Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents

Monday, February 28, 2005 Volume 41—Number 8 Pages 273–325

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Addresses and Remarks Interviews With the News Media—Continued See also Meetings With Foreign Leaders News conferences , remarks in —283 February 22 with leaders Germany in Brussels, Belgium—296 Discussion with Chancellor Schroeder of February 22 with Secretary General de Germany and young professionals in Hoop Scheffer of the North Atlantic Mainz—307 Treaty Organization in Brussels, Luncheon hosted by Chancellor Schroeder Belgium—291 of Germany in Mainz—300 February 23 with Chancellor Schroeder of Remarks to U.S. troops at Wiesbaden Army Germany in Mainz, Germany—301 Airfield—308 February 24 with President Putin of Russia Radio address—282 in , —315 Slovakia, remarks in Bratislava—313 Joint Statements Communications to Congress President George W. Bush and President Cuba, letter on continuation and expansion of national emergency—274 : Lebanon—288 President George W. Bush and President Communications to Federal Agencies Vladimir V. Putin: Nuclear Security Assignment of Certain Functions Relating to Cooperation—322 Climate Change Reporting Activities, President George W. Bush and President memorandum—273 Vladimir V. Putin: Russia’s Accession to the Assignment of Reporting Function, World Trade Organization—321 memorandum—273 President George W. Bush and President Vladimir V. Putin: U.S.-Russian Energy Interviews With the News Media Cooperation—321 Exchanges with reporters United States and the European Union: Belgium, Brussels—289 Announcement on Iraq Conference—296 Slovakia, Bratislava—311 U.S.-German Joint Actions on Cleaner and Interview with European print journalists— More Efficient Energy, Development and 274 Climate Change—305

(Continued on the inside of the back cover.)

WEEKLY COMPILATION OF Distribution is made only by the Superintendent of Docu- PRESIDENTIAL DOCUMENTS ments, Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402. 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.gpo.gov/nara/nara003.html. lished pursuant to the authority contained in the Federal Reg- ister Act (49 Stat. 500, as amended; 44 U.S.C. Ch. 15), under There are no restrictions on the republication of material regulations prescribed by the Administrative Committee of the appearing in the Weekly Compilation of Presidential Docu- Federal Register, approved by the President (37 FR 23607; ments. 1 CFR Part 10).

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Meetings With Foreign Leaders Notices European Union Continuation of the National Emergency European Commission President Durao Relating to Cuba and the Emergency Barroso—296 Authority Relating to the Regulation of the European Council President Juncker—296 Anchorage and Movement of Vessels—273 European Council Secretary General Solana—296 Statements by the President France, President Chirac—288, 289 Pope John Paul II—323 Germany, Chancellor Schroeder—300, 301, 305, 307 Supplementary Materials North Atlantic Treaty Organization, Secretary Acts approved by the President—325 General de Hoop Scheffer—291 Checklist of White House press releases—325 Russia, President Putin—315, 321, 322 Digest of other White House Slovakia, Prime Dzurinda—311, 313 announcements—323 , Prime Minister Blair—290 Nominations submitted to the Senate—324

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Memorandum on Assignment of 108–447). Heads of departments and agen- Reporting Function cies shall furnish promptly to the Director February 17, 2005 of the Office of and Budget, to the extent permitted by , information Memorandum for the Director of the the Director requests to perform such func- National Science Foundation tion. Any reference in this memorandum to the Subject: Assignment of Reporting Function provision of any Act shall be deemed to in- By the authority vested in me as President clude references to any hereafter enacted by the Constitution and the of the provision of law that is the same or substan- United States, including section 301 of title tially the same as such provision. 3, United States Code, I hereby assign to you You are authorized and directed to publish the functions conferred upon the President this memorandum in the Federal Register. by Public Law 98–373 (15 U.S.C. 4107(b) and 4108(a)), to provide the specified report George W. Bush and plan to the Congress. You are authorized and directed to publish NOTE: An original was not available for this memorandum in the Federal Register. verification of the content of this memorandum. George W. Bush This item was not received in time for publication in the appropriate issue. NOTE: This memorandum was released by the Of- fice of the Press Secretary on February 18. An original was not available for verification of the Notice—Continuation of the content of this memorandum. This item was not National Emergency Relating to received in time for publication in the appropriate Cuba and the Emergency Authority issue. Relating to the Regulation of the Anchorage and Movement of Vessels Memorandum on Assignment of February 18, 2005 Certain Functions Relating to Climate Change Reporting Activities On March 1, 1996, by Proclamation 6867, a national emergency was declared to address February 18, 2005 the disturbance or threatened disturbance of Memorandum for the Director of the Office caused by the Feb- of Management and Budget ruary 24, 1996, destruction by the Cuban government of two unarmed U.S.-registered Subject: Assignment of Certain Functions civilian aircraft in international airspace Relating to Climate Change Reporting north of Cuba. In July 1996 and on subse- Activities quent occasions, the Cuban government stat- By the authority vested in me as President ed its intent to forcefully defend its sov- by the Constitution and the laws of the ereignty against any U.S.-registered vessels United States, including section 301 of title or aircraft that might enter Cuban territorial 3, United States Code, I hereby assign to you waters or airspace while involved in a flotilla the function of the President under section or peaceful protest. Since these events, the 576(b) of the Foreign Operations, Export Fi- Cuban government has not demonstrated nancing, and Related Programs Appropria- that it will refrain from the future use of reck- tions Act, 2005 (Division D of Public Law less and excessive force against U.S. vessels 273

