join America and others in sup- tion, the world is only now learning the porting torture victims’ treatment centers, enormity of the dictator’s three decades of contributing to the U.N. Fund for the Vic- victimization of the Iraqi people. Across the tims of Torture, and supporting the efforts country, evidence of Ba’athist atrocities is of nongovernmental organizations to end mounting, including scores of mass graves torture and assist its victims. containing the remains of thousands of No people, no matter where they reside, men, women, and children and torture should have to live in fear of their own chambers hidden inside palaces and min- government. Nowhere should the midnight istries. The most compelling evidence of knock foreshadow a nightmare of state- all lies in the stories told by torture sur- commissioned crime. The suffering of tor- vivors, who are recounting a vast array of ture victims must end, and the United sadistic acts perpetrated against the inno- States calls on all governments to assume cent. Their testimony reminds us of their this great mission.

Remarks on the Creation of the National Do-Not-Call Registry June 27, 2003

Good morning. I’m pleased to be joined blocking unwelcome phone calls from tele- by the Federal Trade Commission Chair- marketers. man, Tim Muris, Federal Communications Unwanted telemarketing calls are intru- Commission Chairman Michael Powell. I sive. They are annoying, and they’re all too also want to thank their—members of their common. When Americans are sitting down staffs who have joined us today. I appre- to dinner or a parent is reading to his or ciate your hard work on a—in an inter- her child, the last thing they need is a esting and important initiative. We are an- call from a stranger with a sales pitch, so nouncing new measures by the Federal we’re taking practical action to address this Government that will help Americans pro- problem. tect their private time or family time by The Federal Communications Commis- sion has joined with the Federal Trade

702 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 27

Commission to create a national Do-Not- how to place their number in the registry. Call Registry, a tool that will help ensure Chairman Muris and Chairman Powell told that telemarketers respect the privacy of me that as of today—starting last night, as our Nation’s citizens. This registry will of today, 108 persons per second are now allow people to limit most unwanted tele- registering their phone numbers. marketing calls by registering their home I want to commend the FTC and the or cell phone numbers. Registration can be FCC and the United States Congress for completed by phone or over the Internet, their good work on behalf of American con- and it is free of charge. The service also sumers. comes at no expense to the taxpayers. After I’m also pleased by the votes last night all, it is fully funded by the telemarketing in the United States Senate and the United industry. States House of Representatives to improve Response to the initial proposal to create Medicare and to extend prescription drug the do-not-call list was very strong. The coverage to our seniors. A stronger Medi- FTC received more than 60,000 comments care system that gives our seniors more that overwhelmingly supported the reg- choices and better benefits has been a cen- istry’s creation. After a number is reg- tral priority of my administration. I urge istered, commercial telemarketers will be the Congress to reconcile their differences required to remove that number from their and to get a bill to my desk as quickly call list within 3 months. In addition, most as possible. States that already have similar do-not-call Thank you all for coming. lists will transfer their numbers to the national registry. Citizens interested in finding out more NOTE: The President spoke at 8:42 a.m. in about the Do-Not-Call Registry and how the Rose Garden at the White House. The to register telephone numbers should visit Office of the Press Secretary also released donotcall.gov—should call up on the Inter- a Spanish language transcript of these re- net, donotcall.gov, and they will find out marks.

Remarks at a Bush-Cheney Luncheon in San Francisco, California June 27, 2003

Thank you all very much. Thanks for the but also to pass our positive, inclusive mes- warm welcome. Thanks for coming. It’s sage around the bay area. I want you to great to be back in the bay area. Bradley, remind your citizens, fellow citizens, that if that is a short introduction, I hate to our vision is one that is hopeful and opti- see a long one. [Laughter] But I appreciate mistic. your friendship, and I appreciate your lead- Listen, there’s going to be plenty of time ership. I want to thank you all very much for politics. The political season will come for supporting our efforts. I want to thank in its own time. Right now, I’m focused you for coming and giving of your hard- on the people’s business in Washington, earned dollars. You are laying the founda- DC. And we have a lot on the agenda. tion for a nationwide victory next year. And what I want to tell you is that I will I’m getting ready. I’m loosening up. continue to earn the confidence of all [Laughter] And I’m going to need your Americans, regardless of their political help. I’ll need your help not only financially

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party, by keeping this Nation secure and the strength, and the spirit of the United strong and prosperous and free. States military. I’ve just come from Washington to here, Two-and-a-half years ago, we inherited obviously. I’m going down to LA. I wish an economy in recession. Then the attacks I came with my wife. I wish she were with on our country and scandals in corporate me. She has done a fabulous job. I will America and war affected the confidence see her tonight in Crawford, Texas. Well, of the people. But we acted. We passed she’ll be the lump in the bed next to me, tough new laws to hold corporate criminals since I get in at 1:30 in the morning. to account. And to get the economy going [Laughter] But you drew the short straw. again, we have twice led the Congress to Had she come and spoken, you would have historic tax relief for the American people. had the long straw. She is a—she’s a re- Here is what we believe and what we markable person. She has been calm and know. When Americans have more take- steady in the face of significant crisis. She home pay to spend, to save, or to invest, can smile; she can listen. She is a fabulous the whole economy grows, and someone First Lady for the United States of Amer- is more likely to find a job. We understand ica. as well whose money we spend in Wash- I do want to thank Brad and Gerry ington, DC. The money we spend in Wash- Parsky and the people that put on this din- ington is not the Government’s money. It ner and worked hard to raise the money. is the people’s money. And we’re returning I’m so honored that—for your help. I also more money to the people to help them appreciate Dennis Miller. Obviously, after your one-liners, Brad, he doesn’t have any- raise their families, and we’re reducing thing to fear for his job. [Laughter] taxes on dividends and capital gains to en- We’ve been through some remarkable courage investment. We’re giving small businesses incentives to expand and hire times in America during the last 21⁄2 years. This Nation has acted decisively to confront new people. With all those actions, we are great challenges. I came to office to solve laying the foundation for greater prosperity problems, not to pass them on to future and more jobs across America, so that every Presidents and future generations. I came single person in this country has a chance to seize opportunities instead of letting to realize the American Dream. them slip away. We are meeting the tests Two-and-a-half years later—21⁄2 years of our time. ago, there was a lot of talk about education Terrorists declared war on the United reform, but there wasn’t much action. So States, and war is what they got. We have I called for and Congress passed the No captured or killed many of the leaders of Child Left Behind Act. With a solid bipar- Al Qaida. And the rest of them know we’re tisan majority, we delivered the most dra- hot on their trail. In Afghanistan and Iraq, matic education reforms in a generation. we gave ultimatums to terror regimes. We’re bringing high standards and strong Those regimes chose defiance, and those accountability measures to every public regimes are no more. Fifty million people school in America. We believe that every in those two countries once lived under child can learn the basics of reading and tyranny, and now they live in freedom. math, and we expect every school in Amer- Two-and-a-half years ago, our military ica to teach those basics. This administra- was not receiving the resources it needed, tion is challenging the soft bigotry of low and morale was beginning to suffer. We expectations. The days of excuse-making increased the defense budget to prepare are over. We expect results in every class- for the threats of a new era. And today, room all across America so that not one no one in the world can question the skill, single child is left behind.

704 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 27

We reorganized our Government and we. This country will not rest; we will not created the Department of Homeland Se- tire; and we will not stop until this threat curity to safeguard our borders and ports to civilization is removed. and to protect the American people. We Yet our national interest involves more passed trade promotion authority to open than eliminating aggressive threats to our up new markets for our entrepreneurs and safety. Our greatest security comes from farmers and ranchers. We passed a budget the advance of human liberty, because free agreement to help maintain spending dis- nations do not support terror, free nations cipline in Washington, DC. On issue after do not attack their neighbors, free nations issue, this administration has acted on prin- do not threaten the world with weapons ciple, has kept its word, and is making of mass terror. Americans believe that free- progress on behalf of the American people. dom is the deepest need and hope of every The United States Congress shares in human heart. And we believe that freedom these great achievements, and I appreciate is the right of every person and the future the hard work of the Members of Congress. of every nation. We will continue to work together to America also understands that unprece- change the tone in Washington, DC, by dented influence brings tremendous re- focusing on the people’s business and by sponsibilities. We have duties in the world. focusing on results. And that’s the nature And when we see disease and starvation of the men and women I asked to serve and hopelessness, we will not turn away. our country in my administration. I have On the continent of Africa, a continent I’ll put together a really good team of people. be visiting in 10 days, America is now com- And the reason, they understand, is our mitted to bringing the healing power of jobs are to represent something greater than ourselves, and that is the great country medicine to millions of men and women called America. and children now suffering with AIDS. This And I’m proud of our Vice President. great land is leading the world in this in- Dick Cheney is the best Vice President this credibly important work of human rescue. Nation has ever had, although my mother We face challenges at home as well, and may not agree. [Laughter] In 21⁄2 years, our actions will be equal to those chal- we have come far. We’ve come far in 21⁄2 lenges. I will continue to work on economic years. We’ve accomplished a lot. But our prosperity until anybody who wants to work work is only beginning. We have great goals and is not working today can find a job. worthy of this great Nation. And we have a duty to keep our commit- First, America is committed to expanding ment to America’s seniors by strengthening the realm of freedom and peace, for our and modernizing Medicare. Last night—or own security and for the benefit of the actually, this morning—or last night here; world. And second, in our own country, this morning in Washington—[laughter]— we must work for a society of prosperity the Congress took historic action to im- and compassion so that every citizen has prove the lives of older Americans. For the a chance to work and succeed and realize first time since the creation of Medicare, the great promise of this country. the House and Senate have passed reforms It is clear that the future of freedom to increase the choices of seniors and pro- and peace depend on the actions of Amer- vide coverage for prescription drugs. The ica. This Nation is freedom’s home and next step is for both Houses to come to- freedom’s defender. We welcome this gether, iron out some details, and get the charge of history, and we are keeping it. bill to my desk. The sooner the job is done, Our war on terror continues. The enemies the sooner Americans will get the health of freedom are not idle, and neither are care they deserve.

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And for the sake of our health care sys- to bring work and dignity into the lives tem, we need to cut down on frivolous of more of our fellow citizens. lawsuits which increase the cost of medi- Congress should complete the ‘‘Citizen cine. People who have been harmed by Service Act’’ so that more Americans can a bad doctor deserve their day in court. serve their communities and their country. Yet the system should not reward lawyers And both Houses should reach agreement who are simply fishing for a rich settle- on my Faith-Based Initiative to support the ment. Because frivolous lawsuits drive up armies of compassion that are mentoring the cost of health care, at the Federal level, children, that are caring for the homeless, the medical liability issue is a Federal prob- that are offering hope to the addicted. lem that requires a Federal solution. No A compassionate society must promote one has ever been healed by a frivolous opportunity for all, including the independ- lawsuit. [Laughter] We need Federal med- ence and dignity that come from owner- ical liability reform now. ship. My administration will constantly I also have a responsibility as President strive to promote an ownership society in to make sure the judicial system runs well. America. We want more of our citizens And I have met that duty. I’ve nominated owning their own home. We want people superb men and women for the Federal to own and manage their own health care courts, people who will interpret the law, plan, their own retirement plan. We want not legislate from the bench. Some Mem- more people owning their own small busi- bers of the United States Senate are trying ness. We understand that when a person to keep my nominees off the bench by owns something, he or she has a vital stake blocking up-or-down votes. Every judicial nominee deserves a fair hearing and an up- into the future of this country. or-down vote on the Senate floor. It is time In a compassionate society, people re- for Members of the United States Senate spect one another and take responsibility to stop playing politics with American jus- for the decisions they make. We’re chang- tice. ing the culture of America from one that This Nation needs a comprehensive en- has said, ‘‘If it feels good, just go ahead ergy plan. We need more natural gas for and do it,’’ and ‘‘If you’ve got a problem, California’s electric plants. We need to pro- blame somebody else,’’ to one in which mote new technologies. We need to pro- each of us understands we are responsible mote new conservation techniques. We for the decisions we make in life. need to explore in environmentally friendly If you are fortunate enough to be a ways. For the sake of our national security mother or a father, you are responsible for and for the sake of our economic security, loving your child with all your heart and we need to become less dependent on for- all your soul. If you are a—concerned eign sources of energy. about the quality of the education in the Our strong and compassionate Nation community in which you live, you’re re- must also be a prosperous and, at the same sponsible for doing something about it. If time, compassionate place for all. I will you’re a CEO in corporate America, you’re continue to advance our agenda of compas- responsible for telling the truth to your sionate conservatism, applying the best and shareholders and your employees. And in most innovative ideas to the task of helping the new responsibility society, each of us our fellow citizens in need. There are still is responsible for loving a neighbor just like millions of men and women who want to we’d like to be loved ourselves. end their dependence on Government and We can see the culture of service and become independent through work. We responsibility growing around us. I started must build on the success of welfare reform what we call the USA Freedom Corps to

706 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 27 encourage Americans to extend a compas- Abroad, we seek to lift whole nations sionate hand to neighbors in need, and the by spreading freedom. At home, we seek response has been strong. And our faith- to lift up lives by spreading opportunity based charities are strong and vibrant all to every corner in America. This is the across America. Policemen and firemen and work that history has set before us. We people who wear our Nation’s uniform are welcome it, and we know that for our coun- reminding us what it means to sacrifice for try and for our cause, better days lie ahead. something greater than yourself. Once May God continue to bless America. again, the children of America believe in Thank you very much. heroes because they see them every day. In these challenging times, the world has seen the resolve and the courage of Amer- ica. And I’ve been privileged to see the NOTE: The President spoke at 12:05 p.m. in compassion and the character of the Amer- the Grand Ballroom at the San Francisco Air- ican people. All the tests of the last 21⁄2 port Marriott. In his remarks, he referred to years have come to the right Nation. We’re Brad Freeman, California State finance a strong country, and we use that strength chairman, Bush-Cheney ’04, Inc.; Gerald L. to defend the peace. We’re an optimistic Parsky, chairman, Team California, Cali- country, confident in ourselves and in ideals fornia Republican Party Board of Directors; bigger than ourselves. and comedian Dennis Miller.

Statement on House of Representatives Action on Medicare Reform Legislation June 27, 2003

I applaud the House for taking a signifi- medical technologies and most effective cant step to help our Nation’s seniors. medicines. This Medicare legislation broadly reflects Seniors have waited too long for more the reforms outlined in my framework that choices and better benefits, including pre- give seniors the right to choose the health scription drug coverage, similar to the kind care that best meets their individual needs, now enjoyed by Federal employees and including the option of staying in their tra- Members of the Congress. I will continue ditional plan. It also modernizes Medicare working closely with Congress during con- so seniors will have access to the newest ference to make improvements and pass meaningful Medicare reform.

Statement on Senate Action on Medicare Reform Legislation June 27, 2003

I commend the Senate for passing legis- This legislation is largely consistent with lation to strengthen and improve Medicare my framework for reform that allows sen- for America’s seniors. iors to choose the health care that best

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meets their individual needs, including the and treatment. I will continue working option of staying in their traditional plan. closely with the Congress to improve this Seniors will have more choices and bet- legislation as we move forward. ter benefits, including long-awaited prescription drug coverage, under a modern- NOTE: The Office of the Press Secretary also ized Medicare that provides seniors access released a Spanish language version of this to the newest and most effective medicines statement.

Statement on the Death of Strom Thurmond June 27, 2003

Senator Strom Thurmond led an extraor- firsthand the tremendous love he had for dinary life. He served in the Army during his constituents and the admiration the World War II, earning a Bronze Star for people of South Carolina had for him. He valor and landing at Normandy on D-Day. was also a friend, and I was honored to He served his country as Senator, Gov- have hosted his 100th birthday at the White ernor, and State legislator and was a be- House. Laura joins me in sending our pray- loved teacher, coach, husband, father, and ers and condolences to the entire Thur- grandfather. While campaigning across mond family. He will be missed. South Carolina with him in 1988, I saw

Remarks at a Bush-Cheney Dinner in Los Angeles, California June 27, 2003

Thanks for such a warm welcome, and going to continue to work hard to earn it’s great to be here in southern California. the confidence of our fellow Americans by I’m honored that so many showed up. I making sure that this country is secure and appreciate their record-setting event. I’m strong and prosperous and free. grateful that you’re laying the groundwork I’d like to stay for dinner, but I’m off for what will be a great national victory to Crawford. [Laughter] I just talked to in 2004. Laura on the phone, and she sends her I’m getting ready. [Laughter] I’m loos- very best. She is a fabulous First Lady for ening up. [Laughter] But I want to remind America. I want to thank my friend Brad you, in order for us to win I’m going to Freeman for his friendship, his not-so-short need your help to energize the grassroots, introduction—[laughter]—and his hard to talk to your neighbors, to put signs in work. I want to thank all the cochair for the yard, and to remind people that my this event. I appreciate so very much your vision is for a vision that’s hopeful for all hard work to make this such a success. Americans. I’m honored that Governor Linda Lingle The political season is going to come in from Hawaii is with us today. She is a— its own time; there will be plenty of time she’s a breath of fresh air for the State for politics. Right now I’m focused on the of Hawaii. I know we’ve got at least one people’s business in our Nation’s Capital. Members of the United States Congress— We have a lot on the agenda. And I’m Darrell Issa is with us today. Thank you,

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Congressman, for being here. I appreciate fidence. But we acted. We passed tough it. I, too, want to thank the campaign team new laws to hold corporate criminals to ac- here, led by Gerry Parsky. I’m honored to count. And to get our economy going again, call him a friend as well. I spent an amaz- we have twice led the United States Con- ing couple of hours with Dennis Miller. gress to pass historic tax relief for the peo- [Laughter] He keeps you on your toes. I ple of America. was also honored to meet his wife, Carolyn. Here’s what we believe and here’s what Like me, he married above himself. we know: When Americans have more take- [Laughter] It may not be all that hard, home pay to spend, save, or invest, the in his case. [Laughter] But I’m proud to whole economy benefits, and people are have his help. more likely to find a job. I’m also proud of my friend Kelsey This administration also knows this: Grammer. I appreciate him being here. If When we spend money in Washington, it only I could have heard Johnny Mathis is not the Government’s money. It is the sing, then I would have wished Laura were people’s money. We’re returning more here again. [Laughter] money to the people so they can raise their Thank you all for coming. This is a big families easier. We’re reducing taxes on night. I’m really honored you’re here. dividends and capital gains to encourage You know, in the last 21⁄2 years, this Na- investment. We’re giving small businesses tion has acted decisively to confront great incentives to expand and hire new people. challenges. I came to the office of the President to solve problems instead of pass- With all these actions, we are laying the ing them on to future Presidents and future foundation for greater prosperity and more generations. I came to seize opportunities jobs across America, so that every single instead of letting them slip away. And I person in our country has a chance to real- believe we are meeting the test of our time. ize the American Dream. Terrorists declared war on the United Two-and-a-half years ago, there was a lot States, and war is what they got. We have of talk about education reform, but there captured or killed many of the key leaders wasn’t much action. So I called for and of Al Qaida, and the rest of them know Congress passed the No Child Left Behind we’re hot on their trail. In Afghanistan and Act. With a solid bipartisan majority, we Iraq, we gave ultimatums to terror regimes. delivered the most dramatic education re- Those regimes chose defiance, and those forms in a generation. regimes are no more. Fifty million people We’re bringing high standards and strong in two countries once lived under tyranny, accountability to every public school in and now they live in freedom. America. We believe every child can learn Two-and-a-half years ago, our military the basics of reading and math, and we was not receiving the resources it needed, expect every school in America to teach and morale was beginning to suffer. We those basics. We are challenging the soft increased the defense budget to prepare bigotry of low expectations. The days of for the threats of a new era, and today, excuse-making are over, and we expect reno one in the world can question the skill sults in every classroom so that not one and the strength and the spirit of the single child in America is left behind. United States military. We reorganized the Government and Two-and-a-half years ago, we inherited created the Department of Homeland Se- an economy in recession. And then the at- curity to safeguard our borders and ports tacks came on our country, and we had and protect the American people. We scandals in corporate America, and war— passed trade promotion authority to create all of which affected the Nation’s con- new markets for America’s entrepreneurs

709 June 27 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 and farmers and ranchers and manufactur- nations do not support terror, free nations ers. We passed a budget agreement that do not attack their neighbors, free nations is helping to maintain spending discipline do not threaten the world with weapons in Washington, DC. of mass terror. Americans believe that free- On issue after issue, this administration dom is the deepest need and hope of every has acted on principle, has kept its word, human heart. And we believe that freedom and has made progress for the American is the right of every person and freedom people. The United States Congress has is the future of every nation. shared in these achievements, and I appre- America also understands that unprece- ciate the hard work of Members of the dented influence brings tremendous re- Congress. We will continue to work to- sponsibilities. We have duties in the world. gether to change the tone in Washington, And when we see disease and starvation DC, by focusing on the people’s business and hopeless poverty, we will not turn and by focusing on results. away. On the continent of Africa, which And those are the kind of people I’ve I’ll be visiting in 10 days, America is now asked to serve our Government in my ad- committed to bringing healing—the healing ministration. I have put together a fantastic power of medicine to millions of men and team of solid American citizens. I’m proud women and children now suffering with of their service. I’m proud of the work. AIDS. This great land is leading the world We have got no finer Vice President in in this incredibly important work of human our Nation’s history than Dick Cheney. rescue. Mother might have a second opinion. We face challenges at home as well, of [Laughter] course. And our actions prove that we’re In 21⁄2 years, we have come far, but our equal to those challenges. I will continue work is only beginning. I have set great to work on our economy until everybody goals worthy of this great Nation. First, who wants to work and who is not working America is committed to expanding the today can find a job. realm of freedom and peace, freedom and We have a duty to keep our commitment peace not only for our own security but to America’s seniors by strengthening and for the benefit of the world. modernizing Medicare. Last night, the And second, in our own country, we Congress took historic action to improve must work for a society of prosperity and the lives of older Americans. For the first compassion so that every citizen has a time since the creation of Medicare, the chance to work and succeed and realize House and Senate passed reforms to in- the great promise of our country. It is clear crease choices for our seniors and to pro- that the future of freedom and the future vide coverage of prescription drugs. The of peace depend on the actions of America. next step is for both Houses to come to- This Nation is freedom’s home and free- gether, iron out the final details, and get dom’s defender. We welcome this charge a bill to my desk. of history, and we are keeping it. And for the sake of health care, we need Our war on terror continues. The en- to cut down on the frivolous lawsuits which emies of freedom are not idle, and neither increase the cost of medicine. People who are we. This country will not rest; we will have been harmed by a bad doc deserve not tire; we will not stop until this danger their day in court. Yet, the system should to civilization is removed. not reward lawyers who are simply fishing Yet, our national interest involves more for a rich settlement. Frivolous lawsuits than eliminating aggressive threats to our drive up the cost of medicine, and there- safety. Our greatest security comes from fore they affect the Federal budget. Med- the advance of human liberty, because free ical liability reform is a national issue that

710 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 27 requires a national solution, and the Con- ence and dignity that come from owner- gress must act. ship. This administration will constantly I have a responsibility as President to strive to promote an ownership society in make sure the judicial system runs well, America. We want more people owning and I have met that duty. I’ve nominated their homes. We want people to own and superb men and women for the Federal manage their own health care. We want courts, people who will interpret the law, people to own and manage their own re- not legislate from the bench. Some Mem- tirement accounts. We want people to own bers of the Senate are trying to keep my their own small business. We understand nominees off the bench by blocking up- that when a person owns something, he or-down votes. Every judicial nominee de- or she has a vital stake in the future of serves a fair hearing and an up-or-down America. vote on the Senate floor. It is time for In a compassionate society, people re- some Members of the United States Senate spect one another and take responsibility to stop playing politics with American jus- for the decisions they make. We’re chang- tice. ing the culture of America from one that The Congress needs to pass a com- has said, ‘‘If it feels good, just go ahead prehensive energy plan. We need to use and do it; if you’ve got a problem, blame our technologies to help us conserve more, somebody else,’’ to a culture in which each to find alternative sources of energy, but of us understands we are responsible for we need to use our technologies to help the decisions we make in life. us explore in environmentally sensitive ways If you are fortunate enough to be a for more energy here at home. For the sake of our national security, for the sake mother or a father, you’re responsible for of our economic security, we need to be loving your child with all your heart. If less dependent on foreign sources of en- you are concerned about the quality of edu- ergy. cation in your community, you’re respon- Our strong and prosperous Nation must sible for doing something about it. If you also be a compassionate nation. I will con- are a CEO in America, you are responsible tinue to advance our agenda of compas- for telling the truth to your employees and sionate conservatism, applying the best and your shareholders. And in the new respon- most innovative ideas to the task to helping sibility era, each of us is responsible for our fellow citizens in need. There are still loving our neighbor just like we’d like to millions of men and women who want to be loved ourselves. end their dependence on Government and We can see the culture of service and become independent through work. We responsibility growing around us. I started must build on the success of welfare reform what’s called the USA Freedom Corps to to bring work and dignity to more of our encourage Americans to extend a compas- fellow citizens. sionate hand to a neighbor in need. And Congress should complete a ‘‘Citizen the response has been incredibly strong. Service Act’’ so more Americans can serve And our faith-based charities all across our their communities and their country. And country are vibrant and strong and hearing both Houses should reach agreement on the call to help somebody who hurts. my Faith-Based Initiative to support the Policemen and firefighters and people armies of compassion that are mentoring who wear our Nation’s uniform are remind- children, caring for the homeless, and offering us what it means to sacrifice for some- ing hope to the addicted. thing greater than yourself. Once again, the A compassionate society must promote children of America believe in heroes, be- opportunity for all, including the independ- cause they see them every day.

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In these challenging times, the world has our country and for our cause, the best seen the resolve and the courage of Amer- days lie ahead. ica. And I’ve been privileged to see the I’m honored you’re here. May God con- compassion and the character of the Amer- tinue to bless America. Thank you all. ican people. All the tests of the last 21⁄2 years have come to the right Nation. NOTE: The President spoke at 7:12 p.m. in We see—we are a strong country, and the Los Angeles Ballroom at the Century we use that strength to defend the peace. Plaza Hotel. In his remarks, he referred to We’re an optimistic country, confident in Brad Freeman, California State finance ourselves and in ideals bigger than our- chairman, Bush-Cheney ’04, Inc.; Gerald L. selves. Abroad, we seek to lift whole na- Parsky, chairman, Team California, Cali- tions by spreading freedom. At home, we fornia Republican Party Board of Directors; seek to lift up lives by spreading oppor- comedian Dennis Miller; actor Kelsey tunity to every corner of our country. This Grammer; and entertainer Johnny Mathis. A is the work that history has set before us, tape was not available for verification of the and we welcome it. And we know that for content of these remarks.

The President’s Radio Address June 28, 2003

Good morning. This week, the United of this approach is choice. Seniors should States Congress passed historic legislation be able to choose the health care plans to strengthen and modernize Medicare. that suit their needs. When health care Under the House and Senate bills, Amer- plans compete for their business, seniors ican seniors would, for the first time in will have better, more affordable options Medicare’s 38-year history, receive pre- for their health coverage. Members of Con- scription drug coverage. gress and other Federal employees already We’re taking action because Medicare have the ability to choose among health has not kept up with the advances of mod- care plans. If choice is good enough for ern medicine. The program was designed lawmakers, it is good enough for America’s in the 1960s, a time when hospital stays seniors. were common and drug therapies were I’m pleased to see that Congress has ac- rare. Now, drugs and other treatments can cepted the principle of choice for seniors. reduce hospital stays while dramatically im- Under the provisions of both the House proving the quality of care. Because Medi- and Senate bills, seniors who want to stay care does not provide coverage to pay for in the current Medicare system will have these drugs, many seniors have to pay for that option, plus a new prescription drug prescriptions out of pocket, which often benefit. Seniors who want enhanced bene- forces them to make the difficult choice fits, such as coverage for preventative care of paying for medicine or meeting other and a cap on out-of-pocket costs, will have expenses. that choice as well. Seniors who like the In January, I submitted to Congress a affordability of managed care plans will be framework for Medicare reform that insisted on giving seniors access to prescrip- able to enroll in such plans. And low-in- tion drug coverage and offering more come seniors will receive extra help so that choices under Medicare. The centerpiece all seniors will have the ability to choose

712 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 30 a Medicare option that includes prescrip- But right now we’re just holding even, if tion drug benefits. not going below even.’’ When Congress My framework for Medicare reform also completes its work, seniors like Gene and called for immediate help to seniors Dorothy Preston can look forward to better through a prescription drug discount card. health care coverage and relief from the And I’m pleased that both the House and rising cost of prescription drugs. Senate bills would make a discount card I appreciate the hard work of Members available to seniors. The card would help of Congress who have set aside partisan senior citizens by reducing their prescrip- differences to do what is best for the Amer- tion drug costs, beginning early next year ican people. I urge Members to seize this and continuing until the new prescription opportunity to achieve a great and compas- drug program under Medicare takes full sionate goal. I urge them to finish the job effect in 2006. of strengthening and modernizing Medi- The Congress must now pass a final bill care, so that I can sign this crucial reform that makes the Medicare system work bet- into law. ter for America’s seniors. This is an issue Thank you for listening. of vital importance to senior citizens all across our country. They have waited years for a modern Medicare system, and they NOTE: The address was recorded at 2:35 p.m. should not have to wait any longer. on June 26 in the Cabinet Room at the White Earlier this month in Chicago, I met House for broadcast at 10:06 a.m. on June Gene Preston and his wife, Dorothy. They 28. The transcript was made available by the spend about $300 a month on prescription Office of the Press Secretary on June 27 but drugs, and they do not have prescription was embargoed for release until the broad- drug coverage. Gene says, ‘‘Everything is cast. The Office of the Press Secretary also going up in price. Before, we could save released a Spanish language transcript of this a couple of bucks at the end of the month. address.

Statement on the Death of Katharine Hepburn June 29, 2003

Katharine Hepburn delighted audiences as one of the Nation’s artistic treasures. with her unique talent for more than six Laura joins me in sending our thoughts decades. She was known for her intel- and prayers to her family. ligence and wit and will be remembered

Remarks to Senior Citizens in Miami, Florida June 30, 2003

Thank you very much. Thanks for com- that is the opportunities and the chances ing. Sientese, por favor. Muchas gracias. of modernizing Medicare. I am really glad I’m honored to be here. Thank you for to have the invitation to come to the Little letting me come by to talk about a subject Havana Activities and Nutrition Centers. that is, I know, important to many, and After all, it gives me a chance to check

713 June 30 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 up on El Gobernador—[laughter]—mi ties and Nutrition Centers. She is—she did hermanito, mi grande hermanito. [Laugh- such a good job here that we spirited her ter] up to Washington, DC, to serve our coun- I’m really proud of Jeb. He’s—as you try. I want to thank Josefina, and I also know, we’ve got a very close family, and want to wish her a happy birthday. any chance we have to get together to visit Toni Jennings, the Lieutenant Governor, and compare notes about the latest thing is with us today, and I’m honored that the Mother has told us to do, it gives us— Lieutenant Governor would be here. Thank it’s a great opportunity. So—but thanks for you, Toni. letting me come. I see that the Diaz-Balart boys are with I—as Tommy mentioned, that we’re us today. Keep your remarks short. [Laugh- making historic progress in Washington. It’s ter] No, I’m looking forward to visit—to really a matter of will. It’s a matter of put- spend a little quality time with them. ting aside politics and focusing on what They’re a good friend, strong allies. They we’re supposed to be focusing on, that is, know what I know, that under the current the people. And so today I want to spend leadership in Cuba, there will never be some time talking about the historic oppor- freedom. They know that, and I know that tunity we have to modernize Medicare on as well. behalf of America’s seniors. And one thing we believe in in America There’s some differences between the is freedom for everybody. We believe free- two bills. The Senate had one version. The dom is the desire of every human heart. House of Representatives had another. But We believe freedom is the future of every there’s a lot of commonality between them. country. We believe in a free Cuba. And I’m confident that the Members, when I also want to thank Congressman Mark they get back from their Fourth of July Foley for joining us today. Congressman, breaks, will get to work, iron out the dif- thank you for being here. I’m honored ferences in a constructive way, and get a you’re here. I appreciate your time. Terry good bill to my desk so that I can then White is here, the secretary of the Florida say and all of us can say we’ve done our Department of Elder Affairs. Terry, thank jobs on behalf of America’s seniors. you for coming, Senor Blanco. I—Dr. Tommy has—Tommy Thompson has Rhonda Medows is with us today. I’m hon- been the point person for the administra- ored that the doc is here. tion on Capitol Hill, working this issue We’ve got el alcalde de Miami. Thank hard. He has done a really good job. He you, Senor. Thank you very much, Alex, was my friend when he was the Governor for coming, and as well—I mean, Manny, of Wisconsin, so I saw that he was a good, for coming. And Alex Penelas is here as hard worker and a productive person as well, the mayor of—donde? Okay. [Laugh- the Governor of Wisconsin. He was a re- ter] At least he got his name mentioned; former, and he was on the leading edge that’s a smart move. I appreciate Rene of change in a lot of areas. And I was Rodriguez, the director of the Miami-Dade really happy to be able to convince him Housing Authority, for being here. Berta, to serve in the incredibly important position donde esta Berta? Berta Ruano, thank you of Secretary of HHS. And he hasn’t let very much, Berta, for letting us come. me down, and he’s not letting the American And finally, when I landed at the airport people down, Tommy, and I want to thank on Air Force One, I was honored to walk you for your service. off, and after I saw Brother and others And I’m glad that Josefina came. I un- that were there, I met a lady named Ana derstand she used to be the president and Cooper. Ana is right here. Thank you for CEO of this—of the Little Havana Activi- coming, Ana. Let me tell you about Ana.

