Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents

Monday, October 24, 2005 Volume 41—Number 42 Pages 1545–1569

VerDate Aug 31 2005 08:53 Oct 25, 2005 Jkt 208250 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 1249 Sfmt 1249 E:\PRESDOCS\P42OCF4.021 P42OCF4 Contents

Addresses and Remarks Meetings With Foreign Leaders See also Bill Signings; Meetings With Foreign Bulgaria, President Purvanov—1549 Leaders European Union, European Commission Education Secretary Spellings, meeting—1559 President Durao Barroso—1554 Former Texas Supreme Court Justices, Palestinian Authority, President Abbas—1560 meeting—1551 Notices Iftaar dinner—1552 Iraqi Constitution, vote approving—1549 Intention To Enter Into a Free Trade Radio address—1547 Agreement With Oman—1552 National Emergency With Respect to Bill Signings Significant Narcotics Traffickers Centered Department of Homeland Security in Colombia—1559 Appropriations Act, 2006 Proclamations Remarks—1554 National Character Counts Week—1545 Statement—1558 National Employer Support of the Guard and Communications to Congress Reserve Week—1545 National Forest Products Week—1546 Colombia, message on continuation of the United Nations Day—1566 national emergency with respect to White Cane Safety Day—1547 significant narcotics traffickers—1560 Oman, message giving notice of intent to Statements by the President enter into a free trade agreement—1552 See also Bill Signings House of Representatives passage of the Communications to Federal Agencies proposed ‘‘Protection of Lawful Commerce Provision of U.S. Drug Interdiction Assistance in Arms Act’’—1566 to the Government of Brazil, Supplementary Materials memorandum—1549 Acts approved by the President—1569 Interviews With the News Media Checklist of White House press releases— Exchange with reporters in the Oval Office— 1569 1549 Digest of other White House News conference with President Abbas of the announcements—1567 Palestinian Authority, October 20—1560 Nominations submitted to the Senate—1568

Editor’s Note: The President was at Camp David, MD, on October 21, the closing date of this issue. Releases and announcements issued by the Office of the Press Secretary but not received in time for inclusion in this issue will be printed next week.

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

VerDate Aug 31 2005 11:43 Oct 25, 2005 Jkt 208250 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 1249 Sfmt 1249 E:\PRESDOCS\P42OCF4.021 P42OCF4 VerDate Aug 31 2005 08:53 Oct 25, 2005 Jkt 208250 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 7969 Sfmt 7969 E:\PRESDOCS\P42OCF4.021 P42OCF4 newmail.eps Week Ending Friday, October 21, 2005

Proclamation 7946—National by virtue of the authority vested in me by Character Counts Week, 2005 the Constitution and laws of the United October 14, 2005 States, do hereby proclaim October 16 through October 22, 2005, as National Char- By the President of the United States acter Counts Week. I call upon public offi- of America cials, educators, librarians, parents, students, and all Americans to observe this week with A Proclamation appropriate ceremonies, activities, and pro- During National Character Counts Week, grams. we focus on ways to reach out to our fellow In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set Americans, especially children. Parents are my hand this fourteenth day of October, in the first and best example of character in a the year of our Lord two thousand five, and child’s life. By volunteering and performing of the Independence of the United States of other acts of service in their communities, America the two hundred and thirtieth. parents can teach children about the good George W. Bush that comes from helping others. By extending a hand to those who suffer, parents can dem- [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, onstrate kindness and compassion and help 8:45 a.m., October 18, 2005] children learn the importance of serving a NOTE: This proclamation was published in the cause greater than themselves. Federal Register on October 19. This item was Our schools also play a vital part in pro- not received in time for publication in the appro- viding children with the principles they need priate issue. to grow and succeed. The Department of Education supports character education through its Partnerships in Character Edu- Proclamation 7947—National cation Program. During my Administration, Employer Support of the Guard and over 60 State and local education agencies Reserve Week, 2005 have received funding from the Department October 14, 2005 of Education to provide programs that teach important values to our youth. By the President of the United States Many citizens around the country are of America helping in the effort to teach character to children. One of the most important ways to A Proclamation contribute is to become a mentor. By show- In times of crisis, our Nation depends on ing love, support, and compassion, one per- the courage and determination of the mem- son can make a difference in the life of a bers of our National Guard and Reserve. child. Across our country, these dedicated citizen- During National Character Counts Week soldiers are answering the call to serve. Dur- and throughout the year, I encourage chil- ing National Employer Support of the Guard dren and all Americans to make good choices and Reserve Week, we honor the vital con- in life, set high standards, and serve as lead- tributions of members of our Guard and Re- ers. By working together, we can all con- serve, and we express our gratitude for the tribute to a culture of good citizenship and support shown to them by their employers. responsibility that strengthens our Nation. In every generation, America has turned Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, to the National Guard and Reserve to help President of the United States of America, respond to natural disasters, secure our 1545

VerDate Aug 31 2005 21:16 Oct 24, 2005 Jkt 208250 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P42OCT4.021 P42OCT4 1546 Oct. 14 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2005

homeland, and defend our liberty. Today, [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, National Guard and Reserve personnel are 8:45 a.m., October 18, 2005] serving on the front lines of freedom in the NOTE: This proclamation was published in the war on terror, and they have provided vital Federal Register on October 19. This item was relief to our citizens affected by Hurricanes not received in time for publication in the appro- Katrina and Rita. Balancing the demands of priate issue. their families, civilian careers, and military assignments, members of our Guard and Re- serve demonstrate personal courage, love of Proclamation 7948—National Forest country, and a commitment to duty that in- Products Week, 2005 spires all Americans. October 14, 2005 Employers play a critical role in helping the men and women of the National Guard By the President of the United States and Reserve carry out their mission. In of- of America fices, schools, hospitals, and other work- places, employers provide time off, pay, A Proclamation health-care benefits, and job security to their America’s forests are a source of pride, and Guard and Reserve employees. These patri- they provide crucial products and materials otic efforts allow our men and women in uni- for our citizens and communities. As we cele- form to focus on their military assignments brate National Forest Products Week, we and help strengthen our country. Americans recognize the importance of our forests to are grateful to these employers for putting our economy and way of life, and we reaffirm the needs of our citizens and our country’s our commitment to protecting them through safety and security first. wise stewardship and sensible land manage- As we continue to fight terrorism and ad- ment. vance peace around the world, Americans Across our Nation, people and businesses stand strongly and proudly behind the men use forest products to meet their daily needs. and women of the National Guard and Re- Forests provide paper for books and news- serve, and we express our appreciation for papers, lumber for homes and buildings, and the commitment of their employers. materials for countless other items. As good Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, citizens, we have a shared responsibility to President of the United States of America, cultivate and sustain our forests and mini- by virtue of the authority vested in me by mize the risk of catastrophic fires that harm the Constitution and laws of the United people, property, and the environment. States, do hereby proclaim October 16 My Administration has made good forest through October 22, 2005, as National Em- stewardship a priority. Through the Healthy ployer Support of the Guard and Reserve Forests Initiative, we are reducing the fre- Week. I encourage all Americans to join me quency and severity of wildfires by thinning in expressing our thanks to members of our out and removing forest undergrowth before National Guard and Reserve and their civil- disaster strikes. The commonsense manage- ian employers for their patriotism and sac- ment practices we are implementing are rifices on behalf of our Nation. I also call helping to strengthen our economy, keep upon State and local officials, private organi- communities safe, save the lives of fire- zations, businesses, and all military com- fighters, and protect threatened and endan- manders to observe this week with appro- gered habitats and wildlife. priate ceremonies and activities. Sound conservation policies and respon- In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set sible maintenance provide improved protec- my hand this fourteenth day of October, in tion for our forests and greater economic the year of our Lord two thousand five, and prosperity for our citizens. During National of the Independence of the United States of Forest Products Week, we renew our com- America the two hundred and thirtieth. mitment to sustain America’s forests. Recognizing the importance of our forests, George W. Bush the Congress, by Public Law 86–753 (36

VerDate Aug 31 2005 21:16 Oct 24, 2005 Jkt 208250 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P42OCT4.021 P42OCT4 Administration of George W. Bush, 2005 / Oct. 15 1547

U.S.C. 123), as amended, has designated the pate fully in society. My Administration is week beginning on the third Sunday in Octo- working to fulfill this goal for individuals with ber of each year as ‘‘National Forest Products disabilities through the New Freedom Initia- Week’’ and has authorized and requested the tive. This comprehensive program helps in- President to issue a proclamation in observ- crease the development and use of assistive ance of this week. and universally designed technologies, ex- Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, pand educational and employment opportu- President of the United States of America, nities, and improve access into daily commu- do hereby proclaim October 16 through Oc- nity life. By working to reduce barriers and tober 22, 2005, as National Forest Products change old ways of thinking, we can help en- Week. I call upon all Americans to observe sure that our Nation’s opportunities are more this week with appropriate ceremonies and accessible to all. activities. The Congress, by joint resolution (Public In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set Law 88–628) approved on October 6, 1964, my hand this fourteenth day of October, in as amended, has designated October 15 of the year of our Lord two thousand five, and each year as ‘‘White Cane Safety Day.’’ of the Independence of the United States of Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, America the two hundred and thirtieth. President of the United States of America, George W. Bush do hereby proclaim October 15, 2005, as White Cane Safety Day. I call upon public [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, officials, business leaders, educators, librar- 8:45 a.m., October 18, 2005] ians, and all the people of the United States to observe this day with appropriate cere- NOTE: This proclamation was published in the monies, activities, and programs. Federal Register on October 19. This item was not received in time for publication in the appro- In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set priate issue. my hand this fourteenth day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand five, and of the Independence of the United States of Proclamation 7949—White Cane America the two hundred and thirtieth. Safety Day, 2005 George W. Bush October 14, 2005 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, By the President of the United States 8:45 a.m., October 18, 2005] of America NOTE: This proclamation was published in the A Proclamation Federal Register on October 19. This item was not received in time for publication in the appro- Americans who are blind or visually im- priate issue. paired are valuable and contributing mem- bers of our society, and many use a white cane to help them succeed at school, home, The President’s Radio Address or work. White canes give these individuals October 15, 2004 greater mobility and enable them to partici- pate in more aspects of community life. On Good morning. This weekend is a momen- White Cane Safety Day, we celebrate the tous time in the history of the Middle East. progress that has been made for those who After choosing their leaders in free elections are blind or visually impaired, and we reaf- in January, the Iraqi people have gone to the firm our commitment to ensuring that these polls to vote on a democratic constitution. citizens can live and work with greater free- This constitution is the result of months of dom and independence. debate and compromise by representatives One of our Nation’s defining values is of Iraq’s diverse ethnic and religious commu- compassion, and we must make certain that nities. These leaders came together to all our citizens are able to harness their tal- produce a document that protects funda- ents, engage in productive work, and partici- mental freedoms and lays the foundation for