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or aircraft that may engage in memorial ac- of its declaration, the President publishes in tivities or peaceful protest north of Cuba. On the Federal Register and transmits to the February 26, 2004, by Proclamation 7757, Congress a notice stating that the emergency the scope of the national emergency was ex- is to continue in effect beyond the anniver- panded in order to deny monetary and mate- sary date. In accordance with this provision, rial support to the repressive Cuban govern- I have sent the enclosed notice to the Federal ment, which had taken a series of steps to Register for publication, which states that the destabilize relations with the United States, emergency declared with respect to the Gov- including threatening to abrogate the Migra- ernment of Cuba’s destruction of two un- tion Accords with the United States and to armed U.S.-registered civilian aircraft in close the United States Interests Section. international airspace north of Cuba on Feb- Further, Cuba’s most senior officials repeat- ruary 24, 1996, as amended and expanded edly asserted that the United States intended on February 26, 2004, is to continue in effect to invade Cuba, despite explicit denials from beyond March 1, 2005. the U.S. Secretaries of State and Defense Sincerely, that such action is planned. Therefore, in ac- George W. Bush cordance with section 202(d) of the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)), I am NOTE: Identical letters were sent to J. Dennis continuing the national emergency with re- Hastert, Speaker of the House of Representatives, spect to Cuba and the emergency authority and Richard B. Cheney, President of the Senate. relating to the regulation of the anchorage An original was not available for verification of the content of this letter. This item was not re- and movement of vessels set out in Proclama- ceived in time for publication in the appropriate tion 6867 as amended and expanded by Proc- issue. lamation 7757. This notice shall be published in the Fed- eral Register and transmitted to the Con- Interview With European Print gress. Journalists George W. Bush February 18, 2005 The White House, The President. Let me give a couple of February 18, 2005. opening comments, and we’ll do a couple rounds of questions. [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, First, I’m—you know, I said in my press 8:45 a.m., February 23, 2005] conference yesterday, for a period of time, NOTE: This notice was published in the Federal we have a tendency in Europe and in Amer- Register on February 24. This item was not re- ica to talk past each other. In other words, ceived in time for publication in the appropriate September the 11th for some was obviously issue. an important moment, but it passed. For us, it changed our way of thinking. It changed our foreign policy. It caused me, as the Presi- Letter to Congressional Leaders on dent, and people in my administration to Continuation of the National have an intense focus on securing our coun- Emergency Relating to Cuba and the try. And I say ‘‘talk past’’ because when you Emergency Authority Relating to the have a different view about priority, it creates Regulation of the Anchorage and a—it’s missed opportunity, is the best way Movement of Vessels to put it. February 18, 2005 So my trip to Europe, with that in mind, is to seize the moment and invigorate a rela- Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. President:) tionship that is a vital relationship for our Section 202(d) of the National Emer- own security as well as a vital relationship gencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)) provides for for long-term peace in the world. We com- the automatic termination of a national emer- pete at times, but we don’t compete when gency unless, prior to the anniversary date it comes to values, and that’s a very important