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Stand up, please. So you’re wondering who gether to keep the homeland more secure. Ana is. You’re wondering who Ana Cooper But in order to make sure the homeland is; she is a volunteer. She volunteers to is more secure, we must hunt down en- help seniors have a better life. She spends emies wherever they hide. The best way time comforting seniors. She takes time out to make America secure is to find the of her day to help somebody in need. And enemy before the enemy comes to us. And that’s an important part of America. It’s that’s what we will do. a really important part of our system. It’s We must also worry about the economic a part of a compassionate tomorrow when security of our fellow citizens. And I want a fellow citizen is willing to dedicate time to thank the Members of Congress who to help somebody who needs help. have worked closely with the administration And I want to thank Ana. She’s a—what to create the environment for additional job I call a USA Freedom Corps greeter. Ev- growth. Your Governor and the good peo- erywhere I go in America, I try to recog- ple down here have led the Nation in new nize an individual who is serving something job creation. And I want to thank the peo- greater than themselves in life. If you’re ple of Florida for setting the pace for job such an individual, I want to thank you recovery. But so long as anybody is looking for that. for work and who wants to work and can’t If you’re interested in helping, you can find a job, we will worry about it. And get on the Internet and look up we will create the conditions necessary for usafreedomcorps.gov. It’s an opportunity economic vitality, including, most impor- for young and old alike to serve your com- tantly, to make sure our small businesses munity. The strength of our country is are strong and vibrant all across the United more than just military might. The strength States of America. of our country is the heart and soul of And then we’re worried in Washington, our fellow citizens, people like Ana who DC, and we’re doing something about it, are willing to help somebody in need. Ana, about the health security of the American thank you for the example you’ve set, and people. And one of the things we finally I appreciate you coming. recognized in Washington, well, we recog- I mentioned our love for freedom in nized it—actually get something done about America. We love it. We love it for people it—is that medicine is becoming more of Cuba. We love it for the people of Iraq. modern, yet the systems dealing with medi- We love it for the people of Afghanistan. cine, like Medicare, aren’t. In other words, We also know that a free society is more there have been great advancement in likely to be a peaceful society. And so when medicine, and yet the Medicare system is you hear me talk about freedom, you must stuck in the past. And so we decided to also know that I talk about peace, that our do something about it. deep desire in America is for the world We decided to make sure that prescrip- to be more free and more peaceful. And tion medicines, which oftentimes replace we’ll stay the course. surgeries and long hospital stays, become We have made great progress at freeing an integral part of a modern medical sys- people from barbaric regimes, which also tem available for our seniors and everybody means that America is more secure. We else; in other words, that we now focus will stay on guard in America because we on prevention as opposed to reaction as understand there are still enemies of free- an integral part of a modern medical sys- dom, enemies for what we stand for. And tem. I want to thank the local authorities and One of the things that we’ve got to al- the State authorities and our Federal au- ways worry about and work on in Wash- thorities, who are all working closely to- ington is to make sure that pharmaceutical

715 June 30 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 drugs are more affordable and more avail- And so, as Tommy mentioned, we’ve had able. And I took some strong action to help a debate up in Washington, and that is that be the case by making sure that ge- how best to provide a modern system to neric drugs are not delayed in making it our seniors. One of the things I reminded to the marketplace. people of and will continue to do so until In our system today, if a pharmaceutical I get a bill on my desk, that Members company invents a new kind of medicine, of the United States Congress and their they’re given patent protection for a period staffs get a choice about what kind of of time. And that’s okay. It makes sense. plan—health care plan best suits their After all, we want a—we want new medi- needs. In other words, Congress said, ‘‘Let cines coming on the market, and patents us have a consumer-friendly system.’’ A provide incentives for people to reinvest consumer-friendly system is one that says and to take research and development risks. we trust the consumers to make the best But what we can’t afford is to have generic choice. Senior citizens are consumers, and drugs delayed because of loopholes in the therefore, the plan ought to match your laws and regulations. We cannot allow drug needs, not the needs designed by a bureau- companies to block generics, which are crat—not your needs as decided by a bu- cheaper at the counter for our citizens— reaucrat in Washington, DC. If choice is ‘‘less expensive’’ is a better way to put that, good enough for Congress, it ought to be still of high quality but of less expense— good enough for the seniors in America, because of arguments over minor features. was my point. In other words, the generic gets ready I appreciate these men—I appreciate to come on the market, and the initial com- their consistency. They understood that, pany will say, ‘‘Wait a minute. You’re— and that’s a vital part of the bill which you know, you’ve got the pill bottle—the came out of the House of Representatives color of the pill bottle looks like that you’re and the Senate. And basically it says this: infringing on the patent,’’ and delays take It says that if you like your current Medi- place. And we can’t allow these excuse- care system, you like the way the Medicare making delays to take place. So the Federal system is today, you should have the option Drug Administration has taken strong ac- of staying in that system, plus an additional tion which will get generics quicker to the benefit, and that would be prescription markets, which will save our seniors and drugs. In other words, if you’re happy all people relying upon pharmaceuticals where you are, we’re going to add a pre- savings. scription drug benefit. We anticipate the savings will be up to Now, as well, if you enhanced benefits $35 billion over a 10-year period. And that’s or—such as more coverage for preventative a good, positive step on behalf of making care or other services, you ought to have sure our drugs are more affordable. that choice as well. In other words, you But the other thing we’ve done is we take what the Government provides, and made sure that Medicare is heading toward if you want to make it better, you ought reform. And a reform in Medicare means to have that choice—your choice to make. a couple of things. It means seniors get That ought to be available part of the pro- to have choices, and all choices will include gram. As well, if you like the affordability prescription drug benefits. The Medicare of managed care plans— system of today does not have prescription Medicare+Choice—if you like that and drug benefits, as you know. We’ve got to you’re in the plan, that ought to be a part change that. If medicine is changing, we of your option. In other words, there’s want Medicare to change with it, on behalf three opportunities. The plans ought to be of the senior citizens all across the country. tailored to your demands.

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Low-income seniors will receive extra from a private-sector plan—so he’s con- help. We want to help those who are— cerned, obviously. When the benefits expire who need help. So that ought to be a part as a result of the retirement package he of our Government policy so that seniors had earlier, what’s going to happen to Judy will have the ability to choose a Medicare and Jerry? And this bill will help. This bill plan which best fits their needs. And all will make a difference. the plans will mean there is a prescription In other words, this bill is more impor- drug benefit available. So we’re modern- tant for people to realize, instead of the izing Medicare, and it’s important that we rhetoric, that it actually is going to affect do. people’s lives in a positive way. And here I talked to Myrtle Ball today—I had the are some people’s lives that will be af- honor of meeting with some of your fellow fected, and I’m sure a lot of your lives citizens prior to coming out here to talk, will be affected as well. We’ve just got to and I heard their stories. It’s a good oppor- get the job done now. We’ve got to make tunity for Jeb and me and Tommy to listen sure that the bills are reconciled and get to what people—what’s on their mind. And them to my desk. And I look forward to pretty much common story—Myrtle is dia- signing a good Medicare bill. betic. She takes eight medications, and Finally, there’s one other issue I want those cost her at least $700 a month, which to talk about. I mean, if we’re concerned is nearly half her income. And that bothers about health care which is accessible and her, and it worries her. So she’s cutting affordable, we better be concerned about down, cutting the pills in half in some the number of lawsuits that are taking place cases, to try to make those—stretch those all across America. You see, it’s one thing dollars. The bill we passed—both bills we passed, and the combined bill we passed, for somebody to be able to sue a bad doc- Tommy and I concluded, will help some- tor. We’re for that. But the problem is, body like Myrtle, help her meet the needs we’ve got a lot of lawyers filing suits against so that she doesn’t feel stressed in later any doctor. And let me tell you the effect years of life. of frivolous lawsuits, the effect it’s having Teresa Tibble is here, and she takes care all across America. of her mom, Betty, at home. And Teresa, It means that doctors are practicing what I want to thank you very much for doing they call preventative medicine. In other that. She is a dutiful daughter. Her mom words, if you think somebody’s going to has got Alzheimer’s. And Teresa wants to sue you, if you’re in a litigious society, then live with her mom so her mom feels com- you’ll take extra care by prescribing more fortable. I think Jeb and I were touched and more either procedures or whatever by what it means to be sitting at a table it may be. And that runs the cost of medi- with a daughter who has said, ‘‘I’ve got cine up. It makes it more likely your bill a responsibility to my mom.’’ And I want is going to go up. to appreciate Teresa for doing that. The And secondly, lawsuit after lawsuit after extra money that will come from the ben- lawsuit that oftentimes—you know, that efit that’s going to end up in the bill will people just settle in order to get it off help Teresa take care of her mom at home. the docket cause premiums to go up, which I also met the Gensels. They’re here, also makes medicine more costly. In a lot Judy and Jerry. And they—now, they’re of cases around the country, docs have just typical of a lot—because of Jerry’s previous had it. They said their premiums have gone job, he was—had some benefits, some ben- up so high that they can’t practice medicine efits as a retiree, but in his case, they run anymore. So you know what they do? They out in a couple of years. And so in the— take the shingle down, which makes it—

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there’s less doctors available. We’ve got a We live in a great country. We live in a problem. great country that has got the best health I met with docs all across our country. care system in the world, and we need The premiums are just going out of sight to keep it that way. We live in a great because of frivolous lawsuits are running country because we believe in serving con- up the cost of doing business, and it costs cepts greater than ourselves. We live in you more money. It just does. And people a great country because we believe in val- say, ‘‘Well, you know, that’s not a Federal ues and ideals from which we will not vary. issue. It’s a State issue.’’ And I want to We believe strongly in freedom. We believe applaud my brother, working hard on this in peace. We believe in human dignity. We issue. And I hope the legislature responds believe in the worth of each individual. We positively so that people all across this State are a great country, and I’m proud to be are going to have affordable and accessible the President of this great country. health care. But it also runs up the cost Thank you all for coming. May God of the Federal bills. bless. I mean, if somebody is practicing preventative medicine, it’s going to mean NOTE: The President spoke at 11:19 a.m. at Medicare costs go up. Medicaid costs will the Metropolitan Senior Center, Little Ha- go up. Veterans health benefits go up. I’ve vana Activities and Nutrition Centers. In his looked at the cost of all these frivolous remarks, he referred to Gov. Jeb Bush and lawsuits to the Federal Government and Lt. Gov. Toni Jennings of Florida; Josefina have come to the conclusion we have a Carbonell, Assistant Secretary for Aging, De- Federal problem as well, which requires partment of Health and Human Services; a Federal solution. In order to make sure Representatives Lincoln and Mario Diaz- health care is vibrant and viable, we need Balart of Florida; Dr. Rhonda Medows, sec- medical liability reform all across America, retary, Florida Agency for Health Care Ad- and we need a Federal medical liability ministration; Mayor Manuel A. Diaz of reform. Miami; Mayor Alex Penelas of Miami-Dade I want to thank you all for—I want to County; and Berta Ruano, assistant to Ramon thank you for giving me a chance to come Perez-Dorrbecker, president, Little Havana by and visit with you. Let me conclude Activities and Nutrition Centers. The Office by telling you something that I know is of the Press Secretary also released a Spanish true. We are fortunate to be Americans. language transcript of these remarks.

Remarks at a Bush-Cheney Luncheon in Miami June 30, 2003

The President. Thank you all for coming. But it’s been a successful event. We’ve It’s a big deal to be introduced by your raised a lot of money, and I want to thank brother—[laughter]—especially one who’s you for that. We’re laying the groundwork been so successful as the Governor of the for what is going to be a victory in Novem- State of Florida. I’m proud of him. I’m ber of 2004. I’m getting ready. I’m loos- not surprised. We both share the same po- ening up for the task ahead. But I just litical consultant—[laughter]—our mother. need to remind you that I’m going to need [Laughter] Her fees are low, but her opin- your help, continued help. I believe our ion is plentiful. [Laughter] message is best for the country. It is a

718 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 30 message that speaks to everybody. It’s a portunities instead of letting them slip message of hope and peace and freedom. away. We are meeting the tests of our time. And you’re going to need to tell your Terrorists declared war on the United friends and neighbors. We need a grass- States of America, and war is what they roots effort. got. We have captured or killed many lead- There will be plenty of time for politics. ers of Al Qaida, and the rest of them know Right now I’m focused on the people’s we’re on their trail. In Afghanistan and in business in Washington, DC. We’ve got a Iraq, we gave ultimatums to terror regimes. lot on the agenda, and I’m going to work Those regimes chose defiance, and those hard to continue to earn the confidence regimes are no more. Fifty million people of each American by making sure this in those two countries once lived under country is safe and secure and prosperous tyranny, and now they live in freedom. and free. Two-and-a-half years ago, our military I just flew in from Crawford. I said good- was not receiving the resources it needed, bye to the First Lady. She sends her best. and morale was beginning to suffer. So we I’m sorry she is not with me. She is, by increased the defense budget to prepare far, the best thing I’ve got going. I’m really for threats of a new era. And today, no proud of Laura. I’m proud of her steadiness one in the world can question the skill and and her calm in the face of storm. I love the strength and the spirit of the United her dearly. She is a great First Lady for States military. our country. Two-and-a-half years ago, we inherited I’m honored that Members of the United an economy in recession. Then the attacks States Congress are here. Congressman came on our country, and we had scandals Foley and the two Diaz-Balart boys are in corporate America, and we were at war. with us as well. I’m proud to call them And all this affected the people’s con- friends. I’m proud to work with them. They fidence. But we acted. We passed tough love Florida. They love America. And new laws to hold corporate criminals to ac- they’re fine United States Congressmen. count. And to get the economy going again, Thank you all for coming today. we have twice led the United States Con- I too want to thank Zach and Tom gress to pass historic tax relief for the Petway for putting this event on. I want American people. We believe that when to thank them for serving in a big capacity Americans have more money in their pock- for me in the Florida campaign. I want et to spend, to save, or invest, the whole to thank Al Hoffman as well, as well as country benefits, and someone is more like- Mercer Reynolds, my longtime friend who ly to find a job. We understand whose is the national chairman. I want to thank money we spend in Washington, DC. We the party chairman who is here, Al do not spend the Government’s money. We Cardenas. But most of all, I want to thank spend the people’s money. It’s your money you all. I’m honored that you’ve given of to begin with. And so we’re returning more your money and your time and your efforts. money to people to help them raise their I appreciate your love for our country. I families. We’re reducing taxes on dividends appreciate your willingness to participate in and capital gains to encourage investment. the process. We’re giving small businesses proper incen- You know, we’ve been through a lot in tives to expand and to hire people. 21⁄2 years. We really have, but our Nation With all these actions, we are laying the has acted decisively to confront great chal- foundations for greater prosperity and more lenges. I came to office to solve problems, jobs across America, so that every single not to pass them on to future Presidents person in this country has a chance to real- and future generations. I came to seize op- ize the American Dream.

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Two-and-a-half years ago, there was a lot a great nation. First, America is committed of talk about education reform, but there to expanding the realm of freedom and wasn’t much action. So I called for and peace, for our own security and for the the Congress passed the No Child Left Be- benefit of the world. And second, in our hind Act. With a solid bipartisan majority, own country we must work for a society we delivered the most dramatic education of prosperity and compassion so that every reform in a generation. We’re bringing high citizen has a chance to work and to succeed standards and strong accountability meas- and realize the great promise of our coun- ures to every public school in America. We try. believe every child can learn the basics of It is clear that the future of freedom reading and math, and we expect every and peace depend on the actions of Amer- school in America to teach those basics. ica. This Nation is freedom’s home, and We are challenging the soft bigotry of low we are freedom’s defender. We welcome expectations. The days of excuse-making this charge of history, and we are keeping are over. And now we expect results in it. The war on terror continues. The en- every single classroom, so that not one sin- emies of freedom are not idle, and neither gle child is left behind. are we. This country will not rest; we will We reorganized the Government and not tire; and we will not stop until this created the Department of Homeland Se- danger to civilization is removed. curity to safeguard our borders and ports Yet our national interest involves more and to better protect the American people. than eliminating aggressive threats to our We passed trade promotion authority to safety. Our greatest security comes from open new markets for America’s entre- the advance of human liberty, because free preneurs and manufacturers and farmers nations do not support terror, free nations and ranchers. We passed a budget agree- do not attack their neighbors, and free nament that is helping to maintain spending tions do not threaten the world with weap- discipline in Washington, DC. On issue ons of mass terror. after issue, this administration has acted on Americans believe that freedom is the principle; we have kept its word; and we deepest need and hope of every human have made progress on behalf of the Amer- heart, including those who live on the is- ican people. land of Cuba. And we believe that freedom The United States Congress deserves is the right of every person, and we believe credit, and I will continue to work with that freedom is the future of every nation. the Congress. I’ll work with them to help America also understands that unprece- change the tone in Washington, DC, to dented influence brings tremendous re- focus on results. And that’s the nature of sponsibilities. We have duties in the world, the people that I’ve surrounded myself and when we see disease and starvation with. I’ve put together a fantastic adminis- and hopeless poverty, we will not turn tration of hard-working, decent Americans, away. On the continent of Africa, which there to serve the American people. Dick I’ll be visiting next week, America is now Cheney is a great Vice President of the committed to bringing the healing power United States, the greatest Vice President. of medicine to millions of men and women I say the ‘‘greatest’’; Mother might have and children now suffering from AIDS. a different opinion. [Laughter] This great land is leading the world in this Gov. Jeb Bush of Florida. I was won- incredibly important work of human rescue. dering about that. [Laughter] We face challenges here at home, and The President. In 21⁄2 years, we’ve come our actions prove that we’re equal to those far. We really have. But our work is only challenges. I will continue to work on our beginning. We have great goals, worthy of economy until everybody who wants to

720 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 30 work and can’t find a job is able to find We must develop cleaner technology. We a job. must use our technologies to help us ex- We have a duty to keep our commitment plore for more energy at home. For the to America’s seniors by strengthening and sake of our economic security and for the modernizing Medicare. Last week the Con- sake of our national security, we must be gress took historic action to improve the less dependent on foreign sources of en- lives of older Americans. For the first time ergy. since the creation of Medicare, the House Our strong and prosperous Nation must and Senate have passed reforms to increase also be a compassionate nation. I will con- the choices of seniors and provide coverage tinue to advance our agenda of compas- of prescription drugs. The next step is for sionate conservatism by applying the best both Houses to come together to iron out and most innovative ideas to the task of some details and to get a bill to my desk. helping our fellow citizens in need. There And for the sake of a strong health care are still millions of men and women who system for all Americans, we need to cut want to end their dependence on Govern- down and end the frivolous lawsuits which ment and become independent through increase the cost of medicine. People who work. We must build on the success of have been harmed by a bad doc deserve welfare reform to bring work and dignity their day in court. Yet the system should into the lives of more of our fellow Ameri- not reward lawyers who are simply fishing cans. for rich settlements. Because frivolous law- Congress should complete the ‘‘Citizen suits drive up the health—the cost of health Service Act,’’ so that more Americans can care, they affect the Medicaid budget; they serve their communities and their country. affect the Medicare budget; they affect the Both Houses should reach a settlement on cost to our veterans. It is a—they affect my Faith-Based Initiative to support the the Federal budget, is what I’m telling you. armies of compassion that are mentoring Medical liability reform is a Federal issue. children, that are caring for the homeless, It requires a Federal solution. No one has and offering hope to the addicted. ever been healed by a frivolous lawsuit. A compassionate society must promote This country needs medical liability reform opportunity for all, including the independ- now. ence and dignity that comes from owner- I have a responsibility as President to ship. This administration will constantly make sure the judicial system runs well, strive to promote an ownership society. We and I have met that duty. I have sub- want more people owning their own home. mitted—I have nominated superb men and We want people to own and manage their women for our Federal courts, people who own health care plan. We want more peo- will interpret the law, not legislate from ple to own and manage their own retire- the bench. But some Members of the ment accounts. We want more small-busi- United States Senate are trying to keep my ness owners in America, because we under- nominees off the bench by blocking up- stand that when a person owns something, or-down votes. Every judicial nominee de- they have a vital stake in the future of serves a fair hearing and an up-or-down America. vote on the Senate floor. It is time for In a compassionate society, people re- some Members of the United States Senate spect one another and take responsibility to stop playing politics with American jus- for the decisions they make in life. We’re tice. changing the culture of America from one The Congress needs to pass a com- that has said, ‘‘If it feels good do it,’’ and prehensive energy plan. Our Nation must ‘‘If you’ve got a problem, blame somebody promote energy efficiency and conservation. else,’’ to one—to a culture in which each

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of us understands we are responsible for of America believe in heroes, because they the decisions we make in life. see them every day. If you are fortunate enough to be a In these challenging times, the world has mother or a father, you’re responsible for seen the resolve and the courage of Amer- loving your child. If you’re worried about ica. And I’ve been privileged to see the the quality of education in your neighbor- compassion and the character of the Amer- hood, you’re worried about doing some- ican people. All the tests of the last 21⁄2 thing—you’re responsible for doing some- years have come to the right nation. We’re thing about it. If you are a CEO in cor- a strong country, and we use that strength porate America, you’re responsible for tell- to defend the peace. We’re an optimistic ing the truth to your shareholders and your country, confident in ourselves and in ideals employees. And in a responsibility society, bigger than ourselves. each of us is responsible for loving our Abroad, we seek to lift whole nations neighbor just like we’d like to be loved by spreading freedom. At home, we seek ourself. to lift up lives by spreading opportunity to every corner of America. This is the We can see the culture of service and work that history has set before us. We responsibility growing around us. I started welcome it, and we know that for our coun- what we call the USA Freedom Corps to try and for our cause, the best days lie encourage Americans to extend a compas- ahead. sionate hand to neighbors in need. And May God bless you. And may God con- I’m pleased to report the response has been tinue to bless America. Thank you all. strong. Our faith-based charities from all denominations are vibrant and strong, as NOTE: The President spoke at 12:35 p.m. in people who have heard the call to serve the International Ballroom at the Hilton something greater than themselves in life Miami Airport. In his remarks, he referred are doing so by helping somebody who to Zach Zachariah and Tom Petway III, Flor- hurts. ida State finance cochairmen, and Mercer We’ve got policemen and firefighters and Reynolds, national finance chairman, Bush people who wear our Nation’s uniform re- Cheney ’04, Inc.; Al Hoffman, Jr., finance minding us on a daily basis what it means chairman, Republican National Committee; to sacrifice for something greater than and Al Cardenas, former chair, Republican yourself in life. Once again, the children Party of Florida.

Remarks at a Bush-Cheney Reception in Tampa, Florida June 30, 2003

Thank you all very much. Thanks for ciate Jeb—talk about swamping some- coming out. I appreciate the warm wel- body—he knows the definition of ‘‘swamp’’ come on a warm day. [Laughter] I’m so when it comes to political campaigns. honored to be here with my brother. You I want to thank you all so very much know, he and I share the same political for your help today. We’re laying the consultant—[laughter]—our mother. groundwork for a national campaign—a na- [Laughter] She doesn’t charge very much tional campaign that I believe will result for her advice, but she gives plenty of it, in a great victory in November 2004. I can assure you. [Laughter] But I appre-

722 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 30

I’m going to count on you not only for In the last 21⁄2 years, this Nation has help such as the help you’ve given tonight, acted decisively to confront great chal- but I’m going to count on you to energize lenges. I came to office to solve problems, the grassroots, to talk to your neighbors, not to pass them on to future Presidents talk to people who are making up their and future generations. I came to seize op- minds, to put the signs in the yard, and portunities instead of letting them slip to help spread our message, which is a away. We are meeting the tests of our time. message that’s optimistic and hopeful, a Terrorists declared war on the United message that speaks to all Americans. States of America, and war is what they There’s plenty of time for politics, and got. We have captured or killed many key I’m loosening up, and I’m getting ready. Al Qaida leaders, and the rest of them But in the meantime, I’m focused on the know we’re hot on their trail. In Afghani- people’s business in Washington, DC. I’ve stan and in Iraq, we gave ultimatums to got a job to do. I will do my job, and terror regimes. Those regimes chose defi- I will continue to work, work hard, to earn ance, and those regimes are no more. Fifty the confidence of our fellow citizens by million people in those two countries once keeping this Nation secure and strong and lived under tyranny, and now they live in prosperous and free. freedom. Two-and-a-half years ago, our military I regret that Laura didn’t travel from was not receiving the resources it needed, Crawford to Florida today. She had some and morale was beginning to suffer. We business in Washington, DC. But if she increased the defense budget to prepare were here, I probably wouldn’t be able to for the threats of a new era, and today, lavish the praise on her that I feel like no one in the world can question the skill lavishing tonight. She is a fabulous First and the strength and the spirit of the Lady, a great wife. I love her dearly. United States military. I appreciate all the folks that have shown Two-and-a-half years ago, we inherited up, the elected officials. I’m glad the Lieu- an economy in recession. Then the attacks tenant Governor, Toni Jennings, is with us came on our country, and scandals in cor- today. I appreciate a man I call ‘‘Red’’; porate America and war affected the peo- that’s Congressman Adam Putnam. He’s ple’s confidence. But we acted. We passed done a heck of a good job for the folks tough new laws to hold corporate criminals here in Florida. I want to thank your attor- to account. And to get the economy going ney general, Charlie Crist, for coming. again, we have twice led the United States Charlie, it’s good to see you. Tom Galla- Congress to pass historic tax relief for the gher, the chief financial officer for the State American people. of Florida, is here. We know that when Americans have I want to thank the cochairmen of the more take-home pay to spend, save, or in- finance campaign for the State of Florida, vest, the whole economy grows, and people Zach Zachariah and Tom Petway from Jack- are more likely to find work. We under- sonville, Florida. I want to thank my friend stand whose money we spend in Wash- Al Hoffman for his hard work and thank ington. It is not the Government’s money. my friend Al Austin from right here in It is the people’s money. And so money Tampa. I want to thank all the cochairmen is being returned to hard-working families. who’ve worked hard. We’re reducing the taxes on dividends and And I’m really here to thank you all. capital gains to encourage investment. I appreciate your confidence. I appreciate We’re giving small businesses proper incen- your care, and I appreciate your concern tives to expand and to hire new people. about the future of this country. With all these actions, we are laying the

723 June 30 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 foundation for greater prosperity so that is committed to expanding the realm of every single person in our country can real- freedom and peace, not only for our own ize the American Dream. security but for the benefit of the entire Two-and-a-half years ago, there was a lot world. And second, in our own country, of talk about education reform in Wash- we must work for a society of prosperity ington, but there wasn’t much action, so and compassion so that every citizen has I called for and Congress passed the No a chance to work and succeed and realize Child Left Behind Act. With a solid bipar- the great promise of our country. tisan majority, we delivered the most dra- It is clear that the future of freedom matic education reforms in a generation. and peace depend on the actions of Amer- We’re bringing high standards and strong ica. This Nation is freedom’s home and accountability measures to every public freedom’s defender. We welcome this school in America. We believe every child charge of history, and we’re keeping it. Our can learn the basics of reading and math. war on terror continues. The enemies of And we expect every school to teach the freedom are not idle, and neither are we. basics of reading and math. We are chal- This country will not rest; we will not tire; lenging the soft bigotry of low expectations. and we will not stop until this danger to The days of excuse-making are over. And civilization is removed. now we expect results in every classroom Yet, our national interest involves more so that not one child is left behind. than eliminating aggressive threats to our We reorganized the Government and safety. Our greatest security comes from created a Department of Homeland Secu- the advance of human liberty, because free rity to better safeguard our borders and ports and to protect the American people. nations do not support terror, free nations We passed trade promotion authority to do not attack their neighbors, and free na- open up new markets for America’s farmers tions do not threaten the world with weap- and ranchers and entrepreneurs. We passed ons of mass terror. Americans believe that a budget agreement to help maintain freedom is the deepest need and hope of spending discipline in Washington, DC. On every human heart. And we believe that issue after issue, this administration acts on freedom is the right of every person. And principle, keeps its word, and makes we believe that freedom is the future of progress on behalf of the American people. every nation. The United States Congress shares in America also understands that unprece- these great achievements, and I appreciate dented influence brings tremendous re- their hard work. And we will continue to sponsibilities. We have duties in the world, work together to change the tone in Wash- and when we see disease and starvation ington, DC, and to focus on results on be- and hopeless poverty, we will not turn half of all the American people. And that’s away. On the continent of Africa, which the nature of the folks I’ve asked to serve Laura and I will be visiting next week, in my administration. I have put together America is now committed to bringing the a great team on behalf of America. We healing power of medicine to millions of got a fine group of folks who work on be- men and women and children who are now half of the American people. We’ve had suffering with AIDS. This great land is no finer Vice President in the Nation’s his- leading the world in this incredibly impor- tory than Dick Cheney—although Mother tant work of human rescue. may have a different opinion. [Laughter] We face challenges abroad, and we face In 21⁄2 years, we have come far, but our them at home. And our actions prove that work is only beginning. I set great goals we’re equal to those challenges as well. I worthy of this great Nation. First, America will continue to work on our economy until

724 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / June 30 everybody who wants to work and is not ergy efficiency, new conservation tech- working today can find a job. niques and develop technologies that will And we have a duty to keep our commit- make exploration for natural gas more safe ment to America’s seniors by strengthening and more green. But for the sake of eco- and modernizing Medicare. Last week, the nomic security and for the sake of national United States Congress took historic action security, we need to be less dependent on to improve the lives of older Americans. foreign sources of energy. For the first time since the creation of Our strong and prosperous Nation must Medicare, the House and Senate have be a compassionate nation. We’ll continue passed reforms to increase choices to our to advance our agenda of compassionate seniors and to provide coverage for pre- conservatism, applying the best and most scription drugs. The next step is for both innovative ideas to the task of helping our Houses to come together, to iron out de- fellow citizens in need. There’s still millions tails, and get a bill to my desk. The sooner of men and women who want to end their they finish the job, the sooner America’s dependence on Government and become seniors will get the health care they need. independent through work. We must build And for the sake of our health care sys- on the success of welfare reform to bring tem, we need to cut down on the frivolous work and dignity into the lives of more lawsuits which increase the cost of medi- of our fellow citizens. Congress should cine. People who have been harmed by complete the ‘‘Citizen Service Act’’ so that a bad doc deserve their day in court. Yet, more Americans can serve their commu- the system should not reward lawyers who nities and their country. Both Houses are simply fishing for rich settlements. Be- should reach an agreement on my Faith- cause frivolous lawsuits drive up the cost Based Initiative to support the armies of of health care, they affect the Federal compassion that are mentoring children or budget. And therefore, medical liability re- caring for the homeless and offering hope form is a national issue which requires a to the addicted. national solution. I ask you to contact your A compassionate society must also pro- United States Senators to make your voices mote opportunity for all, including the heard. No one has ever been healed by independence and dignity that come from a frivolous lawsuit. This Nation needs med- ownership. This administration will con- ical liability reform now, and so does the stantly strive to promote an ownership soci- State of Florida. ety in America. We want more of our citi- I have a responsibility as President to zens owning their own home. We want make sure the judicial system runs well. people to own and manage their own And I have met that duty. I have nomi- health care plan. We want people to own nated superb men and women for the Fed- and manage their own retirement accounts. eral courts, people who will interpret the We want more small-business owners in law, not legislate from the bench. Some America. We understand that when a per- Members of the United States Senate are son owns something, he or she has a vital trying to keep my nominees off the bench stake in the future of our country. by blocking up-or-down votes. Every judi- In a compassionate society, people re- cial nominee deserves a fair hearing and spect one another and take responsibility an up-or-down vote on the floor of the for the decisions they make in life. We’re Senate. It is time for Members of the changing the culture of America from one United States Senate to stop playing politics that said, ‘‘If it feels good, just go ahead with American justice. and do it,’’ and ‘‘If you’ve got a problem, Congress needs to pass a comprehensive blame somebody else,’’ to a culture in energy plan. Our Nation must promote en- which each of us understands that we are

725 June 30 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 responsible for the decisions we make in ica. And I’ve been privileged to see the life. compassion and the character of the Amer- If you are fortunate enough to be a ican people. All the tests of the last 21⁄2 mother or father, you’re responsible for lov- years have come to the right nation. We’re ing your child with all your heart. If you’re a strong country, and we use that strength concerned about the quality of education to defend the peace. We’re an optimistic in your community, you’re responsible for country, confident in ourselves and in ideals doing something about it. If you’re a CEO bigger than ourselves. in corporate America, you’re responsible for Abroad, we seek to lift whole nations telling the truth to your shareholders and by spreading freedom. At home, we seek your employees. And in a responsibility so- to lift up lives by spreading opportunity ciety, each of us is responsible for loving to every corner of our country. This is the our neighbor just like we’d like to be loved work that history has set before us. We ourselves. welcome it. And we know that for our We can see the culture of service and country and for our cause, the best days responsibility growing around us. I started lie ahead. what we call the USA Freedom Corps to May God bless you, and may God con- encourage Americans to extend a compas- tinue to bless America. Thank you all very sionate hand to neighbors in need. And much. the response has been strong. All across our country, the faith-based institutions and charities are vibrant, bringing hope to people who suffer. And policemen and fire- NOTE: The President spoke at 6:04 p.m. in fighters and people who wear our Nation’s the Audubon Ballroom at the Grand Hyatt uniform are reminding us what it means Tampa Bay. In his remarks, he referred to to sacrifice for something greater than Zach Zachariah and Tom Petway III, Florida yourself. Once again, the children of Amer- State finance cochairmen, Bush-Cheney ’04, ica believe in heroes because they see them Inc.; Al Hoffman, Jr., finance chairman, Re- every day. publican National Committee; and Al Austin, In these challenging times, the world has finance chairman, Republican Party of Flor- seen the resolve and the courage of Amer- ida.

726 Appendix A—Digest of Other White House Announcements

The following list includes the President’s public January 7 schedule and other items of general interest an- In the morning, the President had an intel- nounced by the Office of the Press Secretary ligence briefing. Later, he traveled to Chicago, and not included elsewhere in this book. IL. In the afternoon, he returned to Wash- ington, DC. January 1 The President announced his intention to ap- In the morning, at the Bush Ranch in point Steven I. Cooper as Chief Information Crawford, TX, the President had an intelligence Officer at the Department of Homeland Secu- briefing. rity. January 2 January 8 In the morning, the President had a CIA In the morning, the President had intelligence briefing and a teleconference meeting with Vice and FBI briefings and met with the National President Dick Cheney. Security Council. January 3 In the afternoon, in the Roosevelt Room, the In the morning, the President had an intel- President met with members of the Commission ligence briefing. Later, he and Mrs. Bush trav- on Excellence in Special Education. eled to Fort Hood in Killeen, TX. The White House announced that the Presi- In the afternoon, the President and Mrs. Bush dent will host President Aleksander Kwasniewski had lunch with troops in Theodore Roosevelt of Poland for lunch on January 14 to discuss Hall. Later, they returned to the Bush Ranch key bilateral issues including the situation in in Crawford, TX. Iraq and cooperation against terrorism. The President announced his intention to The President declared a major disaster in nominate Ross Owen Swimmer to be Special South Carolina and ordered Federal aid to sup- Trustee for American Indians at the Department plement State and local recovery efforts in the of the Interior. area struck by a severe ice storm on December 4–6, 2002. January 4 In the morning, the President had an intel- January 9 ligence briefing. In the morning, the President had intelligence and FBI briefings. He then traveled to Alexan- January 5 dria, VA, where he participated in a roundtable In the morning, the President and Mrs. Bush discussion on economic issues at the National returned to Washington, DC. Capital Flag Company. Later, he returned to January 6 Washington, DC. In the morning, the President had intelligence In the afternoon, the President had lunch and FBI briefings. with Vice President Dick Cheney. The President declared a major disaster in The President announced the appointment of Arkansas and ordered Federal aid to supplement Otto J. Reich as Special Envoy for Western State and local recovery efforts in the area Hemisphere Initiatives. struck by a severe ice storm on December 3– The President announced his intention to 4, 2002. nominate Roger Francisco Noriega to be Assist- The President declared a major disaster in ant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere the Federated States of Micronesia and ordered Affairs. Federal aid to supplement national and State The President announced his intention to recovery efforts in the area struck by Typhoon nominate Paul McHale to be Assistant Secretary Pongsona on December 5–7, 2002. of Defense for Homeland Defense.