VerDate Aug 31 2005 21:16 Oct 24, 2005 Jkt 208250 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P42OCT4.021 P42OCT4 1548 Oct. 15 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2005

a lasting democracy. Earlier this week, the funeral of a child, the Muslim world sees the Iraqi people embraced changes to the text terrorists for what they really are, murderers that have led to its endorsement by some at war with the Iraqi people. Sunni leaders as well as Kurdish and Shi’a These terrorists are driven by an ideology leaders. Now the people of Iraq will have that exploits Islam to serve a violent political the final say. vision: the establishment of a totalitarian em- By casting their ballots, the Iraqi people pire that denies political and religious free- deal a severe blow to the terrorists and send dom. This is why the terrorists have fought a clear message to the world: Iraqis will de- to prevent and disrupt this weekend’s elec- cide the future of their country through tions. They understand that the act of voting peaceful elections, not violent insurgency. is a rejection of them and their distorted vi- And by their courageous example, they’re sion of Islam. Simply by coming out to vote, charting a new course for the entire Middle the Iraqi people have shown that they want East. to live in freedom, and they will not accept This weekend’s election is a critical step a return to tyranny and terror. forward in Iraq’s march toward democracy, and with each step the Iraqi people take, Al The terrorists know their only chance for Qaida’s vision for the region becomes more success is to break our will and force us to remote. As Iraqis prepared for this election, retreat. The Al Qaida letter points to Vietnam the world learned of a letter written by a as a model. Zawahiri says, quote, ‘‘The after- leading terrorist explaining why Iraq is the math of the collapse of American power in central front in their war on civilization. Al Vietnam and how they ran and left their Qaida’s number two leader, a man named agents is noteworthy.’’ End quote. Al Qaida Zawahiri, wrote to his chief deputy in Iraq, believes that America can be made to run the terrorist Zarqawi. We intercepted this again. They are gravely mistaken. America letter, and we have released it to the public. will not run, and we will not forget our re- In it, Zawahiri lays out why Al Qaida views sponsibilities. Iraq as ‘‘the place for the greatest battle’’ of In Iraq, we have brought down a mur- our day. derous regime. We have stood by the Iraqi He says that establishing Al Qaida’s do- people through two elections, and we will minion over Iraq is the first step towards stand by them until they have established a their larger goal of imposing Islamic radi- free nation that can govern itself, sustain calism across the broader Middle East. itself, and defend itself. When we do, Iraq Zawahiri writes, and I quote, ‘‘The jihad in will be an ally in the war on terror and a Iraq requires several incremental goals. The partner for peace and moderation in the first stage: Expel the Americans from Iraq. Muslim world. And because America stood The second stage: Establish an Islamic au- firm in this important fight, our children and thority over as much territory as you can, to grandchildren will be safer and more se- spread its power in Iraq. The third stage: Ex- cure.Q02 tend the jihad wave to the secular countries Thank you for listening.Q02 neighboring Iraq.’’ End quote. This letter shows that Al Qaida intends to make Iraq a terrorist haven and a staging NOTE: The address was recorded at 7:50 a.m. on ground for attacks against other nations, in- October 14 in the Cabinet Room at the White cluding the United States. The letter makes House for broadcast at 10:06 a.m. on October 15. equally clear that the terrorists have a prob- The transcript was made available by the Office lem: Their campaign of murder and mayhem of the Press Secretary on October 14 but was em- bargoed for release until the broadcast. In his ad- is turning the people against them. The letter dress, the President referred to Ayman Al- warns Zarqawi that, quote, ‘‘many of your Zawahiri, founder of the Egyptian Islamic Jihad Muslim admirers amongst the common folk and senior Al Qaida associate; and senior Al Qaida are wondering about your attacks on the associate Abu Musab Al Zarqawi. The Office of Shi’a.’’ End quote. Even Al Qaida recognizes the Press Secretary also released a Spanish lan- that with every random bombing and every guage transcript of this address.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 11:44 Oct 25, 2005 Jkt 208250 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P42OCT4.021 P42OCT4 Administration of George W. Bush, 2005 / Oct. 17 1549

Remarks on the Vote Approving the Memorandum on Provision of United Iraqi Constitution States Drug Interdiction Assistance October 16, 2005 to the Government of Brazil October 16, 2005 On behalf of the American people, I’d like to congratulate the people of Iraq for the suc- Presidential Determination No. 2006–02 cessful completion of a vote on their draft constitution. By all indications, the turnout Memorandum for the Secretary of State, the was greater than the turnout from the last Secretary of Defense January election, which is good news. By all Subject: Provision of U.S. Drug Interdiction indications, the Sunnis participated in greater Assistance to the Government of Brazil numbers in this election than last time. And Pursuant to the authority vested in me by that’s good news. After all, the purpose of section 1012 of the National Defense Au- a democracy is to make sure everybody is— thorization Act for Fiscal Year 1995, as participates in the process. amended (22 U.S.C. § 2291–4), I hereby cer- I’m also pleased, from the initial indica- tify, with respect to Brazil, that (1) interdic- tions, that the level of violence was consider- tion of aircraft reasonably suspected to be ably less than the last election. That’s a trib- primarily engaged in illicit drug trafficking ute to the Iraqis—forces who we’ve trained in that country’s airspace is necessary be- as well as coalition forces that worked hard cause of the extraordinary threat posed by to make sure that democracy could move for- illicit drug trafficking to the national security ward in Iraq. of that country; and (2) that country has ap- This is a very positive day for the Iraqis propriate procedures in place to protect and as well for world peace. Democracies are against innocent loss of life in the air and peaceful countries. The vote today in Iraq on the ground in connection with such inter- stands in stark contrast to the attitudes and diction, which shall at a minimum include philosophy and strategy of Al Qaida and its effective means to identify and warn an air- terrorist friends and killers. We believe and craft before the use of force is directed the Iraqis believe the best way forward is against the aircraft. through the democratic process. Al Qaida The Secretary of State is authorized and directed to publish this determination in the wants to use their violent ways to stop the Federal Register and to notify Congress of march of democracy because democracy is this determination. the exact opposite of what they believe is right. George W. Bush We’re making progress toward peace. We’re making progress toward an ally that NOTE: This memorandum was released by the Of- will join us in the war on terror, that will fice of the Press Secretary on October 17. prevent Al Qaida from establishing safe haven in Iraq, and a country that will serve as an example for others who aspire to live Remarks Following Discussions With in freedom. President Georgi Purvanov of So, again, I congratulate the Iraqi people. Bulgaria and an Exchange With I thank you for meeting this milestone. Reporters Thank you for doing what is right, to set the October 17, 2005 foundation for peace for future generations to come. President Bush. We’ll have opening state- Appreciate it. Thank you all. ments, two questions a side. Welcome, Mr. President. Mr. President, your country is a strategic NOTE: The President spoke at 12:47 p.m. on the ally. It’s been my honor to welcome you to South Grounds at the White House. the Oval Office, and thank you for a wide-

VerDate Aug 31 2005 21:16 Oct 24, 2005 Jkt 208250 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P42OCT4.021 P42OCT4 1550 Oct. 17 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2005

ranging discussion on a lot of important top- CIA Employee’s Identity Disclosure ics. Investigation Bulgaria has been a valued partner in Q. Mr. President, would you expect a NATO. Your country has been a strong ex- member of your administration to resign or ample for democracy. You understand, like take leave if they were indicted? I understand, that the march of democracy President Bush. Mr. President, there’s an will lead to world peace. I want to thank you investigation going on. I’ve made it very clear for being a part of a vast coalition that helped to the press that I’m not going to discuss the liberate 50 million people. We discussed im- investigation. And so, therefore—and so my position hasn’t changed since the last time portant bilateral issues. I’ve been asked this question. There’s a seri- And I want to thank you again for coming. ous investigation. We’re not going to—I’m Thank you for your leadership, and thank you not going to prejudge the outcome of the for your friendship. investigation. President Purvanov. Thank you, Mr. Your question. Yes. President. Ladies and gentlemen, I would Bulgarian Nurses in Libya like to say how pleased I am with the discus- Q. Mr. President, first, we remember sions we just had with Mr. President. I am 9/11, and we thank you for your leadership, delighted that we had a chance to reaffirm sir. The question is, in Bulgarian public opin- our specific partnership and to discuss—to ion knows quite well that the most important go through the agenda of some specific issues thing for us is to get our nurses back from related. the jail in Libya, because they’re facing a fir- I do appreciate the support we have been ing squad, sir, after few weeks if the verdict receiving from the United States in becom- is confirmed. So, we are partners. You’re the ing a reliable NATO member state and also leader of the most powerful nation on Earth. Why don’t you help us, sir? in joining the European Union in time—that President Bush. Do you want to interpret is, as of January ’07. I value the high appre- that? ciation of Bulgaria’s role as a stabilizing factor in the Balkans that we receive. [At this point, the interpreter translated the question into Bulgarian, and President Bush I had the chance to reaffirm Bulgaria’s continued.] commitment to remain an ally in the—of the antiterrorist coalition. Of course, the spe- We discussed this issue at length. Like the cifics of that are going to be discussed on President, my heart breaks when young chil- an expert level. I appreciate the opportunity dren get sick. The position of the United to raise some concrete, specific issues and States Government is the nurses ought to be put on the table Bulgaria’s ambitions to get freed. We have made our position known to the Libyan Government. There’s no confu- its military modernized and to be involved sion—there should be no confusion in the in some energy products in the Balkans. Libyan Government’s mind. But those nurses And I’m sure that after these meetings and ought to be not only spared their life but talks, our institutions and the people con- out of prison. And we will continue to make cerned, the experts will have a lot of work that message perfectly clear. to do in order to guarantee an influx of in- Steve [Steve Holland, Reuters]. vestment. I’m particularly pleased with this Vote on Iraqi Constitution very frank—open and frank discussions we Q. Sir, the vote on Saturday, does the had. Sunni vote against the Iraqi constitution President Bush. Thank you. Answer a damage the political process? Will it increase couple of questions—hold a second, please. the likelihood of violence and American sac- We’ll go with the American side first. Deb rifice? [Deb Riechmann, Associated Press]. President Bush. My first reaction to the vote was that an increase in turnout was an