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part of my message, is that we share a belief you think nice words of reconciliation will in human rights and human dignity and rule be—what would it take to really overcome of law and transparency of government and the bitterness and the mutual reproach of the democracy and freedom. And those are vital last few years? values necessary to not only secure our own The President. Obviously, nice words are countries but necessary to do our duty, which nice, but deeds are more important than is to work together to help people live in free- words. I, personally, don’t feel bitter. You can dom. If freedom is good enough for us, why say ‘‘the bitter’’—or whatever you phrase it— isn’t it good enough for others? you used the phrase ‘‘bitter’’—— So I’m looking forward to it. It’s a full Q. Bitterness and recrimination. schedule, and I’m going to, obviously, start The President. Bitterness and recrimina- in Belgium and see the Belgium leaders as tion. I don’t feel bitter, personally. And so well as give a speech that I think will set it’s easy to have a conversation with some- the tone for the trip—and in the speech, by body to overcome bitterness if you don’t feel the way, talk about a variety of areas where bitter. we can work together, talk about the greater Secondly, I fully understand that the world Middle East, Middle Eastern peace and Iraq kind of watches French-U.S. relationships and , talk about the need for us to work and draws conclusions from that and says, together to feed the hungry and take care ‘‘Well, if the United States and France don’t of the diseased. I’ll talk about the environ- ment. I’ll talk about a variety of different get along,’’ and therefore, there’s great splits. areas where we can cooperate to make the I’m regretful about that because I don’t view world a better place. the United States as being split from Europe. And then, of course, NATO—in my view, I know we had a difference of opinion. And NATO is a vital relationship. It’s an essential it was a big difference of opinion on Iraq. relationship for peace and security. It’s an But now is the time for us to set aside important relationship for the United States that difference and to move forward in areas and Canada, for this part of the world to work where we can work together. Interesting with European partners to come up with enough, during this period of time, we ways to secure the peace. worked together in Haiti and in . I’m looking forward to meeting with the And now we have a great opportunity to ad- EU and then off to Germany and then the vance democracy in the greater Middle East, Slovak Republic. And I’m excited about the in Lebanon. This is an area of mutual con- trip, looking forward to it. cern. I can remember when I was in Paris, Andrei [Andrei K. Sitov, Rossiskaya President Chirac brought up the idea of a Gazeta/ITAR-TASS], you want to—Philippe Security Council resolution to say to the Syr- [Philippe Gelie, Le Figaro], however you ians, ‘‘Get your troops out of Lebanon.’’ And want to do it. Who’s the oldest person? in 1559, that became a reality, a resolution Philippe, you start, and we’ll go this way. sponsored by France and the United States. Q. Okay. My point is, is that we can work together The President. Andrei, I’ll give you a and will work together. So the deeds that I chance to collect your thoughts. I know think the world will see is France and the you’re nervous. [Laughter] United States making common cause for de- Q. I am. I don’t hide it. [Laughter] mocracy and freedom. The words will be The President. No, you’re not; you’re nice, and I’m now confident that the deeds never nervous. If you are nervous, don’t let will be easy for people to see and will, more them know it, particularly the wire services importantly, make a significant contribution behind you. to peace and freedom. France is a great Q. I’ll try. country, and a lot of people in our country, obviously, were concerned about the French France-U.S. Relations decision about Iraq. They felt our security Q. Well, since President Chirac comes al- was threatened. Nevertheless, they still have most first on the program, Mr. President, do great—there’s great affection for the French

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culture, the French countryside, and the constitution since I don’t have anything to French people. do about it. It’s kind of a long answer to say, Alec [Alec Russell, Daily Telegraph]. ‘‘No, I’m not going to comment.’’ [Laughter] I’ve always been fascinated to see how the European Union British culture and the French culture and Q. Mr. President, one of the striking mo- the sovereignty of the nations, longstanding ments of your trip is your visit to the Euro- traditional sovereignty, can be integrated into pean Commission. As you know, sir, for many a larger whole in a modern era. And progress in Europe, many in the EU who are keen is being made, and I’m hopeful it works, be- to see the EU become something of a coun- cause I think it’s—if you say, we are united terbalance to America and—powers. As the by alliance, by values in our alliance, there- leader of the Nation that sets much store by fore one should not fear a strong partner. its Constitution—unlike, I should add, my One should welcome a strong partner, be- nation, which doesn’t have a constitu- cause the values are long lasting and will en- tion—— dure. The President. Thank you, Alec. [Laugh- Klaus [Klaus-Dieter Frankenberger, ter] Frankfurter Allgemein Zeitung]. Q. ——I wonder what your view is of the Q. Mr. President, first, thank you very proposed EU constitution? much for having us this morning. The President. You know, look, we want The President. Thanks for coming. the EU to be successful. The European Union is a significant partner in many things, Germany-U.S. Relations particularly trade. It is a—I think it’s a great Q. After a stretch in the German-America opportunity for the United States and for the relationship some people called ‘‘poisoned,’’ people of Europe—the people of the United you are going to visit the city of Mainz. The States and the people of Europe to benefit city of Mainz was used by your father 16 from mutually beneficial trade relationships. years ago as a venue to promote Germany And the trade is fairly balanced, if I recall. as a partner in leadership. This seems ages It’s like a trillion a year, both sides. So, there- ago. fore, the more that the EU is able to affect The President. Yes, it does. [Laughter] commerce and trade and the movement of Q. What do you hope to gain from this money and goods and labor across borders visit? What are your expectations in Ger- to help it become an effective—a more effec- many? And how do you see this relationship? tive commercial trading partner, the more it This has become somewhat complicated—— benefits America. The President. Well, again, very much I remind people a lot that it took us a while like our relations with the French. Much of to get our democracy going. An interesting the world views relations through the prism book, for example, is—read the book on Al- of the Iraq decision, overlooking areas of co- exander Hamilton by Chernow. I’ll think you operation. You know, we spent—again, with find it interesting. It goes to show how hard France and, of course, Great Britain and it was to get a federalist system in place that Germany, we’ve spent a lot of time sharing was balanced and fair. some intelligence and some recent arrests by I’m not drawing an exact parallel, obvi- German authorities of Al Qaida operatives, ously, between what’s going on between Eu- for example. That tends to get overlooked. ropean states and trying to come up with an The French have got a great security net- overarching system that is fair and, at the work. The Brits are obviously very good same time, honor the integrity and sov- about cooperating all together, in order to ereignty of the countries involved. But it is deal with the movement of terrorists and a hard task. And every time I meet with the money and finance. European leaders, I ask them how it’s going, The PRTs, the German PRTs in Afghani- because I’m fascinated by the political inte- stan are a significant contribution to the ad- gration and is it possible. But I’m also wise vancement of democracy there. And by the enough not to comment about the European way, which wasn’t an easy decision by some