727 Appendix A / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

The President announced his intention to January 11 nominate Christopher Ryan Henry to be Deputy In the morning, the President had an intel- Under Secretary of Defense for Policy. ligence briefing. The President announced his intention to nominate John W. Nicholson to be Under Sec- January 13 retary of Veterans Affairs for Memorial Affairs. In the morning, the President had intelligence The President announced his intention to and FBI briefings. nominate Paul Sarbanes, Michael B. Enzi, and In the afternoon, in his private dining room, James Shinn to be U.S. Representatives to the the President had lunch with Federal Reserve General Assembly of the United Nations. Chairman Alan Greenspan to discuss economic The President announced his intention to issues. nominate Ralph Martinez and Cynthia Costa to The President announced his intention to be U.S. Alternate Representatives to the Gen- nominate Mark Everson to be Commissioner of eral Assembly of the United Nations. the Internal Revenue Service. The President announced his intention to The President announced his intention to nominate Claudia Puig to be a member of the nominate Clay Johnson III to be Deputy Direc- Board of Directors of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. tor for Management at the Office of Manage- The President announced his intention to ap- ment and Budget. point J.C. Watts, Jr., as a member of the Board The President announced his intention to ap- of Visitors of the U.S. Military Academy. point Dina Habib Powell as Assistant to the The President announced his intention to ap- President for Presidential Personnel. point Michael Rogers as a member of the Presi- dent’s Committee on Mental Retardation. January 14 The President announced his intention to ap- In the morning, the President had intelligence point John L. Marion as a member of the Com- and FBI briefings. mittee for the Preservation of the White House. In the afternoon, the President had lunch The President announced his intention to with President Aleksander Kwasniewski of Po- nominate Alfred Plamann to be a member of land, following their meeting in the Oval Office. the Board of Directors of the National Con- The President announced his intention to sumer Cooperative Bank. nominate Vernon Bernard Parker to be Assistant Secretary of Agriculture for Civil Rights. January 10 The President announced his intention to des- In the morning, the President had a telephone ignate John Arthur Hammerschmidt as Vice conversation with President Jiang Zemin of Chairman of the National Transportation Safety China concerning the situation in North Korea. Board. He then had intelligence and FBI briefings and met with the National Security Council. The President announced his intention to ap- In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the point John Emory Fleming as a member of the President met with leaders of the free Iraqi National Museum of African American History community. and Culture Plan for Action Presidential Com- The President announced his intention to mission. nominate Michael D. Brown to be Under Sec- The President announced his intention to ap- retary for Emergency Preparedness and Re- point the following individuals as members of sponse at the Department of Homeland Secu- the Board of Trustees of the Woodrow Wilson rity. International Center for Scholars: The President announced his intention to Donald Earl Garcia; nominate Charles E. McQueary to be Under Bruce Stuart Gelb; Secretary for Science and Technology at the De- Tamala Lynne Longaberger; and partment of Homeland Security. David Allan Metzner (Vice Chairman). The President announced his intention to designate Robert Jeffrey Glovitz as Chairman and The White House announced the President’s Lynda Hare Scribante as Vice Chairman of the intention to nominate Susan Neely to be Assist- Board of Trustees of the Christopher Columbus ant Secretary for Public Affairs at the Depart- Fellowship Foundation. ment of Homeland Security.

728 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Appendix A

The White House announced the appoint- The White House announced that the Presi- ment of Gordon Johndroe as Press Secretary dent will welcome President Ismail Omar at the Department of Homeland Security. Guelleh of Djibouti to the White House on Jan- The White House announced the appoint- uary 21 to discuss cooperation against terrorism, ment of Rachael Sunbarger as Assistant Press regional issues including humanitarian develop- Secretary at the Department of Homeland Secu- ment efforts, and combating HIV/AIDS. rity. The White House announced that the Presi- The White House announced the appoint- dent will welcome President Lucio Gutierrez of ment of Liz Donnan as Staff Assistant in the Ecuador to the White House on February 11. White House Lower Press Office. The White House announced an upcoming visit by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo of January 15 In the morning, the President had intelligence the Philippines to Washington, DC, to discuss and FBI briefings and met with the National cooperation against terrorism and U.S. support Security Council. Later, in the Oval Office, he for economic reform in the Philippines. met with crew members of Space Shuttle January 18 Endeavour Mission STS–113 and International In the morning, the President had an intel- Space Station Expeditions 1, 4, and 5. He then ligence briefing. led the astronauts on a tour of the White House grounds. January 19 The White House announced that the Presi- In the afternoon, the President returned to dent will welcome Prime Minister Tony Blair Washington, DC. of the United Kingdom to Camp David, MD, on January 31 for a meeting and an informal January 20 working dinner. In the morning, the President had an intel- The President announced his intention to ligence briefing. He and Mrs. Bush then trav- nominate Dee Ann McWilliams to be Assistant eled to Landover, MD, where they participated Secretary for Public and Intergovernmental Af- in a roundtable discussion with congregation fairs at the Department of Veterans Affairs. members and community leaders at the First The President announced his intention to Baptist Church of Glenarden. Later, they re- nominate Ricardo H. Hinojosa and Michael E. turned to Washington, DC. Horowitz to be members of the U.S. Sentencing Commission. January 21 The President announced his intention to ap- In the morning, the President had intelligence point Eric Steven Lander as a member of the and FBI briefings. National Cancer Advisory Board. In the afternoon, the President dropped by The President announced his intention to ap- a birthday luncheon for opera singer Placido point James Philip Hoffa and Paul Norman Domingo hosted by Mrs. Bush in the East Beckner as members of the Advisory Committee Room at the White House. for Trade Policy and Negotiations. Later in the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President met with President Ismail Omar January 16 Guelleh of Djibouti to discuss bilateral issues In the morning, the President had an intel- and cooperation against terrorism. ligence briefing. Later, he traveled to Scranton, The President announced his intention to PA, where he participated in a roundtable discussion on medical liability reform at Mercy nominate Michael Schwartz to be a member Hospital. In the afternoon, he returned to Wash- and Chairman of the Railroad Retirement ington, DC. Board. The President announced his intention to January 17 nominate Lawrence Mohr, Jr., and Sharon In the morning, the President had intelligence Falkenheimer to be members of the Board of and FBI briefings and met with the National Regents of the Uniformed Services University Security Council. of the Health Sciences. In the afternoon, the President went to Camp The President announced his intention to ap- David, MD. point the following individuals as members of

729 Appendix A / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 the Committee for Purchase From People Who January 25 Are Blind or Severely Disabled: In the morning, the President had an intel- William Mea; ligence briefing. In the evening, the President and Mrs. Bush Boyd Kevin Rutherford; attended the Alfalfa Club dinner at the Capital John Surina; Hilton Hotel. Joanne M. Wilson; Rear Adm. Justin D. McCarthy, USN; January 27 Andrew D. Houghton; and In the morning, the President had intelligence James Omvig. and FBI briefings. He then had a telephone conversation with President Jose Maria Aznar January 22 of Spain to discuss cooperation against terrorism In the morning, the President had an intel- and the situation in Iraq. Later, he met with ligence briefing. He then traveled to St. Louis, the National Security Council. MO, where he participated in a roundtable dis- Later in the morning, in the Family Theater, cussion on the national economy at the JS Logis- the President continued preparations for his Jan- tics company. uary 28 State of the Union Address. He then In the afternoon, the President returned to had a telephone conversation with Prime Min- Washington, DC. ister Jan Peter Balkenende of the Netherlands The President announced the appointment of to congratulate him on his January 22 electoral Gregory L. Schulte as Executive Secretary of victory and to discuss the situation in Iraq. the National Security Council. In the afternoon, in his private dining room, The President announced his intention to the President had lunch with Vice President nominate John Paul Woodley, Jr., to be Assistant Dick Cheney. Then, in the Oval Office, he had Secretary of the Army for Civil Works. meetings with newspaper and magazine journal- January 23 ists to discuss his State of the Union Address. In the morning, the President had a telephone Later, in the Family Theater, he continued conversation with President Vladimir Putin of preparations for the address. Russia to discuss the situations in Iraq and The President announced his intention to designate Gordon England as Acting Deputy Sec- North Korea. He then had intelligence and FBI retary of Homeland Security. briefings. The President announced his intention to des- In the afternoon, the President had lunch ignate Janet Hale as Acting Under Secretary with Vice President Dick Cheney. Later, in the for Management at the Department of Home- Oval Office, he met with White House land Security. speechwriters to discuss his January 28 State The President announced his intention to des- of the Union Address. ignate Clark Kent Ervin as Acting Inspector Later in the afternoon, in the Roosevelt General at the Department of Homeland Secu- Room, the President met with members of the rity. U.S.-Afghan Women’s Council to discuss hu- The President announced his intention to des- manitarian issues in Afghanistan. ignate Michael D. Brown as Acting Under Sec- January 24 retary for Emergency Preparedness and Re- In the morning, the President had intelligence sponse at the Department of Homeland Secu- and FBI briefings and met with the National rity. Security Council. Later, he met with U.S. Con- The President announced his intention to ap- ference of Mayors winter meeting participants. point the following individuals as members of In the afternoon, in the Family Theater, the the Cultural Property Advisory Committee: President continued preparations for his January Joan Breton Connelly; 28 State of the Union Address. James Lorand Matory; The White House announced that the Presi- Nancy Clausen Wilkie; dent will welcome Prime Minister Leszek Miller Meredith J. Long; of Poland to Washington, DC, on February 5 James Wright Willis; to discuss commercial and trade relations be- Willard Lee Boyd; tween Poland and the U.S. Jay I. Kislak;

730 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Appendix A

Aniko Gaal Schott; and he met with Minister of Foreign Affairs Saud Marta Araoz de la Torre. al-Faysal al Saud and Ambassador to the U.S. Prince Bandar of Saudi Arabia to discuss co- January 28 operation against terrorism. In the morning, the President had intelligence In the evening, the President met with U.S. and FBI briefings. military combatant commanders. Later, he and In the afternoon, the President had lunch Mrs. Bush hosted the commanders, Vice Presi- with network television journalists to discuss his dent Dick Cheney, and their spouses for dinner State of the Union Address to be delivered that in the White House Residence. evening. The President announced his intention to ap- The White House announced that the Presi- point the following individuals as members of dent will host Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi the President’s Council on Service and Civic of Italy for a meeting and luncheon at the White Participation: House on January 30. Darrell Green (Chair); January 29 Robert Dole (honorary Co-Chair); In the morning, the President had intelligence John Glenn (honorary Co-Chair); and FBI briefings. Sean Astin; Later in the morning, the President traveled Clotilde Dedecker; to Grand Rapids, MI. While en route aboard Pedro Garcia; Air Force One, he had a telephone conversation Luis Gonzalez; with Prime Minister Ariel Sharon of Israel to Deal W. Hudson; congratulate him on his January 28 electoral vic- Wendy Kopp; tory. In Grand Rapids, he participated in a Robert Nardelli; roundtable discussion on Medicare and prescrip- Bill Novelli; tion drugs at Spectrum Health. Cal Ripken, Jr.; In the afternoon, the President returned to Cokie Roberts; Washington, DC. Hope Taft; The President announced his intention to Steve Young; nominate Michael J. Garcia to be Assistant Sec- Dixie Carter; and retary of Homeland Security (Border and Trans- Robert D. Putnam. portation Security). The President announced his intention to ap- The President announced his intention to point Col. Merdith Wyndham Bolling Temple, nominate Eric S. Dreiband to be General Coun- USA, as the Federal member of the Susque- sel of the Equal Employment Opportunity Com- hanna River Basin Commission (Maryland, New mission. York, and Pennsylvania) and the Federal mem- The President announced his intention to ber of the Delaware River Basin Commission nominate Mary Costa and Makoto Fujimura to (Delaware, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsyl- be members of the National Council on the vania). Arts. The President announced his intention to des- January 30 ignate William Edward Franklin as U.S. Com- In the morning, the President had a telephone missioner of the Kansas-Oklahoma Arkansas conversation with Prime Minister Goran Persson River Commission (Kansas and Oklahoma). of Sweden to discuss the situation in Iraq. Later, The President announced his intention to des- he had intelligence and FBI briefings. ignate Albert Earnest Gilder as Alternate U.S. Later in the morning, the President had a Commissioner of the Kansas-Oklahoma Arkansas telephone conversation with Prime Minister Jose River Commission. Manuel Durao Barroso of Portugal to express his appreciation for the Prime Minister’s support January 31 concerning the situation in Iraq. In the morning, the President had a telephone In the afternoon, the President had lunch conversation with President Eduardo Alberto with Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi of Italy, Duhalde of Argentina concerning support for following their meeting in the Oval Office. IMF economic efforts in Argentina and coopera- Later, with Secretary of State Colin L. Powell, tion against terrorism. He then had a telephone

731 Appendix A / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 conversation with President Vaclav Havel of the National Security Adviser Condoleezza Rice, Czech Republic to express best wishes con- Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge, and cerning President Havel’s retirement on Feb- Office of Science and Technology Director John ruary 2, and his support for a statement Presi- H. Marburger concerning the accident. dent Havel and other European leaders issued Later in the afternoon, in the Residence, the concerning the situation in Iraq. He then had President had a telephone conversation with intelligence and FBI briefings and met with the Prime Minister Ariel Sharon of Israel to express National Security Council. his condolences concerning the death of Israeli Later in the morning, the President partici- astronaut Ilan Ramon aboard the Columbia. He pated in an Oval Office ceremony with Mayor then had a telephone conversation with Presi- Michael Bloomberg of New York City and Gov. dent Vicente Fox of Mexico, who expressed his George E. Pataki of New York to transfer juris- condolences. Then he returned to the Oval Of- diction of Governors Island to the people of fice, where he had separate telephone conversa- New York. Later, in the Indian Treaty Room tions with President Jacques Chirac of France, of the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, President Vladimir Putin of Russia, and Prime he met with members of the Presidential Advi- Minister Jean Chretien of Canada, all of whom sory Council on HIV/AIDS. expressed their condolences. In the evening, the President and Mrs. Bush went to Camp David, MD. February 2 The President announced his intention to In the morning, the President had separate nominate Ellen G. Engleman to be a member telephone conversations with President Pervez of the National Transportation Safety Board. Musharraf of Pakistan and President Jose Maria The President announced his intention to des- Aznar of Spain. He also had a telephone con- ignate Diane M. Stuart as Acting Director of versation with Prime Minister Atal Bihari the Violence Against Women Office at the De- Vajpayee of India to express his condolences partment of Justice. concerning the death of Indian-born U.S. astro- The President announced his intention to naut Kalpana Chawla aboard the Space Shuttle nominate Jerry Pinkney and Karen Lias Wolff Columbia. to be members of the National Council on the Later in the morning, the President and Mrs. Arts. Bush attended a service at St. John’s Episcopal The President announced his intention to ap- Church. point Jose Luis Galvez III as a member of the National Capital Planning Commission. February 3 The President made additional disaster assist- In the morning, the President had an intel- ance available to the Federated States of Micro- ligence briefing. Later, in the Oval Office, he nesia, which was impacted by Tropical Storm met with NASA Administrator Sean O’Keefe to Chata’an on July 2–4, 2002. discuss the Space Shuttle Columbia disaster. In the afternoon, the President traveled to February 1 Bethesda, MD, where he toured the Vaccine In the morning, the President had an intel- Research Center of the National Institutes of ligence briefing. Later, after learning that the Health. Later, he returned to Washington, DC. Space Shuttle Columbia disintegrated on its The President announced that he will host landing approach earlier in the day, he had a President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo of the Phil- telephone conversation with NASA Adminis- ippines for a state visit on April 2. trator Sean O’Keefe. He and Mrs. Bush then returned to Washington, DC, arriving in the February 4 afternoon. In the morning, the President had a telephone In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the conversation with President Vladimir Putin of President had another telephone conversation Russia concerning the situation in Iraq. He then with Administrator O’Keefe concerning the had intelligence and FBI briefings. Space Shuttle Columbia. He also had telephone Later in the morning, the President and Mrs. conversations with family members of the seven Bush traveled to NASA’s Lyndon B. Johnson astronauts who perished in the accident. Later, Space Center in Houston, TX, where they met in the Roosevelt Room, he had a briefing with privately with family members of the astronauts

732 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Appendix A who perished aboard the Space Shuttle Colum- The President declared a major disaster in bia. In the afternoon, they returned to Wash- Oklahoma and ordered Federal aid to supple- ington, DC. ment State and local recovery efforts in the area The White House announced that Prime Min- struck by a severe ice storm on December 3– ister John Howard of Australia has accepted the 4, 2002. President’s invitation to meet on February 10 at the White House to discuss the situations February 5 in Iraq and North Korea and counterterrorism In the morning, in the Cabinet Room, the efforts. President had a breakfast meeting with bipar- The President announced his intention to tisan House and Senate leaders to discuss the nominate Mark C. Brickell to be Director of situation in Iraq. Then, in the Oval Office, he the Office of Federal Housing Enterprise Over- had an intelligence briefing. Later, he had a sight at the Department of Housing and Urban telephone conversation with President Hosni Development. Mubarak of Egypt. He then met with Prime The President announced his intention to Minister Leszek Miller of Poland. nominate Richard W. Moore to be Inspector Also in the morning, the President watched General of the Tennessee Valley Authority. the television broadcast of Secretary of State The President announced his intention to Colin L. Powell’s remarks at the United Nations nominate Joseph LeBaron to be Ambassador to concerning the situation in Iraq. Mauritania. In the afternoon, the President had a tele- The President announced his intention to phone conversation with President Ricardo nominate Stephen A. Cambone to be Under Lagos of Chile. Secretary of Defense for Intelligence. The White House announced that the Presi- The President announced his intention to dent will welcome President Hamid Karzai of nominate Linton F. Brooks to be Under Sec- Afghanistan for a meeting and lunch on Feb- retary for Nuclear Security and Administrator ruary 27. for the National Nuclear Security Administration The President announced his intention to ap- at the Department of Energy. point Richard Parsons and Martha Williamson The President announced his intention to ap- as members of the President’s Council on Serv- point Janice Obuchowski to the personal rank ice and Civic Participation. of Ambassador during her tenure as the U.S. Representative to the 2003 World February 6 Radiocommunications Conference. In the morning, the President had intelligence The President announced his intention to ap- and FBI briefings. point the following individuals as members of In the afternoon, the President had lunch the Architectural and Transportation Barriers with Vice President Dick Cheney. Later, he Compliance Board: viewed a demonstration on hydrogen fuel cell Douglas Anderson; technology at the National Building Museum. James Elekes; The White House announced that the Presi- Denis Pratt; and dent will travel to Ottawa, Canada, for a state Gwendolyn Trujillo. visit on May 5, where he will meet with Prime Minister Jean Chretien of Canada and other of- The President announced his intention to ap- ficials to discuss bilateral and international point the following individuals as members of issues. the President’s Committee on the National The President announced his intention to Medal of Science: nominate Jeffrey Shane to be Under Secretary Bruce N. Ames; of Transportation for Policy. Randolph W. Bromery; The President announced his intention to Francisco G. Cigarroa; nominate Lino Gutierrez to be Ambassador to Winfred M. Phillips; Argentina. Peter H. Raven; The President announced his intention to Jean’ne Marie Shreeve; and nominate Jeffrey Lunstead to be Ambassador Margaret H. Wright. to Sri Lanka and Maldives.

733 Appendix A / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

The President announced his intention to des- ville, TN. En route, aboard Air Force One, he ignate Eduardo Aguirre, Jr., as Acting Director had a telephone conversation with Prime Min- of the Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration ister Anders Fogh Rasmussen of Denmark to Services at the Department of Homeland Secu- thank him for his support for efforts to disarm rity. the Iraqi regime. The President announced his intention to re- Upon his arrival in Nashville, the President designate LaSalle Doheny Leffall, Jr., as Chair met with volunteer Sherry Jean Williams. Later, of the President’s Cancer Panel. at the Opryland Hotel, he participated in a The President announced his intention to des- roundtable discussion on the Faith-Based Initia- ignate Michael F. Duffy as Chairman of the tive with Campus for Human Development pro- Federal Mine Safety and Health Review Com- gram participants. mission. The President amended the emergency dec- In the afternoon, the President returned to laration issued for Texas on February 1 for the Washington, DC. loss of the Space Shuttle Columbia, to authorize The President announced his intention to the Federal Emergency Management Agency to nominate Reno L. Harnish to be Ambassador provide Federal operations support for debris to Azerbaijan. removal at 100-percent Federal funding in any other State that the Agency determines is im- February 11 pacted by the accident. In the morning, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Tony Blair of February 7 the United Kingdom, to discuss the situation In the morning, the President had a telephone in Iraq and military support for Turkey as a conversation with President Jiang Zemin of member of NATO. Later, he had separate tele- China concerning the situations in North Korea phone conversations with President Jose and Iraq, and President Zemin’s condolences Eduardo dos Santos of Angola, to discuss the concerning the loss of the Space Shuttle Colum- situation in Iraq, and with President Gloria bia on February 1. He then had intelligence Macapagal-Arroyo of the Philippines to discuss and FBI briefings. President Arroyo’s April 2 state visit, cooperation Later in the morning, the President had a against terror, the situation in Iraq, and pro- telephone conversation with President Jacques posed legislation in the Philippines to combat Chirac of France to discuss the situation in Iraq money laundering. He then had intelligence and and peace efforts in the Middle East. FBI briefings. In the afternoon, the President signed the 2003 Economic Report of the President. Later, Later in the morning, in an Oval Office cere- he went to Camp David, MD. mony, the President received the annual reports The President announced his intention to des- of the Boy Scouts of America. ignate Hansford T. Johnson as Acting Secretary In the afternoon, in the Cabinet Room, the of the Navy. President met with Senate Republicans to dis- The President announced his intention to cuss economic initiatives. Later, in the Oval Of- nominate John W. Snow to be U.S. Governor fice, he met with President Lucio Gutierrez of the International Monetary Fund. Borbua of Ecuador to discuss support for democracy in Ecuador, counternarcotics efforts, February 8 and trade. In the morning, the President had an intel- The President announced his intention to ap- ligence briefing. point the following individuals as members of February 9 the White House Commission on Presidential In the morning, the President traveled to Scholars: White Sulphur Springs, WV, and in the after- Fernando Augusto Mateo; noon, he returned to Washington, DC. Charlotte Mohr; February 10 Robert Dolph Ray; and In the morning, the President had intelligence Renee Russell. and FBI briefings. He then traveled to Nash-

734 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Appendix A

February 12 February 14 In the morning, the President had a breakfast In the morning, the President had separate meeting with Speaker of the House of Rep- telephone conversations with Prime Minister resentatives J. Dennis Hastert, House Majority Siim Kallas of Estonia, to discuss the situation Leader Tom DeLay, House Minority Leader in Iraq, and with President Pervez Musharraf Nancy Pelosi, Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist, of Pakistan, to discuss the war on terror and and Senate Minority Leader Tom Daschle to the situations in South Asia and Iraq. He then discuss the war on terrorism, the situation in had intelligence and FBI briefings and met with Iraq, and proposed fiscal year 2003 budget legis- the National Security Council. lation. He then had intelligence and FBI brief- Later in the morning, in the Oval Office, the ings and met with the National Security Council. President met with Minister of Foreign Affairs In the afternoon, the President traveled to Yasar Yakis and Minister of State for the Econ- Alexandria, VA, where he participated in a omy Ali Babacan of Turkey. roundtable discussion with small investors in the In the afternoon, the President had lunch Charles Schwab & Co. office at the Society for with Vice President Dick Cheney. Later, he Human Resource Management. went to Camp David, MD. The President announced his intention to des- February 15 ignate Shannon Davis Henderson as Acting As- In the morning, the President had an intel- sistant Secretary of Energy for Congressional ligence briefing. and Intergovernmental Affairs. The President announced his intention to ap- February 16 point the following individuals as members of In the morning, the President returned to the Joint Public Advisory Committee of the Washington, DC. Commission for Environmental Cooperation: February 17 Patricia Clarey; In the morning, the President had a telephone Dinkerrai Desai; conversation with Crown Prince Abdullah of Arturo Duran; Saudi Arabia to express his wishes for a success- Jane Gardner; and ful conclusion to the Hajj pilgrimage and to Patricia McDonald. discuss peace efforts in the Middle East, the war on terror, and the situation in Iraq. February 13 Later in the morning, the President had intel- In the morning, the President had intelligence ligence and FBI briefings. Later, in the Oval and FBI briefings. He then traveled to Office, he met with President Vaira Vike- Jacksonsville, FL, where, upon arrival, he met Freiberga of Latvia. with USA Freedom Corps volunteer Senior Chief Arden Battle, USN. February 18 In the morning, the President had intelligence In the afternoon, the President had lunch and FBI briefings. with sailors aboard the U.S.S. Philippine Sea at Naval Station Mayport. Later, he returned February 19 to Washington, DC. In the morning, the President had a telephone The White House announced that the Presi- conversation with Amir Hamad bin Khalifa Al dent will be joined by President Vaira Vike- Thani of Qatar to discuss the war on terror, Freiberga of Latvia in participating in the White the situation in Iraq, and the President’s support House Forum on American History, Civics, and for political and economic reforms in Qatar. He Service on February 17, and that the two Presi- also had a telephone conversation with President dents will also hold bilateral discussions. Megawati Sukarnoputri of Indonesia to discuss The White House announced that the Presi- the war on terror, efforts to ensure the safety dent will welcome President Paul Kagame of of Americans in Indonesia, and the situation in Rwanda to the White House on March 4. Iraq. The President announced his intention to Later in the morning, the President had intel- nominate Heather M. Hodges to be Ambassador ligence and FBI briefings and met with the Na- to Moldova. tional Security Council.

735 Appendix A / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

In the afternoon, the President participated Later in the morning, the President met with in an interview with journalists from the President Aznar. The two Presidents then had Telemundo television network. a four-way telephone conversation with Prime The White House announced that the Presi- Minister Tony Blair of the United Kingdom and dent will host President Jose Maria Aznar of President Silvio Berlusconi of Italy to discuss Spain at the Bush Ranch in Crawford, TX, for a proposed resolution on Iraq to be submitted an informal dinner and working sessions on Feb- to the United Nations. ruary 21–22. In the afternoon, the President and Mrs. Bush had lunch with President and Mrs. Aznar. Later, February 20 the President had separate telephone conversa- In the morning, the President had an intel- tions with President Ricardo Lagos of Chile and ligence briefing. Later, he traveled to Marietta, President Vicente Fox of Mexico to discuss the GA, where, upon arrival, he met with Freedom situation in Iraq. Corps volunteer Robert Langley. He then traveled to Kennesaw, GA. February 23 In the afternoon, the President traveled to In the morning, the President and Mrs. Bush the Bush Ranch in Crawford, TX. returned to Washington, DC. The White House announced that the Presi- dent will welcome Prime Minister Simeon Saxe- February 24 Coburg-Gotha of Bulgaria to Washington, DC, In the morning, the President had a telephone on February 25 to discuss the situation in Iraq conversation with President Ion Iliescu of Roma- and other issues. nia concerning the situation in Iraq and mutual The President announced his intention to support between Romania and the United nominate Anne Rader to be a member of the States. He then had intelligence and FBI brief- National Council on Disability. ings and met with the National Security Council. February 21 Later in the morning, the President dropped In the morning, at the Bush Ranch, the Presi- by a meeting between Aleksandr Voloshin, head dent had an intelligence briefing. He then had of administration for President Vladimir Putin a telephone conversation with Amir Jabir al- of Russia, and National Security Adviser Ahmad al-Jabir Al Sabah and Minister of For- Condoleezza Rice. eign Affairs Sabah al-Ahmad al-Jabir Al Sabah The President announced his intention to of Kuwait to discuss the situation in Iraq and nominate Eric S. Edelman to be Ambassador to express his congratulations on the conclusion to Turkey. of the Hajj. The President announced his intention to Later in the morning, the President had a nominate Gregory W. Engle to be Ambassador telephone conversation with United Nations Sec- to Togo. retary-General Kofi Annan concerning the situa- The President announced his intention to tions in Cyprus and Iraq. nominate the following individuals to be mem- In the evening, the President welcomed Presi- bers of the U.S. Advisory Commission on Public dent Jose Maria Aznar of Spain and his wife, Diplomacy: Ana Botella de Aznar, to the Bush Ranch. Later, the President and Mrs. Bush had dinner with Maria Sophia Aguirre; President and Mrs. Aznar and National Security Elizabeth F. Bagley; Adviser Condoleezza Rice. Barbara McConnell Barrett (Chairman); The White House announced that the Presi- Charles William Evers III; dent will meet with President Heydar Aliyev Harold C. Pachios; and of Azerbaijan at the White House on February Jay T. Snyder. 26. The President announced his intention to des- February 22 ignate Richard H. Carmona as Acting Assistant In the morning, the President had an intel- Secretary for Health at the Department of ligence briefing. Later, he and Mrs. Bush took Health and Human Services. President and Mrs. Aznar on a tour of the Bush The President announced his intention to des- Ranch. ignate William H. Campbell as Acting Assistant

736 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Appendix A

Secretary for Human Resources and Administra- Christopher T. Jenny; tion at the Department of Veterans Affairs. C. Michael Kojaian; The President announced his intention to ap- Cecilia Ochoa Levine; point James Byrne Francis, Jr., as a member John A. Luke, Jr.; of the American Battle Monuments Commission. Harold B. Smith; John F. Smith; and February 25 Sidney Taurel. In the morning, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Konstandinos February 26 Simitis of Greece to congratulate him on In the morning, the President had a telephone Greece’s European Union Presidency and to dis- conversation with Prime Minister Peter cuss the situation in Iraq, the war on terrorism, Medgyessy of Hungary to discuss the President’s and U.N. Secretary-General Kofi Annan’s settle- condolences concerning flooding in Hungary, his ment plan for the conflict in Cyprus. Later, the appreciation for the Hungarian Parliament’s President had a telephone conversation with February 24 vote to authorize the transport of Prime Minister Mikulas Dzurinda of Slovakia U.S. military equipment through Hungary, and to discuss the situation in Iraq. He then had the situation in Iraq. The President also had intelligence and FBI briefings. a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Later in the morning, in the Oval Office, the Jean Chretien of Canada to discuss the draft President met with Prime Minister Simeon U.N. Security Council resolution presented by Saxe-Coburg-Gotha of Bulgaria to discuss the Britain, Spain, and the U.S. concerning the situ- situation in Iraq and Bulgaria’s invitation to join ation in Iraq. NATO. The President then had intelligence and FBI In the late morning, the President met with briefings. Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld and Of- Later in the morning, in the Oval Office, the fice of Management and Budget Director Mitch President met with President Heydar Aliyev of Daniels to discuss the costs of possible military Azerbaijan to discuss the war on terrorism. action against Iraq. In the afternoon, the President had lunch The President announced his intention to with Vice President Dick Cheney. Later, in the nominate James B. Foley to be Ambassador to Indian Treaty Room of the Dwight D. Eisen- Haiti. hower Executive Office Building, he made re- The President announced his intention to ap- marks to the President’s Export Council. point the following individuals as members of Later in the afternoon, in an Oval Office cere- the President’s Export Council: mony, the President received diplomatic creden- J.W. Marriott, Jr. (Chairman); tials from Ambassadors Eduardo Amadeo of Ar- James C. Morgan (Vice Chairman); gentina, Marina Valere of Trinidad and Tobago, Paul Hsu; Jaime Aparicio of Bolivia, Devinda R. John Lopez; Subasinghe of Sri Lanka, Bernardo Alvarez Beatriz Manetta; Herrera of Venezuela, Narisoa Rajaonarivony of Michael Sacco; Madagascar, Roberto Alfaro of Panama, C. Michael Armstrong; Hamrokhon Zaripov of Tajikistan, Inonge Glen A. Barton; Mbikusita-Lewanika of Zambia, Ravdangin Bold Riley P. Bechtel; of Mongolia, Mohamed Latheef of Maldives, S. Jackson Faris; and John Lowell of Malta. Henry M. Paulson, Jr.; The President announced his intention to Warren R. Staley; nominate Nicholas Gregory Mankiw to be a Solomon Dennis Trujillo; member of the Council of Economic Advisers Michael L. Eskew; and, upon confirmation, designate him as Chair- James Brian Ferguson; man. Lee R. Raymond; The President announced his intention to Philip Condit; nominate Ephraim Batambuze and Thomas Michael S. Dell; Thomas Riley to be members of the Board of Arnold W. Donald; Directors of the African Development Founda- Raymond V. Gilmartin; tion.