VerDate Aug 31 2005 11:44 Oct 25, 2005 Jkt 208250 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P42OCT4.021 P42OCT4 Administration of George W. Bush, 2005 / Oct. 17 1551

indication that the Iraqi people are strongly strength. We’re laying the foundation for in favor of settling disputes in a peaceful way, peace. Democracies are peaceful. They’re at that they understand that working to find peace with their neighbors, and the Balkans common ground on a constitution is much needs peace. The Middle East needs peace. better for their future than relying upon kill- And working with friends like Bulgaria, we ers and people who will kill innocent children are laying that foundation for peace. and women for the sake of creating havoc. And I’m proud to have your friendship. Secondly, I was pleased to see that the Thank you. Sunnis participated in the process. The idea of deciding to go into a ballot box is a positive NOTE: The President spoke at 10:53 a.m. in the development. The idea that people are will- Oval Office at the White House. President ing to try to work out their political dif- Purvanov and one reporter spoke in Bulgarian, ferences through a process, a peaceful proc- and their remarks were translated by an inter- ess, is—stands in stark contrast to the Al preter. Qaida types and the terrorists and the killers that are trying to drive the process through violence. Remarks Following a Meeting With The way forward is clear. The political Former Texas Supreme Court process will continue with a constitution, if Justices finally ratified, and then an election, coupled October 17, 2005 with a security plan that continues to train Iraqis so they do the fight. The violence in The President. I want to welcome some this election was down from the previous of my fellow Texans here in the Oval Office. election. And one of the reasons why is be- We’ve got Republicans and Democrats, peo- cause the Iraqi forces took the fight to the ple who have been on the court, attorney enemy and provided security, which is really generals. They’re here to send a message heartening to coalition forces and friends and here in Washington that the person I picked allies. to take Sandra Day O’Connor’s place is not So yesterday was a very hopeful day for only a person of high character and of integ- peace. It’s an exciting day for a country that rity but a person who can get the job done. only a few short years ago was ruled by a Harriet Miers is a uniquely qualified per- brutal tyrant. So I’m pleased with the son to serve on the bench. She is a smart— progress being made. she is capable. She is a pioneer. She’s been consistently ranked as one of the top 50 Bulgaria’s Role in the Balkans women lawyers in the United States. She has Q. Mr. President, Bulgarian Telegraph been a leader in the legal profession. She’s Agency. What do you think of Bulgaria’s impressed these folks. They know her well. role—of your ally, Bulgaria, as a regional They know that she’ll bring excellence to the leader in the Balkans? bench. President Bush. I think the—I watched So I want to thank you all for coming. your election—recent parliamentary elec- Thank you for being part of a group of people tions very closely. The people voted, and who understand that Harriet Miers will be then coalitions were formed for the good of a superb Supreme Court judge. the country. That’s an example that many can Welcome. I’m glad you’re here. learn from. There’s nothing more wholesome Justice Hill. Thank you. Mr. President, than a young democracy, not only setting an we just all want to thank you for this nomina- example for others but taking a lead in ex- tion. We’re excited about it, and we’re here plaining to citizens that the best way to re- to try to let the people of America know what solve differences is through a political proc- we all know, that she is an absolutely fantastic ess that is peaceful. person and a great lawyer and will make a And so the President and I talked about great judge. Bulgaria’s important role in taking the lead The President. Well, thank you, sir. Ap- in helping young democracies grow in preciate you coming. Thank you all.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 21:16 Oct 24, 2005 Jkt 208250 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P42OCT4.021 P42OCT4 1552 Oct. 17 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2005

NOTE: The President spoke at 11:27 a.m. in the an important step on the path to fulfilling Oval Office at the White House. Former Chief my vision of developing economic growth Justice John L. Hill, Jr., former Associate Justice and democracy in the Middle East and cre- Greg Abbott, former Associate Justice James A. ating a U.S.-Middle East Free Trade Area Baker, former Associate Justice Eugene A. Cook, (MEFTA) by 2013. former Associate Justice Craig T. Enoch, and former Associate Justice Raul A. Gonzalez, Texas Consistent with the Trade Act, I am send- Supreme Court, participated in the meeting. ing this notification at least 90 days in ad- vance of signing the FTA. My Administration looks forward to working with the Congress Notice—Intention To Enter Into a in developing appropriate legislation to ap- Free Trade Agreement With Oman prove and implement this Agreement. October 17, 2005 George W. Bush The White House, Consistent with section 2105(a)(1)(A) of October 17, 2005. the Trade Act of 2002, I have notified the Congress of my intention to enter into a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the Sultanate Remarks at the Iftaar Dinner of Oman. October 17, 2005 Consistent with section 2105(a)(1)(A) of that Act, this notice shall be published in the Please be seated. Thank you. Welcome to Federal Register. the White House. This is the fifth year in George W. Bush a row that it’s been my honor to host an Iftaar in the State Dining Room. The White House, Our distinguished guests represent the October 17, 2005. millions of Muslims that we’re proud to call Americans, and many Islamic nations are [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, represented here that America is proud to 9:34 a.m., October 18, 2005] call friend. We welcome the representatives NOTE: This notice was published in the Federal from many countries with large Muslim pop- Register on October 19. ulations. I want to thank you all for coming to celebrate an honored tradition of the Mus- lim faith and wish you a Ramadan Mubarak. Message to the Congress Giving I want to thank those in my administration Notice of Intent To Enter Into a Free who have joined us. I want to thank the Trade Agreement With Oman Imam for joining us today, and thank you October 17, 2005 for leading us in prayer after these short re- marks. I want to thank all the ambassadors To the Congress of the United States: from the Organization of the Islamic Con- Consistent with section 2105(a)(1)(A) of ference. I welcome other members of the the Trade Act of 2002, (Public Law 107– diplomatic corps. And I want to thank the 210)(the ‘‘Trade Act’’), I am pleased to notify Muslim—American Muslim leaders who are the Congress of my intention to enter into with us today. Thanks for taking time out to a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the Sul- celebrate this important dinner. tanate of Oman. Ramadan is the holiest time of the Muslim The Agreement will generate export op- year. According to Islamic teaching, this portunities for U.S. companies, farmers, and month commemorates the revelation of ranchers, help create jobs in the United God’s word to the prophet Mohammed in States, and help American consumers save the form of the Koran. For more than a bil- money while offering them more choices. lion Muslims, Ramadan is a time of heartfelt Entering into an FTA with Oman will build prayer and togetherness. It is a time of fasting on the FTAs that we already have with Israel, and personal sacrifice. It’s a time to give Jordan, and Morocco, as well as the FTA that thanks for God’s blessings through works of we have concluded with Bahrain, and will be charity.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 21:16 Oct 24, 2005 Jkt 208250 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P42OCT4.021 P42OCT4 Administration of George W. Bush, 2005 / Oct. 17 1553

One Muslim leader said, ‘‘It’s a national As we work together to defeat the terror- and Islamic obligation to assist one’s neigh- ists, we must be very clear about the enemies bors when they are in need.’’ The American we face. The killers who take the lives of in- people saw that spirit as we recovered from nocent men, women, and children are fol- Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. The world sees lowers of a violent ideology very different that spirit, that compassion of Islam, through from the religion of Islam. These extremists the countless acts of kindness following the distort the idea of jihad into a call for terrorist recent earthquake in southeast—in South murder against anyone who does not share Asia. their radical vision, including Muslims from other traditions, who they regard as heretics. America is fortunate to count such good- Their strategy will fail. Many Muslim hearted men and women among our fellow scholars have already publicly condemned citizens. We have great respect for the com- terrorism, often citing Chapter 5, Verse 32 mitment that all Muslims make to faith, fam- of the Koran, which states that killing an in- ily, and education. And Americans of many nocent human being is like killing all of hu- backgrounds seek to learn more about the manity and saving the life of one person is rich tradition of Islam. To promote greater like saving all of humanity. I appreciate those understanding between our cultures, I have of you here who have joined these scholars encouraged American families to travel in rejecting violent extremists. And I believe abroad, to visit with Muslim families. And the time has come for all responsible Islamic I have encouraged American families to host leaders to denounce an ideology that exploits exchange students from the Muslim world. Islam for political ends and defiles your noble I have asked young Americans to study the faith. language and customs of the broader Middle I have great confidence in the future of East. And for the first time in our Nation’s this Nation and in the future of the Muslim history, we have added a Koran to the White world. I have been inspired by the courage House Library. of people in Afghanistan and Iraq, where Muslims are celebrating Ramadan in two of All of us gathered tonight share a convic- the world’s newest democracies. I believe tion that America must remain a welcoming that people of every religious and ethnic and tolerant land in which our people are background have the right and the desire to free to practice any faith they choose. We be free. And I believe that the spread of free- reject every form of ethnic and religious dis- dom and justice and tolerance in the broader crimination. As I said in my second Inaugural Middle East will lead to the peace that we Address, we cannot carry the message of all seek. freedom and the baggage of bigotry at the As we celebrate this special Iftaar, we same time. renew the ties of friendship that bind all We also share a common hope for the fu- those who trace their faith back to God’s call ture, that our children and grandchildren will on Abraham. We recognize the many hopeful grow up in a safer and more peaceful world. works we have achieved together. We look Delivering on that promise to future genera- forward to learning more from each other tions requires action from our generation. in the years ahead. We must stand confidently in the cause of I’m so grateful that you’ve joined us today. freedom, including the freedom of people I wish you a blessed Ramadan, and may God everywhere to practice their faith in peace. bless you all. We must also firmly oppose all who commit evil in God’s name. I am grateful to the Mus- NOTE: The President spoke at 7:01 p.m. in the lim nations that have joined our coalition in State Dining Room at the White House. In his the war on terror, including many nations remarks, he referred to Imam Talal Eid, Islamic that have been victims of terror themselves. Institute of Boston.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 11:44 Oct 25, 2005 Jkt 208250 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P42OCT4.021 P42OCT4 1554 Oct. 18 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2005