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because there was—in some quarters, there States has a role to play, and I recognize Eu- was an attitude that, you know, Afghan rope has a role to play. And the first signifi- couldn’t be free. You know, ‘‘These are back- cant role that Europe will be playing, beyond ward people.’’ You know, ‘‘Democracy isn’t just helping—working to keep the process meant for them. Deep in their souls there’s going, is the March 1st London conference, not this great longing for freedom, and there- which is an opportunity for the Palestinians fore, let’s not be very hopeful about what to hear from the world that we—that there happened.’’ will be help for you to build a democratic— And sure enough, millions showed up, but the institutions necessary for a democratic Germany was there ahead of time. I mean, state to emerge. Germany was—there was a great, sort of, My own judgment is there will never be faith that everybody wants to be free. And longstanding peace until the Palestinians be- the reason I bring that up, that is an impor- come a democracy. And I look forward to tant understanding when it comes to taking working with the European leaders to see on the big goals of establishing peace through that be the case. And it’s happening. Things the advancement of liberty. are happening. In my Ad- Again, very much like the relations that dress—and I’ll remind this in my speech in are viewed to be, you know, not perfect— Belgium, that peace is within reach, I said. this will be an opportunity to send a message It’s within reach, and I believe that. I that I’m giving you now that there’s much wouldn’t have said it if it didn’t believe it. more that unites us than divides us. And we And if you believe it’s within reach, it will want good relations. Listen, German-Amer- provide opportunity for all of us to focus on ican relations are long standing and very im- how to get there. portant, and like any relationship, there is And Abbas has shown some courage. In ups and downs. My attitude is, is that now order to achieve peace, you have to show is the opportunity to tackle common issues. courage, and he has. And Israel is working Iran is a common issue. And it should be hard to keep the process going. The Pales- interesting to the world to see that the three tinian elections, which I viewed as a vital mo- nations that are directly involved with the ment for Abbas—nothing like being en- Iranians—sending the Iranians the universal dorsed by the people to kind of reinvigorate message that ‘‘we will not have a nuclear the soul. The Israelis helped to have these— weapon,’’ is France, Great Britain, and Ger- the Israelis helped ensure the elections were many. And the United States is very pleased as open as possible, and that was a vital con- to be a party with you, in encouraging you tribution. to carry that message. It shows we’ve got faith Anyway, I’m kind of rambling here. But in our friends, and we share a common value the point is, there’s a lot we can discuss. We and the common goal. And the goal is two can discuss hunger. We can discuss poverty. things: One, state-sponsored terror must end We can discuss disease. We can discuss all if there’s going to be peace; and secondly, kinds of issues, and the march of freedom to make sure that the Iranians do not have as well. And there’s a lot of common ground a nuclear weapon. that we can work together on, and that’s what But there are areas I’m looking forward this visit is intended to say to the world. to talking about. I mentioned Lebanon and Matus [Matus Kostolny, SME]. Syria, of course Iran, and the issue that tends to really focus Europe in that part of the President’s Upcoming Visit to Slovakia/ world is the Arab-Israeli—I mean, the Pales- Meeting With Russian President Putin tinian-Israeli potential peace. And I must ad- Q. Why did you choose Bratislava as the dress that head-on. I’ve talked about it to last stop of your trip? Why did you choose Gerhard. He’s very interested in the subject. to meet President Putin there? Jacques Chirac, of course, is very interested. The President. Yes, good question. First, is very interested. I told your Prime Minister that—I can’t re- This subject always comes up when I talk member how it worked—we were in the to these leaders. They recognize the United Oval Office. Either he said, ‘‘When are you