737 Appendix A / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

The White House announced that on Feb- The White House announced that the Presi- ruary 25 the President declared an emergency dent and Prime Minister Bertie Ahern of Ire- in New York and ordered Federal aid to supple- land will meet at the White House on March ment State and local recovery efforts in the area 13. struck by record/near record snowstorms on De- The President announced his intention to cember 25–26, 2002, and January 3–4, 2003. nominate Roland W. Bullen to be Ambassador to Guyana. February 27 The President announced his intention to In the morning, the President had a telephone nominate Nicole R. Nason to be Assistant Sec- conversation with President Vladimir Putin of retary for Governmental Affairs at the Depart- Russia concerning the situations in the Korean ment of Transportation. Peninsula and Iraq. He then had intelligence The President announced his intention to and FBI briefings. nominate Annette M. Sandberg to be Adminis- In the afternoon, the President had lunch trator of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Ad- with President Hamid Karzai of Afghanistan. ministration at the Department of Transpor- Then, in the Oval Office, he met with Secretary tation. of State Colin L. Powell, Energy Secretary The President announced his intention to ap- Spencer Abraham, and Environmental Protec- point Wilma Delaney, Mary Gade, and Monica tion Agency Administrator Christine Todd Samuels as members of the Board of Directors Whitman to discuss environmental initiatives. of the Mickey Leland National Urban Air Toxics Later in the afternoon, the President dropped Research Center. by a meeting between Nobel laureate Elie The President announced his intention to ap- Wiesel and National Security Adviser point Tirso Del Junco and Gen. Charles Krulak, Condoleezza Rice. He then met with Executive USMC (Ret.), as members of the Board of Visi- Director James Morris of the World Food Pro- tors of the United States Naval Academy. gram to discuss U.S. famine relief efforts around the world, including the Famine Fund for Afri- March 1 ca. In the morning, the President had an intel- In the late afternoon, in an Oval Office cere- ligence briefing. mony, the President presented the National Hu- manities Medals for 2002 to the following recipi- March 2 ents: In the afternoon, the President returned to Washington, DC. Donald Kagan; In the evening, the President and Mrs. Bush Brian Lamb; attended a gala at Ford’s Theatre. Art Linkletter; Patricia Maclachlan; March 3 Iowa Writers’ Workshop; In the morning, the President had a telephone Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association; conversation with President Alvaro Uribe of Co- Frankie Hewitt; and lombia to discuss efforts to release U.S. citizens Thomas Sowell. taken hostage by the Revolutionary Armed During the day, the President participated in Forces of Colombia (FARC), the war on teran interview with journalists from the USA rorism, and the situation in Iraq. Today newspaper. The President then had intelligence and FBI briefings. February 28 In the afternoon, in the Roosevelt Room, the In the morning, the President had a telephone President participated in a roundtable discussion conversation with Prime Minister Jan Peter with regional news reporters. Balkenende of the Netherlands to discuss the The President announced his intention to situation in Iraq. Later, he had intelligence and nominate Diane M. Stuart to be Director of FBI briefings and met with the National Secu- the Office on Violence Against Women, Depart- rity Council. ment of Justice. In the afternoon, the President and Mrs. Bush The President announced his intention to went to Camp David, MD. nominate C. Stewart Verdery, Jr., to be Assistant

738 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Appendix A

Secretary of Homeland Security for Border and R. Franks, USA, combatant commander, U.S. Transportation Security Policy. Central Command, to discuss possible military The President announced his intention to ap- action against Iraq. point Bruce M. Carnes as Chief Financial Offi- In the afternoon, the President had lunch cer for the Department of Homeland Security. with Vice President Dick Cheney. Later in the afternoon, in the Oval Office, March 4 the President met with papal envoy Cardinal In the morning, the President had a telephone Pio Laghi to discuss possible U.S. military action conversation with Prime Minister Atal Bihari against Iraq. Later, also in the Oval Office, he Vajpayee of India to discuss the situations in met with United Nations High Commissioner Iraq and South Asia. He also had a telephone for Human Rights Sergio Vieira de Mello. conversation with President Hosni Mubarak of The President announced his intention to Egypt to discuss the March 1 Arab League Sum- nominate Stephen D. Mull to be Ambassador mit in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, and the upcom- to Lithuania. ing Islamic Conference Summit in Doha, Qatar, The President announced his intention to and the situations in Iraq and the Middle East. nominate Wayne E. Neill to be Ambassador to The President then had intelligence and FBI Benin. briefings. The President announced his intention to ap- In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the point Thomas J. Ridge as a Governor of the President met with leaders of the Digital Free- Board of Governors of the American National dom Initiative, including Commerce Secretary Red Cross. Donald L. Evans, U.S. Agency for International The President announced the following Na- Development Administrator Andrew S. Natsios, tional Medal of Arts recipients for 2002: and Peace Corps Director Gaddi H. Vasquez. Florence Knoll Bassett; Later in the afternoon, in the Oval Office, Trisha Brown; the President met with President Paul Kagame Philippe de Montebello; of Rwanda to discuss initiatives to combat HIV/ Uta Hagen; AIDS, the African Growth and Opportunity Act, Lawrence Halprin; and the situation in Iraq. Al Hirschfeld; The President announced his intention to George Jones; nominate William E. Moschella to be Assistant Ming Cho Lee; and Attorney General for Legislative Affairs, Depart- William ‘‘Smokey’’ Robinson, Jr. ment of Justice. The President announced his intention to ap- March 6 point Mark A. Forman as Administrator of the In the morning, the President had intelligence Office of Electronic Government, Office of and FBI briefings. Later, in the East Room, Management and Budget. he met with a group of student delegates from The President announced his intention to ap- the U.S. Senate Youth Program. point James S. Gilmore III and Winston In the afternoon, in Room 450 of the Dwight Wilkinson as members of the Board of Visitors D. Eisenhower Executive Office Building, the of the U.S. Air Force Academy. President made remarks to members of national health care organizations concerning health care March 5 initiatives. In the morning, the President had a breakfast Later in the afternoon, in an Oval Office cere- meeting with Speaker of the House of Rep- mony, the President presented the National resentatives J. Dennis Hastert, House Majority Medals of Arts for 2002. Leader Tom DeLay, House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist, March 7 and Senate Minority Leader Tom Daschle to In the morning, the President had a telephone discuss international issues. conversation with Prime Minister Chok Tong Later in the morning, the President had intel- Goh of Singapore to discuss the war on terror ligence and FBI briefings. He then met with and the situation in Iraq. He also had a tele- the National Security Council, Defense Sec- phone conversation with President Alejandro retary Donald H. Rumsfeld, and Gen. Tommy Toledo of Peru to discuss the war on terror,

739 Appendix A / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 efforts to promote democracy in the Andean The President announced his intention to ap- region, the crisis in Venezuela, and the situation point Rear Adm. Marsha Johnson Evans, USN in Iraq. He then had intelligence and FBI brief- (Ret.), and Gen. Samuel K. Lessey, Jr., USA, ings. as members of the Board of Visitors of the U.S. In the afternoon, the President had a tele- Military Academy. phone conversation with Prime Minister Tony Blair of the United Kingdom. March 8 Later in the afternoon, the President dropped In the morning, the President had a telephone by a meeting between Minister of Foreign Af- conversation with President Hamid Karzai of Af- fairs Hamad bin Jasim bin Jabir al Thani of ghanistan to discuss the war on terror, efforts Qatar and National Security Adviser to rebuild Afghanistan, and President Karzai’s Condoleezza Rice. Then, in the Oval Office, he appearance before the U.S. Senate on February met privately with family members of the astro- 26. He then had an intelligence briefing. nauts killed in the Space Shuttle Columbia acci- In the evening, the President and Mrs. Bush dent on February 1. attended the Gridiron Club dinner at the Cap- The President announced his intention to ital Hilton Hotel. nominate Ralph Frank to be Ambassador to Croatia. March 10 The President announced his intention to In the morning, the President had a telephone nominate William M. Bellamy to be Ambassador conversation with Prime Minister Junichiro to Kenya. Koizumi of Japan to discuss the situations in The President announced his intention to Iraq and North Korea. He then had a telephone nominate Julia Bartling, Lowell Junkins, and conversation with President Jiang Zemin of Glen Klippenstein to be members of the Board China to congratulate him on his years of service of Directors of the Federal Agricultural Mort- to his country and to discuss China-U.S. rela- gage Corporation. tions and the situations in North Korea and Iraq. The President announced his intention to Later, he had intelligence and FBI briefings and nominate Mary L. Jordan to be Commissioner met with the National Security Council. of the Federal Mine Safety and Health Review Later in the morning, the President had a Commission. telephone conversation with President Thabo The President announced his intention to Mbeki of South Africa to discuss the situation nominate Elizabeth Courtney to be a member in Iraq, South Africa-U.S. relations, and to con- of the Board of Directors of the Corporation gratulate President Mbeki for his work on peace for Public Broadcasting. efforts in the Congo. He then had a telephone The President announced his intention to conversation with Sultan Qaboos bin Said Al nominate John W. Leslie to be a member of Said of Oman to discuss the situation in Iraq the Board of Directors of the African Develop- and Oman-U.S. relations. ment Foundation. In the afternoon, the President had a tele- The President announced his intention to des- phone conversation with Chairman Recep ignate Gene Hickok as Acting Assistant Sec- Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey’s AK Party to discuss retary for Elementary and Secondary Education, the situation in Iraq. Later, in the East Room, Department of Education. he met with Veterans of Foreign Wars youth The President announced his intention to des- medal winners. ignate the following individuals as members of Later in the afternoon, the President had a the Intelligence Oversight Board: telephone conversation with President Jose David E. Jeremiah; Maria Aznar of Spain to discuss the situation Arnold Kanter; in Iraq. James C. Langdon, Jr.; and The President announced his intention to Brent Scowcroft (Chairman). nominate Robert S. Nichols to be Assistant Sec- The President announced his intention to ap- retary of the Treasury for Public Affairs. point Frank Jao and Marilyn Castor Machon The President announced his intention to Patillo as members of the Board of Directors nominate Suedeen G. Kelly to be a member of the Vietnam Education Foundation. of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.

740 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Appendix A

March 11 struck by record/near record snow on February In the morning, the President had a telephone 17–18. conversation with President Jose Eduardo dos The President declared an emergency in Mas- Santos of Angola to discuss the situation in Iraq. sachusetts and ordered Federal aid to supple- He then had intelligence and FBI briefings. ment Commonwealth and local recovery efforts Later in the morning, the President met with in the area struck by record/near record snow Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld and on February 17–18. Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Rich- The President declared an emergency in New ard Myers, USAF. Later, he met with Attorney Hampshire and ordered Federal aid to supple- General John Ashcroft to discuss the initiative ment State and local recovery efforts in the area on using DNA to solve crimes. struck by record/near record snow on February In the afternoon, the President had separate 17–18. telephone conversations with President Ricardo Lagos of Chile, President Vicente Fox of Mex- March 12 ico, Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi of Italy, In the morning, the President had a telephone President Jose Maria Aznar of Spain, and Prime conversation with President Zayid bin Sultan Al Minister John Howard of Australia to discuss Nuhayyan of the United Arab Emirates to dis- the situation in Iraq. cuss the situation in Iraq. He also had a tele- The President announced his intention to phone conversation with President Gloria nominate Joe D. Whitley to be General Counsel Macapagal-Arroyo of the Philippines to discuss of the Department of Homeland Security. the situation in Iraq, President Macapagal- The President announced his intention to Arroyo’s upcoming state visit to the U.S., and nominate Eduardo Aguirre, Jr., to be Director efforts to combat terrorism in the southern Phil- of the Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration ippines. He then had an intelligence briefing Services, Department of Homeland Security. and later met with Defense Secretary Donald The President announced his intention to des- H. Rumsfeld, Secretary of State Colin L. Powell, ignate Michael J. Garcia as Acting Assistant Sec- and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. retary of Homeland Security for the Bureau of Richard Myers, USAF. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and to Later in the morning, the President had sepa- nominate him to be Assistant Secretary of rate telephone conversations with President Homeland Security for the Bureau of Immigra- Pervez Musharraf of Pakistan and President tion and Customs Enforcement. Vladimir Putin of Russia to discuss the situation The President announced his intention to des- in Iraq. ignate Richard Seybolt as Federal Commissioner and Chairman of the Arkansas-Oklahoma Arkan- In the afternoon, the President had a tele- sas River Compact Commission (Arkansas and phone conversation with Prime Minister Tony Oklahoma). Blair of the United Kingdom to discuss the situ- The President announced his intention to des- ation in Iraq. Later, in the Cabinet Room, he ignate David Vandergriff as Alternate Federal met with bipartisan Members of Congress to Commissioner of the Arkansas-Oklahoma Arkan- discuss proposed medical liability reform legisla- sas River Compact Commission (Arkansas and tion. Oklahoma). The President announced his intention to The President announced his intention to ap- nominate R. Hewitt Pate to be Assistant Attor- point Kenneth C. Canterbury, Jr., as a member ney General, Antitrust Division, at the Depart- of the Medal of Valor Review Board. ment of Justice. The President declared an emergency in The President announced his intention to Maine and ordered Federal aid to supplement nominate Helen R. Meagher La Lime to be State and local recovery efforts in the area Ambassador to Mozambique. struck by record/near record snow on February The President announced his intention to 2–4. nominate Eric M. Javits for the rank of Ambas- The President declared an emergency in Con- sador during his tenure as U.S. Representative necticut and ordered Federal aid to supplement to the Organization for the Prohibition of Chem- State and local recovery efforts in the area ical Weapons.

741 Appendix A / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

March 13 regional, and international issues and coopera- In the morning, the President had a telephone tion in the war on terror. conversation with President Roh Moo-hyun of The President announced his intention to South Korea to discuss the situations in Iraq nominate Pamela J.H. Slutz to be Ambassador and North Korea. He then had a telephone con- to Mongolia. versation with Prime Minister Simeon Saxe- The President announced his intention to ap- Coburg-Gotha of Bulgaria to discuss the situa- point Margaret L. Kripke as a member of the tion in Iraq. President’s Cancer Panel. The President then had intelligence and FBI The President announced his intention to ap- briefings. point Jo Ann Krukar Webb as a member of Later in the morning, in the Oval Office, the the National Veterans Business Development President met with Prime Minister Bertie Ahern Corporation. of Ireland. He then had a photo opportunity The President announced his intention to ap- with Northern Ireland leaders. point James W. Porter, George W. Reiger, and In the late morning, the President had a tele- Jane Graeffe Witheridge to be members of the phone conversation with Prime Minister Tony Interstate Commission on the Potomac River Blair of the United Kingdom to discuss the situ- Basin. ation in Iraq. The President announced his designation of The President announced his intention to ap- the following individuals to represent the United point Jeane J. Kirkpatrick as U.S. Representative States at the March 15 memorial service for on the Human Rights Commission of the Eco- Prime Minister Zoran Djindjic of Serbia in Bel- nomic and Social Council of the United Nations. grade: The President announced his intention to ap- Lawrence Eagleburger (delegation leader); point Robert P. Liscouski as Assistant Secretary William D. Montgomery; for Infrastructure Protection at the Department Marlene Eagleburger; of Homeland Security. Janet Bogue; The President announced his intention to ap- Lisa Tepper; and point Paul J. Redmond as Assistant Secretary Theresa Grencik. for Information Analysis at the Department of Homeland Security. The President declared a major disaster in Ohio and ordered Federal aid to supplement March 14 State and local recovery efforts in the area In the morning, the President had separate struck by a severe winter storm and record/ telephone conversations with President Hosni near record snow on February 14. Mubarak of Egypt and King Abdullah II of Jor- The President declared a major disaster in dan to discuss peace efforts in the Middle East. Kentucky and ordered Federal aid to supple- He then had intelligence and FBI briefings. ment Commonwealth and local recovery efforts Later, he had a telephone conversation with in the area struck by severe winter ice and snow Crown Prince Abdullah of Saudi Arabia to dis- storms, heavy rain, flooding, tornadoes, and mud cuss peace efforts in the Middle East. and rock slides on February 15–26. Later in the morning, the President had sepa- The President declared a major disaster in rate telephone conversations with Prime Min- West Virginia and ordered Federal aid to sup- ister Anders Fogh Rasmussen of Denmark and plement State and local recovery efforts in the Prime Minister Tony Blair of the United King- area struck by a severe winter storm, record/ dom to discuss the situation in Iraq. near record snow, heavy rains, flooding, and In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the landslides on February 16. President met with victims of the 1988 chemical The President declared an emergency in weapons attacks by the Iraqi regime against Maryland and ordered Federal aid to supple- Kurdish citizens in Iraq. Later, he went to ment State and local recovery efforts in the area Camp David, MD. struck by record/near record snow on February The White House announced that the Presi- 14–17. dent will meet with Prime Minister Mir The President declared an emergency in Zafarullah Khan Jamali of Pakistan at the White Pennsylvania and ordered Federal aid to supple- House on March 28 to discuss key bilateral, ment Commonwealth and local recovery efforts

742 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Appendix A in the area struck by record/near record snow Russia to discuss the situation in Iraq, Russia- on February 14–19. U.S. relations, and President Putin’s invitation The President declared an emergency in the to President Bush to visit St. Petersburg, Russia, District of Columbia and ordered Federal aid in May. to supplement District recovery efforts in the Also in the morning, the President had a tele- area struck by record/near record snow on Feb- phone conversation with President Hu Jintao of ruary 16–17. China to congratulate him on taking office on March 15 and to discuss China-U.S. relations, March 15 the situations in Iraq and North Korea, and In the morning, the President had a telephone the President’s commitment to a one-China pol- conversation with Prime Minister Silvio icy. Berlusconi of Italy to discuss the situation in Iraq. He then had an intelligence briefing. Later in the morning, the President had intel- Later in the morning, the President had a ligence and FBI briefings and met with Defense telephone conversation with Prime Minister Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld. Tony Blair of the United Kingdom to discuss March 19 the situation in Iraq. In the morning, the President had a telephone March 16 conversation with Prime Minister Tony Blair of In the morning, the President traveled to the United Kingdom to discuss possible military Lajes Field Air Force Base in the Azores, Por- action against Iraq and peace efforts in the Mid- tugal, arriving in the afternoon. dle East. He then had intelligence and FBI In the evening, at the Portuguese Officers briefings. Later, he met with the National Secu- Club, the President had dinner with Prime Min- rity Council in the Situation Room and then ister Jose Manuel Durao Barroso of Portugal, met with Defense Secretary Donald H. Rums- President Jose Maria Aznar of Spain, and Prime feld. Minister Tony Blair of the United Kingdom. Later in the morning, in the Oval Office, the He then returned to Washington, DC. While President met with Homeland Security Secretary en route aboard Air Force One, he had separate Tom Ridge and Mayor Michael Bloomberg of telephone conversations with Prime Minister New York City to discuss antiterrorism measures John Howard of Australia and Secretary of State in New York City. Colin L. Powell. In the afternoon, the President met with Cen- tral Intelligence Agency Director George Tenet March 17 to discuss possible military action against Iraq. In the morning, the President had separate Later, in the Oval Office, he met with Vice telephone conversations with President Jose President Dick Cheney, Secretary of State Colin Maria Aznar of Spain and Prime Minister Tony L. Powell, Defense Secretary Donald H. Rums- Blair of the United Kingdom to discuss the situ- feld, National Security Adviser Condoleezza ation in Iraq. He then had intelligence and FBI Rice, White House Chief of Staff Andrew Card, briefings and met with the National Security and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Council and Secretary of State Colin L. Powell. Richard B. Myers, USAF, to discuss possible Later in the morning, the President had a military action against Iraq. telephone conversation with King Juan Carlos In the evening, the President met with I of Spain to discuss the situation in Iraq. In the afternoon, the President had a tele- speechwriter Michael Gerson to discuss his ad- phone conversation with Defense Secretary dress to the Nation later that evening. Later, Donald H. Rumsfeld to discuss possible military he had dinner with Mrs. Bush in the Residence. action against Iraq. He then had a telephone conversation with In the evening, in the Roosevelt Room, the White House Chief of Staff Andrew Card to President met with Members of Congress to discuss possible military action against Iraq. discuss the situation in Iraq. The White House announced that the Presi- dent will welcome President Paul Biya of Cam- March 18 eroon to the White House on March 20 to dis- In the morning, the President had a telephone cuss bilateral relations, regional issues, trade and conversation with President Vladimir Putin of development efforts, and combating HIV/AIDS.

743 Appendix A / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

March 20 March 21 In the morning, the President had a telephone In the morning, the President had intelligence conversation with National Security Adviser and FBI briefings and met with the National Condoleezza Rice to discuss military action Security Council. He also met with Defense against Iraq, which commenced the previous Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld. Later, in the evening. Then, in the Oval Office, he had intel- Oval Office, he met with Speaker of the House ligence and FBI briefings. He also met with of Representatives J. Dennis Hastert, House Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld. Majority Leader Tom DeLay, House Minority Later in the morning, the President met in Leader Nancy Pelosi, Senate Majority Leader the Oval Office with Vice President Dick Che- Bill Frist, and Senate Minority Leader Tom ney, CIA Director George Tenet, and White Daschle. House Chief of Staff Andrew Card to discuss In the afternoon, the President went to Camp military action against Iraq. David, MD. In the afternoon, the President had lunch The President announced his intention to with Vice President Dick Cheney. nominate Karen P. Tandy to be Administrator During the day, the President had separate of Drug Enforcement at the Department of Jus- telephone conversations with President Hosni tice. Mubarak of Egypt, Amir Hamad bin Khalifa The President announced his intention to ap- Al Thani of Qatar, and King Hamad bin Isa point Robert Bruce Korver as a member of the Al Khalifa of Bahrain to discuss military action Cultural Property Advisory Committee. against Iraq. The President announced his intention to ap- In the evening, in the Oval Office, the Presi- point the following individuals as members of dent had a meeting and dinner with President the Advisory Commission on Drug-Free Com- Paul Biya of Cameroon. munities: The President announced his intention to Judith A. Cushing; nominate Frank Libutti to be Under Secretary Arthur Dean; for Information Analysis and Infrastructure Pro- Dennis Griffith; tection at the Department of Homeland Secu- Patricia J. Kempthorne; rity. Charles W. Larson, Jr.; The President announced his intention to Ronald Luce; nominate John E. Buchanan to be a member Flor Santalo-Sherbahn; of the National Museum Services Board. Peggy Sapp; and The President announced his intention to ap- Loretta M. Wenger. point William Batoff as a member of the Advi- sory Committee to the Pension Benefit Guaranty March 22 Corporation. In the morning, the President had an intel- The President declared an emergency in ligence briefing and met with his war council. Delaware and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area March 23 struck by record/near record snow on February In the afternoon, the President returned to 14–19. Washington, DC. The President declared a major disaster in March 24 Tennessee and ordered Federal aid to supple- In the morning, the President had separate ment State and local recovery efforts in the area telephone conversations with Prime Minister struck by severe storms and flooding on Feb- Tony Blair of the United Kingdom to discuss ruary 14–26. military action against Iraq; with President The President declared an emergency in New Vladimir Putin of Russia to discuss military ac- Jersey and ordered Federal aid to supplement tion against Iraq, cooperation on humanitarian State and local recovery efforts in the area issues, Russia-U.S. relations, and U.S. concerns struck by record/near record snow on February about Russian business transactions with Iraq; 16–17. and with President Jose Maria Aznar of Spain.

744 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Appendix A

Also in the morning, the President had intel- The President announced his intention to ligence and FBI briefings and met with the Na- nominate Marsha E. Barnes to be Ambassador tional Security Council and with Defense Sec- to Suriname. retary Donald H. Rumsfeld. The President announced his intention to ap- In the afternoon, the President had lunch point Gary R. Mitchell as a member of the with the Joint Chiefs of Staff in the Old Family Kansas-Nebraska Big Blue River Compact Ad- Dining Room in the Residence. Later, in the ministration (Kansas and Nebraska). Oval Office, he met with Federal Reserve Board The President announced his intention to ap- Chairman Alan Greenspan and Treasury Sec- point the following individuals as members of retary John W. Snow. Then, in the Cabinet the Advisory Committee on the Arts of the John Room, he met with the National Economic F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts: Council to discuss the state of the U.S. econ- Joan D. Austin; omy. Kristen A. Avansino; Later in the afternoon, in the Cabinet Room, Kathryn Burke; the President met with bipartisan congressional Robert J. Dellenback; leaders to discuss supplemental appropriations Mary Galvin; for military action against Iraq. Janet H. Geary; The President announced his intention to ap- Arthur J. Hackney; point Brian Griffin as U.S. Representative to Diana Kelley; the Southern States Energy Board. Arthur K. Langlie; The President announced his intention to ap- James V. Nepola; point Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr., and Martha H. Sandy Peltyn; and Marsh as members of the National Infrastruc- ture Advisory Council. Evelyn J. Wiginton. The President announced his intention to ap- The President announced his intention to appoint the following individuals as members of point the following individuals as members of the President’s Council on Service and Civic the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Council: Participation: Debra L. Cohen; Emily Z. Baldridge; Solomon M. Devinki; Amber Coffman; Donald Etra; Michelle Nunn; David M. Flaum; Rebecca W. Rimel; and Eric F. Ross; Juliann Thomas. Richard Sambol; and Merryl H. Tisch. March 25 The President announced his intention to ap- In the morning, the President had intelligence point Gary J. Lavine, Rachmiel Liberman, and and FBI briefings. Harriet Rotter as members of the Commission Later in the morning, the President traveled for the Preservation of America’s Heritage to the Pentagon in Arlington, VA, where he Abroad. had a briefing with Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld and senior Pentagon officials. March 26 Later, he returned to the White House. In the morning, the President had intelligence The White House announced that the Presi- and FBI briefings. dent will welcome Prime Minister Tony Blair Later in the morning, the President and Mrs. of the United Kingdom to Camp David, MD, Bush traveled to MacDill Air Force Base in on March 26–27 to discuss military action, hu- Tampa, FL. There, at the U.S. Central Com- manitarian relief, reconstruction, and efforts to mand Joint Intelligence Center, the President build democracy in Iraq. had briefings about military action against Iraq The President announced his intention to and the war against terror. nominate John F. Maisto to be Permanent U.S. In the afternoon, the President and Mrs. Bush Representative to the Organization of American had lunch with U.S. military personnel at States, with the rank of Ambassador. MacDill Air Force Base.

745 Appendix A / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Later in the afternoon, the President and Mrs. March 29 Bush traveled to Camp David, MD. In the In the morning, the President had an intel- evening, they had dinner with Prime Minister ligence briefing. Tony Blair of the United Kingdom and National March 30 Security Adviser Condoleezza Rice. In the afternoon, the President returned to March 27 Washington, DC. In the morning, the President had an intel- March 31 ligence briefing. In the morning, the President had intelligence During the day, the President met with Prime and FBI briefings and met with the National Minister Tony Blair of the United Kingdom and Security Council. Later, he met with Defense Secretary of State Colin L. Powell to discuss Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld. military action against Iraq, humanitarian relief In the afternoon, the President traveled to and reconstruction efforts in Iraq, and the role Philadelphia, PA, where he had a briefing on of the United Nations in Iraq. In the afternoon, homeland security with Secretary of Homeland he returned to Washington, DC. Security Tom Ridge and U.S. Coast Guard offi- The President announced his intention to cials at the Coast Guard Marine Safety Office nominate Charles W. Grim to be Director of at the Port of Philadelphia. Later, he returned the Indian Health Service, Public Health Serv- to Washington, DC. ice. The President announced his intention to designate Nils J. Diaz as Chairman of the Nuclear The President declared a major disaster in Regulatory Commission. Virginia and ordered Federal aid to supplement The President announced his intention to ap- Commonwealth and local recovery efforts in the point Terri Lacy as a member of the Federal area struck by a severe winter storm, record/ Salary Council and, upon appointment, to des- near record snowfall, heavy rain, flooding, and ignate her as Chairman. mudslides on February 15–28. The President announced his intention to The President declared an emergency in New nominate Steven A. Browning to be Ambassador York and ordered Federal aid to supplement to Malawi. State and local recovery efforts in the area The President announced his intention to struck by record/near record snow on February nominate Ronald Schlicher to be Ambassador 17–18. to Tunisia. The President declared an emergency in The President announced his intention to Rhode Island and ordered Federal aid to sup- nominate Stephen M. Young to be Ambassador plement State and local recovery efforts in the to the Kyrgyz Republic. area struck by record/near record snow on Feb- The President announced his intention to ruary 17–18. nominate Josette Sheeran Shiner to be Deputy The President declared a major disaster in U.S. Trade Representative. North Carolina and ordered Federal aid to sup- The President announced his intention to plement State and local recovery efforts in the nominate Teresa M. Ressel to be Assistant Sec- area struck by an ice storm on February 27– retary of the Treasury (Management), to designate her as Acting Chief Financial Officer, 28. and, upon confirmation, to designate her as March 28 Chief Financial Officer. In the morning, the President had a telephone April 1 conversation with President Jose Maria Aznar In the morning, the President had intelligence of Spain to discuss events in Iraq. He then and FBI briefings and met with the National had intelligence and FBI briefings and met with Security Council. Later, he met with Defense the National Security Council and with Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld. Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld. In the afternoon, the President dropped by In the afternoon, the President had lunch a meeting between Minister for Foreign Affairs with Vice President Dick Cheney. Later, he Alexander Downer of Australia and Vice Presi- went to Camp David, MD. dent Dick Cheney in the Roosevelt Room.

746 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Appendix A

Later in the afternoon, the President met with The President announced his intention to Senator Chuck Grassley of Iowa to discuss the nominate the following individuals to be mem- jobs-and-growth package. He then had a tele- bers of the Board of Directors of the National phone conversation with Defense Secretary Institute of Building Sciences: Rumsfeld to discuss the rescue of American James Broaddus; POW Jessica D. Lynch by U.S. military forces Lane Carson; in Iraq. The President announced his intention to Paul Pate; and nominate Herbert S. Garten and Thomas R. Jose Teran. Meites to be members of the Board of Directors The President announced his intention to ap- of the Legal Services Corporation. point the following individuals as members of The President announced his intention to the President’s Committee on the National nominate Charles Edward Horner, Stephen D. Medal of Science: Krasner, and Daniel Pipes to be members of Denice D. Denton; the Board of Directors of the U.S. Institute of Peace. Anne O. Krueger; M. Susan Smith; April 2 Richard F. Thompson; and In the morning, the President had a telephone Neil deGrasse Tyson. conversation with Amir Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani of Qatar. He then had intelligence and April 3 FBI briefings and met with the National Secu- In the morning, the President had intelligence rity Council. Later, he met with Defense Sec- and FBI briefings. He and Mrs. Bush then trav- retary Donald H. Rumsfeld. eled to Camp Lejeune in Jacksonville, NC. Later in the morning, the President had a Later in the morning, they had lunch with U.S. telephone conversation with Minister of Foreign Marine Corps personnel in the mess hall. Affairs Sabah al-Ahmad al-Jabir Al Sabah of Ku- In the afternoon, in a chapel at Camp wait. Lejeune, the President and Mrs. Bush met with In the afternoon, the President had a tele- family members of U.S. marines killed in Iraq. phone conversation with President Jose Maria Later, the President and Mrs. Bush returned Aznar of Spain. Later, in the Roosevelt Room, to Washington, DC. he met with economists to discuss the state of The White House announced that the Presi- the economy and the jobs-and-growth package. dent will welcome President Alvaro Uribe of The White House announced that the Presi- Colombia to the White House on May 2. dent will meet with President Jorge Batlle of The White House announced that the Presi- Uruguay at the White House on April 23. dent will meet with Prime Minister Goh Chok The President announced his intention to Tong of Singapore at the White House on May nominate James J. Jochum to be Assistant Sec- 6. retary of Commerce (Import Administration). The President announced his intention to April 4 nominate Peter D. Keisler to be Assistant Attor- In the morning, the President had a telephone ney General (Civil Division), Department of Jus- conversation with President Roh Moo-hyun of tice. South Korea to discuss humanitarian operations The President announced his intention to in Iraq and the situation in North Korea. Later, nominate Robert D. McCallum to be Associate he had intelligence and FBI briefings and met Attorney General, Department of Justice. with the National Security Council. He then had The President announced his intention to des- separate meetings with Defense Secretary Don- ignate Gen. Mark V. Rosenker, AFRC, as Vice ald H. Rumsfeld and Secretary of State Colin Chairman of the National Transportation Safety L. Powell. Board. In the afternoon, the President had lunch The President announced his intention to ap- with Vice President Dick Cheney. Later, in the point Mack I. Whittle as a member of the Advi- Roosevelt Room, he met with Iraqi Americans sory Committee on the Arts, John F. Kennedy and free Iraqis living in the U.S. to discuss Center for the Performing Arts. the situation in Iraq.

747 Appendix A / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Later in the afternoon, the President went During the morning, in the Oval Office, the to Camp David, MD. President watched television coverage of events The White House announced that the Presi- in Iraq. dent will welcome President Rudolf Schuster of The White House announced that the Presi- the Slovak Republic to the White House on dent will welcome President Roh Moo-hyun of April 9. South Korea to the White House on May 14. The White House announced that the Presi- The President announced his intention to dent will welcome President Abel Pacheco of nominate April H. Foley to be a member of Costa Rica, President Francisco Flores Perez of the Board of Directors of the Export-Import El Salvador, President Alfonso Portillo Cabrera Bank of the United States. of Guatemala, President Ricardo Maduro of Honduras, and President Enrique Bolanos of April 10 Nicaragua to the White House on April 10. In the morning, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister John Howard April 5 of Australia to discuss military operations in In the morning, the President had an intel- Iraq. Later, he had intelligence and FBI brief- ligence briefing. ings and met with the National Security Council. Then, in the Oval Office, he met with Defense April 6 Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld. In the afternoon, the President returned to Later in the morning, the President had a Washington, DC. telephone conversation with President Aleksander Kwasniewski of Poland to discuss April 7 military operations in Iraq. Later, in the Oval In the morning, the President had an intel- Office, he met with Secretary of State Colin ligence briefing. Later, he traveled to L. Powell. Hillsborough, Northern Ireland. In the afternoon, the President had lunch In the evening, the President had dinner with with Vice President Dick Cheney. Later, in the Prime Minister Tony Blair of the United King- Oval Office, he met with President Francisco dom at Hillsborough Castle. Flores Perez of El Salvador, President Alfonso April 8 Portillo Cabrera of Guatemala, President Ri- In the afternoon, at Hillsborough Castle, the cardo Maduro of Honduras, President Enrique President had lunch with Prime Minister Blair Bolanos of Nicaragua, and President Abel and Prime Minister Bertie Ahern of Ireland. Pacheco of Costa Rica to discuss negotiations The three leaders then met with Northern Ire- for a Central American free trade agreement. land leaders to discuss the peace process in Later in the afternoon, the President met with Northern Ireland. members of the Business Roundtable to discuss Later in the afternoon, the President returned his jobs-and-growth package. to Washington, DC. The President announced his intention to nominate A. Paul Anderson to be a Commis- April 9 sioner of the Federal Maritime Commission. In the morning, the President had breakfast The President announced his intention to with Speaker of the House of Representatives nominate David Hall to be a member of the J. Dennis Hastert, House Majority Leader Tom Board of Directors of the Legal Services Cor- DeLay, House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, poration. Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist, and Senate The President announced his intention to Minority Leader Tom Daschle. Later, he had nominate David W. Fleming, Jay P. Greene, intelligence and FBI briefings and met in the and John R. Petrocik to be members of the Situation Room with the National Security Board of Trustees of the James Madison Memo- Council. Then, in the Oval Office, he met with rial Fellowship Foundation. Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld. The President announced his intention to ap- Later in the morning, in the Oval Office, the point Eric I. Cantor, Robert C. Scott, and James President met with President Rudolf Schuster H. Wilkinson III as members of the Board of of Slovakia to discuss the war on terror and Trustees of the James Madison Memorial Fel- the situation in Iraq. lowship Foundation.