Remarks Following Discussions With Union are looking forward for a success of President Jose Manuel Durao those talks. We want it to have ambitious and Barroso of the European balanced result on agriculture but not only Commission in agriculture. I want to underline this point, services for instance, is very important, so October 18, 2005 that our citizens can really see the benefits President Bush. It’s my pleasure to wel- of globalization. And we want to work to- come back to the Oval Office my friend Jose gether, the United States also, engaging oth- Barroso. Welcome. ers, emerging markets, but also thinking President Durao Barroso. Thank you. about less developed countries, engaging President Bush. Thank you for taking them constructively for this—the success of time out of your schedule to come and visit these talks. and talk about U.S.-EU relations. I told Jose These were the main issues that I had the that it’s very important for the people in Eu- pleasure, once again, to discuss with Presi- rope to know that America values our rela- dent Bush in his very frank and friendly man- tionship, wants the EU to succeed, wants to ner. I really believe we have a lot to do to- work in collaboration to achieve some big ob- gether, the European Union and United jectives. One is to lay the foundation for States. peace by spreading democracy and freedom. President Bush. Thanks, Jose. Appreciate And I appreciate your understanding, and you. thank you for working closely on that. Secondly is to help enhance the prosperity NOTE: The President spoke at 11:50 a.m. in the of our respective countries as well as the Oval Office at the White House. world, through promoting free and fair trade. We talked about what it requires to get the Doha round moving forward. We had a good, Remarks on Signing the Department frank discussion on that, and there’s no ques- of Homeland Security tion we share the same objective. Appropriations Act, 2006 We talked about what we can do to work October 18, 2005 together to move forward on a lot of issues. The main thing I came away from, again, is, Thank you all. Please be seated. Thanks one, I value Jose’s leadership, his advice but for coming. Welcome to the White House. also how important the relationship between The most solemn duty of the President and the EU and the United States is and that the Congress is to protect the American peo- we can achieve a lot of important things ple. To help meet this responsibility, we cre- when we work together. ated the Department of Homeland Security. So welcome back. Thank you for hosting This Department united 22 Federal agencies me last winter. I’m proud to have you here. under a single command with a clear mission, President Durao Barroso. Thank you to protect the American homeland. very much. It’s a great pleasure for me to To protect our homeland, we tore down be, once again, here in White House with legal and bureaucratic walls that separated President Bush. I thank him and the First our intelligence agents from our law enforce- Lady for their kind and friendly hospitality. ment officers. We’ve disrupted terrorist plan- As President Bush said, this relation is very ning and financing as a result of the reforms. important, most of all because we share ex- We’ve used the PATRIOT Act to break up actly the same values of freedom, democracy, terror cells and prosecute terrorist operatives and human rights, and we complement each and supporters. At the same time, the De- other in pushing forward this agenda, but partment of Homeland Security, by working also in economic terms. We have now a trade with the United States Congress, has in- relation of more than $1 billion a day. So creased the number of people guarding our together, we are 40 percent of world trade. borders, hardened security at our airports So we have a common interest in opening and seaports and bridges and tunnels and up markets. We very much in the European water treatment facilities and nuclear plants.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 23:15 Oct 24, 2005 Jkt 208001 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P42OCT4.021 P42OCT4 Administration of George W. Bush, 2005 / Oct. 18 1555

We’ve helped give those most likely to en- U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Thanks counter terrorists, our partners in local and for representing the good folks who—[ap- State government, the tools they need to do plause]. I appreciate those first-responders their job. who’ve joined us today. Thanks for bringing The bill I sign today supports our ongoing honor to the—[applause]. efforts to protect our homeland with $30.8 To defend this country, we’ve got to en- billion in discretionary funding for fiscal year force our borders. When our borders are not 2006, an increase of $1.8 billion over the secure, terrorists and drug dealers and crimi- 2005 levels. This bill will help us identify ter- nals find it easier to come to America. This rorists seeking to enter our country, safe- administration is going to work with Con- guard our cities against weapons of mass de- gress to make sure we do our job, and that struction, and better prepare the Federal starts with having a clear strategy. And here’s Government to respond to catastrophic at- how the strategy has got to be: We’ve got tack. to strengthen security along our borders to The bill also includes $7.5 billion in vital stop people from entering illegally. In other funding to address the serious problem of words, we’ve got to stop people from coming illegal immigration. We’re going to get con- here in the first place. Secondly, we must trol of our borders. We’re going to make this improve our ability to find and apprehend country safer for all our citizens. illegal immigrants who have made it across I want to thank Secretary Mike Chertoff the border. If somebody is here illegally, for the job he’s doing. I want to welcome we’ve got to do everything we can to find Josh Bolten, Director of OMB. He’s the them. And thirdly, we’ve got to work to en- Laughter money man. [ ] I appreciate Ambas- sure that those who are caught are returned sador John Negroponte for joining us, the to their home countries as soon as possible. Director of National Intelligence; Director The bill I sign today will provide critical re- Porter Goss of the CIA; Vice Admiral Scott sources for all these efforts. Redd, Director of the National Counterterrorism Center. For the past 4 years, we’ve worked with I want to thank the Members of Congress Congress to implement the strategy. To stop who are up here with me: Thad Cochran of illegal immigrants from coming into the Mississippi, chairman of the Appropriations country, we’ve increased manpower; we’ve Committee; Senator Judd Gregg, chairman upgraded technology; and we’ve improved of the Appropriations Subcommittee on the physical barriers along our border. In Homeland Security; Senator Jon Kyl, chair- other words, we’ve worked together to imple- man of the Senate Republican Policy Com- ment the strategy. mittee. Since I’ve been to office, we’ve increased I want to thank the Members of the House funding for border security by 60 percent, who’ve joined me up here: Congressman Hal and we’ve hired more than 1,900 new Border Rogers, chairman of the Appropriations Sub- Patrol agents. We’ve deployed new tech- committee on Homeland Security; Congress- nology to help our agents do their job, from man Pete King; Congressman John Shadegg; unmanned aircraft to ground censors to in- Congressman Chet Edwards, who happens frared cameras. We’ve made better use of to be my Congressman; Congressman San- physical structure to help our agents do their ford Bishop; Congressman Sheila Jackson- job. We’ve taken steps to complete a 14-mile Lee. Thank you all for joining us. I appreciate fence running along the San Diego border so many Members of the House and Senate with Mexico. who have joined us here today. Thank you Stopping people from crossing our borders for working hard on this good bill. illegally is only part of the strategy. The other I appreciate Assistant Chief Patrol Agent part of our strategy is enforcing our immigra- Rebekah Salazar, who’s joined us on stage— tion laws. Since 2001, we’ve increased fund- thank you—Assistant Chief Patrol Agent ing for immigration enforcement by 35 per- Elizabeth Briones as well as Patrol Agent in cent. We’ve added nearly 1,000 new agents Charge Felix Chavez. They all work for the and criminal investigators to help us find and

VerDate Aug 31 2005 21:16 Oct 24, 2005 Jkt 208250 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P42OCT4.021 P42OCT4 1556 Oct. 18 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2005

return illegal immigrants. We’ve targeted vio- our Southwest border. And the system is not lent criminal gangs, whose members are here fair to those who are working the border. You illegally. got agents working hard to do their job, the Under a new program launched in Feb- job Americans expect; 160,000 non-Mexican ruary, our Immigration and Customs En- illegal immigrants were caught, yet only forcement agents have arrested nearly 1,400 30,000 of them went home. illegal immigrant gang members. And this And so the bill I sign today—and I appre- country owes them a debt of gratitude for ciate Congress’ work on this matter—will working so hard to protect our citizens. help us expand our reach and effectiveness We’re going after criminal organizations and in two important ways. First, the bill provides ‘‘coyotes’’ that traffic in human beings. These more than $2.3 billion for the Border Patrol, people are the worst of the worst. They prey so we can keep more illegal immigrants from on innocent life. They take advantage of peo- getting into this country. In other words, ple who want to embetter their own lives. we’re expanding the number of agents in a And we’re working hard. In Arizona, we rational, planned way. This bill gives $139 prosecuted more than 2,300 people for million to improve our technology and intel- smuggling drugs, guns, and illegal immi- ligence capabilities, including portable imag- grants across our borders. And I want to ing machines and cameras and sensors and thank the Federal officers as well as the folks automated targeting systems that focus on from Arizona, both local and State, who have high-risk travelers and goods. In other words, made this kind of work possible. we’ve increased the number of people, but As part of our enforcement efforts, we’re we’ve given them new technology so they can working to send the illegal immigrants we better do their job. catch back to their home countries as soon The bill also includes $82 million to im- as possible. It’s one thing to catch them; it’s prove and expand Border Patrol stations and the next thing to get them back home. To make progress—to make our progress more $70 million to install and improve fencing, effective, we’re going to work with—we’ll lighting, vehicle barriers, and roads. What continue to work with foreign governments I’m saying is Congress did good work in help- to have their counsel officers review cases ing us build a smarter system, so we can say and issue travel documents more quickly— to the American people, ‘‘We’re doing our in other words, to expedite the return. job of securing our border.’’ These efforts are getting results. Since Secondly, the bill provides $3.7 billion for 2001, we’ve removed several million illegal immigration and customs enforcement, so we immigrants from the United States, including can find and return the illegal immigrants nearly 300,000 with criminal records. Our who are here. This bill will fund the hiring Border Patrol and Immigration Enforcement of 100 new immigration enforcement agents officers are really doing good work. Yet today and 250 criminal investigators. we capture many more illegal immigrants As a result of the bill I’m about to sign, than we can send home, especially non-Mexi- we’re going to add nearly 2,000 new beds cans. And one of the biggest reasons for that to our detention facilities. That will bring the is we don’t have enough bed space in our number of beds up to nearly 20,000. This detention facilities. When there’s no bed will allow us to hold more non-Mexican ille- space available, non-Mexicans who are gal immigrants while we process them caught entering our country illegally are through a program we call ‘‘expedited re- given a slip that tells them to come back for moval.’’ Putting more of these non-Mexican a court appearance. And guess what? They illegal immigrants through expedited re- don’t come back. moval is crucial to ending the problem of And so this bill—and by the way, as a re- catch-and-release. As Secretary Chertoff told sult of that—this process, the lack of beds, the Senate earlier this morning, our goal is the lack of detention facility, we return home clear, to return every single illegal entrant, only 30,000 of the 160,000 non-Mexican ille- with no exceptions. And this bill gets us on gal immigrants we caught coming through the way to do that.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 21:16 Oct 24, 2005 Jkt 208250 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P42OCT4.021 P42OCT4 Administration of George W. Bush, 2005 / Oct. 18 1557