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coming?’’ Or I said, ‘‘When are you going at it, do you regard it as sort of a followup to invite me?’’ [Laughter] I can’t remember on what’s been going on up until now? Or exactly. However it plays best for him, put is it an opportunity to maybe make it a fresh it in your newspaper that way. [Laughter] start for the second term? We have had a—I suspect it is because The President. I view it as a, on a personal he said, ‘‘When are you coming?’’ And I think level, a followup. We don’t need a fresh start it’s very important to go to the Slovak Repub- for a personal relationship. I’ll take your word lic to say to the people, ‘‘Congratulations for for it; we’ve met 12 times. And then it will doing the hard work of democracy and free- be 13 in May, by the way. And during those dom.’’ And I’m going to meet with freedom previous—this will be the 12th meeting, so fighters, heroes of democracy. It’s also im- the 11 meetings prior to this, we’ve gotten portant to—and so, one, I’m going because to know each other. And I think that is an I like your leadership. Two, I’m going be- important part of developing relationships. cause I like your story. And three, I’m going It’s a way to have a relationship—it’s a way because I want others to see what’s possible, of putting a relationship in a position where to see a country emerge and grow and be- you can be frank with somebody. If you dis- come confident and strong. And President agree with him, you tell him you disagree Putin is coming there because he said he with him. wanted to meet me in Europe. And I said, And I think that’s a vital part of my rela- ‘‘If the Government is willing to let us both tionship with Vladimir. There is still some meet there, it’s the perfect place to meet.’’ distrust between the countries but not at the And so I’m looking forward to it. I want leadership level. In other words, I think he to thank the Government and the people for feels there are some people in our Govern- not only hosting me and my wife but also ment that are anti-Soviet, that have an anti- hosting what will be an important meeting Soviet bias, and therefore, hold it against with the Government and eventually—and Russia. And I think there are some in our ultimately, meeting with Government who feels like that—that there’s there. I’m looking forward to it. I’m sorry a—the information he gets is not as accurate it’s not a little warmer, because the Prime about American views. And so, therefore, it’s Minister keeps continually urging me to run very important to have a personal relation- with him. He’s a great runner. I’m injured, ship to be able to help our Governments bet- however. I’d ride my mountain bike with ter understand each other. him. Vladimir has made some decisions that I Yes, sir. Andrei. Have you had your nerves look forward to hearing, in a very private calmed down by now? way—you know, why he made the decisions Q. Thank you, sir. They’ve come back and he made. One of the interesting things about left a few times. leadership is that you get to make decisions. The President. Okay, good. As a matter of fact, the most—people say, Q. As you just said, you will be meeting ‘‘What is your job description?’’ My job de- President Putin for the 12th time now. You scription is, make decisions. And I make a know him pretty well. lot of them. And therefore, it’s an interesting The President. How many? opportunity, Andrei, to talk to a fellow deci- Q. Twelve times. That was the Russian sionmaker about why you make decisions, side calculation. [Laughter] I don’t know if what is the rationale; ‘‘Tell me why you do figures computes. this or that or the other.’’ And I look forward The President. Yes, it feels like 12, for to that aspect of it. him. That’s right. [Laughter] We’ve got a strategic framework in place Q. Anyway, you know each other pretty that is set. I think it’s—that is at all levels well by now—— of Government, through the energy min- The President. Yes, I do. istries and the proliferation ministries—and Q. But at the same time, you are in the Hadley has been in charge of that, by the second terms, both of you. So for you, this way. And so now that he’s got a new position, meeting, this coming meeting, when you look perhaps it would be an opportunity for him