748 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Appendix A

The President announced his intention to ap- of Egypt to discuss the situation in Iraq and point Vernon B. Sauer to be U.S. Representative peace efforts in the Middle East. of the Sabine River Compact Administration. The White House announced that the Presi- The President declared an emergency in Col- dent and Mrs. Bush will welcome Prime Min- orado and ordered Federal aid to supplement ister John Howard of Australia and his wife, State and local recovery efforts in the area Janette, to the Bush Ranch in Crawford, TX, struck by record/near record snow on March on May 2–3. 17–20. April 15 April 11 In the morning, the President had intelligence In the morning, the President had a telephone and FBI briefings and met with the National conversation with President Gloria Macapagal- Security Council. Later, he met with Secretary Arroyo of the Philippines to discuss the situation of Defense Donald H. Rumsfeld. in Iraq, military operations against terrorists in Later in the morning, the President had a the Philippines, and her upcoming state visit. telephone conversation with President Jacques He then had a telephone conversation with Chirac of France to discuss the situations in Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi of Italy to dis- Iraq and Syria, peace efforts in the Middle East, cuss the situation in Iraq. and the G–8 summit to be held June 1–3 in Later in the morning, the President had intel- France. ligence and FBI briefings and met with the Na- tional Security Council. He also met with De- In the afternoon, the President met with Sec- fense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld. retary of State Colin L. Powell. In the afternoon, the President and Mrs. Bush April 16 went to Walter Reed Army Medical Center. In the morning, the President had a telephone Later, they traveled to the National Naval Med- conversation with Prime Minister Junichiro ical Center in Bethesda, MD. At both medical Koizumi of Japan to discuss reconstruction ef- centers, they visited U.S. military personnel in- forts in Iraq and the situation in North Korea. jured in operations in Afghanistan and Iraq, and Later, he had intelligence and FBI briefings and the President presented Purple Heart medals to some of them. met with the National Security Council. He then The President and Mrs. Bush then traveled met with Secretary of Defense Donald H. to Camp David, MD. Rumsfeld. Later in the morning, the President traveled April 12 to St. Louis, MO, where, upon arrival, he met In the morning, the President had an intel- with USA Freedom Corps volunteer John Sant. ligence briefing. Later, he had a video- Later, he toured the Boeing Integrated Defense conference meeting with his war council. Systems headquarters. In the afternoon, the President traveled to April 13 the Bush Ranch in Crawford, TX. In the afternoon, the President returned to The President announced his intention to Washington, DC. nominate Charles D. Snelling to be a member The White House announced that the Presi- of the Board of Directors of the Metropolitan dent will postpone his state visit to Ottawa, Can- Washington Airports Authority. ada, which was scheduled for May 5. The President announced his intention to April 14 nominate Harry K. Thomas, Jr., to be Ambas- In the morning, the President had intelligence sador to Bangladesh. and FBI briefings and met with the National The President announced his intention to Security Council. Later, he met with Secretary nominate William B. Wood to be Ambassador of Defense Donald H. Rumsfeld. to Colombia. Also in the morning, the President had sepa- The President announced his intention to rate telephone conversations with President Jose nominate Robert W. Fitts to be Ambassador Maria Aznar of Spain, Crown Prince Abdullah to Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, of Saudi Arabia, and President Hosni Mubarak and Vanuatu.

749 Appendix A / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

The President announced his intention to Zoraida Fonalledas; nominate Tracey A. Jacobson to be Ambassador Brenda Leath; to Turkmenistan. Alvaro Marin; The President announced his intention to Kim Porter-Hoppe; nominate the following individuals to be mem- Michael Rogers; bers of the Board of Trustees of the Institute Windy Smith; and of American Indian and Alaska Native Culture Gene Stallings, Jr. and Arts Development: April 18 John R. Grimes; In the morning, the President had an intel- Georgianna E. Ignace; ligence briefing. Lisa G. Nason; and The President announced his intention to ap- Henry Townsend. point Rebecca O. Campoverde and James The President announced his intention to ap- Roberts as members of the White House Com- point Daniel W. Sutherland as Officer for Civil mission on the National Moment of Remem- Rights and Civil Liberties at the Department brance. of Homeland Security. April 19 April 17 In the morning, the President had an intel- In the morning, the President had a telephone ligence briefing. conversation with President Jose Maria Aznar of Spain to discuss the situation in Iraq and April 20 peace efforts in the Middle East. Later, he had In the morning, the President and Mrs. Bush intelligence and national security briefings. traveled to Fort Hood, TX, and later returned The President announced his intention to to the Bush Ranch in Crawford. nominate Susan C. Schwab to be First Vice April 21 President of the Export-Import Bank of the In the morning, the President had an intel- United States. ligence briefing. The President announced his intention to ap- In the afternoon, the President and Mrs. Bush point Hattie Daniels-Rush as a member of the returned to Washington, DC. Commission on Presidential Scholars. The President announced his intention to ap- April 22 point Michael Sade as a member of the Com- In the morning, the President had intelligence mittee for Purchase From People Who Are and FBI briefings. Blind or Severely Disabled. In the afternoon, the President had lunch The President announced his intention to ap- with Vice President Dick Cheney. Later, he met point the following individuals as members of with Secretary of State Colin L. Powell. the Advisory Committee for Trade Policy and During the day, the President had a telephone Negotiations: conversation with former Gov. Jim Edgar of Illi- Charles E. Kruse; nois to discuss Edgar’s possible candidacy for Steven J. McCormick; U.S. Senate in 2004. Kevin B. Rollins; and The President announced the recess appoint- Robert L. Wright. ment of Peter Eide as General Counsel of the Federal Labor Relations Authority. The President announced his intention to ap- The President announced the recess appoint- point Stuart F. Bruny, Kenneth S. Komoroski, ment of R. Bruce Matthews as a member of and Donald S. Welsh as Commissioners of the the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board. Ohio River Valley Water Sanitation Commission. The President announced the recess appoint- The President announced his intention to re- ment of Naomi Churchill Earp as a member appoint the following individuals as members of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commis- of the President’s Committee on Mental Retar- sion, and her designation as Vice Chairman. dation: The President announced the recess appoint- Nancy Blanchard; ment of Neil McPhie as a member of the Merit Mary C. Bruene; Systems Protection Board.

750 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Appendix A

The President announced the recess appoint- In the afternoon, the President traveled to ment of William A. Schambra as a member of Dayton, OH, where upon his arrival at Wright- the Board of Directors of the Corporation for Patterson Air Force Base, he greeted Senator National and Community Service. George V. Voinovich of Ohio. He then traveled The President announced the recess appoint- to Lima, OH, where he toured the Lima Army ment of Donna N. Williams as a member of Tank Plant. Later, the President returned to the Board of Directors of the Corporation for Washington, DC. National and Community Service. The President announced his intention to The President announced the recess appoint- nominate Harvey S. Rosen to be a member of ment of April H. Foley as a member of the the Council of Economic Advisers. Board of Directors of the Export-Import Bank The President announced his intention to of the United States. nominate Rick A. Dearborn to be Assistant Sec- The President announced the recess appoint- retary of Energy for Congressional and Intergov- ment of Stanley C. Suboleski as a member of ernmental Affairs. the Federal Mine Health and Safety Review The President announced his intention to ap- Commission. point Glenn Dale Steil as a member of the The President announced the recess appoint- National Selective Service Appeal Board. ment of Lillian R. BeVier as a member of the The President announced his intention to ap- Board of Directors of the Legal Services Cor- point the following individuals as members of poration. the President’s National Security Telecommuni- The President announced the recess appoint- cations Advisory Committee: ment of Thomas A. Fuentes as a member of the Board of Directors of the Legal Services James F. Albaugh; Corporation. Frank Ianna; The President announced the recess appoint- Richard C. Notebaert; ment of James C. Miller III as a Governor of Hector de Jesus Ruiz; the Board of Governors of the U.S. Postal Serv- Patricia F. Russo; ice. Stratton D. Sclavos; Susan Spradley; and April 23 John W. Stanton. In the morning, the President had intelligence and FBI briefings and met with the National The President announced his intention to des- Security Council and with Defense Secretary ignate Kathryn Donaldson Baker, W. Ronald Donald H. Rumsfeld. Later, in the Oval Office, Evans, and Joseph Reyes as members of the the President met with President Jorge Batlle Board of Directors of the National Capital Revi- of Uruguay to discuss the situation in Iraq, the talization Corporation. war against terror, and economic recovery ef- The President declared a major disaster in forts and U.S. trade and investment in Uruguay. Mississippi and ordered Federal aid to supple- Later in the morning, the President had a ment State and local recovery efforts in the area telephone conversation with Prime Minister struck by severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey to discuss the on April 6–14. situation in Iraq, Turkey’s economic reforms, and U.S. aid to Turkey. April 25 In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the In the morning, the President had intelligence President presented the Harry Yount National and FBI briefings and met with the National Park Service Ranger of the Year Award to Dun- Security Council. Later, he met with Defense can Hollar. Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld. The President announced his intention to April 24 nominate Jack L. Goldsmith III to be Assistant In the morning, the President had an intel- Attorney General, Office of Legal Counsel, at ligence briefing. Later, he traveled to Canton, the Department of Justice. OH, where he met with small-business owners The President announced his intention to and employees at the Timken Co. nominate Paul M. Longsworth to be Deputy

751 Appendix A / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Administrator for Defense Nuclear Non- discuss the situation in North Korea. He then proliferation at the National Nuclear Security had intelligence and FBI briefings and met with Administration, Department of Defense. the Homeland Security Council. The President announced his intention to The President announced his intention to ap- nominate Christopher A. Wray to be Assistant point Howard L. Ganek, Phyllis G. Heideman, Attorney General, Criminal Division, at the De- and Harlan D. Hockenberg as members of the partment of Justice. U.S. Holocaust Memorial Council. The President declared a major disaster in The President announced his intention to ap- Florida and ordered Federal aid to supplement point Gen. John A. Gordon, USAF, as Assistant State and local recovery efforts in the area to the President and Homeland Security Ad- struck by severe storms and tornadoes on March viser. 27. April 30 April 26 In the morning, the President had intelligence In the morning, the President had an intel- and FBI briefings and met with the National ligence briefing. Security Council. Later, he met with Republican In the evening, the President and Mrs. Bush congressional leaders to discuss pending legisla- attended the annual White House Correspond- tion. ents’ Association dinner in the International In the afternoon, the President had lunch Ballroom at the Washington Hilton Hotel. with Vice President Dick Cheney. Later, the The President declared a major disaster in President welcomed Representative Ralph M. Alaska and ordered Federal aid to supplement Hall of Texas to the White House to celebrate State and local recovery efforts in the area the Representative’s 80th birthday. struck by severe winter storms, including high The White House announced that the Presi- winds and freezing temperatures, on March 6– dent will welcome Prime Minister Kjell Magne 14. Bondevik of Norway to the White House on April 28 May 16. In the morning, the President had intelligence The President announced his designation of and FBI briefings. Later, he traveled to Dear- the following individuals to represent the United born, MI. States at ceremonies on April 30 marking the In the afternoon, at the Ford Community and 60th anniversary of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising: Performing Arts Center, the President partici- Anthony J. Principi (delegation leader); pated in a roundtable discussion on the situation Christopher Hill; in Iraq with Iraqi Americans. Later, he met Benjamin Gilman; with William C. Ford, Jr., chairman of the board Thomas Bernstein; and and chief executive officer of Ford Motor Co.; Don Etra. G. Richard Wagoner, Jr., president and chief executive officer of General Motors Corp.; and The President announced his intention to Dieter Zetsche, president and chief executive nominate Thomas W. O’Connell to be Assistant officer of Chrysler Group, to discuss the state Secretary of Defense (Special Operations and of the economy and the President’s jobs-and- Low Intensity Conflict). growth package. He then returned to Wash- ington, DC. May 1 The President announced his intention to In the morning, the President had an intel- nominate John E. Herbst to be Ambassador to ligence briefing. He then traveled to Naval Air Ukraine. Station North Island in Coronado, CA. While en route aboard Air Force One, he had a tele- April 29 phone conversation with Crown Prince Abdullah In the morning, the President had a telephone of Saudi Arabia to discuss peace efforts in the conversation with President Roh Moo-hyun of Middle East. South Korea to discuss the situation in North Later in the morning, at Naval Air Station Korea and President Roh’s upcoming state visit. North Island, the President had a briefing on Later, he had a telephone conversation with flight procedures with S–3B Viking pilot Comdr. Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi of Japan to John ‘‘Skip’’ Lussier, USN, and then traveled

752 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Appendix A to the U.S.S. Abraham Lincoln off the coast The President announced his intention to of San Diego, CA. There he met with F–18 nominate Richard W. Erdman to be Ambassador combat pilots and had a briefing on completed to Algeria. Air Wing combat missions. May 3 In the afternoon, the President had lunch in In the morning, the President had an intel- the ship’s tower, where he observed F–18 ligence briefing. Later, he met with Prime Min- launches. He then observed flight operations ister John Howard of Australia. from the flight deck. In the evening, he had dinner with enlisted U.S. Navy personnel. May 5 The President announced his intention to In the morning, the President traveled to Lit- nominate George A. Krol to be Ambassador to tle Rock, AR. While en route aboard Air Force Belarus. One, he had an intelligence briefing. He also The President announced his intention to had a telephone conversation with President nominate Howard Radzely to be Solicitor for Ahmet Necdet Sezer of Turkey to extend his the Department of Labor. condolences for victims of the recent earthquake The President announced his intention to in Turkey’s Bingol Province. Upon his arrival, nominate Morgan Edwards to be a member of he met with USA Freedom Corps volunteer David Shapiro. the Board of Directors of the National Institute Later in the morning, at Robinson Center, of Building Sciences. the President participated in a roundtable dis- The President announced his intention to ap- cussion with small-business owners and employ- point Paul R. Corts as a member of the Board ees. of Directors of the Federal Prison Industries, In the afternoon, the President returned to Inc. Washington, DC. Later, in the Oval Office, he The President announced his intention to ap- met with NATO Secretary General Lord point John Hartnedy as a member of the De- Robertson to discuss NATO’s role in Afghanistan partment of Defense Retirement Board of Actu- and the future of NATO. aries. The White House announced that the Presi- dent will welcome President Jose Maria Aznar May 2 of Spain to the White House on May 7 for In the morning, aboard the U.S.S. Abraham a meeting and working dinner. Lincoln, the President had breakfast with U.S. The White House announced that the Presi- Navy officers. Later, he traveled to Santa Clara, dent will welcome Amir Hamad bin Khalifa Al CA. While en route aboard Air Force One, he Thani of Qatar to the White House on May had an intelligence briefing. In Santa Clara, he 8. toured the United Defense Industries Ground The President announced his intention to ap- Systems Division facility. point Ronald J. James as Chief Human Capital Later in the morning, the President was Officer at the Department of Homeland Secu- joined by Prime Minister John Howard of Aus- rity. tralia and his wife, Janette, and they traveled May 6 together to the Bush Ranch in Crawford, TX. In the morning, the President had intelligence In the evening, the President and Mrs. Bush and FBI briefings. Later, he met with Secretary had dinner with Prime Minister and Mrs. How- of State Colin L. Powell. ard. In the afternoon, the President met with The White House announced that the Presi- Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong of Singapore dent will welcome NATO Secretary General in the Oval Office. Lord Robertson to the White House on May The White House announced that the Presi- 5. dent will welcome Prime Minister Anders Fogh The White House announced that the Presi- Rasmussen of Denmark to Washington, DC, on dent will welcome the Foreign Ministers of Bul- May 8. garia, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, Slo- The President announced his appointment of vakia, and Slovenia to the White House on May L. Paul Bremer III as Presidential Envoy to 8. Iraq.

753 Appendix A / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

The President declared a major disaster in House briefing for Asian-Pacific Americans and Kansas and ordered Federal aid to supplement signed the Executive order establishing the State and local recovery efforts in the area Interagency Group on Insular Areas. struck by severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding Later in the afternoon, in the Roosevelt on May 4 and continuing. Room, the President met with Foreign Ministers The President declared a major disaster in Solomon Pasi of Bulgaria, Kristiina Ojuland of Missouri and ordered Federal aid to supplement Estonia, Sandra Kalniete of Latvia, Antanas State and local recovery efforts in the area Valionis of Lithuania, Mircea Dan Geoana of struck by severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding Romania, Eduard Kukan of Slovakia, and on May 4 and continuing. Dimitrij Rupel of Slovenia. The White House announced that the Presi- May 7 dent will welcome President Gloria Macapagal- In the morning, the President had breakfast Arroyo of the Philippines to the White House with Speaker of the House of Representatives for a state visit on May 19. J. Dennis Hastert, House Majority Leader Tom The White House announced that the Presi- DeLay, House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, dent and Mrs. Bush will welcome Prime Min- Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist, and Senate ister Junichiro Koizumi of Japan to the Bush Minority Leader Tom Daschle to discuss domes- Ranch in Crawford, TX, on May 22–23. tic and foreign policy. He then had intelligence The President announced his intention to ap- and FBI briefings. point the following individuals as members of In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the the President’s Information Technology Advisory President met with President Jose Maria Aznar Committee: of Spain. In the evening, the President had dinner with Marc Benioff (Co-Chair); President Aznar in the Old Family Dining Edward D. Lazowska (Co-Chair); Room. Ruzena Bajcsy; The President announced his intention to J. Carter Beese, Jr.; nominate James G. Roche to be Secretary of Pedro Celis; the Army. Bernard Daines; The President announced his intention to Patricia Evans; nominate Colin R. McMillan to be Secretary Manuel Fernandez; of the Navy. Luis Fiallo; Jose Marie Griffiths; May 8 William J. Hannigan; In the morning, the President had a breakfast Jonathan C. Javitt; meeting with Prime Minister Anders Fogh Judith L. Klavans; Rasmussen of Denmark in the President’s pri- F. Thomson Leighton; vate dining room. The two then met in the Harold Mortazavian; Oval Office to discuss the war on terror, the Randy D. Mott; situation in Iraq, European-U.S. relations, and Peter M. Neupert; peace efforts in the Middle East. Eli M. Noam; Later in the morning, the President had intel- David A. Patterson; ligence and FBI briefings. Alice G. Quintanilla; In the afternoon, the President had lunch Daniel A. Reed; with Amir Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani of Qatar, Eugene H. Spafford; following their meeting in the Oval Office. David H. Staelin; Then, in an Oval Office ceremony, the President received diplomatic credentials from Ambas- Peter S. Tippett; and sadors Ibrahim M’Baba Kamara of Sierra Leone, Geoffrey Yang. Jose Luis Guterres of East Timor, Sergio Vento The President declared a major disaster in of Italy, Zac Nsenga of Rwanda, and Han Sung- Tennessee and ordered Federal aid to supple- Joo of South Korea. Later, in Room 450 of ment State and local recovery efforts in the area the Dwight D. Eisenhower Executive Office struck by severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding Building, the President participated in a White on May 4 and continuing.

754 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Appendix A

May 9 One, he had a telephone conversation with Na- In the morning, the President had an intel- tional Security Adviser Condoleezza Rice to dis- ligence briefing. cuss the terrorist attacks in Saudi Arabia. At In the afternoon, the President traveled to the Westin Hotel in Indianapolis, he met with Columbia, SC. Later, he traveled to Santa Fe, Indiana Republican Party members. NM, where he and Mrs. Bush, who joined him Later in the evening, the President had a in Santa Fe, stayed at the home of family friend briefing with Deputy Chief of Staff Hagin and Roland Betts. then another telephone conversation with Na- The White House announced that the Presi- tional Security Adviser Rice to discuss the ter- dent has invited Prime Minister Ariel Sharon rorist attacks in Saudi Arabia. of Israel to visit him in Washington, DC, on The President announced his intention to May 20. nominate Greta N. Morris to be Ambassador The President announced his intention to ap- to the Marshall Islands. point Ronald G. Bellamy and Carlos M. de The President announced his intention to ap- Cespedes as members of the President’s Com- point Susan F. Sugai as a member of the Arctic mission on White House Fellowships. Research Commission. The President announced his intention to ap- The President announced his intention to appoint Julia A. King, Timothy Pawlenty, and Ann point Tracy Hephner, Larry Icerman, and Bar- A. Pritzlaff as members of the Advisory Council bara H. Johnson as members of the Board of on Historic Preservation. Directors of the Valles Caldera Trust. The President announced his intention to ap- The President declared a major disaster in point James E. Geringer as U.S. Representative New York and ordered Federal aid to supple- to the Western Interstate Nuclear Board. ment State and local recovery efforts in the May 10 areas struck by an ice storm on April 3–5. In the morning, the President had an intel- The President declared a major disaster in ligence briefing. Alabama and ordered Federal aid to supplement The President declared a major disaster in State and local recovery efforts in the area Oklahoma and ordered Federal aid to supple- struck by severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding ment State and local recovery efforts in the area on May 5 and continuing. struck by severe storms and tornadoes on May May 13 8 and continuing. In the morning, the President had telephone May 12 conversations with National Security Adviser In the morning, the President had an intel- Condoleezza Rice and White House Chief of ligence briefing. Later, he traveled to Bernalillo, Staff Andrew Card concerning the May 12 ter- NM, where at MCT Industries, he met with rorist attacks in Saudi Arabia. He then had an USA Freedom Corps volunteer William K. intelligence briefing. Later, at the Indiana State O’Leary and later with small-business owners Fairgrounds, he met with senior citizens to dis- and employees. cuss his jobs-and-growth package. In the afternoon, the President had a tele- In the afternoon, the President traveled to phone conversation with major league baseball Springfield, MO. He then took a helicopter tour player Rafael Palmeiro to congratulate him on of the Pierce City, MO, area damaged by recent hitting his 500th home run. Later, he traveled tornadoes. Later, after landing in Pierce City, to Omaha, NE, where, at Airlite Plastics, he he had briefings on the tornado damage by participated in a roundtable meeting with mar- FEMA Director Michael D. Brown and other ried couples to discuss proposed tax cuts. officials, met with tornado victims and rescuers Later in the afternoon, the President was in- at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, and took a walk- formed by White House Deputy Chief of Staff ing tour of the damaged area. Joseph W. Hagin of the terrorist attacks which In the evening, the President returned to occurred earlier in the day in Riyadh, Saudi Washington, DC. Later, he had a telephone con- Arabia. versation with Crown Prince Abdullah of Saudi In the evening, the President traveled to Indi- Arabia to discuss the May 12 terrorist attacks anapolis, IN. While en route aboard Air Force in Saudi Arabia.

755 Appendix A / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

The President announced his intention to Later in the morning, in the Oval Office, the nominate C. Suzanne Mencer to be Director President met with Prime Minister Kjell Magne of the Office of Domestic Preparedness at the Bondevik of Norway to discuss the situation in Department of Homeland Security. Iraq and the peace process in the Middle East. In the afternoon, the President had lunch May 14 with Vice President Dick Cheney. Later, in the In the morning, the President had a telephone Oval Office, he met with U.S. military per- conversation with King Hamad bin Isa Al sonnel, some of whom were injured in military Khalifa of Bahrain to discuss the situation in operations in Afghanistan and Iraq, and their Iraq and reform efforts in Bahrain. He then spouses. had intelligence and FBI briefings and met with Later in the afternoon, the President went the National Security Council. Later, he met to Camp David, MD. with Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld. Later in the morning, the President had a May 17 telephone conversation with Prime Minister In the morning, the President had an intel- Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey to discuss the ligence briefing. May 12 terrorist attacks in Saudi Arabia, the May 18 war on terror, the situations in Cyprus and Iraq, During the day, the President returned to and peace efforts in the Middle East. Washington, DC. In the evening, the President had dinner with President Roh Moo-hyun of South Korea. May 19 The President declared a major disaster in In the morning, the President had intelligence Maine and ordered Federal aid to supplement and FBI briefings and met with the National State and local recovery efforts in the area Security Council. Later, he met privately with struck by severe winter cold and frost on De- President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo of the Phil- cember 17, 2002, and continuing. ippines in the Oval Office. The two Presidents then held an expanded bilateral meeting in the May 15 Cabinet Room. In the morning, the President had an intel- In the afternoon, the President met with Sec- ligence briefing. retary of State Colin L. Powell. Later, on the During the day, the President had a briefing Truman Balcony, he met with Vice President with Senior Adviser to the President Karl Rove Dick Cheney and Republican congressional lead- and others on preparations for his 2004 Presi- ers to discuss proposed tax cut legislation. dential campaign. The White House announced that the Presi- May 20 dent will welcome President Rafael Hipolito In the morning, the President had a telephone Mejia Dominguez of the Dominican Republic conversation with Prime Minister Mahmoud to the White House for a meeting on May 20. Abbas (Abu Mazen) of the Palestinian Authority The President announced his intention to to discuss peace efforts in the Middle East and nominate Kristin J. Forbes to be a member of the war on terror. He then had intelligence and the Council of Economic Advisers. FBI briefings and met with the National Secu- The President declared a major disaster in rity Council. Illinois and ordered Federal aid to supplement Later in the morning, the President met with State and local recovery efforts in the area President Rafael Hipolito Mejia Dominguez of struck by severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding the Dominican Republic in the Oval Office to on May 6–11. discuss bilateral trade relations. President Bush then had a telephone conversation with Prime May 16 Minister Ariel Sharon of Israel to offer condo- In the morning, the President had a telephone lences concerning the recent terrorist bombings conversation with President Vladimir Putin of in Israel. Russia to discuss the situation in Iraq and the In the afternoon, the President met with the recent terrorist attacks in Chechnya and Saudi Homeland Security Council. Later, in recogni- Arabia. He then had intelligence and FBI brief- tion of Cuban Independence Day, he held a ings. roundtable discussion in the Roosevelt Room

756 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Appendix A with Cuban dissidents and former political pris- France to discuss the global economy, the con- oners. tinuing threat of international terrorism, and the The White House announced that the Presi- upcoming G–8 Summit. dent will welcome President Pervez Musharraf In the afternoon, the President and Mrs. Bush of Pakistan to Camp David, MD, on June 24 welcomed Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi of to discuss regional and international issues and Japan to the ranch. Later, the President took bilateral relations. Prime Minister Koizumi on a tour of the ranch. The President announced his intention to In the evening, the President and Mrs. Bush nominate Penrose C. Albright to be Assistant had dinner with Prime Minister Koizumi. Secretary of Homeland Security for Plans, Pro- grams, and Budgets. May 23 The President announced his intention to re- In the morning, the President had an intel- appoint the following individuals as members ligence briefing. of the Board of Directors of the Federal Na- The White House announced that the Presi- tional Mortgage Association: dent will welcome President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva of Brazil to the White House on June Victor Henderson Ashe; 20. Molly Hering Bordonaro; The President declared a major disaster in William Robert Harvey; Mississippi and ordered Federal aid to supple- Manuel J. Justiz; and ment State and local recovery efforts in the area Taylor C. Segue III. struck by severe storms, tornadoes, and high May 21 winds on May 5–8. In the morning, the President had intelligence May 24 and FBI briefings. Later, he traveled to New In the morning, the President had an intel- London, CT. ligence briefing. In the afternoon, the President returned to Washington, DC. May 25 Later in the afternoon, in the Oval Office, In the afternoon, the President returned to the President met with Finance Minister Salam Washington, DC. Fayyad of the Palestinian Authority to discuss peace efforts in the Middle East. Later, also May 26 in the Oval Office, he met with former Senator In the morning, the President had a telephone John Danforth, Special Envoy to the Sudan, and conversation with President Roh Moo-hyun of Secretary of State Colin L. Powell to discuss South Korea concerning their May 14 meeting the peace process in the Sudan. in the Oval Office, the situation in North Korea, The White House announced that the Presi- and President Bush’s meetings with Prime Min- dent will travel to Poland, Russia, and France ister Junichiro Koizumi of Japan at the Bush beginning May 30 to meet with foreign leaders Ranch in Crawford, TX, on May 22–23. He also and participate in the G–8 Summit in Evian- had a telephone conversation with Prime Min- les-Bains, France. ister Jean Chretien of Canada to discuss the The President announced his intention to ap- upcoming G–8 Summit, Canada-U.S. relations, point Louis Wade Sullivan (who, upon appoint- and other international issues. He then had an ment, will be designated Chair) and Eugene intelligence briefing. Hale as members of the President’s Board of Later in the morning, the President and Mrs. Advisors on Historically Black Colleges and Uni- Bush traveled to in Arlington, VA, where they versities. participated in a wreath laying ceremony at Ar- lington National Cemetery. In the afternoon, May 22 they returned to Washington, DC. In the morning, the President had an intel- During the day, the President had a telephone ligence briefing. conversation with President Jose Maria Aznar Later in the morning, the President traveled of Spain to offer condolences concerning the to the Bush Ranch in Crawford, TX. While en loss of Spanish soldiers on a military transport route aboard Air Force One, he had a telephone from Afghanistan that crashed in Turkey earlier conversation with President Jacques Chirac of in the day.

757 Appendix A / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

May 27 May 30 In the morning, the President had intelligence In the morning, the President and Mrs. Bush and FBI briefings. traveled to Krakow, Poland, arriving in the evening. May 28 The President announced his intention to In the morning, the President had intelligence nominate Paul S. Atkins to be a member of and FBI briefings and met with the National the Securities and Exchange Commission. Security Council. Later, he met with Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld. May 31 In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the In the morning, the President had an intelligence briefing. Later, at Wawel Royal Castle, President met with Karim Aga Khan IV, imam he met with President Aleksander Kwasniewski of the Ismaili Shia Muslims. of Poland. The White House announced that on June In the afternoon, at Wawel Royal Castle, the 2–5 the President will travel to Sharm el-Sheikh, President met with Prime Minister Leszek Egypt, to meet with Arab leaders; then to Miller of Poland. Aqaba, Jordan, to meet with King Abdullah II Later, the President and Mrs. Bush traveled of Jordan, Prime Minister Ariel Sharon of Israel, to St. Petersburg, Russia. and Prime Minister Mahmoud Abbas (Abu In the evening, at Peterhof Palace, the Presi- Mazen) of the Palestinian Authority; and then dent and Mrs. Bush had dinner and viewed to Doha, Qatar, to visit coalition and U.S. Cen- an outdoor ballet performance and fireworks tral Command personnel. show with President Vladimir Putin of Russia The White House announced that the Presi- and his wife, Lyudmila. dent will welcome Prime Minister Jose Manuel Durao Barroso of Portugal to the White House June 1 on June 6 for a meeting and working luncheon. In the morning, the President traveled to The President announced his designation of Evian-les-Bains, France, to attend the Group of the following individuals to represent the U.S. Eight (G–8) Summit at the Hotel Royal. at the second inauguration of President In the afternoon, upon his arrival, the Presi- Olusegun Obasanjo of Nigeria on May 29 in dent was greeted by President Jacques Chirac Abuja, Nigeria: of France. He then participated in a lunch, photo opportunities, and meetings with leaders Roderick R. Paige (delegation leader); from G–8 and non-G–8 countries and the New Carolyn C. Kilpatrick; Partnership for African Development (NEPAD). Jendayi Fraser; In the evening, the President met with Presi- W. Todd Bassett; and dent Hu Jintao of China to discuss the situation Howard Franklin Jeter. in North Korea, efforts to eradicate the SARS virus, and the war on terror. The President announced his intention to ap- Later in the evening, the President partici- point Scott Burns, Robert Fletcher, and Patrick pated in a photo opportunity with President W. Rose as U.S. Commissioners of the Inter- Olusegun Obasanjo of Nigeria, President American Tropical Tuna Commission. Abdoulaye Wade of Senegal, and President The President announced his intention to ap- Thabo Mbeki of South Africa. Then, he at- point Diana Balmori, Earl A. Powell III, and tended a NEPAD/African Action Plan dinner Elyn Zimmerman as members of the Commis- with other leaders. sion of Fine Arts. June 2 May 29 In the morning, the President had an intel- In the morning, the President had intelligence ligence briefing. Later, he participated in a and FBI briefings and met with the National working lunch and photo opportunities with G– Security Council. Later, he met with Secretary 8 leaders. of State Colin L. Powell. In the afternoon, the President traveled to In the evening, on the South Lawn, the Presi- Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, arriving in the evening. dent hosted the 35th reunion of the Yale Uni- The President announced his intention to versity Class of 1968. nominate Robert Lerner to be Commissioner

758 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Appendix A of Education Statistics, Department of Edu- the Utah Reclamation Mitigation and Conserva- cation. tion Commission: June 3 Brad T. Barber; In the morning, the President had an intel- Kevin K. Conway; ligence briefing. Later, at the Movenpick Con- Dallin W. Jensen; and ference Center, the President had bilateral Jody L. Williams. meetings with President Hosni Mubarak of Egypt. He also participated in multilateral meet- June 5 ings with President Mubarak, King Hamad bin In the morning, the President had an intel- Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain, King Abdullah II of ligence briefing. Also, at the Ritz-Carlton Doha Jordan, Crown Prince Abdullah of Saudi Arabia, Hotel, he met with Gen. Tommy R. Franks, and Prime Minister Mahmoud Abbas (Abu USA, combatant commander, U.S. Central Com- Mazen) of the Palestinian Authority. In the mand, and L. Paul Bremer III, Presidential afternoon, the leaders had a working lunch. Envoy to Iraq. Later in the afternoon, at the Four Seasons Later in the morning, the President traveled Resort, the President met with Crown Prince to Camp As Sayliyah near Doha. Abdullah of Saudi Arabia. In the evening, the President returned to In the evening, the President had dinner with Washington, DC. President Mubarak at President Mubarak’s resi- June 6 dence. In the morning, the President had a telephone The President announced his intention to conversation with Prime Minister Tony Blair of nominate Daniel J. Bryant to be Assistant Attor- the United Kingdom to discuss his trip to Eu- ney General (Legal Policy) and to designate him rope and the Middle East. He then had an as Acting Assistant Attorney General (Legal Pol- intelligence briefing. icy). Later in the morning, the President had a The President declared a major disaster in telephone conversation with Prime Minister Kentucky and ordered Federal aid to supple- Silvio Berlusconi of Italy to discuss his trip to ment State and local recovery efforts in the area Europe and the Middle East. struck by severe storms, flooding, mud and rock In the afternoon, the President went to Camp slides, and tornadoes on May 4–27. David, MD. June 4 The White House announced that the Presi- In the morning, the President had an intel- dent will welcome President Yoweri Kaguta ligence briefing. He also had a telephone con- Museveni of Uganda to the White House on versation with Deputy Prime Minister and Min- June 10. ister of Foreign Affairs Sabah al-Ahmad al-Jabir The White House announced that the Presi- Al Sabah of Kuwait to express his regret that dent will welcome Prime Minister Thaksin he could not visit Kuwait during his Middle Chinnawat of Thailand to Washington, DC, on East trip and his appreciation for Kuwait’s sup- June 10. port in efforts to liberate Iraq. The President announced his intention to Later in the morning, the President traveled nominate Paul S. DeGregorio and Deforest B. to Aqaba, Jordan, where he met with King Soaries, Jr., to be members of the Election As- Abdullah II of Jordan and later with Prime Min- sistance Commission. ister Ariel Sharon of Israel. The President declared a major disaster in In the afternoon, the President met with Arkansas and ordered Federal aid to supplement Prime Minister Mahmoud Abbas (Abu Mazen) State and local recovery efforts in the area of the Palestinian Authority. Later, the President struck by severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding had trilateral meetings with Prime Minister on May 2 and continuing. Sharon and Prime Minister Abbas. The President declared a major disaster in In the evening, the President traveled to American Samoa and ordered Federal aid to Doha, Qatar. supplement Territory and local recovery efforts The President announced his intention to ap- in the area struck by flooding and mudslides point the following individuals as members of on May 19–21.