For Mexicans who cross into America ille- It makes sense for the employer. It makes gally, we have a different strategy. Now most sense for the worker, and it makes sense for of the 900,000 illegal immigrants from Mex- those good people trying to enforce our bor- ico who are caught each year are immediately der. The fewer people trying to sneak in to escorted back across the border. The prob- work means it’s more likely we’re going to lem is, these illegal immigrants are able to catch smugglers—drug smugglers and terror- find another ‘‘coyote’’ or human smuggler, ists and gun runners. and they come right back in. One part of the solution is a program called ‘‘interior re- A critical part of any temporary-worker patriation,’’ where we fly or bus Mexican ille- program is work site enforcement. To deal gal immigrants all the way back to their with employers who violate our immigration hometowns. See, many of these folks are law, this bill strengthens our enforcement ca- coming from the interior of Mexico. And so pabilities by adding new agents and doubling the farther away from the border we send their resources. We’ve got to crack down on them, the more difficult it will be for them employers who flout our laws. And we will to turn around and cross right back into give honest employers the tools they need America. By returning Mexicans to their to spot fake documents and ensure that their homes, far away from desert crossings, we’re workers are respecting our laws. America is helping to save lives. These efforts are going a country of laws, and we’re going to uphold to help us enforce our borders, and I want our laws for the good of the citizens of this to thank you for your good work. country. As we improve and expand our efforts to The bill I’m about to sign funds a lot of secure our borders, we must also recognize important programs. It helps people do the that enforcement work—that enforcement job they’ve been called on to do, which is cannot work unless it is part of a larger com- to protect the American people. A key com- prehensive immigration reform program. If ponent of this bill is to make sure we enforce an employer has a job that no American is the borders of the United States of America. willing to take, we need to find a way to fill And I want to thank the authors of the bill, that demand by matching willing employers those who have worked hard to get this bill with willing workers from foreign countries to my desk, for putting forth a rational plan, on a temporary and legal basis. The best way a way to do our job. to do that is through a temporary-worker pro- gram that gives those workers we need a We’ve got a lot of work to do in this coun- legal, honest way to come into our country try. There are enemies still out there who and to return home. I’m going to work with want to hurt us. But this bill is a step toward Members of Congress to create a program all of us, Republicans and Democrats, being that can provide for our economy’s labor able to say to the American people, ‘‘We’re needs without harming American workers, coming together to do the best job we can without providing amnesty, and that will im- possibly do to protect this country.’’ prove our ability to control our borders. Again, I want to thank the Members for You see, we got people sneaking into our being here. Thanks for your good work. May country to work. They want to provide for God bless you, and may God continue to their families. Family values do not stop at bless our country. the Rio Grande River. People are coming to put food on the table. But because there is

no legal way for them to do so, through a NOTE: The President spoke at 1:33 p.m. in the temporary-worker program, they’re putting East Room at the White House. H.R. 2360, ap- pressure on our border. It makes sense to proved October 18, was assigned Public Law No. have a rational plan that says, ‘‘You can come 109–90. The Office of the Press Secretary also and work on a temporary basis, if an em- released a Spanish language transcript of these re- ployer can’t find an American to do the job.’’ marks.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 10:45 Oct 25, 2005 Jkt 208250 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P42OCT4.021 P42OCT4 1558 Oct. 18 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2005

Statement on Signing the with the President’s exclusive constitutional Department of Homeland Security authority, as head of the unitary executive Appropriations Act, 2006 branch and as Commander in Chief, to clas- October 18, 2005 sify and control access to national security information and to determine whether an in- Today, I have signed into law H.R. 2360, dividual is suitable to occupy a position in the ‘‘Department of Homeland Security Ap- the executive branch with access to such in- propriations Act, 2006.’’ The Act provides formation. funds to protect the United States against To the extent that section 518 of the Act terrorism, assist those adversely affected by purports to allow an agent of the legislative natural disasters such as hurricanes, and branch to prevent implementation of the law carry out other departmental functions such unless the legislative agent reports to the as securing our Nation’s borders and enforc- Congress that the executive branch has met ing our immigration laws. certain conditions, the executive branch shall The executive branch shall construe as construe such section as advisory, in accord- calling solely for notification the provisions ance with the constitutional principles enu- of the Act that purport to require congres- sional committee approval for the execution merated in the Chadha decision. of a law. Any other construction would be As is consistent with the text of the Act, inconsistent with the principles enunciated the executive branch shall construe section by the Supreme Court of the United States 521 as relating to the integrity and super- in INS v. Chadha. These provisions include: vision of the United States Secret Service ‘‘United States Visitor and Immigrant Status only within the Department of Homeland Indicator Technology;’’ ‘‘Automation Mod- Security. The executive branch therefore ernization, Customs and Border Protection;’’ shall construe section 521 to neither affect ‘‘Air and Marine Interdiction, Operations, the functions and supervision of personnel Maintenance, and Procurement, Customs of the Secret Service assigned or detailed to and Border Protection;’’ ‘‘Automation Mod- duty outside the Department of Homeland ernization, Immigration and Customs En- Security, nor limit participation by the Secret forcement;’’ ‘‘Salaries and Expenses, United Service in cooperative command and other States Secret Service;’’ ‘‘Research, Develop- arrangements with other governmental enti- ment, Acquisition, and Operations, Science ties for the conduct of particular operations. and Technology for the Domestic Nuclear Section 527 refers to joint explanatory Detection Office;’’ and sections 504, 505, statements of managers accompanying con- 509, 511, 526, and 538. ference reports on specified acts. Such state- Under the heading ‘‘Customs and Border ments do not satisfy the constitutional re- Protection,’’ the Act purports to require the quirements of bicameral approval and pre- Bureau of Customs and Border Protection sentment to the President needed to give to relocate its tactical checkpoints in the Tuc- them the force of law. son, Arizona, sector at least once every 7 The executive branch shall construe sec- days. Decisions on deployment and redeploy- tion 529 of the Act, relating to privacy officer ment of law enforcement officers in the exe- reports, in a manner consistent with the cution of the laws are a part of the executive President’s constitutional authority to super- power vested in the President by Article II of the Constitution. Accordingly, the execu- vise the unitary executive branch. tive branch shall construe the relocation pro- vision as advisory rather than mandatory. George W. Bush Section 516 of the Act purports to direct The White House, the conduct of security and suitability inves- tigations. To the extent that section 516 re- October 18, 2005. lates to access to classified national security information, the executive branch shall con- NOTE: H.R. 2360, approved October 18, was as- strue this provision in a manner consistent signed Public Law No. 109–90.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 21:16 Oct 24, 2005 Jkt 208250 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P42OCT4.021 P42OCT4 Administration of George W. Bush, 2005 / Oct. 19 1559

Remarks Following a Meeting With Notice—Continuation of the Secretary of Education Margaret National Emergency With Respect to Spellings Significant Narcotics Traffickers October 19, 2005 Centered in Colombia October 19, 2005 The President. Laura and I are proud to welcome our Secretary of Education here to On October 21, 1995, by Executive Order the Oval Office. Secretary Spellings has just 12978, the President declared a national emergency pursuant to the International delivered what’s called the Nation’s Report Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. Card, which is a sample of over 300,000 stu- 1701–1706) to deal with the unusual and ex- dents from—in every State, as to whether or traordinary threat to the national security, not they’ve got the capacity to read and write foreign policy, and economy of the United and add and subtract in the fourth and eighth States constituted by the actions of signifi- grade. cant narcotics traffickers centered in Colom- This is an encouraging report. Thank you bia, and the extreme level of violence, cor- for coming, Madam Secretary, because it ruption, and harm such actions cause in the shows there’s an achievement gap in America United States and abroad. that is closing, that minority students, par- The order blocks all property and interests ticularly in fourth grade math and fourth in property of foreign persons listed in an grade reading, are beginning to catch up with annex to the order that are in the United their Anglo counterparts. And that’s positive, States or within the possession or control of and that’s important. It shows that a system U.S. persons, as well as of foreign persons that measures and focuses on every child is determined to play a significant role in inter- a system that can help us and achieve a goal national narcotics trafficking centered in Co- that we really want in America, and that is lombia. The order similarly blocks all prop- every child learning to read and no child— erty and interests in property of foreign per- and add and subtract and no child being left sons determined to materially assist in, or behind. provide financial or technological support for or goods or services in support of, the nar- This is an important yardstick. It’s an im- cotics trafficking activities of persons des- portant measuring tool. It will allow States ignated in or pursuant to the order, or per- to compare how they’re doing with their sons determined to be owned or controlled neighboring States, for example. It also by, or to act for or on behalf of, persons des- points up where we’ve got more work to do. ignated in or pursuant to the order. The We’ve got work to do in eighth grade reading. order also prohibits any transaction or deal- And that’s why we’ve discussed the program, ing by United States persons or within the Striving Readers Program. We hope Con- United States in such property or interests gress funds that program to make sure that in property. there’s intense focus in the middle schools Because the actions of significant narcotics in reading and math, just like there’s intense traffickers centered in Colombia continue to focus in the early grades in reading and math. threaten the national security, foreign policy, And so, Madam Secretary, thanks for com- and economy of the United States and to ing. Appreciate you delivering the report. No cause an extreme level of violence, corrup- Child Left Behind is working. tion, and harm in the United States and Secretary Spellings. Thank you, Mr. abroad, the national emergency declared on President. October 21, 1995, and the measures adopted The President. Thank you. pursuant thereto to deal with that emer- gency, must continue in effect beyond Octo- ber 21, 2005. Therefore, in accordance with NOTE: The President spoke at 11:16 a.m. in the section 202(d) of the National Emergencies Oval Office at the White House. Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)), I am continuing for 1 year the national emergency with respect