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to reinvigorate the strategic dialog. And so this, that, or the other—unless the United to a certain extent, there’s a chance to kind States is involved.’’ They know what they of renew a commitment to this strategic dia- need to do. That’s why I appreciate the lead- log. ership of France, Great Britain, and Ger- And I’m looking forward to it, looking for- many. They’ve been very clear about what ward to coming to St. Petersburg—or to Iran needs to do. Moscow, I guess it is, Moscow—in May, Alec. right? Q. Mr. President—— Q. Right. The President. Back to the constitution? The President. Sixtieth anniversary for the end of the Russian theater in World War President’s Second-Term Goals II. That’s going to be good. Q. No, no, no, we’ll leave that one aside. One more round. Philippe, and then I’ve [Laughter] got to see the television people. In the wake of you reelection last Novem- ber, one of the big questions that everyone Iran in the rest of the world was asking was, ‘‘How Q. Mr. President, you said you appreciate will a second term of President George W. the efforts of Great Britain, Germany, Bush be different from the first one, if at France and trying to engage Iran. Why don’t all?’’ And one of the comments that your new you join them in those cause? made recently caused a The President. Well, first of all, we’re lot of attention when she said, ‘‘The time for joined in the process. We’re on the IAEA is now,’’ and she also talked about board. We have made it clear that we agree the need for conversations. And I just won- with the objective to get rid of the weapons. der if you could say, sir, how you feel your The Iranians don’t need—they don’t need second term—how you feel you may be dif- any excuses. They just need to do what the ferent in your second term from your first free world has asked them to do. And it’s term? And is it the case that the famous, dare pretty clear: Give up your weapons program. I say it, sort of straight-talking Texan Presi- And we look forward to working with our dent is going to be less straight-talking now? friends. [Laughter] And I find this to be an excuse. You know, The President. You know, I told the ‘‘We can’t move because X, Y, and Z is not American people that in a second term, I happening.’’ They know what they need to would work with friends and allies to spread do. They have been told point blank by very freedom and peace. I believe that. I believe effective interlocutors, privately as well as that every soul desires to be free. And by public statements by our Government and spreading freedom, the world is more peace- your governments, ‘‘Get rid of your nuclear ful. That’s what the lesson of Europe has weapons.’’ been. That’s what the lesson of the Middle And remember how this happened. This East can be. all started because there was a group not And so we will work together. And I will happy with the Iranian Government—of Ira- be straightforward. I don’t see how you can nian citizens—a group of Iranian citizens deal with people if you’re not straight- who weren’t happy with the Government, forward. I mean, if you’re—I worry about a who blew the whistle on enrichment and told leader who doesn’t know what he or she be- the IAEA. And sure enough, upon investiga- lieves and, therefore, is willing to kind of tion, they were enriching, and yet, they didn’t have everybody guess. I don’t believe that’s tell anybody. And so we’ve all got to ask why. good leadership. I believe it’s vital to tell peo- Why would you want to secretly enrich ura- ple, ‘‘Here’s what I believe, and how can we nium? And that’s what started the IAEA in- work together?’’ I think clarity is an impor- vestigations and the need for an additional tant part of being able to achieve big goals. protocol, et cetera, et cetera. But I also fully recognize that the hard And so the Iranians, I read the other day work done in the past 4 years will allow us where they said, ‘‘We can’t go forward unless to more likely advance freedom in a peaceful

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way. It’s what we all want. But we can’t do generations to come. And I think this is an it alone. And that’s going to be the message area of common ground and importance to in Europe, that I fully recognize that. work together. And in most cases, we have worked closely Klaus. together. And the other thing is—back to the question about multipolarity. I think that was North Atlantic Treaty Organization Klaus’s question, which I really didn’t ad- dress head-on, which I think I need to do— Q. Mr. President, you are going to meet which is, some have said, ‘‘Well, we must the NATO leaders on Thursday—— have a unified Europe to balance America.’’ The President. Yes, Klaus. I think I know Why do you need—why—when, in fact, we where you might be going. [Laughter] share values and goals. We share the same Q. Chancellor Schroeder wrote the other goals, prosperity for our people, respect for day that NATO was no longer an adequate human rights and dignity, and peace. And mechanism for consulting, coordinating the therefore, as opposed to counterbalancing vision of his members. Do you—— each other, why don’t we view this as a mo- The President. Is that what he said, ‘‘ade- ment where we can move forward in a con- quate’’? I’m not—is that—make sure you get certed fashion to achieve those goals. And his words right. so perhaps in a second term, I’ve got to do Q. Adequate. It is right—it is ‘‘adequate.’’ a better job of explaining the common goals The President. I disagree. I think NATO and the fact that by working together, we is vital. And I think it’s a vital relationship are more likely to achieve them for our and one that we’ll work to keep strong. I look own—for our own security, for example. forward to talking to him about exactly what I view this war on terror—and, again, I he meant by that. But NATO is a very impor- repeat to you, I fully understand there’s tant relationship, as far as the United States going to be a different magnitude of concern, is concerned. And it’s one that has worked and I can understand why. But I hope there’s in the past and will work in the future, just a common understanding that we’re facing so long as there’s that strong commitment an ideology that is real and hateful. There’s to NATO. vision, no matter how dark that vision may I’m not sure what ‘‘adequate’’—make sure be, that must be confronted by people and you got the German translation right in countries who don’t share that vision. Be- English. cause if not, if we don’t confront that ide- Q. Yes, the word was ‘‘adequate.’’ ology of hate, we’ll leave behind a troubled The President. Okay, Klaus, I’ll take your world for children and grandchildren. And word for it. My roommate in college, by the now is the time to take it on. way, was named Dieter. And so part of the dialog with our friends Q. Does the transatlantic relationship may, who share the same values is to come to a indeed, need some sort of institutional over- common understanding that this is a move- haul? ment we face and, sure enough, it’s going The President. I’m not sure what that to strike. I mean, these people are—they hit, means, by that. I mean, it depends on what and they hit hard. But they do it for a reason, institutions you’re talking about. If you’re because they’re trying to cause fear in the talking about a NATO becoming more cost West, retreat in the Middle East. They’d like effective, the ability to match threat to capa- to have—safe haven is just a—is a mild form bility, yes, reform within NATO. And that of their strategy. They like the parasitical re- is what the NATO leadership is now in the lationship like they had with the Taliban in process of doing. Afghanistan. They’ve become—the host has But ‘‘institutional overhaul,’’ that’s kind of become so infected that they can have run a loaded word, Klaus. And I’m not casti- of a country. There’s aspirations of toppling gating; I’m just trying to—I mean, it is—I governments in the Middle East. don’t know exactly what that means, ‘‘institu- In other words, these are big problems tional overhaul.’’ Does it mean diminishing that, if not faced now, will become acute for the effect of, replacing with? Again, I think