759 Appendix A / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

June 7 In the evening, the President and Mrs. Bush In the morning, the President had an intel- hosted a dinner at the White House following ligence briefing. Mrs. Bush’s participation in the opening of the Anne Frank exhibit at the U.S. Holocaust Me- June 8 morial Museum in Washington, DC. In the afternoon, the President returned to The President announced his intention to Washington, DC. nominate Ann C. Rosenthal to be a member June 9 of the Board of Directors of the National Insti- In the morning, the President had a telephone tute of Building Sciences. conversation with President Jose Maria Aznar The President announced his intention to des- of Spain to discuss the situation in Iraq, Presi- ignate Christopher A. Wray as Acting Assistant dent Bush’s recent trip to Europe and the Mid- Attorney General, Criminal Division at the De- dle East, peace efforts in the Middle East, Iran’s partment of Justice. nuclear program, and Europe-U.S. relations. Later, he had intelligence and FBI briefings. June 12 In the afternoon, the President dropped by In the morning, the President had a brief a meeting between National Security Adviser meeting with Crown Prince Maha Condoleezza Rice and Deputy Prime Minister Vajiralongkorn of Thailand. Later, he traveled Lal Krishna Advani of India. Later, he met with to New Britain, CT, where he participated in Republican congressional leaders to discuss a roundtable discussion on Medicare reform pending appropriations bills. with senior citizens at New Britain General Hos- The White House announced that the Presi- pital. dent will host the annual U.S.-European Union In the afternoon, the President and Mrs. Bush Summit in Washington, DC, on June 25. traveled to the Bush family home on Walker’s Point in Kennebunkport, ME, for a weekend June 10 visit with his parents and family members. In the morning, the President had intelligence The White House announced that the Presi- and FBI briefings. Later, in the Oval Office, dent will travel to Thailand for a state visit and he met with Prime Minister Thaksin Chinnawat to attend the Asian Pacific Economic Coopera- of Thailand to discuss the war on terror, trade, tion Leaders’ Meeting in Bangkok on October and the upcoming Asia Pacific Economic Co- 20–21, and that he will also visit the Philippines operation meeting in Bangkok. during his trip. In the afternoon, the President and President The President announced his intention to Yoweri Kaguta Museveni of Uganda attended nominate Michael Young to be a member of a performance of the Watoto Children’s Choir the Federal Mine Safety and Health Review of Uganda in the Rose Garden. Commission. Later in the afternoon, the President met with The President announced his intention to Republican Members of Congress to discuss ap- nominate Pamela Jones Harbour to be a Com- propriations bills. Later, he met with Republican missioner of the the Federal Trade Commission. congressional leaders to discuss the congressional agenda. The President announced his intention to The President announced his intention to des- nominate Thomas J. Curry to be a member of ignate Richard N. Haass as Special Envoy of the Board of Directors of the Federal Deposit the President and the Secretary of State for Insurance Corporation. Northern Ireland. The President announced his intention to designate Stephen E. Benson as Acting Assistant June 11 Secretary of Veterans Affairs (Human Resources In the morning, the President had intelligence and Administration). and FBI briefings. Later, he traveled to Chicago, IL, where he participated in a roundtable dis- June 13 cussion on Medicare reform with doctors and In the morning, the President had an intel- senior citizens at the Chicago Hilton. ligence briefing. In the afternoon, the President returned to The President announced his intention to ap- Washington, DC. point Brig. Gen. David Franklin Wherley, Jr.,

760 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Appendix A as commanding general of the Militia of the on the Board of Directors of the Federal Hous- District of Columbia. ing Finance Board. The President announced his intention to appoint Col. Errol Ricardo Schwartz as adjutant June 19 general of the Militia of the District of Colum- In the morning, the President had intelligence bia. and FBI briefings. He then traveled to Fridley, MN. June 14 In the afternoon, the President met with In the morning, the President had an intel- small-business owners and employees at Micro ligence briefing. Control Co. Later, he returned to Washington, June 16 DC. In the morning, the President had an intel- The President announced his intention to ligence briefing. Later, he traveled to Orange, nominate Jackie Wolcott Sanders for the rank NJ, where he participated in a roundtable dis- of Ambassador during her tenure of service as cussion with small-business owners and employ- U.S. Representative to the Conference on Disar- ees and toured the production facility at Andrea mament and the Special Representative of the Foods. He then traveled to Elizabeth, NJ. President for Non-Proliferation of Nuclear In the afternoon, the President returned to Weapons. Washington, DC. June 20 June 17 In the morning, the President had a telephone In the morning, the President had intelligence conversation with President Jose Maria Aznar and FBI briefings. He then traveled to Annan- of Spain to discuss transatlantic and global dale, VA, where he participated in a roundtable issues. Later, he had an intelligence briefing and discussion on employment training at Northern met with the National Security Council. Virginia Community College. Later, he returned In the afternoon, the President had lunch to Washington, DC. with President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva of The President announced his selection of Wil- Brazil in the Old Family Dining Room. liam H. Leary as Chair of the Information Secu- Later in the afternoon, the President traveled rity Classification Appeals Panel. to Greensboro, GA. June 18 In the evening, the President returned to In the morning, the President had a breakfast Washington, DC. meeting with Speaker of the House of Rep- The White House announced that the Presi- resentatives J. Dennis Hastert, House Majority dent will welcome President Mireya Moscoso Leader Tom DeLay, House Minority Leader of Panama to the White House for a meeting Nancy Pelosi, Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist, on June 26. and Senate Minority Leader Tom Daschle to The White House announced that the Presi- discuss pending legislation and the President’s dent will travel to Africa, visiting Senegal, South recent trip to Europe and the Middle East. He Africa, Botswana, Uganda, and Nigeria on July then had intelligence and FBI briefings and met 7–12. with the National Security Council. The President announced his intention to Later in the morning, in the Roosevelt Room, nominate Rene Acosta to be Assistant Attorney the President participated in a roundtable dis- General, Civil Rights Division, at the Depart- cussion with representatives of Prison Fellow- ment of Justice. ship Ministries. In the afternoon, the President had lunch June 21 with Vice President Dick Cheney. In the morning, the President had an intel- The White House announced that the Presi- ligence briefing. dent will welcome Prime Minister Vladimir The President declared a major disaster in Spidla of the Czech Republic to the White West Virginia and ordered Federal aid to sup- House on July 15. plement State and local recovery efforts in the The President announced his intention to area struck by severe storms, flooding, and land- nominate Alicia R. Castaneda to be a Director slides on June 11 and continuing.

761 Appendix A / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

June 22 The President announced his intention to In the afternoon, the President and Mrs. Bush nominate Rixio Enrique Medina to be a mem- attended a tee-ball game on the South Lawn. ber of the Chemical Safety and Hazard Inves- tigation Board.

June 23 In the morning, the President had intelligence June 26 and FBI briefings. In the morning, the President had intelligence In the afternoon, the President traveled to and FBI briefings. Later, in the Indian Treaty New York City. Room of the Eisenhower Executive Office In the evening, the President traveled to Building, he participated in the swearing-in Camp David, MD. ceremony for Clay Johnson III as Deputy Direc- tor for Management at the Office of Manage- ment and Budget. June 24 Later in the morning, in the Oval Office, the In the morning, the President had an intel- President met with President Mireya Elisa ligence briefing. Moscoso of Panama to discuss trade and other In the afternoon, the President and Mrs. Bush issues. had lunch with President Pervez Musharraf of In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the Pakistan and his wife, Sehba Musharraf. President met with Prime Minister Anerood Later in the afternoon, the President and Mrs. Jugnauth of Mauritius to discuss trade. The President announced his intention to Bush returned to Washington, DC. nominate Scott J. Bloch to be Special Counsel, The President announced his intention to Office of Special Counsel. nominate Jeffrey A. Marcus to be Ambassador to Belgium. The President announced his intention to June 27 nominate Deborah Ann Spagnoli to be a Com- In the morning, the President had an intel- missioner of the U.S. Parole Commission. ligence briefing. Later, in the Oval Office, he met with Federal Trade Commission Chairman Timothy J. Muris and Federal Communications June 25 Commission Chairman Michael Powell to dis- In the morning, the President had intelligence cuss the newly created national Do-Not-Call and FBI briefings. Registry. Later in the morning, in the Oval Office, the Later in the morning, the President traveled President met with Prime Minister Konstandinos to San Francisco, CA, and in the afternoon, Simitis of Greece, in his capacity as President he traveled to Los Angeles, CA. of the European Council, and Romano Prodi, In the evening, the President traveled to the President of the European Commission. The Bush Ranch in Crawford, TX. leaders then met in the Cabinet Room with The President announced his intention to ap- other officials. point Harriet Miers as White House Deputy In the afternoon, the President had lunch Chief of Staff. with European Union leaders. Later in the afternoon, the President met with Republican Members of Congress to discuss June 28 proposed Medicare legislation. He then met with Secretary of State Colin L. Powell. In the morning, the President had an intel- The White House announced that the Presi- ligence briefing. dent will welcome Prime Minister Anerood Jugnauth of Mauritius to the White House on June 26. June 30 The President announced his intention to In the morning, the President had an intel- nominate Julie L. Myers to be an Assistant Sec- ligence briefing. Later, he traveled to Miami, retary of Commerce (Export Enforcement). FL.

762 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Appendix A

In the afternoon, the President traveled to the Committee for Purchase From People Who Tampa, FL. Are Blind or Severely Disabled: In the evening, the President returned to Frederick Beaman; Washington, DC. Steven Bernett; The President announced his intention to ap- Robert Kelly; and point the following individuals as members of Felipe Mendoza.

763 Appendix B—Nominations Submitted to the Senate

The following list does not include promotions Priscilla Richman Owen, of members of the Uniformed Services, nomina- of Texas, to be U.S. Circuit Judge for the Fifth tions to the Service Academies, or nominations Circuit, vice William L. Garwood, retired. of Foreign Service officers. Charles W. Pickering, Sr., Submitted January 7 of Mississippi, to be U.S. Circuit Judge for the Fifth Circuit, vice Henry A. Politz, retired. Thomas J. Ridge, of Pennsylvania, to be Secretary of Homeland John G. Roberts, Jr., Security (new position). of Maryland, to be U.S. Circuit Judge for the District of Columbia Circuit, vice James L. Gordon England, Buckley, retired. of Texas, to be Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security (new position). Henry W. Saad, of Michigan, to be U.S. Circuit Judge for the Terrence W. Boyle, Sixth Circuit, vice James L. Ryan, retired. of North Carolina, to be U.S. Circuit Judge for the Fourth Circuit, vice J. Dickson Phillips, Jr., Jeffrey S. Sutton, retired. of Ohio, to be U.S. Circuit Judge for the Sixth Circuit, vice David A. Nelson, retired. Jay S. Bybee, of Nevada, to be U.S. Circuit Judge for the Timothy M. Tymkovich, Ninth Circuit, vice Procter R. Hug, Jr., retired. of Colorado, to be U.S. Circuit Judge for the Tenth Circuit, vice John C. Porfilio, retired. Deborah L. Cook, of Ohio, to be U.S. Circuit Judge for the Sixth John R. Adams, Circuit, vice Alan E. Norris, retired. of Ohio, to be U.S. District Judge for the North- ern District of Ohio, vice George Washington Miguel A. Estrada, White, retired. of Virginia, to be U.S. Circuit Judge for the District of Columbia Circuit, vice Patricia M. J. Daniel Breen, Wald, retired. of Tennessee, to be U.S. District Judge for the Western District of Tennessee, vice Julia Smith Richard A. Griffin, Gibbons, elevated. of Michigan, to be U.S. Circuit Judge for the Sixth Circuit, vice Damon J. Keith, retired. Cormac J. Carney, of California, to be U.S. District Judge for the Carolyn B. Kuhl, Central District of California, vice Carlos R. of California, to be U.S. Circuit Judge for the Moreno, resigned. Ninth Circuit, vice James R. Browning, retired. James C. Dever III, David W. McKeague, of North Carolina, to be U.S. District Judge of Michigan, to be U.S. Circuit Judge for the for the Eastern District of North Carolina, vice Sixth Circuit, vice Richard F. Suhrheinrich, re- W. Earl Britt, retired. tired. Ralph R. Erickson, Susan Bieke Neilson, of North Dakota, to be U.S. District Judge for of Michigan, to be U.S. Circuit Judge for the the District of North Dakota, vice Rodney S. Sixth Circuit, vice Cornelia G. Kennedy, retired. Webb, retired.

765 Appendix B / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Sandra J. Feuerstein, Timothy C. Stanceu, of New York, to be U.S. District Judge for the of Virginia, to be a Judge of the U.S. Court Eastern District of New York, vice Thomas C. of International Trade, vice Richard W. Gold- Platt, Jr., retired. berg, retired. Gregory L. Frost, Susan G. Braden, of Ohio, to be U.S. District Judge for the South- of the District of Columbia, to be a Judge of ern District of Ohio, vice George C. Smith, re- the U.S. Court of Federal Claims for a term tired. of 15 years, vice Roger B. Andewelt, deceased. Marian Blank Horn, S. Maurice Hicks, Jr., of Maryland, to be a Judge of the U.S. Court of Louisiana, to be U.S. District Judge for the of Federal Claims for a term of 15 years (re- Western District of Louisiana, vice Donald E. appointment). Walter, retired. Charles F. Lettow, Richard J. Holwell, of Virginia, to be a Judge of the U.S. Court of New York, to be U.S. District Judge for the of Federal Claims for a term of 15 years, vice Southern District of New York, vice Barrington John Paul Wiese, term expired. D. Parker, Jr., elevated. Mary Ellen Coster Williams, Robert A. Junell, of Maryland, to be a Judge of the U.S. Court of Texas, to be U.S. District Judge for the West- of Federal Claims for a term of 15 years, vice ern District of Texas, vice Hipolito Frank Gar- Sarah L. Wilson. cia, deceased. Victor J. Wolski, Thomas L. Ludington, of Virginia, to be a Judge of the U.S. Court of Michigan, to be U.S. District Judge for the of Federal Claims for a term of 15 years, vice Eastern District of Michigan, vice Paul V. Bohdan A. Futey, term expired. Gadola, retired. Glen L. Bower, of Illinois, to be a Judge of the U.S. Tax Court S. James Otero, for a term of 15 years after he takes office, of California, to be U.S. District Judge for the vice Carolyn Miller Parr, term expired. Central District of California, vice Richard A. Paez, elevated. Bruce E. Kasold, of Virginia, to be a Judge of the U.S. Court William D. Quarles, Jr., of Appeals for Veterans Claims for the term of Maryland, to be U.S. District Judge for the prescribed by law (new position). District of Maryland, vice William M. Nickerson, retired. Alan G. Lance, Sr., of Idaho, to be a Judge of the U.S. Court of Frederick W. Rohlfing III, Appeals for Veterans Claims for the term pre- of Hawaii, to be U.S. District Judge for the scribed by law, vice Frank Quill Nebeker, re- District of Hawaii, vice Alan C. Kay, retired. signed. Thomas A. Varlan, Fern Flanagan Saddler, of Tennessee, to be U.S. District Judge for the of the District of Columbia, to be an Associate Eastern District of Tennessee, vice Robert Leon Judge of the Superior Court of the District of Columbia for the term of 15 years, vice Patricia Jordan, retired. A. Wynn, retired. William H. Steele, Submitted January 9 of Alabama, to be U.S. District Judge for the Southern District of Alabama, vice Richard W. Cynthia Costa, Vollmer, Jr., retired. of South Carolina, to be an Alternate Represent- ative of the United States of America to the

766 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Appendix B

Fifty-seventh Session of the General Assembly John W. Nicholson, of the United Nations. of Virginia, to be Under Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Memorial Affairs, vice Robin L. Hig- Terrence A. Duffy, gins, resigned. of Illinois, to be a member of the Federal Re- tirement Thrift Investment Board for a term Alfred Plamann, expiring October 11, 2003, vice Scott B. Lukins, of California, to be a member of the Board term expired. of Directors of the National Consumer Coopera- tive Bank for a term of 3 years, vice Harry Terrence A. Duffy, J. Bowie, term expired. of Illinois, to be a member of the Federal Re- tirement Thrift Investment Board for a term Claudia Puig, expiring October 11, 2007 (reappointment). of Florida, to be a member of the Board of Directors of the Corporation for Public Broad- Michael B. Enzi, casting for the remainder of the term expiring of Wyoming, to be a Representative of the January 31, 2006, vice Kenneth Y. Tomlinson. United States of America to the Fifty-seventh Session of the General Assembly of the United Mark V. Rosenker, Nations. of Maryland, to be a member of the National Transportation Safety Board for the remainder Dana Gioia, of the term expiring December 31, 2005, vice of California, to be Chairperson of the National Marion Blakey, resigned. Endowment for the Arts for a term of 4 years, vice Michael Hammond. Paul Sarbanes, of Maryland, to be a Representative of the Thomas Waters Grant, United States of America to the Fifty-seventh of New York, to be a Director of the Securities Session of the General Assembly of the United Investor Protection Corporation for a term ex- Nations. piring December 31, 2005, vice Charles L. Marinaccio, term expired. James Shinn, of New Jersey, to be a Representative of the Christopher Ryan Henry, United States of America to the Fifty-seventh of Virginia, to be Deputy Under Secretary of Session of the General Assembly of the United Defense for Policy, vice Stephen A. Cambone, Nations. resigned. Florentino Subia, Noe Hinojosa, Jr., of Texas, to be a member of the Board of Direc- of Texas, to be a Director of the Securities tors of the Legal Services Corporation for a Investor Protection Corporation for a term ex- term expiring July 13, 2004, vice Edna Fair- piring December 31, 2003, vice Marianne C. banks-Williams, term expired. Spraggins, term expired. William Robert Timken, Jr., Noe Hinojosa, Jr., of Ohio, to be a Director of the Securities Inves- of Texas, to be a Director of the Securities tor Protection Corporation for a term expiring Investor Protection Corporation for a term ex- December 31, 2003, vice James Clifford Hud- piring December 31, 2006 (reappointment). son, term expired. Ralph Martinez, William Robert Timken, Jr., of Florida, to be an Alternate Representative of Ohio, to be a Director of the Securities Inves- of the United States of America to the Fifty- tor Protection Corporation for a term expiring seventh Session of the General Assembly of the December 31, 2006 (reappointment). United Nations. Claude A. Allen, Paul McHale, Deputy Secretary of Health and Human Serv- of Pennsylvania, to be an Assistant Secretary ices, to be a member of the Board of Directors of Defense (new position). of the African Development Foundation for a

767 Appendix B / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 term expiring September 22, 2003, vice John Albert Casey, F. Hicks, Sr., term expired. of Texas, to be a Governor of the U.S. Postal Service for a term expiring December 8, 2009, Barry C. Barish, vice Tirso del Junco, term expired. of California, to be a member of the National Science Board, National Science Foundation, for Celeste Colgan, a term expiring May 10, 2008, vice Eamon M. of Texas, to be a member of the National Coun- Kelly, term expired. cil on the Humanities for a term expiring Janu- ary 26, 2008, vice Jon N. Moline, term expired. Steven C. Beering, of Indiana, to be a member of the National Harlon Eugene Costner, Science Board, National Science Foundation, for of North Carolina, to be U.S. Marshal for the the remainder of the term expiring May 10, Middle District of North Carolina, for the term 2004, vice Chang-Lin Tien, resigned. of 4 years, vice Becky Jane Wallace. Lillian R. BeVier, Harold Damelin, of Virginia, to be a member of the Board of of Virginia, to be Inspector General, Small Busi- Directors of the Legal Services Corporation for ness Administration, vice Phyllis K. Fong. a term expiring July 13, 2004, vice Hulett Hall Askew, term expired. Robert J. Dieter, of Colorado, to be a member of the Board of Robert Boldrey, Directors of the Legal Services Corporation for of Michigan, to be a member of the Board of a term expiring July 13, 2005, vice F. William Trustees of the Morris K. Udall Scholarship and McCalpin, term expired. Excellence in National Environmental Policy Foundation for a term expiring May 26, 2007, Thomas C. Dorr, vice Judith M. Espinosa, term expired. of Iowa, to be Under Secretary of Agriculture for Rural Development, vice Jill L. Long, re- Malcolm B. Bowekaty, signed. of New Mexico, to be a member of the Board of Trustees of the Morris K. Udall Scholarship Thomas C. Dorr, and Excellence in National Environmental Pol- of Iowa, to be a member of the Board of Direc- icy Foundation for a term expiring October 6, tors of the Commodity Credit Corporation, vice 2006, vice Bill Anoatubby, term expired. Jill L. Long, resigned. Ray M. Bowen, Naomi Churchill Earp, of Texas, to be a member of the National of Virginia, to be a member of the Equal Em- Science Board, National Science Foundation, for ployment Opportunity Commission for a term a term expiring May 10, 2008, vice Vera C. expiring July 1, 2005, vice Reginald Earl Jones, Rubin, term expired. term expired. Jewel Spears Brooker, Peter Eide, of Florida, to be a member of the National of Maryland, to be General Counsel of the Fed- Council on the Humanities for a term expiring eral Labor Relations Authority Board for a term January 26, 2008, vice Peggy Whitman of 5 years, vice Joseph Swerdzewski, resigned. Prenshaw, term expired. Blanca E. Enriquez, Dale Cabaniss, of Texas, to be a member of the National Insti- of Virginia, to be a member of the Federal tute for Literacy Advisory Board for a term of Labor Relations Authority for a term of 5 years 3 years (new position). expiring July 29, 2007 (reappointment). Delores M. Etter, Douglas Carnine, of Maryland, to be a member of the National of Oregon, to be a member of the National Science Board, National Science Foundation, for Institute for Literacy Advisory Board for a term a term expiring May 10, 2008, vice John A. of 3 years (new position). Armstrong, term expired.

768 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Appendix B

Dario Fernandez-Morera, Grant S. Green, Jr., of Illinois, to be a member of the National of Virginia, to be Deputy Secretary of State Council on the Humanities for a term expiring for Management and Resources (new position). January 26, 2008, vice Susan E. Trees, term expired. Herbert Guenther, of Arizona, to be a member of the Board of Kenneth M. Ford, Trustees of the Morris K. Udall Scholarship and of Florida, to be a member of the National Excellence in National Environmental Policy Science Board, National Science Foundation, for Foundation for a term of 2 years (new position). a term expiring May 10, 2008, vice M.R.C. Cheryl Feldman Halpern, Greenwood, term expired. of New Jersey, to be a member of the Board Jose A. Fourquet, of Directors of the Corporation for Public of New Jersey, to be a member of the Board Broadcasting for a term expiring January 31, of Directors of the Inter-American Foundation 2008, vice Heidi H. Schulman, term expired. for a term expiring September 20, 2004, vice Mark Moki Hanohano, Mark L. Schneider, term expired. of Hawaii, to be U.S. Marshal for the District Elizabeth Fox-Genovese, of Hawaii for the term of 4 years, vice Howard of Georgia, to be a member of the National Hikaru Tagomori. Council on the Humanities for a term expiring Daniel E. Hastings, January 26, 2008, vice Lorraine Weiss Frank, of Massachusetts, to be a member of the Na- term expired. tional Science Board, National Science Founda- Feliciano Foyo, tion, for a term expiring May 10, 2008, vice of Florida, to be a member of the Advisory Bob H. Suzuki, term expired. Board for Cuba Broadcasting for a term expiring Richard F. Healing, August 12, 2004, vice Jorge L. Mas. of Virginia, to be a member of the National Adolfo A. Franco, Transportation Safety Board for a term expiring of Virginia, to be a member of the Board of December 31, 2006, vice George W. Black, Jr., Directors of the Inter-American Foundation for term expired. a term expiring September 20, 2008, vice Jeffrey David Hertz, Davidow, resigned. of Indiana, to be a member of the National Council on the Humanities for a term expiring Emil H. Frankel, January 26, 2006, vice Henry Glassie. of Connecticut, to be an Assistant Secretary of Transportation, vice Eugene A. Conti, Jr., re- Elizabeth Hoffman, signed. of Colorado, to be a member of the National Science Board, National Science Foundation, for Thomas A. Fuentes, a term expiring May 10, 2008, vice Stanley Vin- of California, to be a member of the Board cent Jaskolski, term expired. of Directors of the Legal Services Corporation for a term expiring July 13, 2005, vice Thomas Phyllis C. Hunter, F. Smegal, Jr., term expired. of Texas, to be a member of the National Insti- tute for Literacy Advisory Board for a term of Humberto S. Garcia, 2 years (new position). of Puerto Rico, to be U.S. Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico for the term of 4 years, Thomas Dyson Hurlburt, Jr., vice Daniel F. Lopez Romo, resigned. of Florida, to be U.S. Marshal for the Middle District of Florida for the term of 4 years, vice William Preston Graves, Don R. Moreland, term expired. of Kansas, to be a member of the Board of Trustees of the Harry S. Truman Scholarship Jeremy H.G. Ibrahim, Foundation for the remainder of the term expir- of Pennsylvania, to be a member of the Foreign ing December 10, 2005, vice Mel Carnahan. Claims Settlement Commission of the United

769 Appendix B / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

States for the term expiring September 30, 2005, Stephen McKnight, vice Richard Thomas White, term expired. of Florida, to be a member of the National Council on the Humanities for a term expiring Rickey Dale James, January 26, 2006, vice Isabel Carter Stewart. of Missouri, to be a member of the Mississippi River Commission for a term of 9 years (re- Sidney McPhee, appointment). of Tennessee, to be a member of the National Council on the Humanities for a term expiring Walter H. Kansteiner, January 26, 2008, vice Margaret P. Duckett, Assistant Secretary of State (African Affairs), to term expired. be a member of the Board of Directors of the African Development Foundation for a term ex- Neil McPhie, piring September 27, 2003, vice George Edward of Virginia, to be a member of the Merit Sys- tems Protection Board for the term of 7 years Moose, term expired. expiring March 1, 2009, vice Beth Susan Slavet, Joseph Timothy Kelliher, term expired. of the District of Columbia, to be a member James C. Miller III, of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission of Virginia, to be a Governor of the U.S. Postal for the term expiring June 30, 2007, vice Linda Service for the term expiring December 8, 2010, Key Breathitt, term expired. vice Einar V. Dyhrkopp, term expired. Charlotte A. Lane, Cranston J. Mitchell, of West Virginia, to be a member of the U.S. of Missouri, to be a Commissioner of the U.S. International Trade Commission for a term ex- Parole Commission for a term of 6 years, vice piring December 16, 2009, vice Dennis M. Timothy Earl Jones, Sr. Devaney. Richard Narcia, Terry L. Maple, of Arizona, to be a member of the Board of of Georgia, to be a member of the National Trustees of the Morris K. Udall Scholarship and Museum Services Board for a term expiring De- Excellence in National Environmental Policy cember 6, 2005, vice Townsend Wolfe, term Foundation for a term expiring August 25, 2006, expired. vice Norma Gilbert Udall, term expired. Susanne T. Marshall, Roger Francisco Noriega, of Virginia, to be Chairman of the Merit Sys- of Kansas, to be a member of the Board of tems Protection Board, vice Beth Susan Slavet. Directors of the Inter-American Foundation for a term expiring September 20, 2006, vice Har- R. Bruce Matthews, riett C. Babbitt, term expired. of New Mexico, to be a member of the Defense Lawrence Okamura, Nuclear Facilities Safety Board for a term expir- of Missouri, to be a member of the National ing October 18, 2005, vice Joseph DiNunno, Council on the Humanities for a term expiring resigned. January 26, 2008, vice Doris B. Holleb, term Patrick Lloyd McCrory, expired. of North Carolina, to be a member of the Board Daniel Pearson, of Trustees of the Harry S. Truman Scholarship of Minnesota, to be a member of the U.S. Inter- Foundation for a term expiring December 10, national Trade Commission for the term expir- 2005, vice Richard C. Hackett, term expired. ing June 16, 2011, vice Lynn M. Bragg, term expired. Michael McKay, of Washington, to be a member of the Board Christina Pharo, of Directors of the Legal Services Corporation of Florida, to be U.S. Marshal for the Southern for a term expiring July 13, 2004, vice Nancy District of Florida for the term of 4 years, vice Hardin Rogers, term expired. James A. Tassone.

770 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Appendix B

Rear Adm. Nicholas Augustus Prahl, tember 14, 2006, vice Carol W. Kinsley, term National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administra- expired. tion, to be a member of the Mississippi River Commission. Dennis L. Schornack, of Michigan, to be Commissioner on the part Elizabeth J. Pruet, of the United States on the International Joint of Arkansas, to be a member of the National Commission, United States and Canada, vice Museum Services Board for a term expiring De- Thomas L. Baldini. cember 6, 2004, vice David A. Ucko, term expired. Jeffrey Shane, of the District of Columbia, to be Associate W. Scott Railton, Deputy Secretary of Transportation, vice Ste- of Virginia, to be a member of the Occupational phen D. Van Beek, resigned. Safety and Health Review Commission for a term expiring April 27, 2007, vice Gary L. Linda M. Springer, Visscher, term expired. of Pennsylvania, to be Controller, Office of Fed- eral Financial Management, Office of Manage- Douglas D. Randall, ment and Budget, vice Mark W. Everson. of Missouri, to be a member of the National Science Board, National Science Foundation, for Frank B. Strickland, a term expiring May 10, 2008, vice Richard A. of Georgia, to be a member of the Board of Tapia, term expired. Directors of the Legal Services Corporation for a term expiring July 13, 2004, vice John N. Edward F. Reilly, Erlenborn, term expired. of Kansas, to be a Commissioner of the U.S. Parole Commission for a term of 6 years (re- Stanley C. Suboleski, appointment). of Virginia, to be a member of the Federal Mine Safety and Health Review Commission for Gerald Reynolds, a term of 6 years expiring August 30, 2006, of Missouri, to be Assistant Secretary for Civil vice Marc Lincoln Marks, term expired. Rights, Department of Education, vice Norma V. Cantu, resigned. Marguerite Sullivan, of the District of Columbia, to be a member Edwin Joseph Rigaud, of the National Council on the Humanities for of Ohio, to be a member of the National Mu- a term expiring January 26, 2008, vice Susan seum Services Board for a term expiring De- Ford Wiltshire, term expired. cember 6, 2007, vice Arthur Rosenblatt, term expired. Stephan Thernstrom, of Massachusetts, to be a member of the Na- David B. Rivkin, Jr., tional Council on the Humanities for a term of Virginia, to be a member of the Foreign expiring January 26, 2008, vice Arthur I. Claims Settlement Commission of the United Blaustein, term expired. States for the term expiring September 30, 2004, vice Laramie Faith McNamara. Michael E. Toner, of the District of Columbia, to be a member Harry Robinson, Jr., of the Federal Election Commission for a term of Texas, to be a member of the National Mu- expiring April 30, 2007, vice Darryl R. Wold, seum Services Board for a term expiring De- term expired. cember 6, 2003, vice Alberta Sebolt George, term expired. Bradley Udall, of Colorado, to be a member of the Board of William A. Schambra, Trustees of the Morris K. Udall Scholarship and of Virginia, to be a member of the Board of Excellence in National Environmental Policy Directors of the Corporation for National and Foundation for a term expiring October 6, 2006, Community Service for a term expiring Sep- vice Matt James, term expired.

771 Appendix B / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Jo Anne Vasquez, Submitted January 14 of Arizona, to be a member of the National Science Board, National Science Foundation, for Earl Cruz Aguigui, a term expiring May 10, 2008, vice Mary K. of Guam, to be U.S. Marshal for the District Gaillard, term expired. of Guam and concurrently U.S. Marshal for the District of the Northern Mariana Islands for the Juanita Alicia Vasquez-Gardner, term of 4 years, vice Joaquin L.G. Salas, term of Texas, to be a member of the Board of Trust- expired. ees of the Harry S. Truman Scholarship Founda- tion for a term expiring December 10, 2003, Eugene James Corcoran, vice Steven L. Zinter, term expired. of New York, to be U.S. Marshal for the Eastern District of New York for the term of 4 years, Raymond T. Wagner, Jr., vice Daniel C. Byrne, term expired. of Missouri, to be a member of the Internal Revenue Service Oversight Board for the re- Allen Garber, mainder of the term expiring September 14, of Minnesota, to be U.S. Marshal for the Dis- 2004, vice George L. Farr. trict of Minnesota for the term of 4 years, vice Charles Lester Zacharias, term expired. Ellen L. Weintraub, of Maryland, to be a member of the Federal Vernon Bernard Parker, Election Commission for a term expiring April of Arizona, to be an Assistant Secretary of Agri- 30, 2007, vice Karl J. Sandstrom, term expired, culture (new position). to which position she was appointed during the last recess of the Senate. Submitted January 15 Donna N. Williams, Cecilia M. Altonaga, of Texas, to be a member of the Board of Direc- of Florida, to be U.S. District Judge for the tors of the Corporation for National and Com- Southern District of Florida, vice Shelby munity Service for a term expiring October 6, Highsmith, retired. 2006, vice Robert B. Rogers, term expired. Dee D. Drell, Dennis Arthur Williamson, of Louisiana, to be U.S. District Judge for the of Florida, to be U.S. Marshal for the Northern Western District of Louisiana, vice F.A. Little, District of Florida for the term of 4 years, vice Jr., retired. James W. Lockley, term expired. Joseph Robert Goeke, Richard Zenos Winget, of Illinois, to be a Judge of the U.S. Tax Court of Nevada, to be U.S. Marshal for the District for a term of 15 years after he takes office, of Nevada, for the term of 4 years, vice Jose vice Herbert L. Chabot. Gerardo Troncoso. Patricia Head Minaldi, Submitted January 10 of Louisiana, to be U.S. District Judge for the Clark Kent Ervin, Western District of Louisiana, vice James T. of Texas, to be Inspector General, Department Trimble, Jr., retired. of Homeland Security (new position). Robert A. Sturgell, Asa Hutchinson, of Maryland, to be Deputy Administrator of the of Arkansas, to be Under Secretary for Border Federal Aviation Administration, vice Linda Hall and Transportation Security, Department of Daschle. Homeland Security (new position). Submitted January 16 Submitted January 13 Ricardo H. Hinojosa, John W. Snow, of Texas, to be a member of the U.S. Sen- of Virginia, to be Secretary of the Treasury, tencing Commission for a term expiring October vice Paul Henry O’Neill, resigned. 31, 2007, vice Joe Kendall, term expired.

772 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Appendix B

Michael E. Horowitz, Michael Schwartz, of Maryland, to be a member of the U.S. Sen- of Illinois, to be a member of the Railroad Re- tencing Commission for a term expiring October tirement Board for a term expiring August 28, 31, 2007, vice Sterling Johnson, Jr., term ex- 2007, vice Cherryl T. Thomas, term expired. pired. Submitted January 22 Submitted January 21 Mark W. Everson, Jerry Stewart Byrd, of Texas, to be Commissioner of Internal Rev- of the District of Columbia, to be an Associate enue for a term of 5 years, vice Charles Rossotti, Judge of the Superior Court of the District of term expired. Columbia for the term of 15 years (new position). John Paul Woodley, Jr., of Virginia, to be an Assistant Secretary of the Sharon Falkenheimer, Army, vice Michael Parker. of Texas, to be a member of the Board of Re- gents of the Uniformed Services University of Submitted January 28 the Health Sciences for a term expiring June William H. Donaldson, 20, 2007, vice Lonnie R. Bristow, term expired. of New York, to be a member of the Securities Janet Hale, and Exchange Commission for the remainder of Virginia, to be Under Secretary for Manage- of the term expiring June 5, 2007, vice Harvey ment, Department of Homeland Security (new Pitt, resigned. position). Clay Johnson III, Karen Johnson, of Texas, to be Deputy Director for Manage- of Virginia, to be Assistant Secretary for Legisla- ment, Office of Management and Budget, vice tion and Congressional Affairs, Department of Mark W. Everson. Education, vice Rebecca O. Campoverde. Claudia Puig, Judith Nan Macaluso, of Florida, to be a member of the Board of of the District of Columbia, to be an Associate Directors of the Corporation for Public Broad- Judge of the Superior Court of the District of casting for a term expiring January 31, 2008, Columbia for the term of 15 years (new posi- vice Winter D. Horton, Jr., term expired. tion). Leonardo M. Rapadas, Lawrence Mohr, Jr., of Guam, to be U.S. Attorney for the District of South Carolina, to be a member of the Board of Guam and concurrently U.S. Attorney for of Regents of the Uniformed Services University the District of the Northern Mariana Islands of the Health Sciences for a term expiring June for the term of 4 years, vice K. William O’Con- 20, 2003, vice John E. Connolly, term expired. nor, resigned. Lawrence Mohr, Jr., Withdrawn January 28 of South Carolina, to be a member of the Board Claudia Puig, of Regents of the Uniformed Services University of Florida, to be a member of the Board of of the Health Sciences for a term expiring June Directors of the Corporation for Public Broad- 20, 2009 (reappointment). casting for the remainder of the term expiring Joseph Michael Francis Ryan III, January 31, 2006, vice Kenneth Y. Tomlinson, of the District of Columbia, to be an Associate which was sent to the Senate on January 9, Judge of the Superior Court of the District of 2003. Columbia for the term of 15 years (new position).