VerDate Aug 31 2005 21:16 Oct 24, 2005 Jkt 208250 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P42OCT4.021 P42OCT4 1560 Oct. 19 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2005

to significant narcotics traffickers centered in fickers centered in Colombia by blocking Colombia. This notice shall be published in their property and interests in property that the Federal Register and transmitted to the are in the United States or within the posses- Congress. sion or control of United States persons and George W. Bush by depriving them of access to the U.S. mar- ket and financial system. The White House, October 19, 2005. George W. Bush [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, The White House, 1:08 p.m., October 19, 2005] October 19, 2005. NOTE: This notice was published in the Federal Register on October 20. The President’s News Conference With President Mahmoud Abbas of Message to the Congress on the Palestinian Authority Continuation of the National October 20, 2005 Emergency With Respect to Significant Narcotics Traffickers President Bush. Thank you all. Thanks. Centered in Colombia It’s my honor to welcome the democratically October 19, 2005 elected leader of the Palestinian Authority to the White House for the second time this To the Congress of the United States: year. We just had some good talks. Mr. Presi- Section 202(d) of the National Emer- dent, thanks—a good, open, exchange of gencies Act, 50 U.S.C. 1622(d), provides for ideas. the automatic termination of a national emer- President Abbas is a man devoted to peace gency unless, prior to the anniversary date and to his people’s aspirations for a state of of its declaration, the President publishes in their own. And today the Palestinian people the Federal Register and transmits to the are closer to realizing those aspirations. It’s Congress a notice stating that the emergency a really interesting period of history, I think. is to continue in effect beyond the anniver- I was just commenting to the President when sary date. In accordance with this provision, we were in the Oval Office, how much things I have sent the enclosed notice to the Federal have changed in the Holy Land. After all, Register for publication, stating that the he got elected in January; there were success- emergency declared with respect to signifi- ful Palestinian municipal elections; and then cant narcotics traffickers centered in Colom- we witnessed the completion of Israel’s dis- bia is to continue in effect beyond October engagement from Gaza and parts of the West 21, 2005. The most recent notice continuing Bank. It’s been an eventful year. this emergency was published in the Federal And I say it’s an eventful year because the Register on October 20, 2004 (69 Fed. Reg. ultimate objective is there—for there to be 61733). two states, living side by side in peace, two The circumstances that led to the declara- democracies living side by side in peace. And tion on October 21, 1995, of a national emer- I believe that’s where we’re headed. Israel’s gency have not been resolved. The actions withdrawal from Gaza and parts of West of significant narcotics traffickers centered in Bank was a bold decision with historic signifi- Colombia continue to pose an unusual and cance. President Abbas and the Palestinian extraordinary threat to the national security, Authority contributed to the success of the foreign policy, and economy of the United withdrawal in significant ways. Mr. President, States and to cause unparalleled violence, thank you. corruption, and harm in the United States Through the active coordination and and abroad. For these reasons, I have deter- ground-level cooperation between Israeli and mined that it is necessary to maintain eco- Palestinian security forces, the disengage- nomic pressure on significant narcotics traf- ment has been completed successfully and

VerDate Aug 31 2005 21:16 Oct 24, 2005 Jkt 208250 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P42OCT4.021 P42OCT4 Administration of George W. Bush, 2005 / Oct. 20 1561

calmly. Israeli withdrawal creates new oppor- I believe that Arab States have a particular tunities, creates responsibilities for the Pales- responsibility to help the Palestinians build tinian people. a strong and prosperous economy, and I urge The way forward must begin by con- them to create an environment in the region fronting the threat that armed gangs pose to that strengthens the possibility of peace. a genuinely democratic Palestine. And those The way forward must continue to include armed gangs must confront the threat that democratic elections. The upcoming elec- armed gangs pose to lasting peace between tions for the Palestinian Legislative Council the Israelis and the Palestinians. offer an opportunity to open the door to the Now, Mr. President, you ran on a platform next generation of Palestinian leaders. They’ll of peace. That’s why the people voted for be responsible for building a peaceful and you. I strongly support your rejection of ter- hopeful future for their country. ror and your commitment to what you have In the short term, the Palestinian Author- called, one authority, one law, and one gun. ity must earn the confidence of its people The United States, in cooperation with the international community, has helped you by holding elections and having a functioning achieve this through the efforts of our senior government that delivers economic oppor- U.S. security coordinator, General Kip Ward. tunity. The Palestinian Authority must also I appreciate your service, General Ward. earn the confidence of its neighbors by re- Thank you for being here, and thank you for jecting and fighting terrorism. all your hard work to help the Palestinian As I have stated in the past, achieving security forces at a critical time. Job well peace demands action from all parties. Israel done. must continue to work with Palestinian lead- In the coming days, I’ll be naming our new ers to help improve the daily lives of Palestin- coordinator to build on the progress General ians. At the same time, Israel should not un- Ward has made. This person will take on an dertake any activity that contravenes its road- enhanced mission to help President Abbas map obligations or prejudices the final status and the Palestinian Authority carry out their negotiations with regard to Gaza, the West responsibility to end terror attacks, dismantle Bank, and Jerusalem. This means that Israel terrorist infrastructure, maintain law and must remove unauthorized posts and stop order, and one day, provide security for their settlement expansion. It also means that the own state. barrier now being built to protect Israelis The way forward must include rebuilding from terrorist attacks must be a security bar- the Palestinian economy. This goal has the rier, rather than a political barrier. Israeli support of the Quartet, the United States, leaders must take into account the impact the United Nations, the European Union, this security barrier has on Palestinians not and Russia. Quartet Special Envoy Jim engaged in terrorist activities. Wolfensohn is coordinating a broad effort to This is a time of great possibility in the generate economic and financial support Middle East. And the people of the region from the international community for the are counting on their leaders to seize the op- Palestinian Authority, and he’s doing a good job. I’m going to continue to consult with portunities for peace and progress. This work our Quartet partners to ask Jim to extend isn’t going to be easy, but the path forward his mission until next spring. is clear. I want to thank President Abbas for It’s important that we make quick progress his hard work. I appreciate your service, Mr. on the issues that Jim has identified as most President. I assured him that the United critical for the Palestinian economy, includ- States will use our influence to help realize ing opening the Rafah crossing, connecting a shared vision of two democratic states, the West Bank and Gaza, improving the abil- Israel and Palestine, living side by side in ity of Palestinians to travel in the West Bank, peace and security. and beginning work on the Gaza seaport. Welcome. These are all practical steps that will help President Abbas. Thank you. Mr. Presi- the Palestinian economy grow and flourish. dent, I would like to thank you for your warm

VerDate Aug 31 2005 21:16 Oct 24, 2005 Jkt 208250 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P42OCT4.021 P42OCT4 1562 Oct. 20 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2005

welcome, and I would like to express my sat- Mr. President, there is approximately 100 isfaction with the talks that I conducted with days between us and the elections for our you and your senior aides. legislative council, where the Palestinian You have emphasized, Mr. President, from people would go to the ballot box to elect this place, about 5 months ago, the basic for the first time since their—for the first counters for the U.S. position regarding the time in 10 years—their representatives. This various aspects of the Palestinian-Israeli con- for us represents a very important landmark. flict. This position, which you have reiterated On one hand, it crowns a whole year since today, contributes fundamentally to advance I assumed office, and also, these elections the chances of reviving and resuming the would represent a renewal process, and a re- peace process in the region. building process of our political process. In the last few months, the dismantling of Also, these elections will consolidate and settlements and the withdrawal of Israeli reinforce the slogan I ran on during my Presi- forces from the Gaza Strip was concluded. dential election, which emphasized clearly The Palestinian Authority have worked very the one authority, the one law, the one legal, hard with all its energy in order to make sure legitimate law, and political pluralism. The that this will happen without any incident, new legislative council would be mandated in order to have this as a window of an oppor- by the people to legislate and issue these slo- tunity that will help us to move faster toward gans and make them a reality. Once again, we repeat our pride of our achieving additional steps on the way toward democratic experience that’s been under- realizing just peace based on your vision and taken by the Palestinian people, and we re- on international resolutions. peat and we say that the democracy can lose This window, Mr. President, must remain a lot of its momentum in the absence of free- open. And this opportunity must be strength- dom and with the continuation of occupation. ened through resolving all the outstanding Mr. President, our discussions today have issues—as you have mentioned, the Gaza allowed us to inform you of what the Pales- crossing point and the establishment of a per- tinian National Authority is doing and what manent link between Gaza and West Bank. we are doing in terms of various policies in At the same time, we must immediately start various spheres. We have worked and we will implementing what the roadmap and the continue to work to continue to ensure the Sharm el-Sheikh agreements regarding the calm and maintain it. We are also intensifying cessation of settlement activities and con- our work in the field of security. We have struction of the wall in the West Bank, par- taken active steps in imposing the rule of law ticularly in Jerusalem, in addition to with- and public order and ban armed demonstra- drawal of the Israeli forces to positions prior tions. to September 28, 2000. Our measures are continuing to reinforce With the removal of the roadblocks, which, the judiciary branch, as well as the adminis- unfortunately, turned the lives of Palestinians trative reform. We have said, and we did dur- into hardship, suffering, humiliation, and also ing the last week start launching a series of in a very important sensitive issue, which is economic projects in the infrastructure and the release of prisoners of freedom from in health and education and agriculture in Israeli jails. The implementation of these re- both Gaza and the West Bank. quirements, Mr. President, represents urging And here I would like to salute the United the talks on permanent status issues regard- States for its contribution and also the help ing Jerusalem, refugees, settlements, bor- that came from a variety of Arab countries ders, in order to reach, at the end, peace, and countries around the world. And we which would allow for the establishment of hope that all these projects will be activated an independent, democratic Palestinian by the donors’ countries in order to increase state, on all the territories occupied in 1967. the number of projects that our people are That state that would live in a good, neigh- in need of. borly relationship, in peace with the state of Our discussion of the overall situation in Israel. the region has afforded us the opportunity