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NATO is a vital, necessary, important part The President. I’m nervous about what of keeping the peace. your question is going to be. Matus. Q. I would have one more Slovak question. Russia-U.S. Relations The President. That’s what you’re sup- Q. I must admit that some of your Russian posed to do. visitors today were complaining about the Q. Yes. chilly wind here in Washington. [Laughter] The President. Okay. The President. I’m right with them, man, believe me. I’m a warm-weather guy. Slovakia/Democracy [Laughter] Q. Your Secretary of State, Condoleezza Q. I wanted to ask you, sir, about your Rice, studied the history of Czechoslovakia. agenda for a second term and your relations What did she tell you about Slovakia? What with Russia. How well are we doing on the do you know from her about our country? checklist that you and President Putin agreed The President. You know, she just left the on at Camp David? Specifically, you men- Oval Office, and she was saying to me that— tioned the energy dialog. It seemed to be, bring some warm clothes. [Laughter] She like, stopped for the past year. What can we also told me that I am going to be very im- do to reinvigorate that? pressed by the spirit of the people, the sense The President. Well, one of the things of enthusiasm for living in a free society, and that Vladimir and I can do is talk about our will understand and get a clearer vision about commitment to reinvigorate it. I think, actu- how difficult it is to go from a nondemocratic ally, the conversations seem to be going pret- to democracy. It’s hard work, really hard ty good. Of course, the elections tend to dis- work. We tend to take it for granted. The rupt things. People were wondering whether Slovak Republic and Russia are finding it to or not I was even going to be there. I know be hard work. And the Iraqis will find it to you knew I was going to be there, Andrei, be hard work. but others might have not been so confident. But if you look back at our own history— And the campaign can disrupt dialog. And and this is really important to remember; I so now is a chance to—back to your initial think I may say this in Belgium as well— question—there is kind of a reinvigoration our own march to democracy was a little that will take place because Vladimir knows rough at times. Our respective revolutions, I’ll be there for 4 years, as will he. Philippe, were a little checkered. No, but the But one of the things we’ll discuss is the French Revolution, the American Revolu- checklist, the strategic dialog, the integration tion—with all due respect, Alec, sorry to of the different components. Look, I mean, bring up the subject—[laughter]—but these energy is—the dialog is, ‘‘You got a lot of were difficult adjustments. And Condi re- it, and we don’t have much.’’ [Laughter] And minded me that in the Slovak Republic we’ll there’s ways to—but Russia has to make her be witnessing—I will be in a country that mind up as to whether or not she wants to is—where the world is witnessing the emer- continue to attract outside capital, which is gence of a true democracy. really what the energy dialog is about. And it’s an important lesson for people, The proliferation dialog is important, and important lesson for people. Lebanon must I look forward to discussing that with Vladi- have free and fair elections. That’s a place mir and continuing to make progress to make where the French and I—Jacques and I tend sure that there’s a safe storage of nuclear ma- to—will want to talk about. But elections are terials and clear understanding of how we one thing, but allowing for a society to de- can work together. velop with minority rights and respect for Trade is a very important dialog. I’m going culture and respect for differences of opinion to say in my speech in Belgium, I want to is hard to do. And yet, the Slovak Republic work with Russia so that she becomes admit- is doing that. ted to the WTO. I know that’s on Vladimir’s All right, final question. Andrei. mind, and it’s something I think is an objec- Q. Thank you, sir—— tive we all ought to work to achieve. There