773 Appendix B / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Submitted January 29 of the United States of America to the Islamic Republic of Mauritania. Richard D. Bennett, of Maryland, to be U.S. District Judge for the Richard W. Moore, District of Maryland, vice Frederic N. Smalkin, of Alabama, to be Inspector General, Tennessee retired. Valley Authority (new position). Louise W. Flanagan, Ross Owen Swimmer, of North Carolina, to be U.S. District Judge of Oklahoma, to be Special Trustee, Office of for the Eastern District of North Carolina, vice Special Trustee for American Indians, Depart- James C. Fox, retired. ment of the Interior, vice Thomas N. Slonaker, resigned. J. Leon Holmes, of Arkansas, to be U.S. District Judge for the Mary Costa, Eastern District of Arkansas, vice Stephen M. of Tennessee, to be a member of the National Reasoner, retired. Council on the Arts for a term expiring Sep- tember 3, 2006, vice Luis Valdez, term expired. James V. Selna, of California, to be U.S. District Judge for the Makoto Fujimura, Central District of California, vice J. Spencer of New York, to be a member of the National Letts, retired. Council on the Arts for a term expiring Sep- Philip P. Simon, tember 3, 2008, vice Marsha Mason, term ex- of Indiana, to be U.S. District Judge for the pired. Northern District of Indiana, vice William C. Jerry Pinkney, Lee, retired. of New York, to be a member of the National Theresa Lazar Springmann, Council on the Arts for a term expiring Sep- of Indiana, to be U.S. District Judge for the tember 3, 2008, vice Joy Harjo, term expired. Northern District of Indiana, vice James T. Karen Lias Wolff, Moody, retired. of Michigan, to be a member of the National Submitted February 4 Council on the Arts for a term expiring Sep- tember 3, 2008, vice Joan Specter, term expired. Linton F. Brooks, of Virginia, to be Under Secretary for Nuclear Submitted February 6 Security, Department of Energy, vice Gen. John A. Gordon, USAF, resigned. Edward C. Prado, of Texas, to be U.S. Circuit Judge for the Fifth Stephen A. Cambone, Circuit, vice Robert M. Parker, retired. of Virginia, to be Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence (new position). Robert Allen Wherry, Jr., of Colorado, to be a Judge for the U.S. Tax Eric S. Dreiband, Court for a term of 15 years, vice Laurence of Virginia, to be General Counsel of the Equal J. Whalen, term expired. Employment Opportunity Commission for a term of 4 years, vice Clifford Gregory Stewart. Submitted February 11 Peter Joseph Elliott, Lino Gutierrez, of Ohio, to be U.S. Marshal for the Northern of Florida, a career member of the Senior For- District of Ohio for the term of 4 years, vice eign Service, class of Minister-Counselor, to be David William Troutman. Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to Argentina. Joseph LeBaron, of Oregon, a career member of the Senior For- Reno L. Harnish, eign Service, class of Minister-Counselor, to be of California, a career member of the Senior Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Foreign Service, class of Minister-Counselor, to

774 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Appendix B be Ambassador Extraordinary and Pleni- Steven M. Colloton, potentiary of the United States of America to of Iowa, to be U.S. Circuit Judge for the Eighth the Republic of Azerbaijan. Circuit, vice David R. Hansen, retired. Jeffrey Lunstead, Harry A. Haines, of the District of Columbia, a career member of Montana, to be a Judge of the U.S. Tax of the Senior Foreign Service, class of Minister- Court for a term of 15 years, vice Renato Beghe, Counselor, to be Ambassador Extraordinary and retiring. Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Submitted February 14 Lanka, and to serve concurrently and without Ellen G. Engleman, additional compensation as Ambassador Extraor- of Indiana, to be a member of the National dinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States Transportation Safety Board for a term expire of America to the Republic of Maldives. on December 31, 2007, vice John Arthur Ham- merschmidt, term expired. Jeffrey Shane, of the District of Columbia, to be Under Sec- Ellen G. Engleman, retary of Transportation for Policy (new posi- of Indiana, to be Chairman of the National tion). Transportation Safety Board for a term of 2 years, vice Marion Blakey, resigned. John W. Snow, of Virginia, to be U.S. Governor of the Inter- Lawrence B. Hagel, national Monetary Fund for a term of 5 years; of Virginia, to be a Judge of the U.S. Court U.S. Governor of the International Bank for Re- of Appeals for Veterans Claims for the term construction and Development for a term of prescribed by law, vice Ronald M. Holdaway, 5 years; U.S. Governor of the Inter-American retired. Development Bank for a term of 5 years; U.S. Governor of the African Development Bank for Heather M. Hodges, a term of 5 years; U.S. Governor of the Asian of Ohio, a career member of the Senior Foreign Development Bank; U.S. Governor of the Afri- Service, class of Minister-Counselor, to be Am- can Development Fund; U.S. Governor of the bassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of European Bank for Reconstruction and Devel- the United States of America to the Republic opment, vice Paul Henry O’Neill, resigned. of Moldova. Gregory A. White, Charles E. McQueary, of Ohio, to be U.S. Attorney for the Northern of North Carolina, to be Under Secretary for District of Ohio for the term of 4 years, vice Science and Technology, Department of Home- Emily Margaret Sweeney, term expired. land Security (new position). Withdrawn February 11 Submitted February 25 Jeffrey Shane, Eric S. Edelman, of the District of Columbia, to be Associate of Virginia, a career member of the Senior For- eign Service, class of Minister-Counselor, to be Deputy Secretary of Transportation, vice Ste- Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary phen D. Van Beek, resigned, which was sent of the United States of America to the Republic to the Senate on January 9, 2003. of Turkey. Submitted February 12 Gregory W. Engle, Consuelo Maria Callahan, of Colorado, a career member of the Senior of California, to be U.S. Circuit Judge for the Foreign Service, class of Minister-Counselor, to Ninth Circuit, vice Ferdinand F. Fernandez, re- be Ambassador Extraordinary and Pleni- tired. potentiary of the United States of America to the Togolese Republic.

775 Appendix B / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Mark Van Dyke Holmes, expiring July 1, 2003, vice Charles H. Dolan, of New York, to be a Judge of the U.S. Tax Jr., term expired. Court for a term of 15 years, vice Julian L. Jacobs, term expired. Charles William Evers III, of Florida, to be a member of the U.S. Advisory Diane L. Kroupa, Commission on Public Diplomacy for a term of Minnesota, to be a Judge of the U.S. Tax expiring July 1, 2006 (reappointment). Court for a term of 15 years, vice Robert P. Ruwe, term expired. James B. Foley, of New York, a career member of the Senior Anne Rader, Foreign Service, class of Counselor, to be Am- of Virginia, to be a member of the National bassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Council on Disability for a term expiring Sep- the United States of America to the Republic tember 17, 2004, vice Kate Pew Wolters, term of Haiti. expired. Harold C. Pachios, Submitted February 27 of Maine, to be a member of the U.S. Advisory Marie Sophia Aguirre, Commission on Public Diplomacy for a term expiring July 1, 2005 (reappointment). of the District of Columbia, to be a member of the U.S. Advisory Commission on Public Di- Thomas Thomas Riley, plomacy for a term expiring July 1, 2003, vice of California, to be a member of the Board Maria Elena Torano, term expired. of Directors of the African Development Foun- Marie Sophia Aguirre, dation for the remainder of the term expiring of the District of Columbia, to be a member September 22, 2005, vice Claude A. Allen. of the U.S. Advisory Commission on Public Di- McGregor William Scott, plomacy for a term expiring July 1, 2006 (re- of California, to be U.S. Attorney for the East- appointment). ern District of California for the term of 4 years, Elizabeth F. Bagley, vice Paul L. Seave, resigned. of the District of Columbia, to be a member Jay T. Snyder, of the U.S. Advisory Commission on Public Di- plomacy for a term expiring July 1, 2005, vice of New York, to be a member of the U.S. Advi- Lewis Manilow, resigned. sory Commission on Public Diplomacy for a term expiring July 1, 2004, vice Paula Barbara McConnell Barrett, Dobriansky, term expired. of Arizona, to be a member of the U.S. Advisory Commission on Public Diplomacy for a term Submitted March 5 expiring July 1, 2003, vice Hank Brown, re- Roland W. Bullen, signed. of Virginia, a career member of the Senior For- Barbara McConnell Barrett, eign Service, class of Minister-Counselor, to be of Arizona, to be a member of the U.S. Advisory Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Commission on Public Diplomacy for a term of the United States of America to the Co- expiring July 1, 2006 (reappointment). operative Republic of Guyana. Ephraim Batambuze, P. Kevin Castel, of Illinois, to be a member of the Board of of New York, to be U.S. District Judge for the Directors of the African Development Founda- Southern District of New York, vice Lawrence tion for a term expiring February 9, 2008, vice M. McKenna, retired. Henry McKoy, term expired. Michael Chertoff, Charles William Evers III, of New Jersey, to be U.S. Circuit Judge for of Florida, to be a member of the U.S. Advisory the Third Circuit, vice Morton I. Greenberg, Commission on Public Diplomacy for a term retired.

776 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Appendix B

Samuel Der-Yeghiayan, Elizabeth Courtney, of Illinois, to be U.S. District Judge for the of Louisiana, to be a member of the Board Northern District of Illinois, vice Marvin E. of Directors of the Corporation for Public Aspen, retired. Broadcasting for the remainder of the term expiring January 31, 2004, vice Diane D. Blair. Stephen D. Mull, of Virginia, a career member of the Senior For- Ralph Frank, eign Service, class of Minister-Counselor, to be of Washington, a career member of the Senior Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Foreign Service, class of Minister-Counselor, to of the United States of America to the Republic be Ambassador Extraordinary and Pleni- of Lithuania. potentiary of the United States of America to the Republic of Croatia. Wayne E. Neill, of Nevada, a career member of the Senior For- Mary Lucille Jordan, eign Service, class of Counselor, to be Ambas- of Maryland, to be a member of the Federal sador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Mine Safety and Health Review Commission for United States of America to the Republic of a term of 6 years expiring August 30, 2008 (re- Benin. appointment). Stephen C. Robinson, Lowell Junkins, of New York, to be U.S. District Judge for the of Iowa, to be a member of the Board of Direc- Southern District of New York, vice John S. tors of the Federal Agricultural Mortgage Cor- Martin, retired. poration (reappointment). Diane M. Stuart, Glen Klippenstein, of Utah, to be Director of the Violence Against of Missouri, to be a member of the Board of Women Office, Department of Justice (new po- Directors of the Federal Agricultural Mortgage sition). Corporation, vice Marilyn Fae Peters. Richard C. Wesley, John W. Leslie, Jr., of New York, to be U.S. Circuit Judge for the of Connecticut, to be a member of the Board Second Circuit, vice Pierre N. Leval, retired. of Directors of the African Development Foun- dation for a term expiring September 22, 2007, Submitted March 11 vice Ernest G. Green, term expired. Eduardo Aguirre, Jr., Submitted March 13 of Texas, to be Director of the Bureau of Citi- David G. Campbell, zenship and Immigration Services, Department of Arizona, to be U.S. District Judge for the of Homeland Security (new position). District of Arizona (new position). Julia Bartling, Helen R. Meagher La Lime, of South Dakota, to be a member of the Board of Florida, a career member of the Senior For- of Directors of the Federal Agricultural Mort- eign Service, class of Counselor, to be Ambas- gage Corporation, vice Eugene Branstool. sador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Raul David Bejarano, United States of America to the Republic of of California, to be U.S. Marshal for the South- Mozambique. ern District of California for the term of 4 years, R. Hewitt Pate, vice Stephen Simpson Gregg. of Virginia, to be an Assistant Attorney General, William M. Bellamy, vice Charles A. James, Jr. of California, a career member of the Senior Submitted March 19 Foreign Service, class of Minister-Counselor, to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Pleni- Eric M. Javits, potentiary of the United States of America to of New York, for the rank of Ambassador during the Republic of Kenya. his tenure of service as U.S. Representative to

777 Appendix B / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Adam Noel Torres, Weapons. of California, to be U.S. Marshal for the Central District of California for the term of 4 years, Pamela J.H. Slutz, vice Jose Antonio Perez. of Texas, a career member of the Senior Foreign Service, class of Counselor, to be Ambassador Submitted March 27 Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United L. Scott Coogler, States of America to Mongolia. of Alabama, to be U.S. District Judge for the Submitted March 24 Northern District of Alabama, vice H. Dean Buttram, Jr., resigned. John E. Buchanan, Jr., Charles W. Grim, of Oregon, to be a member of the National of Oklahoma, to be Director of the Indian Museum Services Board for a term expiring De- Health Service, Department of Health and cember 6, 2006, vice Ruth Y. Tamura, term Human Services, for a term of 4 years, vice expired. Michael H. Trujillo. Dee Ann McWilliams, Mark R. Kravitz, of Texas, to be an Assistant Secretary of Vet- of Connecticut, to be U.S. District Judge for erans Affairs, vice Jacob Lozada, resigned. the District of Connecticut, vice Alfred V. Covello, retired. Roger Francisco Noriega, of Kansas, to be an Assistant Secretary of State John A. Woodcock, Jr., (Western Hemisphere Affairs), vice Otto J. of Maine, to be U.S. District Judge for the Reich. District of Maine, vice Gene Carter, retired. Annette Sandberg, Submitted April 2 of Washington, to be Administrator of the Fed- Steven A. Browning, eral Motor Carrier Safety Administration, vice of Texas, a career member of the Senior Foreign Joseph M. Clapp, resigned. Service, class of Minister-Counselor, to be Am- bassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Submitted March 26 the United States of America to the Republic John Francis Bardelli, of Malawi. of Connecticut, to be U.S. Marshal for the Dis- Elizabeth Courtney, trict of Connecticut for the term of 4 years, of Louisiana, to be a member of the Board vice John R. O’Connor. of Directors of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting for a term expiring January 31, Marsha E. Barnes, 2010 (reappointment). of Maryland, a career member of the Senior Foreign Service, class of Counselor, to be Am- Herbert S. Garten, bassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of of Maryland, to be a member of the Board the United States of America to the Republic of Directors of the Legal Services Corporation of Suriname. for a term expiring July 13, 2005, vice Douglas S. Eakley, term expired. Robert N. Davis, of Florida, to be a Judge of the U.S. Court Charles Edward Horner, of Appeals for Veterans Claims for the term of the District of Columbia, to be a member prescribed by law (new position). of the Board of Directors of the U.S. Institute of Peace for a term expiring January 19, 2007, Michael J. Garcia, vice Stephen Hadley, term expired. of New York, to be an Assistant Secretary of Stephen D. Krasner, Homeland Security (new position). of California, to be a member of the Board of Directors of the U.S. Institute of Peace for

778 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Appendix B a term expiring January 19, 2005, vice Shibley Steven B. Nesmith, Telhami. of Pennsylvania, to be an Assistant Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, vice Mel- John F. Maisto, ody H. Fennel. of Pennsylvania, to be Permanent Representative of the United States of America to the Organiza- Richard James O’Connell, tion of American States, with the rank of Am- of Arkansas, to be U.S. Marshal for the Western bassador, vice Roger Francisco Noriega. District of Arkansas for the term of 4 years, vice Kenneth Ray McFerran. Thomas R. Meites, of Illinois, to be a member of the Board of Paul Pate, Directors of the Legal Services Corporation for of Iowa, to be a member of the Board of Direc- a term expiring July 13, 2004, vice LaVeeda tors of the National Institute of Building Morgan Battle, term expired. Sciences for a term expiring September 7, 2003, vice H. Terry Rasco, term expired. William Emil Moschella, of Virginia, to be an Assistant Attorney General, Paul Pate, vice Daniel J. Bryant. of Iowa, to be a member of the Board of Direc- tors of the National Institute of Building Daniel Pipes, Sciences for a term expiring September 7, 2006 of Pennsylvania, to be a member of the Board (reappointment). of Directors of the U.S. Institute of Peace for a term expiring January 19, 2005, vice Zalmay Jose Teran, Khalizad, term expired. of Florida, to be a member of the Board of Directors of the National Institute of Building Teresa M. Ressel, Sciences for a term expiring September 7, 2005, of Virginia, to be an Assistant Secretary of the vice Charles A. Gueli, term expired. Treasury, vice Edward Kingman, Jr. Submitted April 9 Stephen M. Young, of New Hampshire, a career member of the J. Ronnie Greer, Senior Foreign Service, class of Counselor, to of Tennessee, to be U.S. District Judge for the be Ambassador Extraordinary and Pleni- Eastern District of Tennessee, vice Thomas G. Hull, retired. potentiary of the United States of America to the Kyrgyz Republic. Thomas M. Hardiman, Submitted April 7 of Pennsylvania, to be U.S. District Judge for the Western District of Pennsylvania, vice Wil- James Broaddus, liam L. Standish, retired. of Texas, to be a member of the Board of Direc- James J. Jochum, tors of the National Institute of Building of Virginia, to be an Assistant Secretary of Com- Sciences for a term expiring September 7, 2004, merce, vice Faryar Shirzad. vice John H. Miller, term expired. William H. Pryor, Jr., Lane Carson, of Alabama, to be U.S. Circuit Judge for the of Louisiana, to be a member of the Board Eleventh Circuit, vice Emmett Ripley Cox, re- of Directors of the National Institute of Building tired. Sciences for a term expiring September 7, 2004, vice Christine M. Warnke, term expired. Submitted April 10 Robert D. McCallum, Jr., A. Paul Anderson, of Georgia, to be Associate Attorney General, of Florida, to be a Federal Maritime Commis- vice Jay B. Stephens, resigned. sioner for the term expiring June 30, 2007, vice Delmond J. H. Won, term expired.

779 Appendix B / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

April H. Foley, Robert C. Brack, of New York, to be a member of the Board of New Mexico, to be U.S. District Judge for of Directors of the Export-Import Bank of the the District of New Mexico (new position). United States for a term expiring January 20, 2007, vice Dan Herman Renberg, term expired. James O. Browning, of New Mexico, to be U.S. District Judge for David Hall, the District of New Mexico, vice C. LeRoy Han- of Massachusetts, to be a member of the Board sen, retired. of Directors of the Legal Services Corporation for a term expiring July 13, 2005, vice John Glen E. Conrad, T. Broderick, Jr., term expired. of Virginia, to be U.S. District Judge for the Western District of Virginia, vice James C. Turk, Peter D. Keisler, retired. of Maryland, to be an Assistant Attorney Gen- eral, vice Robert D. McCallum, Jr. Robert J. Conrad, Jr., of North Carolina, to be U.S. District Judge Robert Stanley Nichols, for the Western District of North Carolina (new of Washington, to be an Assistant Secretary of the Treasury, vice Michele A. Davis. position). C. Stewart Verdery, Jr., Allyson K. Duncan, of Virginia, to be an Assistant Secretary of of North Carolina, to be U.S. Circuit Judge for Homeland Security (new position). the Fourth Circuit, vice Samuel J. Ervin III, deceased. Submitted April 11 Mark R. Filip, Carlos T. Bea, of Illinois, to be U.S. District Judge for the of California, to be U.S. Circuit Judge for the Northern District of Illinois, vice Harry D. Ninth Circuit, vice Charles E. Wiggins, retired. Leinenweber, retired. David Wesley Fleming, Kim R. Gibson, of California, to be a member of the Board of Pennsylvania, to be U.S. District Judge for of Trustees of the James Madison Memorial Fel- the Western District of Pennsylvania, vice D. lowship Foundation for a term expiring May Brooks Smith, elevated. 29, 2007, vice Alan G. Lowy, term expired. Dora L. Irizarry, Jay Phillip Greene, of New York, to be U.S. District Judge for the of Florida, to be a member of the Board of Eastern District of New York, vice Reena Raggi, Trustees of the James Madison Memorial Fel- elevated. lowship Foundation for a term expiring Novem- ber 17, 2005, vice Louise L. Stevenson, term H. Brent McKnight, expired. of North Carolina, to be U.S. District Judge John Richard Petrocik, for the Western District of North Carolina (new of Missouri, to be a member of the Board of position). Trustees of the James Madison Memorial Fel- Daniel P. Ryan, lowship Foundation for a term expiring Sep- of Michigan, to be U.S. District Judge for the tember 27, 2008, vice Elizabeth Griffith, term Eastern District of Michigan, vice Patrick J. expired. Duggan, retired. Submitted April 28 Gary L. Sharpe, Claude A. Allen, of New York, to be U.S. District Judge for the of Virginia, to be U.S. Circuit Judge for the Northern District of New York, vice Thomas Fourth Circuit, vice Francis D. Murnaghan, Jr., J. McAvoy, retired. deceased.

780 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Appendix B

Lonny R. Suko, John E. Herbst, of Washington, to be U.S. District Judge for of Virginia, a career member of the Senior For- the Eastern District of Washington, vice Wm. eign Service, class of Minister-Counselor, to be Fremming Nielsen, retired. Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to Ukraine. Frank Libutti, of New York, to be Under Secretary for Infor- Georgianna E. Ignace, mation Analysis and Infrastructure Protection, of Wisconsin, to be a member of the Board of Trustees of the Institute of American Indian Department of Homeland Security (new posi- and Alaska Native Culture and Arts Develop- tion). ment for a term expiring October 18, 2004, vice Paul Morgan Longsworth, Kenneth Blankenship, term expired. of Virginia, to be Deputy Administrator for De- Tracey Ann Jacobson, fense Nuclear Nonproliferation, National Nu- of the District of Columbia, a Foreign Service clear Security Administration, vice Linton F. officer of Class One, to be Ambassador Extraor- Brooks. dinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to Turkmenistan. Nicholas Gregory Mankiw, of Massachusetts, to be a member of the Coun- Lisa Genevieve Nason, cil of Economic Advisers, vice Robert Glenn of Alaska, to be a member of the Board of Hubbard, resigned. Trustees of the Institute of American Indian and Alaska Native Culture and Arts Develop- Charles Darwin Snelling, ment for a term expiring October 18, 2004, vice of Pennsylvania, to be a member of the Board Thomas A. Thompson, term expired. of Directors of the Metropolitan Washington Harry K. Thomas, Jr., Airports Authority for the remainder of the term of New York, a career member of the Senior expiring May 30, 2006, vice Norman Y. Mineta. Foreign Service, class of Counselor, to be Am- Joe D. Whitley, bassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of of Georgia, to be General Counsel, Department the United States of America to the People’s of Homeland Security (new position). Republic of Bangladesh. William B. Wood, Submitted April 30 of New York, a career member of the Senior Robert W. Fitts, Foreign Service, class of Minister-Counselor, to of New Hampshire, a career member of the be Ambassador Extraordinary and Pleni- Senior Foreign Service, class of Minister-Coun- potentiary of the United States of America to the Republic of Colombia. selor, to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plen- ipotentiary of the United States of America to Submitted May 1 Papua New Guinea, and to serve concurrently and without additional compensation as Ambas- Roger T. Benitez, sador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the of California, to be U.S. District Judge for the United States of America to the Solomon Islands Southern District of California (new position). and Ambassador Extraordinary and Pleni- Larry Alan Burns, potentiary of the United States of America to of California, to be U.S. District Judge for the the Republic of Vanuatu. Southern District of California (new position). John Richard Grimes, Kathleen Cardone, of Massachusetts, to be a member of the Board of Texas, to be U.S. District Judge for the West- of Trustees of the Institute of American Indian ern District of Texas (new position). and Alaska Native Culture and Arts Develop- ment for a term expiring May 19, 2006, vice James I. Cohn, of Florida, to be U.S. District Judge for the Jayne G. Fawcett. Southern District of Florida (new position).

781 Appendix B / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Marcia A. Crone, Submitted May 6 of Texas, to be U.S. District Judge for the East- ern District of Texas (new position). Morgan Edwards, of North Carolina, to be a member of the Board Dale S. Fischer, of Directors of the National Institute of Building of California, to be U.S. District Judge for the Sciences for a term expiring September 7, 2005, Central District of California (new position). vice Mary Ellen R. Fise, term expired. D. Michael Fisher, Howard Radzely, of Pennsylvania, to be U.S. Circuit Judge for of Maryland, to be Solicitor for the Department the Third Circuit, vice Carol Los Mansmann, of Labor, vice Eugene Scalia. deceased. Submitted May 7 William Q. Hayes, of California, to be U.S. District Judge for the Richard W. Erdman, Southern District of California (new position). of Maryland, a career member of the Senior Foreign Service, class of Minister-Counselor, to John A. Houston, be Ambassador Extraordinary and Pleni- of California, to be U.S. District Judge for the potentiary of the United States of America to Southern District of California (new position). the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria. George A. Krol, Submitted May 8 of New Jersey, a career member of the Senior Foreign Service, class of Counselor, to be Am- Michael W. Mosman, bassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of of Oregon, to be U.S. District Judge for the the United States of America to the Republic District of Oregon, vice Robert E. Jones, re- of Belarus. tired. Frank Montalvo, Submitted May 14 of Texas, to be U.S. District Judge for the West- ern District of Texas (new position). Lillian R. BeVier, of Virginia, to be a member of the Board of Thomas W. O’Connell, Directors of the Legal Services Corporation for of Virginia, to be an Assistant Secretary of De- a term expiring July 13, 2004, vice Hulett Hall fense, vice Brian E. Sheridan. Askew, term expired, to which position she was appointed during the last recess of the Senate. R. David Proctor, of Alabama, to be U.S. District Judge for the Naomi Churchill Earp, Northern District of Alabama (new position). of Virginia, to be a member of the Equal Em- ployment Opportunity Commission for a term Xavier Rodriguez, expiring July 1, 2005, vice Reginald Earl Jones, of Texas, to be U.S. District Judge for the West- term expired, to which position she was ap- ern District of Texas, vice Edward C. Prado. pointed during the last recess of the Senate. Dana Makoto Sabraw, of California, to be U.S. District Judge for the Peter Eide, Southern District of California (new position). of Maryland, to be General Counsel of the Fed- eral Labor Relations Authority for a term of Gretchen C.F. Shappert, 5 years, vice Joseph Swerdzewski, resigned, to of North Carolina, to be U.S. Attorney for the which position he was appointed during the last Western District of North Carolina for the term recess of the Senate. of 4 years, vice Robert J. Conrad, Jr. April H. Foley, Earl Leroy Yeakel III, of New York, to be a member of the Board of Texas, to be U.S. District Judge for the West- of Directors of the Export-Import Bank of the ern District of Texas, vice James R. Nowlin, United States for a term expiring January 20, retired. 2007, vice Dan Herman Renberg, term expired,

782 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Appendix B to which position she was appointed during the vice Marc Lincoln Marks, term expired, to last recess of the Senate. which position he was appointed during the last recess of the Senate. Thomas A. Fuentes, of California, to be a member of the Board Donna N. Williams, of Directors of the Legal Services Corporation of Texas, to be a member of the Board of Direc- for a term expiring July 13, 2005, vice Thomas tors of the Corporation for National and Com- F. Smegal, Jr., term expired, to which position munity Service for a term expiring October 6, he was appointed during the last recess of the 2006, vice Robert B. Rogers, term expired, to Senate. which position she was appointed during the R. Bruce Matthews, last recess of the Senate. of New Mexico, to be a member of the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board for a term expir- Submitted May 15 ing October 18, 2005, vice Joseph DiNunno, Henry F. Floyd, resigned, to which position he was appointed of South Carolina, to be U.S. District Judge during the last recess of the Senate. for the District of South Carolina, vice Dennis Neil McPhie, W. Shedd, elevated. of Virginia, to be a member of the Merit Sys- tems Protection Board for the term of 7 years William Gerry Myers III, expiring March 1, 2009, vice Beth Susan Slavet, of Idaho, to be U.S. Circuit Judge for the Ninth term expired, to which position he was ap- Circuit, vice Thomas G. Nelson, retiring. pointed during the last recess of the Senate. Ronald A. White, James C. Miller III, of Oklahoma, to be U.S. District Judge for the of Virginia, to be a Governor of the U.S. Postal Eastern District of Oklahoma, vice Frank How- Service for the term expiring December 8, 2010, ell Seay, retiring. vice Einar V. Dyhrkopp, term expired, to which position he was appointed during the last recess Submitted May 22 of the Senate. Brian F. Holeman, Greta N. Morris, of the District of Columbia, to be an Associate of California, a career member of the Senior Judge of the Superior Court of the District of Foreign Service, class of Minister-Counselor, to Columbia for the term of 15 years, vice Mary be Ambassador Extraordinary and Pleni- Ellen Abrecht, retired. potentiary of the United States of America to the Republic of the Marshall Islands. Submitted June 2 Nicole R. Nason, Josette Sheeran Shiner, of Virginia, to be an Assistant Secretary of of Virginia, to be a Deputy U.S. Trade Rep- Transportation, vice Sean B. O’Hollaren, re- resentative, with the rank of Ambassador, vice signed. Jon M. Huntsman, Jr. William A. Schambra, Karen P. Tandy, of Virginia, to be a member of the Board of of Virginia, to be Administrator of Drug En- Directors of the Corporation for National and forcement, vice Asa Hutchinson. Community Service for a term expiring Sep- tember 14, 2006, vice Carol W. Kinsley, term Withdrawn June 2 expired, to which position he was appointed during the last recess of the Senate. Dee Ann McWilliams, of Texas, to be an Assistant Secretary of Vet- Stanley C. Suboleski, erans Affairs (Human Resources and Adminis- of Virginia, to be a member of the Federal tration), which was sent to the Senate on March Mine Safety and Health Review Commission for 24, 2003. a term of 6 years expiring August 30, 2006,

783 Appendix B / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Submitted June 3 Pamela Harbour, of New York, to be a Federal Trade Commis- Joshua B. Bolten, sioner for the term of 7 years from September of the District of Columbia, to be Director of 26, 2002, vice Sheila Foster Anthony, term ex- the Office of Management and Budget, vice pired. Mitchell E. Daniels, Jr., resigned. Robert Lerner, Ann C. Rosenthal, of Maryland, to be Commissioner of Education of Iowa, to be a member of the Board of Direc- Statistics for a term expiring June 21, 2009, vice tors of the National Institute of Building Pascal D. Forgione, Jr., term expired. Sciences for a term expiring September 7, 2003, vice Steve M. Hayes, term expired. Submitted June 5 Ann C. Rosenthal, Karin J. Immergut, of Iowa, to be a member of the Board of Direc- of Oregon, to be U.S. Attorney for the District tors of the National Institute of Building of Oregon for the term of 4 years, vice Michael Sciences for a term expiring September 7, 2006 W. Mosman. (reappointment). Lance Robert Olson, Michael Young, of Iowa, to be U.S. Marshal for the Northern of Pennsylvania, to be a member of the Federal District of Iowa for the term of 4 years, vice Mine Safety and Health Review Commission for John Edward Quinn. a term of 6 years expiring August 30, 2008, Submitted June 9 vice Theodore Francis Verheggen, resigned. Phillip S. Figa, Withdrawn June 12 of Colorado, to be U.S. District Judge for the District of Colorado, vice Richard P. Matsch, Paul Pate, retiring. of Iowa, to be a member of the Board of Direc- tors of the National Institute of Building Jack Landman Goldsmith III, Sciences for a term expiring September 7, 2003, of Virginia, to be an Assistant Attorney General, vice H. Terry Rasco, term expired, and for a vice Jay S. Bybee, resigned. term expiring September 7, 2006 (reappointment), which were sent to the Senate on April Robert Clive Jones, 7, 2003. of Nevada, to be U.S. District Judge for the District of Nevada, vice David W. Hagen, retir- Submitted June 16 ing. Suedeen G. Kelly, Christopher A. Wray, of New Mexico, to be a member of the Federal of Georgia, to be an Assistant Attorney General, Energy Regulatory Commission for the remain- vice Michael Chertoff. der of the term expiring June 30, 2004, vice Submitted June 12 Curt Hebert, Jr., resigned. Mark C. Brickell, C. Suzanne Mencer, of New York, to be Director of the Office of of Colorado, to be the Director of the Office Federal Housing Enterprise Oversight, Depart- for Domestic Preparedness, Department of ment of Housing and Urban Development for Homeland Security (new position). a term of 5 years, vice Armando Falcon, Jr., resigned. Submitted June 18 Thomas J. Curry, Alicia R. Castaneda, of Massachusetts, to be a member of the Board of the District of Columbia, to be a Director of Directors of the Federal Deposit Insurance of the Federal Housing Finance Board for a Corporation for a term of 6 years, vice Joseph term expiring February 27, 2004, vice J. Tim- H. Neely, resigned. othy O’Neill, term expired.

784 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Appendix B

Alicia R. Castaneda, term of 5 years, vice Andrea Kidd Taylor, term of the District of Columbia, to be a Director expiring. of the Federal Housing Finance Board for a term expiring February 27, 2011 (reappoint- Julie L. Myers, ment). of Kansas, to be an Assistant Secretary of Com- merce, vice Michael J. Garcia. Roger W. Titus, of Maryland, to be U.S. District Judge for the Deborah Ann Spagnoli, District of Maryland, vice Marvin J. Garbis, re- of California, to be a Commissioner of the U.S. tired. Parole Commission for a term of 6 years, vice John R. Simpson, term expired. Submitted June 19 Submitted June 26 Jackie Wolcott Sanders, of Virginia, for the rank of Ambassador during Rene Acosta, her tenure of service as U.S. Representative to of Virginia, to be an Assistant Attorney General, the Conference on Disarmament and the Special vice Ralph F. Boyd, Jr. Representative of the President of the United States for Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weap- Penrose C. Albright, ons. of Virginia, to be an Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security (new position). Submitted June 25 Scott J. Bloch, Jeffrey A. Marcus, of Kansas, to be Special Counsel, Office of Spe- of Texas, to be Ambassador Extraordinary and cial Counsel, for the term of 5 years, vice Elaine Plenipotentiary of the United States of America D. Kaplan, resigned. to Belgium. Rick A. Dearborn, Rixio Enrique Medina, of Oklahoma, to be an Assistant Secretary of of Oklahoma, to be a member of the Chemical Energy (Congressional and Intergovernmental Safety and Hazard Investigation Board for a Affairs), vice Dan R. Brouillette, resigned.