VerDate Aug 31 2005 21:16 Oct 24, 2005 Jkt 208250 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P42OCT4.021 P42OCT4 Administration of George W. Bush, 2005 / Oct. 20 1563

to point out what we reaffirmed repeatedly reviving and resuming the peace process and through the past few weeks, on behalf of the more determined to forge ahead along with Palestine Liberation Organization: We are the path of peace, democracy, and freedom. determined not to interfere in domestic Leb- Thank you, Mr. President. anese affairs. We reiterate that the Pales- President Bush. We’ll take two questions tinian refugees in Lebanon are subject to the a side. Terry [Terence Hunt, Associated authority and the laws of Lebanon as tem- Press]. porary guests awaiting the resolution of the refugee problem in the accordance with the President’s Agenda international resolutions. Q. Thank you. Mr. President, there are Mr. President, we reaffirm again here a lot of distractions for your White House, today our commitment to peace and nego- the CIA leak investigation, a conservative up- tiated settlement. We expect that our peo- roar and congressional criticism over the ple’s quest in this direction will be supported. Harriet Miers nomination, and even inves- The time has come to put an end to the Pal- tigations of top Republican leaders in Con- estinian-Israeli conflict. The time has come gress. How preoccupied is the White House that the Palestinian people will attain their by these problems, and how are you dealing freedom and independence. The time has with them? come to move quickly towards the resump- President Bush. Well, I’ve just finished tion of permanent status negotiations. a very constructive dialog with the President Peace requires a departure from the poli- of the Palestinian Authority, talking about cies of occupation and the adoption of the how to achieve peace. principle of freedom. Peace requires depar- And I’ve got a job to do. Part of my job ture from the policies of settlements con- is to work with others to fashion a world that struction, the collective punishment, unilat- will be peaceful for future generations. And eral acts that undermine your vision toward I’ve got a job to do to make sure this econ- two states and replace that with progress to- omy continues to grow. I’ve got a job to make wards negotiations. Peace and security can- sure that there is a plausible reconstruction not be guaranteed by the construction of plan for cities affected by Katrina. I’ve got walls, by the erection of checkpoints, and the a job to make sure this hurricane headed to- confiscation of land but rather by the rec- ward Florida is—the Federal response is pre- ognition of rights. pared for it. Peace cannot be attained by the enforce- So, to answer your question, there’s some ment of discriminatory road policies and by background noise here, a lot of chatter, a lot the policies of imposition and creation of of speculation and opining. But the American facts on the ground but rather through belief people expect me to do my job, and I’m going in the principles of partnership, parity, and to. mutual respect. Want to call on somebody, Mr. President. We are presenting, based on wide public Oops. We’ve better go one at a time here. support, our positions that call upon the Q. President Bush—— Israeli side to join us in a real partnership President Bush. Who do you work for? for making peace. We are calling for a Pales- tinian-Israeli partnership for the sake of cre- Building Trust in the Middle East ating a better future and for the entire region Q. AFP [Agence France Presse]. The that can end decades from wars, occupation, roadmap that your administration backs calls and open the doors wide open. We were for the creation of a Palestinian state in the promised peace, independence, and free- Gaza Strip and the West Bank. dom, and we hope that all of this will be President Bush. Yes. achieved. Q. Yet, the Israelis’ settlement activities, Mr. President, once again, I thank you, despite your repeated calls, included today, and reaffirm to you, as we did in our last still continue in the West Bank. What is your visit, we are leaving Washington more sure administration planning to do to get Israel and—more confidence of the possibility of to put an end to those activities?

VerDate Aug 31 2005 21:16 Oct 24, 2005 Jkt 208250 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P42OCT4.021 P42OCT4 1564 Oct. 20 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2005

And then, President Abbas—— And there’s—and the progress isn’t over this year. There will be elections. This is a [At this point, the reporter continued his very hopeful period. I’m very upbeat about question in Arabic, and his remarks were being able to achieve this vision. I under- translated by an interpreter as follows.] stand it’s hard. Things don’t happen over- ——what are the practical steps that they night. Old feuds aren’t settled immediately, want Bush—President Bush to take in order and it takes awhile. to establish the Palestinian state before the The key thing, as far as I’m concerned, end of his term? is that there are partners in peace. Prime President Bush. As I said in my com- Minister Sharon wants there to be peace. ments, and—that we expect all parties to ad- President Abbas wants there to be peace. here to the roadmap. And we are holding And both men are showing strong leadership people to account on the pledges that both toward achieving that objective, and that’s the Palestinians and the Israelis have made why I’m confident. I’m a heck of a lot more on the roadmap. And we do so publicly, and confident today than when—I was when I we do so privately. first came into office. I know it’s nearly 5 It’s—a lot of these issues that have been, years ago, and that’s an eternity for some, you know, very difficult for a long period of but there has been remarkable progress in time become easier to resolve as there’s more this part of the world. And we’ll continue to trust between the parties. And trust becomes work with the parties to achieve this impor- a permanent part of the political process as tant objective, two democratic states living action on the ground takes place. The Gaza side by side in peace. withdrawal is a magnificent opportunity to President Abbas. Thank you. The truth help develop trust. It’s an opportunity to de- is, our answer to that question, we have to velop trust between the Palestinians and the change the question: What are we supposed Israelis. And after all, the world watched to do—as Palestinians and Israelis—to do. strong cooperation between two willing gov- First of all, we have to work. We have to ernments to help the disengagement of Gaza, do our part. We have to think as partners. which is a, you know—right now, I guess, So many years passed by, more than 4 years we take it all for granted. we did not have any dialog. We did not have You look back—I think prior to the dis- any talks. And now we have confidence. We engagement, there was a lot of consternation, need to rebuild and build on that confidence a lot of concern. I suspect some of you might and on the relationship. have even reported that, you know, ‘‘Better And on our side, we are extending our watch out. This disengagement could end up hand to be a true partners in the peace proc- being a very difficult period.’’ And yet thanks ess, and we hope that the Israeli side also to the President’s leadership and Prime Min- will do the same, so we can do our parts. ister Sharon’s leadership, the disengagement And what we ask President Bush to do is worked, which established trust. what he mentioned during his remarks, the The President has got an—a job, and that’s roadmap and the achievement and the real- to establish trust with the Palestinian people. ization of his vision. The roadmap talks about He is a man who said, ‘‘I’m running on a settlements, about the barrier, all these issues peace platform,’’ and therefore, he has talked that will facilitate the road to achieving true to us about using security forces to make sure peace, and will facilitate building the con- that armed gangs don’t disrupt the demo- fidence between the two peoples, the Israelis cratic process. And our job is to help him and the Palestinians. do that. And so to answer your question, yes, President Bush. Steve [Steve Holland, we hold people to account for their promises Reuters]. made on the roadmap. And many of those promises will be easier to keep for all parties as there’s progress on the ground. And we Associate Justice-Designate Harriet Miers have seen remarkable progress during the Q. Thanks very much, sir. Senator Specter past year. called the rollout of the Miers nomination

VerDate Aug 31 2005 21:16 Oct 24, 2005 Jkt 208250 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P42OCT4.021 P42OCT4 Administration of George W. Bush, 2005 / Oct. 20 1565

chaotic. Is that a fair criticism? Are you satis- is combating armed gangs. And you are fac- fied with the way the nomination has been ing difficulties in doing this. Are you going handled? Would you be willing to release any to seek help and support from American more documents about her if it would help? President George Bush, to help you in dis- President Bush. First of all, it’s an un- arming the resistance movements? usual nomination because she’s never been And President, you say you wanted to see a judge. And so, generally, people are used the Palestinian state made before the end of to looking at different court opinions and your Presidency. Are you still hoping to see how one ruled on this case or how one ruled something like that? This is number one. on that case. That’s not the case with Harriet. Number two, don’t you think the time has I picked Harriet for a lot of reasons. One come for—to talk about timetables to get the reason was because she had never been a two parties to the issues of final status nego- judge. I thought it made a lot of sense to tiations? bring a fresh outlook of somebody who has President Abbas. Regarding your ques- actually been a very successful attorney and tions, I am saying that we are truly in need not only a successful attorney but been a pio- of help from the United States in a variety neer for women lawyers in Texas. I remind of issues, economic issues and financial issues you that she was one of the top 50 women and also security support. And the reason is lawyers in the United States; she’s consist- having General Ward among us, a man who ently ranked that way. And so this is a little has done a magnificent job, and we appre- different process than the norm. I under- ciate him and appreciate his work very much. stand that. Regarding the—our internal issues, we are Secondly, the questionnaire that she filled following a policy. I believe it is a successful out is an important questionnaire, and obvi- policy. When we started and we asked every- ously they will address the questions that the one to accept the hudna or the calming, all Senators have in the questionnaire—or as a the organizations that are recognized accept- result of the answers to the questions in the ed that. Then we moved into another phase, questionnaire. But one thing the question- and that is the phase of banning all public naire does show, if people look at it carefully, demonstrations with firearms. All groups ac- is Harriet’s judicial philosophy. And it’s the cepted that. main reason I picked her to serve on the Now, all groups are underway to the elec- bench, if confirmed, and that is that she is toral process, so all groups will become a part not going to legislate from the bench. She of the political Palestinian fabric. I believe will strictly interpret the Constitution. this will create a new phase in the life of I said that when I ran for President—I Palestinian people. It’s a phase of democracy said, ‘‘If you elect me, I will name people and pluralism in full fledge in order to be that will have that judicial philosophy.’’ I’ve a solid base for peace in the region. now had two chances, one, John Roberts, and President Bush. I believe that two demo- now Harriet Miers. And they share the same cratic states living side by side in peace is judicial philosophy. That’s what the question- possible. I can’t tell you when it’s going to naire says. happen. It’s happening. And the reason I And so Harriet will answer all the ques- can’t is because there will be moments of tions asked, and—but out of this will come progress, and there will be moments of set- a clear picture of a competent, strong, capa- back. The key is to keep moving forward, is ble woman who shares the same judicial phi- to have partners in peace to move forward. losophy that I share. But one thing that will not happen is that Do you want to call on somebody, Mr. we will try—the United States will try to con- President? form and force parties to make decisions based upon the political schedule in America. Situation in the Middle East That doesn’t make any sense. What matters Q. Thank you, President Abbas. As Presi- is the decisions made by the Palestinians and dent Bush referred and said, that the only the Israelis and the confidence earned as we way to achieve progress and the peace road move forward.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 21:16 Oct 24, 2005 Jkt 208250 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P42OCT4.021 P42OCT4 1566 Oct. 20 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2005