785 Appendix C—Checklist of White House Press Releases

The following list contains releases of the Office Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary of the Press Secretary which are not included Ari Fleischer in this book. Statement by the Press Secretary on the ap- Released January 4 pointment of the Special Envoy for Western Hemisphere Initiatives Statement by the Deputy Press Secretary announcing that on December 31, 2002, the Presi- Released January 10 dent approved the designation of 38 sub-Saharan Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary African countries as eligible for tariff pref- Ari Fleischer erences under the African Growth and Oppor- tunity Act Statement by the Press Secretary announcing that the President signed H.J. Res. 1 Released January 6 Released January 11 Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Ari Fleischer Fact sheet: Restoring Economic Confidence and Tackling Corporate Fraud Statement by the Press Secretary on disaster assistance to Arkansas Released January 13 Statement by the Press Secretary on disaster Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary assistance to the Federated States of Micronesia Ari Fleischer Fact sheet: President Bush Takes Action To Statement by the Press Secretary announcing Help Unemployed Americans Get Back to Work that the President signed a proclamation desig- Quickly nating Afghanistan as a beneficiary developing country under the Generalized System of Pref- Released January 7 erences Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Secretary Statement by the Press Secretary announcing Ari Fleischer that the President signed H.R. 11 Fact sheet: President Bush Taking Action To Strengthen America’s Economy Released January 14 Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Released January 8 Ari Fleischer Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Fact sheet: President Calls for Action on Wel- Ari Fleischer fare Reform Statement by the Press Secretary: Visit of Presi- Announcement of nominations for U.S. Marshals dent Aleksander Kwasniewski of Poland for the Eastern District of New York, the Dis- Statement by the Press Secretary on disaster trict of Guam and the Northern Mariana Is- assistance to South Carolina lands, and the District of Minnesota Fact sheet: President Bush Celebrates One-Year Released January 15 Anniversary of No Child Left Behind Act Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Released January 9 Ari Fleischer Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Secretary Fact sheet: U.S.–Sub-Saharan Africa Trade and Ari Fleischer Economic Cooperation Forum

787 Appendix C / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Statement by the Press Secretary on the upcom- Released January 23 ing visit of Prime Minister Tony Blair of the Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary United Kingdom Ari Fleischer Announcement of nominations for U.S. District Judges for the Western District of Louisiana Released January 24 and the Southern District of Florida Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Announcement of nomination for a Judge of Ari Fleischer the U.S. Tax Court Statement by the Press Secretary: Polish Prime Minister Leszek Miller To Visit Washington Released January 16 Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Secretary Released January 27 Ari Fleischer Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Fact sheet: President Calls for Medical Liability Ari Fleischer Reform Released January 28 Released January 17 Statement by the Press Secretary: Visit of Prime Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Minister Silvio Berlusconi of Italy Ari Fleischer Advance text: State of the Union Excerpts Statement by the Press Secretary: Meeting With Advance text of the President’s State of the President Ismail Omar Guelleh of the Republic Union Address of Djibouti Fact sheet: Strengthening Intelligence To Better Statement by the Press Secretary: President Protect America Lucio Gutierrez of Ecuador To Visit Washington Fact sheet: Key Initiatives in the President’s Statement by National Security Adviser State of the Union Condoleezza Rice on her advice to the President Biography of Dr. Peter Mugyenyi, special guest on how diversity can be best achieved on univer- seated next to Mrs. Bush sity campuses Released January 29 Released January 20 Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Secretary Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Secretary Ari Fleischer Ari Fleischer Fact sheet: The President’s Emergency Plan for Released January 21 AIDS Relief Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Released January 30 Ari Fleischer Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Fact sheet: New White House Office Coordi- Ari Fleischer nates Global Communications Fact sheet: President Bush Celebrates USA Announcement of nominations for Associate Freedom Corps One-Year Anniversary Judges of the Superior Court of the District of Columbia Fact sheet: Freedom Fuel: A Clean and Secure Energy Future Released January 22 Fact sheet: Providing Help To Heal Americans Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Secretary Struggling With Addiction Ari Fleischer Announcement of nomination for U.S. Marshal Fact sheet: Taking Action To Strengthen Small for the Northern District of Ohio Businesses

788 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Appendix C

Released January 31 Released February 6 Statement by the Press Secretary: Annual Presi- Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary dential Determinations of Major Illicit Drug- Ari Fleischer Producing and Drug-Transit Countries Statement by the Press Secretary: President Statement by the Press Secretary: U.S. Support Bush To Make State Visit to Canada for the Marcoussis Accord Statement by the Press Secretary on the amend- Statement by the Press Secretary on additional ed disaster assistance declaration for Texas disaster assistance to the Federated States of Micronesia Fact sheet: Hydrogen Fuel: A Clean and Secure Energy Future Released February 1 Released February 7 Transcript of a press gaggle by Deputy Press Secretary Scott McClellan Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Ari Fleischer Fact sheet: Extending America’s Compassion to the World’s Neediest Citizens Statement by the Press Secretary announcing that the President signed H.J. Res. 18 Released February 2 Announcement of nomination for U.S. Attorney Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Secretary for the Northern District of Ohio Ari Fleischer Released February 10 Released February 3 Transcript of a press gaggle by Deputy Press Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Secretary Scott McClellan Ari Fleischer Released February 11 Transcript of a press briefing by Office of Man- agement and Budget Director Mitch Daniels on Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary the President’s 2004 budget Ari Fleischer Statement by the Press Secretary: State Visit Released February 12 by President Macapagal-Arroyo of the Phil- ippines Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Ari Fleischer Fact sheet: President Bush’s 2004 Budget Text of a letter to the President signed by more Fact sheet: Project BioShield than 200 economists endorsing his economic Released February 4 growth and jobs proposal Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Secretary Fact sheet: Iraq’s Compliance? 1996 All Over Ari Fleischer Again Statement by the Press Secretary: Visit of Prime Announcement of nomination for a Judge of Minister John Howard of Australia the U.S. Tax Court Statement by the Press Secretary on disaster Released February 13 assistance to Oklahoma Transcript of a press gaggle by Deputy Press Released February 5 Secretary Claire Buchan Statement by the Press Secretary: Visit of Presi- Statement by the Press Secretary: Latvian Presi- dent Hamid Karzai of Afghanistan dent Vaira Vike-Freiberga To Visit Washington Statement by the Press Secretary on Senate For- Statement by the Press Secretary: Meeting With eign Relations Committee action on the Moscow Rwandan President Paul Kagame Treaty on Strategic Offensive Reductions Statement by the Press Secretary: United States Announcement of nomination for a Judge of Expresses Concern Over Developments in Bo- the U.S. Tax Court livia

789 Appendix C / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Statement by the Press Secretary announcing Secretary of State for the Bureau of Population, that the President signed H.R. 16 Refugees and Migration Gene Dewey; Pentagon Office of Reconstruction and Humanitarian As- Released February 14 sistance Deputy Director Ron Adams; Deputy Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Assistant Secretary of Defense for Stability Op- Ari Fleischer erations Joe Collins; and Associate Director for Fact sheet: Strengthening Intelligence To Better National Security Programs Robin Cleveland on Protect America White House interagency humanitarian reconstruction issues Announcement of nomination for a Judge of the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims Transcript of a press briefing by National Secu- rity Adviser Condoleezza Rice on the second Released February 18 U.N. resolution Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Announcement of nomination for a Judge of Ari Fleischer the U.S. Tax Court Released February 19 Released February 25 Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Ari Fleischer Ari Fleischer Statement by the Press Secretary: Visit of Presi- Fact sheet: Trafficking in Persons National Se- dent of the Government of Spain Jose Maria curity Presidential Directive Aznar Statement by the Press Secretary announcing Released February 20 that the President signed S. 141 Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Secretary Released February 26 Ari Fleischer Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Statement by the Press Secretary: Prime Min- Ari Fleischer ister Saxe-Coburg-Gotha of Bulgaria To Visit Washington Statement by the Press Secretary on disaster assistance to New York Announcement of nominations for U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of California and for Advance text: Excerpts From the President’s Re- U.S. Tax Court Judge marks at the American Enterprise Institute Released February 21 Released February 27 Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Secretary Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Ari Fleischer Ari Fleischer Statement by the Press Secretary: Visit by Presi- Statement by the Press Secretary announcing dent Aliyev of Azerbaijan to Washington the recipients of the National Humanities Medal for 2002 Released February 22 Announcement of text of citations for National Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Secretary Ari Fleischer Humanities Medal winners Released February 24 Released February 28 Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Ari Fleischer Ari Fleischer Transcript of a press briefing by NSC Senior Statement by the Press Secretary: Visit of Prime Director for Near East and North Africa Elliott Minister Bertie Ahern of Ireland Abrams; U.S. Agency for International Develop- Fact sheet: Protecting the Homeland ment Administrator Andrew Natsios; Assistant

790 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Appendix C

Released March 1 Statement by the Press Secretary on disaster assistance to Connecticut Statement by the Press Secretary on the meeting of the Iraqi opposition Advisory Committee in Statement by the Press Secretary on disaster Salahudeen, Northern Iraq assistance to New Hampshire Statement by the Press Secretary: Detention of Statement by the Press Secretary on disaster Khalid Shaikh Mohammed assistance to Maine Statement by the Press Secretary on disaster Released March 3 assistance to Massachusetts Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Ari Fleischer Released March 12 Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Fact sheet: 21st Century Medicare: More Ari Fleischer Choices—Better Benefits Released March 13 Released March 4 Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Ari Fleischer Ari Fleischer Statement by the Press Secretary announcing Released March 5 the appointment of Faryar Shirzad as Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary for International Economic Affairs at the Na- Ari Fleischer tional Security Council Released March 6 Released March 14 Statement by the Press Secretary announcing Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary that the President signed H.J. Res. 19 Ari Fleischer Released March 7 Transcript of a press availability by National Se- curity Adviser Condoleezza Rice Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Ari Fleischer Statement by the Press Secretary: Visit by Paki- stani Prime Minister Jamali Statement by the Press Secretary: U.S. Targeted Sanctions on Zimbabwean Government Officials Statement by the Press Secretary on the delegation to the memorial service for Prime Minister Statement by the Press Secretary: Passage of Zoran Djindjic of Serbia Important Anti-Money-Laundering Legislation in the Philippines Statement by the Press Secretary on disaster assistance to Kentucky Announcement of nomination for U.S. Marshal for the Southern District of California Statement by the Press Secretary on disaster assistance to Ohio Released March 10 Statement by the Press Secretary on disaster Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary assistance to Maryland Ari Fleischer Statement by the Press Secretary on disaster assistance to West Virginia Released March 11 Statement by the Press Secretary on disaster Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary assistance to Pennsylvania Ari Fleischer Statement by the Press Secretary on disaster Statement by the Press Secretary announcing assistance to the District of Columbia that the President signed H.R. 395 Statement by the Press Secretary announcing Released March 16 the appointment of John O. Brennan as Director Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Secretary of the Terrorist Threat Integration Center Ari Fleischer

791 Appendix C / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Released March 18 Announcement of nominations for U.S. Marshals Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary for the District of Connecticut and the Central Ari Fleischer District of California and a Judge of the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims Released March 19 Released March 26 Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Ari Fleischer Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Secretary Transcript of a statement in the James S. Brady Ari Fleischer Briefing Room by Press Secretary Ari Fleischer Statement by the Press Secretary: Castro Gov- announcing the beginning of disarmament of the ernment Cracks Down on Pro-Democracy and Iraqi regime Human Rights Activists Statement by the Press Secretary: Meeting With Cameroonian President Paul Biya Released March 27 Statement by the Press Secretary on Senate Ju- Released March 20 diciary Committee action on the nomination of Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Priscilla Owen to be a Judge of the U.S. Court Ari Fleischer of Appeals Statement by the Press Secretary on disaster Statement by the Press Secretary on disaster assistance to Delaware assistance to Virginia Statement by the Press Secretary on disaster Statement by the Press Secretary on emergency assistance to New Jersey assistance to New York Statement by the Press Secretary on disaster Statement by the Press Secretary on emergency assistance to Tennessee assistance to Rhode Island Released March 21 Statement by the Press Secretary on disaster Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary assistance to North Carolina Ari Fleischer Released March 28 Released March 24 Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Ari Fleischer Ari Fleischer Statement by the Press Secretary on the ap- Released March 31 pointment of Shirin R. Tahir-Kheli as Special Fact sheet: Securing Our Homeland Assistant to the President and Senior Director for Democracy, Human Rights, and Inter- Released April 1 national Operations at the National Security Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Council Ari Fleischer Statement by the Press Secretary on the attack Statement by the Press Secretary on Senate con- in Jammu and Kashmir firmation of Tim Tymkovich as a Judge on the Released March 25 U.S. Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Released April 2 Ari Fleischer Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Statement by the Press Secretary: Visit of British Ari Fleischer Prime Minister Tony Blair Statement by the Press Secretary: Uruguayan Fact sheet: Supporting Our Troops Abroad and Increasing Safety at Home President Jorge Batlle To Visit Washington Fact sheet: ‘‘On the Homefront’’—USA Free- Announcement of nomination of U.S. Marshal dom Corps for the Western District of Arkansas

792 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Appendix C

Released April 3 sistant to the President and Senior Director for Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Secretary Western Hemisphere Affairs at the National Se- Ari Fleischer curity Council Statement by the Press Secretary: Visit by Prime Released April 11 Minister Goh Chok Tong of Singapore Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Statement by the Press Secretary: President Ari Fleischer Alvaro Uribe of Colombia To Visit Washington Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Secretary Released April 4 Ari Fleischer and Rear Adm. Donald C. Arthur, USN, commander, National Naval Medical Cen- Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary ter Ari Fleischer Transcript of a press briefing by National Secu- Announcement: President and Mrs. Bush Re- rity Adviser Condoleezza Rice on planning for lease 2002 Tax Return postwar Iraq Released April 13 Statement by the Press Secretary: President Ru- Statement by the Press Secretary: Postponement dolf Schuster of the Slovak Republic To Visit of the President’s Trip to Canada Washington Statement by the Press Secretary: Presidents of Released April 14 Central America To Visit Washington Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Fact sheet: Past Repression and Atrocities by Ari Fleischer Saddam Hussein’s Regime Statement by the Press Secretary: Visit of Prime Released April 7 Minister John Howard of Australia to Crawford Transcript of a press briefing by Secretary of Released April 15 State Colin L. Powell and Press Secretary Ari Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Fleischer Ari Fleischer Released April 8 Fact sheet: Strengthening America’s Economy Transcript of a press briefing by National Secu- rity Adviser Condoleezza Rice and Ambassador Released April 16 Richard Haass on the President’s meeting with Transcript of a press gaggle by Deputy Press Prime Minister Tony Blair of the United King- Secretary Scott McClellan dom Statement by the Press Secretary announcing Released April 9 that the President signed H.R. 1559 Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Secretary Released April 17 Ari Fleischer Transcript of a press gaggle by Deputy Press Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Secretary Claire Buchan Ari Fleischer Statement by the Deputy Press Secretary: Statement by the Press Secretary: Visit by Presi- United Nations Sanctions Cuba for Human dent Roh Moo-hyun of the Republic of Korea Rights Violations Released April 10 Released April 18 Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Ari Fleischer Transcript of a press gaggle by Deputy Press Secretary Claire Buchan Statement by the Press Secretary on disaster assistance to Colorado Released April 21 Statement by the Press Secretary on the ap- Transcript of a press gaggle by Deputy Press pointment of Thomas A. Shannon as Special As- Secretary Claire Buchan

793 Appendix C / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Fact sheet: White House 2003 Easter Egg Roll: Statement by the Press Secretary: Prime Min- Frequently Asked Questions ister Kjell Magne Bondevik of Norway To Visit Washington Released April 22 Statement by the Press Secretary announcing Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary that the President signed H.R. 1770 Ari Fleischer Statement by the Press Secretary announcing Released May 1 that the President signed H.R. 397 and H.R. Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Secretary 672 Ari Fleischer Released April 23 Fact sheet: We the People Forum on American History, Civics, and Service Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Ari Fleischer Advance text: Speech Excerpts for Address to the Nation Statement by the Press Secretary announcing that the President signed H.R. 145, H.R. 258, Advance text of the President’s address to the H.R. 273, and H.R. 1505 Nation Released April 24 Released May 2 Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Secretary Transcript of a press gaggle by Deputy Press Ari Fleischer Secretary Scott McClellan Fact sheet: Taking Action To Strengthen the Statement by the Deputy Press Secretary: Sign- Economy ing of the Adriatic Charter Statement by the Press Secretary on disaster Statement by the Deputy Press Secretary: Rose assistance to Mississippi Garden Event With the Foreign Ministers of Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, Released April 25 Slovakia, and Slovenia Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Statement by the Deputy Press Secretary: Visit Ari Fleischer of NATO Secretary General Lord Robertson Statement by the Press Secretary on disaster Statement by the Deputy Press Secretary: Nige- assistance to Florida rian Elections Released April 26 Released May 5 Statement by the Press Secretary on disaster Transcript of a press gaggle by Deputy Press assistance to Alaska Secretary Scott McClellan Released April 28 Statement by the Deputy Press Secretary: Visit of President Jose Maria Aznar of Spain Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Secretary Ari Fleischer Statement by the Press Secretary: Visit of the Amir of Qatar Announcement of nominations for U.S. Circuit Judges for the Third Circuit Released May 6 Released April 29 Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Ari Fleischer Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Ari Fleischer Statement by the Press Secretary: Ambassador L. Paul Bremer as Presidential Envoy to Iraq Announcement of nomination for U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina Statement by the Press Secretary: Prime Min- ister Anders Fogh Rasmussen of Denmark To Released April 30 Visit Washington Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Statement by the Press Secretary on disaster Ari Fleischer assistance to Kansas

794 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Appendix C

Statement by the Press Secretary on disaster Fact sheet: U.S. Commercial Remote Sensing assistance to Missouri Space Policy Released May 7 Released May 14 Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Ari Fleischer Ari Fleischer Statement by the Press Secretary: Presidential Statement by the Press Secretary on the death Determination Authorizing Defense Cooperation of Prince Sadruddin Aga Khan With Serbia and Montenegro Statement by the Press Secretary on disaster Statement by the Press Secretary: Lifting Eco- assistance to Maine nomic Sanctions on UNITA Statement by the Press Secretary announcing Released May 8 that the President signed S. 162 Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Released May 15 Ari Fleischer Transcript of a press briefing by Deputy Press Statement by the Press Secretary: State Visit Secretary Scott McClellan by President Macapagal-Arroyo of the Phil- Statement by the Deputy Press Secretary: Presi- ippines dent Mejia of the Dominican Republic To Visit Statement by the Press Secretary: Visit of Prime Washington Minister Junichiro Koizumi to Crawford Statement by the Deputy Press Secretary on Statement by the Press Secretary on disaster disaster assistance to Illinois assistance to Tennessee Released May 16 Released May 9 Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Secretary Ari Fleischer Ari Fleischer Released May 19 Statement by the Press Secretary: Prime Min- ister Ariel Sharon of Israel To Visit Washington Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Ari Fleischer Fact sheet: The President’s Call to Action on Judicial Nominees Statement by the Press Secretary announcing that the President signed H.R. 289 Fact sheet: Proposed Middle East Initiatives Fact sheet: Announcements Related to the Visit Released May 10 of President Arroyo Statement by the Deputy Press Secretary on disaster assistance to Oklahoma Released May 20 Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Released May 12 Ari Fleischer Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Secretary Statement by the Press Secretary: Visit by Presi- Ari Fleischer dent Musharraf of Pakistan Statement by the Press Secretary on disaster Statement by the Press Secretary on the Presi- assistance to Alabama dent’s meeting with President Rafael Hipolito Statement by the Press Secretary on disaster Mejia Dominguez of the Dominican Republic assistance to New York Fact sheet: National Policy on Ballistic Missile Released May 13 Defense Fact Sheet Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Secretary Released May 21 Ari Fleischer Transcript of a press gaggle by Assistant Press Statement by the Press Secretary condemning Secretary Sean McCormack and USA Freedom the terrorist act in Znamenskoye, Chechnya Corps Director John Bridgeland

795 Appendix C / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Statement by the Press Secretary: President Statement by the Press Secretary announcing Bush To Travel to Poland, Russia, and France that the President signed H.R. 1298 Statement by the Press Secretary: Announce- Statement by the Press Secretary announcing ment of Intent To Negotiate a U.S.-Bahrain that the President signed H.R. 2185 Free Trade Agreement Released May 29 Statement by the Press Secretary on the appointment of Frances Fragos Townsend as Dep- Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary uty Assistant to the President and Deputy Na- Ari Fleischer tional Security Adviser for Combating Terrorism Released May 30 Fact sheet: The Advance of Freedom and Hope Statement by the Press Secretary announcing that the President signed S. 330 and S. 870 Released May 22 on May 29 Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Secretary Transcript of a press gaggle by Secretary of Ari Fleischer State Colin L. Powell on the President’s visit Announcement of nomination for Director of to Europe and the Middle East the Office of Management and Budget Released May 31 Announcement of nomination for an Associate Judge of the Superior Court of the District of Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Secretary Columbia Ari Fleischer Transcript of an interview of National Security Released May 23 Adviser Condoleezza Rice by foreign print jour- Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Secretary nalists Ari Fleischer Released June 2 Statement by the Press Secretary: Visit of Presi- dent Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva of Brazil Statement by the Press Secretary: Presidential Designation of Foreign Narcotics Kingpins Statement by the Deputy Press Secretary on Fact sheet: Action on Science and Technology disaster assistance to Mississippi Fact sheet: Countering the ‘‘Dirty Bomb’’ Statement by Secretary of State Colin L. Powell Threat and National Security Adviser Condoleezza Rice on the U.S.-Israel discussions on the Roadmap Fact sheet: Enhancing Commercial Aviation Se- for Peace in the Middle East curity Released May 27 Fact sheet: Broadening the Partnership To Stop the Spread of Weapons of Mass Destruction Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Fact sheet: Action To Enhance Global Capacity Ari Fleischer To Combat Terror Statement by the Press Secretary announcing Fact sheet: U.S. Actions at the G–8 Summit: that the President signed H.J. Res. 51 Day One Released May 28 Fact sheet: U.S. Actions at the G–8 Summit: Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Day Two Ari Fleischer Released June 3 Transcript of a press briefing by National Secu- Transcript of a press briefing by Secretary of rity Adviser Condoleezza Rice on the President’s State Colin L. Powell and National Security Ad- upcoming trip to Europe and the Middle East viser Condoleezza Rice on the President’s meet- Statement by the Press Secretary: President ings with Arab leaders Bush To Travel to Egypt, Jordan, and Qatar Transcript of an interview of National Security Statement by the Press Secretary: Visit of Prime Adviser Condoleezza Rice by John King, Cable Minister Jose Manuel Durao Barroso of Portugal News Network

796 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Appendix C

Statement by the Press Secretary on disaster Released June 12 assistance to Kentucky Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Secretary Released June 4 Ari Fleischer Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Secretary Statement by the Press Secretary: Unsuccessful Ari Fleischer Coup in Mauritania Transcript of remarks by Secretary of State Statement by the Press Secretary on the Presi- Colin L. Powell and National Security Adviser dent’s visit to Southeast Asia for the APEC Condoleezza Rice to the press pool Leaders’ Meeting on October 20–21 Transcript of an interview of National Security Released June 13 Adviser Condoleezza Rice by Peter Jennings, ABC News Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Secretary Ari Fleischer Released June 5 Transcript of remarks by National Security Ad- Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Secretary viser Condoleezza Rice at the Town Hall Los Ari Fleischer Angeles Breakfast on June 12 Statement by the Press Secretary on the Medi- Fact sheet: U.S. Soccer Community Answering care agreement between Senator Charles E. Call To Aid Children in Iraq Grassley and Senator Max Baucus Released June 14 Announcement of nomination for U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon and U.S. Marshal Statement by the Press Secretary: Recent Dem- for the Northern District of Iowa onstrations in Iran Released June 6 Released June 16 Statement by the Press Secretary: Meeting With Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Secretary President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda Ari Fleischer Statement by the Press Secretary: Visit by Prime Released June 17 Minister Thaksin of Thailand Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Statement by the Press Secretary on disaster Ari Fleischer assistance to Arkansas Statement by the Press Secretary on selection Statement by the Press Secretary on disaster of Chair of the Information Security Classifica- assistance to American Samoa tion Appeals Panel Released June 9 Fact sheet: Providing Job Opportunities for Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary America’s Workers Ari Fleischer Released June 18 Statement by the Press Secretary on the upcom- Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary ing U.S.-EU Summit Ari Fleischer Released June 10 Statement by the Press Secretary announcing Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary that the President signed H.R. 192 and S. 273 Ari Fleischer on June 17 Statement by the Press Secretary on the des- Statement by the Press Secretary: Prime Min- ignation of Special Envoy of the President and ister Vladimir Spidla of the Czech Republic To Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Visit Washington Released June 11 Released June 19 Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Secretary Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Secretary Ari Fleischer Ari Fleischer

797 Appendix C / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

Statement by the Press Secretary on internal Fact sheet: U.S.-EU Summit: Informal Financial security legislation under consideration by Hong Markets Dialog Kong’s Legislative Council Fact sheet: U.S.-EU Summit: Cooperation on Released June 20 the Development of a Hydrogen Economy Statement by the Press Secretary on the Presi- Fact sheet: U.S.-EU Summit: Transatlantic Co- dent’s upcoming visit to Africa operation on Trade Statement by the Press Secretary: U.S.-Brazil Fact sheet: U.S.-EU Summit: Transatlantic Busi- Energy Partnership ness Dialog Fact sheet: U.S.-Brazil: Advancing Business De- Released June 26 velopment and SME Growth Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Fact sheet: U.S.-Brazil Joint Venture on HIV/ AIDS in Lusophone Africa Ari Fleischer Fact sheet: U.S.-Brazil: Supporting the Zero Statement by the Press Secretary announcing Hunger Project that the President signed S.J. Res. 8 and S. 703 Fact sheet: White House South Lawn Tee Ball Advance text of remarks by National Security Announcement of appointment of White House Adviser Condoleezza Rice at the International Press Secretary Institute for Strategic Studies in London, United Released June 21 Kingdom Statement by the Press Secretary on disaster Released June 27 assistance to West Virginia Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Secretary Released June 24 Ari Fleischer Fact sheet: Visit of President Musharraf to Statement by the Press Secretary on the agree- Camp David ment in principle between Israel and the Pales- tinian Authority to transfer security responsibil- Released June 25 ities in Gaza Transcript of a press briefing by Press Secretary Ari Fleischer Released June 30 Statement by the Press Secretary: Meeting With Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Secretary Prime Minister Anerood Jugnauth of Mauritius Ari Fleischer Fact sheet: U.S.-EU Summit: U.S.-EU Aviation Statement by the Press Secretary announcing Agreement that the President signed H.R. 2312 Fact sheet: U.S.-EU Summit: U.S.-EU Statement by the Press Secretary announcing Counterterrorism Cooperation that the President signed H.R. 2350

798 Appendix D—Presidential Documents Published in the Federal Register

This appendix lists Presidential documents released by the Office of the Press Secretary and published in the Federal Register. The texts of the documents are printed in the Federal Register (F.R.) at the citations listed below. The documents are also printed in title 3 of the Code of Federal Regula- tions and in the Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents.

PROCLAMATIONS

Proc. Date 68 F.R. No. 2003 Subject Page

7636 Jan. 2 National Mentoring Month, 2003 ...... 995 7637 Jan. 10 To Modify Duty-Free Treatment Under the Generalized Sys- tem of Preferences ...... 1951 7638 Jan. 13 The Centennial of Korean Immigration to the United States ... 2173 7639 Jan. 14 National Sanctity of Human Life Day, 2003 ...... 2409 7640 Jan. 15 Religious Freedom Day, 2003 ...... 2869 7641 Jan. 17 To Modify Rules of Origin Under the North American Free Trade Agreement ...... 3163 7642 Jan. 17 Martin Luther King, Jr., Federal Holiday, 2003 ...... 3169 7643 Jan. 27 National Consumer Protection Week, 2003 ...... 4887 7644 Jan. 30 American Heart Month, 2003 ...... 6055 7645 Jan. 31 National African American History Month, 2003 ...... 6057 7646 Feb. 1 Honoring the Memory of the Astronauts Aboard Space Shuttle Columbia ...... 6059 7647 Feb. 7 Establishment of the Governors Island National Monument .... 7053 7648 Feb. 28 American Red Cross Month, 2003 ...... 10641 7649 Feb. 28 Irish-American Heritage Month, 2003 ...... 10643 7650 Feb. 28 National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, 2003 ...... 10645 7651 Feb. 28 Women’s History Month, 2003 ...... 10647 7652 Feb. 28 Save Your Vision Week, 2003 ...... 10649 7653 Mar. 14 National Poison Prevention Week, 2003 ...... 13217 7654 Mar. 18 Greek Independence Day: A National Day of Celebration of Greek and American Democracy, 2003 ...... 13805 7655 Mar. 24 Cancer Control Month, 2003 ...... 14887 7656 Mar. 26 National Child Abuse Prevention Month, 2003 ...... 15651 7657 Mar. 28 To Take Certain Actions Under the African Growth and Op- portunity Act With Respect to the Republic of The Gambia and the Democratic Republic of the Congo ...... 15921 7658 Apr. 1 National Donate Life Month, 2003 ...... 16403 7659 Apr. 4 National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, 2003 ...... 17253 7660 Apr. 8 National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day, 2003 ...... 17873 7661 Apr. 9 National D.A.R.E. Day, 2003 ...... 17875 7662 Apr. 10 Education and Sharing Day, U.S.A., 2003 ...... 18081 7663 Apr. 11 Pan American Day and Pan American Week, 2003 ...... 18831 7664 Apr. 15 National Fair Housing Month, 2003 ...... 19135 7665 Apr. 18 National Park Week, 2003 ...... 19929 7666 Apr. 25 National Charter Schools Week, 2003 ...... 23021 7667 Apr. 25 National Volunteer Week, 2003 ...... 23023 7668 Apr. 30 Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month, 2003 ...... 23821

799 Appendix D / Administration of George W. Bush, 2003

PROCLAMATIONS—Continued

Proc. Date 68 F.R. No. 2003 Subject Page

7669 Apr. 30 Older Americans Month, 2003 ...... 23823 7670 Apr. 30 Law Day, U.S.A., 2003 ...... 23825 7671 Apr. 30 Loyalty Day, 2003 ...... 23827 7672 Apr. 30 National Day of Prayer, 2003 ...... 23829 7673 May 2 Jewish Heritage Week, 2003 ...... 24333 7674 May 7 Mother’s Day, 2003 ...... 25277 7675 May 9 Peace Officers Memorial Day and Police Week, 2003 ...... 26195 7676 May 9 National Defense Transportation Day and National Transpor- tation Week, 2003 ...... 26197 7677 May 9 National Safe Boating Week, 2003 ...... 26199 7678 May 15 National Hurricane Awareness Week, 2003 ...... 27427 7679 May 16 World Trade Week, 2003 ...... 27889 7680 May 21 National Maritime Day, 2003 ...... 28687 7681 May 22 Prayer for Peace, Memorial Day, 2003 ...... 31935 7682 May 23 National Missing Children’s Day, 2003 ...... 31937 7683 May 30 National Child’s Day, 2003 ...... 33339 7684 June 6 Flag Day and National Flag Week, 2003 ...... 34775 7685 June 13 National Homeownership Month, 2003 ...... 36445 7686 June 13 Father’s Day, 2003 ...... 36447 7687 June 24 Black Music Month, 2003 ...... 38167 7688 June 30 Death of James Strom Thurmond ...... 39793 7689 June 30 To Modify Duty-Free Treatment Under the Generalized Sys- tem of Preferences ...... 39795

EXECUTIVE ORDERS

E.O. Date 68 F.R. No. 2003 Subject Page

13283 Jan. 21 Establishing the Office of Global Communications ...... 3371 13284 Jan. 23 Amendment of Executive Orders, and Other Actions, in Con- nection With the Establishment of the Department of Homeland Security ...... 4075 13285 Jan. 29 President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation ...... 5203 13286 Feb. 28 Amendment of Executive Orders, and Other Actions, in Con- nection With the Transfer of Certain Functions to the Sec- retary of Homeland Security ...... 10619 13287 Mar. 3 Preserve America ...... 10635 13288 Mar. 6 Blocking Property of Persons Undermining Democratic Proc- esses or Institutions in Zimbabwe ...... 11457 13289 Mar. 12 Establishing the Global War on Terrorism Medals ...... 12567 13290 Mar. 20 Confiscating and Vesting Certain Iraqi Property ...... 14307 13291 Mar. 21 Further Adjustment of Certain Rates of Pay ...... 14525 13292 Mar. 25 Further Amendment to Executive Order 12958, as Amended, Classified National Security Information ...... 15315 13293 Mar. 28 Amendment to Executive Order 10448, Establishing the Na- tional Defense Service Medal ...... 15917

800 Administration of George W. Bush, 2003 / Appendix D

EXECUTIVE ORDERS—Continued

E.O. Date 68 F.R. No. 2003 Subject Page

13294 Mar. 28 Regulations Relating to Hazardous Duty Incentive Pay, Avia- tion Career Incentive Pay, and Submarine Duty Incentive Pay ...... 15919 13295 Apr. 4 Revised List of Quarantinable Communicable Diseases ...... 17255 13296 Apr. 18 Amendments to Executive Order 13045, Protection of Chil- dren From Environmental Health Risks and Safety Risks ..... 19931 13297 Apr. 23 Applying the Federal Physicians Comparability Allowance Amendments of 2000 to Participants in the Foreign Service Retirement and Disability System, the Foreign Service Pen- sion System, and the Central Intelligence Agency Retire- ment and Disability System ...... 22565 13298 May 6 Termination of Emergency With Respect to the Actions and Policies of UNITA and Revocation of Related Executive Or- ders ...... 24857 13299 May 8 Interagency Group on Insular Areas ...... 25477 13300 May 9 Facilitating the Administration of Justice in the Federal Courts 25807 13301 May 14 Increasing the Number of Members on the Intelligence Over- sight Board ...... 26981 13302 May 15 Amending Executive Order 13212, Actions to Expedite En- ergy-Related Projects ...... 27429 13303 May 22 Protecting the Development Fund for Iraq and Certain Other Property in Which Iraq Has an Interest ...... 31931 13304 May 28 Termination of Emergencies With Respect to Yugoslavia and Modification of Executive Order 13219 of June 26, 2001 ..... 32315 13305 May 28 Extension of the President’s Information Technology Advisory Committee and the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology ...... 32323 13306 May 28 Establishing the Bob Hope American Patriot Award ...... 33337 13307 May 29 European Central Bank ...... 33338 13308 June 20 Further Amendment to Executive Order 12580, as Amended, Superfund Implementation ...... 37691