And so you said, ‘‘I would like to see two pense of victims and consumers. I look for- states before I get out of office.’’ Not true. ward to signing this legislation into law. I’d like to see two states. And if it happens before I get out of office, I’ll be there to NOTE: The statement referred to S. 397. witness the ceremony. And if it hadn’t—if it doesn’t, we will work hard to lay that foun- Proclamation 7950—United Nations dation so that the process becomes irrevers- Day, 2005 ible. Timetables are, you know, interesting—an October 20, 2005 interesting thing. Everybody wants a time- By the President of the United States table, it seems like, on different issues. And of America these are very complicated matters where years of conflict and years of mistrust are A Proclamation being resolved by some basic truths. And one Sixty years ago, the United Nations was of the basic truths is free societies are peace- created to spread hope and liberty, fight pov- ful societies. And so we can look forward to erty and disease, and help secure human working with a partner in peace, a person rights and human dignity for people every- who said, ‘‘Vote for me. I’m for peace,’’ and where. On United Nations Day, we recom- a man who declares his understanding that mit ourselves to the ideals on which this orga- the Palestinian people, the long-suffering nization was founded. Palestinian people, will be well served by a Throughout history, the human spirit has democracy, a truly functioning democracy. been tested by the forces of darkness and And so, Mr. President, we’re glad you’re evil. Since its founding in the aftermath of back. I want to thank you for your strong World War II, the United Nations has leadership, and we wish you all the very best. worked to solve problems and harness the Thank you, sir. Appreciate you. best instincts of humankind. Today, we must continue efforts to ease suffering, spread NOTE: The President’s news conference began at freedom, and lay the foundations of lasting 10:57 a.m. in the Rose Garden at the White peace for our children and grandchildren. House. In his remarks, he referred to Lt. Gen. In the aftermath of last year’s tsunami in William E. ‘‘Kip’’ Ward, USA, Senior U.S. Secu- the Indian Ocean region and this month’s rity Coordinator, Department of State; James D. Wolfensohn, Quartet Special Envoy for Gaza Dis- earthquakes in South Asia, we have wit- engagement; and Prime Minister Ariel Sharon of nessed the great capacity of human compas- Israel. President Abbas and some reporters spoke sion. The support from the United Nations in Arabic, and their remarks were translated by demonstrated how nations of the world can an interpreter. unite in common purpose to address difficult challenges. This enduring truth inspired those who created the United Nations, and Statement on House of it continues to do so 60 years later. With Representatives Passage of the courage and conscience, we will meet our Proposed ‘‘Protection of Lawful responsibilities to protect the lives and rights Commerce in Arms Act’’ of others. As we do this, we will help fulfill October 20, 2005 the great promise of the United Nations, en- suring that all people can enjoy the peace, I commend the House for passing the freedom, and dignity our Creator intended. ‘‘Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, Act.’’ Our laws should punish criminals who President of the United States of America, use guns to commit crimes, not law-abiding by virtue of the authority vested in me by manufacturers of lawful products. This legis- the Constitution and laws of the United lation will further our efforts to stem frivo- States, do hereby proclaim October 24, 2005, lous lawsuits, which cause a logjam in Amer- as United Nations Day. I urge the Governors ica’s courts, harm America’s small businesses, of the 50 States, the Governor of the Com- and benefit a handful of lawyers at the ex- monwealth of Puerto Rico, and the officials

VerDate Aug 31 2005 21:16 Oct 24, 2005 Jkt 208250 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P42OCT4.021 P42OCT4 Administration of George W. Bush, 2005 1567

of other areas under the flag of the United ber 17, and hold bilateral meetings with States to honor the observance of United Na- other leaders while at APEC. The President tions Day with appropriate ceremonies and will travel to Beijing, China, on November activities. 19. The President will then travel to In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, to meet with Presi- my hand this twentieth day of October, in dent Nambaryn Enkhbayar of Mongolia on the year of our Lord two thousand five, and November 21. of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirtieth. October 18 George W. Bush In the morning, the President had an intel- ligence briefing. He then had a briefing on [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, Hurricanes Katrina and Rita recovery efforts 11:28 a.m., October 21, 2005] and on Tropical Storm Wilma. Later, he met NOTE: This proclamation was published in the with James D. Wolfensohn, Quartet Special Federal Register on October 24. Envoy for Gaza Disengagement.

October 19 In the morning, the President had a brief- Digest of Other ing on Hurricane Wilma. Later, he had an intelligence briefing. White House Announcements Later in the morning, the President met with the National Security Council. He then The following list includes the President’s public had a meeting regarding a potential avian in- schedule and other items of general interest an- fluenza outbreak. nounced by the Office of the Press Secretary and In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the not included elsewhere in this issue. President met with musician and activist Bono, and then they had lunch in his private October 15 dining room. Later in the afternoon, in the Cabinet In the morning, at Camp David, MD, the Room, the President met with Republican President had an intelligence briefing. Members of Congress to discuss legislative October 16 priorities. In the afternoon, the President and Mrs. During the day, the President had a tele- Bush returned to Washington, DC. phone conversation with Gov. Jeb Bush of Florida to discuss preparations for Hurricane October 17 Wilma. Later, he met with Gov. Bush. In the morning, the President had an intel- The President announced his intention to ligence briefing. nominate Anne W. Patterson to be Assistant The White House announced that the Secretary of State for International Narcotics President will host Prime Minister Silvio and Law Enforcement Affairs. Berlusconi of Italy at the White House for The President declared an emergency in a meeting and lunch on October 31. Massachusetts and ordered Federal aid to The White House announced that the supplement Commonwealth and local re- President will visit Kyoto, Japan, on Novem- sponse efforts in the area struck by severe ber 15. He will meet with Prime Minister storms and flooding beginning on October Junichiro Koizumi of Japan on November 16. 7 and continuing. The President will then travel to Pusan, South Korea, to attend the 13th Asia-Pacific October 20 Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders’ In the morning, the President had an intel- Meeting on November 18–19. He will meet ligence briefing. Later, in the Oval Office, with President Roh Moo-Hyun of South he met with President Mahmoud Abbas of Korea in Gyeongju, South Korea, on Novem- the Palestinian Authority.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 11:44 Oct 25, 2005 Jkt 208250 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P42OCT4.021 P42OCT4 1568 Administration of George W. Bush, 2005

In the afternoon, the President had lunch Submitted October 17 with Vice President Dick Cheney. Later, he traveled to Los Angeles, CA. Jean B. Elshtain, In the evening, the President made re- of Tennessee, to be a member of the Na- marks at a Republican National Committee tional Council on the Humanities for the re- reception. mainder of the term expiring January 26, October 21 2010, vice Thomas Mallon, resigned. In the morning, the President had an intel- ligence briefing. Later, he traveled to Simi Allen C. Guelzo, Valley, CA. of Pennsylvania, to be a member of the Na- Later in the morning, at the Ronald tional Council on the Humanities for the re- Reagan Presidential Library, the President, mainder of the term expiring January 26, Mrs. Bush, and former First Lady Nancy 2006, vice Naomi Shihab Nye. Reagan participated in a wreath-laying cere- mony at former President Reagan’s memo- Allen C. Guelzo, rial. of Pennsylvania, to be a member of the Na- In the afternoon, also at the Ronald tional Council on the Humanities for a term Reagan Presidential Library, the President expiring January 26, 2012 (reappointment). made remarks at the opening of the Air Force One Pavilion. He, Mrs. Bush, and Eugene Hickok, former First Lady Reagan then toured the of Pennsylvania, to be a member of the Na- plane that served as Air Force One from tional Council on the Humanities for the re- 1973 to 2001. Later, they attended a lunch- mainder of the term expiring January 26, eon. 2008, vice Sidney McPhee. Later in the afternoon, the President and Mrs. Bush traveled to Camp David, MD. Mark McKinnon, The President announced his intention to of Texas, to be a member of the Broadcasting nominate John F. Clark to be Director of Board of Governors for a term expiring Au- the United States Marshals Service. gust 13, 2006, vice Fayza Veronique Boulad The President announced his intention to Rodman. nominate George W. Foresman to be Under Secretary for Preparedness at the Depart- Mark McKinnon, ment of Homeland Security. of Texas, to be a member of the Broadcasting The President announced his intention to Board of Governors for a term expiring Au- nominate Paul J. McNulty to be Deputy At- gust 13, 2009 (reappointment). torney General at the Department of Justice and to designate him as Acting Deputy Attor- Ronald L. Schlicher, ney General at the Department of Justice. of Tennessee, a career member of the Senior The President announced his intention to Foreign Service, class of Minister-Counselor, appoint Gen. Peter Pace, USMC, as a Gov- to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Pleni- ernor of the Board of Governors of the potentiary of the United States of America American National Red Cross. to the Republic of Cyprus.

Alejandro Daniel Wolff, of California, a career member of the Senior Nominations Foreign Service, class of Minister-Counselor, Submitted to the Senate to be the Deputy Representative of the United States of America to the United Na- tions, with the rank and status of Ambassador The following list does not include promotions of Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, and the members of the Uniformed Services, nominations to the Service Academies, or nominations of For- Deputy Representative of the United States eign Service officers. of America in the Security Council of the United Nations.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:22 Oct 25, 2005 Jkt 208250 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P42OCT4.021 P42OCT4 Administration of George W. Bush, 2005 1569

Alejandro Daniel Wolff, Cooperation Leaders’ Meeting in the Repub- of California, a career member of the Senior lic of Korea and Travel to Japan, China, and Foreign Service, class of Minister-Counselor, Mongolia to be Representative of the United States of Statement by the Press Secretary: Visit of America to the Sessions of the General As- Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi of Italy sembly of the United Nations, during his ten- ure of service as Deputy Representative of Released October 18 the United States of America to the United Transcript of a press briefing by Press Sec- Nations. retary Scott McClellan Withdrawn October 17 Advance text of remarks by National Security Mark McKinnon, Adviser Stephen J. Hadley to the Council on of Texas, to be a member of the Broadcasting Foreign Relations in New York City Board of Governors for a term expiring Au- Fact sheet: President Bush Signs Homeland gust 13, 2008, vice Joaquin F. Blaya, term Security Appropriations Act expired, which was sent to the Senate on September 6, 2005. Released October 19 Submitted October 19 Transcript of a press briefing by Press Sec- retary Scott McClellan Anne W. Patterson, Statement by the Press Secretary: Death of of Virginia, a career member of the Senior Penn Kemble Foreign Service, class of Career Minister, to be an Assistant Secretary of State (Inter- Statement by the Press Secretary on disaster national Narcotics and Law Enforcement Af- assistance to Massachusetts fairs), vice Robert B. Charles. Released October 20 Submitted October 21 Statement by the Press Secretary announcing John F. Clark, that the President signed H.R. 3971 of Texas, to be Director of the U.S. Marshals Service, vice Benigno G. Reyna, resigned. Released October 21 Transcript of a press briefing by Homeland George W. Foresman, Security Adviser Frances Fragos Townsend of Virginia, to be Under Secretary for Pre- on a comprehensive review of the Govern- paredness, Department of Homeland Secu- ment’s response to Hurricane Katrina rity, vice Frank Libutti, resigned.

Checklist Acts Approved of White House Press Releases by the President

The following list contains releases of the Office Approved October 18 of the Press Secretary that are neither printed as items nor covered by entries in the Digest of H.R. 2360 / Public Law 109–90 Other White House Announcements. Department of Homeland Security Appro- priations Act, 2006 Released October 17 Approved October 20 Transcript of a press briefing by Press Sec- H.R. 3971 / Public Law 109–91 retary Scott McClellan QI, TMA, and Abstinence Programs Exten- Statement by the Press Secretary: President sion and Hurricane Katrina Unemployment Bush To Attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Relief Act of 2005

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:22 Oct 25, 2005 Jkt 208250 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P42OCT4.021 P42OCT4