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are certain criterion that have to be met, and not—should not reflect the great apprecia- Zoellick, who is now the Deputy Secretary tion that our Nation has for those who fought of State or will be soon—confirmed but not in World War II. sworn in—actually spent some time working Okay, guys, thank you. with one of his counterparts there to figure out the way forward on the WTO. NOTE: The interview began at 9:45 a.m. in the So there’s a variety of kind of the different Roosevelt Room at the White House, and the points that I look forward to talking to Vladi- transcript was embargoed for release by the Office of the Press Secretary until 11:59 p.m. In his re- mir about. Iran is going to be a subject I’ll marks, the President referred to President Jacques spend time with him on. And he’s got influ- Chirac of France; Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder ence in that area, on that subject, and he of Germany; Prime Minister Tony Blair of the agrees with our friends in Europe that the United Kingdom; President Mahmoud Abbas Iranians should not have a nuclear weapon. (Abu Mazen) of the Palestinian Authority; and And that’s the common goal. And we’ve just Prime Minister Mikulas Dzurinda of Slovakia. He got to keep sight of that goal and keep them also referred to Provincial Reconstruction Teams focused on that goal—keep the Iranians fo- (PRTs), a component of NATO’s International Se- cused on the goal. And that’s a very impor- curity Assistance Force operating in Afghanistan. tant part about achieving success and not let A tape was not available for verification of the content of this interview. This item was not re- them try to divide the United States or Eu- ceived in time for publication in the appropriate rope or Russia and Europe or Russia and the issue. United States on the subject. There needs to be—and I said this the other day—I said, ‘‘We’ve got to go speak with a common The President’s Radio Address voice.’’ And that’s important for the aya- February 19, 2005 tollahs to hear, a common voice, in order to achieve the objective we all want. Good morning. Tomorrow I leave on a trip I’m looking forward to it. to Europe, where I will reaffirm the impor- Q. Sir—— tance of our transatlantic relationship with The President. Yes. Andrei, is this a fol- our European friends and allies. lowup? Over the last several weeks, the world has Q. Yes, a followup, a very brief followup. witnessed momentous events, Palestinians You mentioned May and Moscow—— voting for an end to violence, Ukrainians The President. Yes. standing up for their democratic rights, Iraqis going to the polls in free elections. And in World War II Memorial Europe, I will talk with leaders at NATO and Q. Only a year ago, you dedicated the na- the European Union about how we can work tional memorial here in Washington to vet- together to take advantage of the historic op- erans. Does it mean they had not been recog- portunities now before us. nized before? Your father was a veteran in Leaders on both sides of the Atlantic un- that war. derstand that the hopes for peace in the The President. Oh, no, no, they’ve all world depend on the continued unity of free been recognized. I mean, listen, Americans nations. We do not accept a false caricature love—there have been books; the ‘‘Greatest that divides the Western world between an Generation,’’ they were called. And this is idealistic United States and a cynical Europe. a generation of Americans that are com- America and Europe are the pillars of the pletely revered and loved. And I hope there’s free world. We share the same belief in free- the same sense of veneration and love in Rus- dom and the rights of every individual, and sia toward guys my dad’s age. we are working together across the globe to Q. There sure is. advance our common interest and common The President. But no, you should not— values. that’s an interesting point you make. Just be- In Iraq, our shared commitment to free cause it took a while to get the site, the elections has stripped the car bombers and money raised, the architecture done, does assassins of their most powerful weapon,

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their claim to represent the wishes and aspi- makes our transatlantic ties as vital as they rations of the Iraqi people. In these elections, have ever been. And during my visit to Eu- the European Union provided vital technical rope next week, I will discuss with our friends assistance. NATO is helping to train army of- and allies how we can strengthen those ties ficers, police, and civilian administrators of to build a future of peace and freedom for a new Iraq. And 21 of our European coalition our children. partners are providing forces on the ground. Thank you for listening. America and Europe are also working to- gether to advance the cause of peace in the NOTE: The address was recorded at 7:50 a.m. on Holy Land, where we share the same goal February 18 in the Cabinet Room at the White of two democratic states, Israel and Pal- House for broadcast at 10:06 a.m. on February estine, living side by side in peace and free- 19. The transcript was made available by the Of- dom. fice of the Press Secretary on February 18 but was embargoed for release until the broadcast. In my Inaugural Address, I said that the The Office of the Press Secretary also released liberty we espouse is a universal aspiration. a Spanish language transcript of this address. Many Americans trace their roots back to Europe, and we can trace many of our found- ing ideals there as well. It was a Frenchman Remarks in Brussels, Belgium who taught the Framers of our Constitution February 21, 2005 the importance of the separation of powers. It was a Scot who explained the virtues of Guy, or Mr. Prime Minister, thank you for a free market. It was an Englishman who your kind introduction, and thank you for challenged us to correct the principal defect your warm hospitality. Distinguished guests of our founding, the plague of slavery. And and ladies and gentlemen: Laura and I are it was an Italian who gave us our name, really glad to be back. I’m really pleased to America. visit Brussels again, the capital of a beautiful America’s strong ties to Europe are re- nation, the seat of the European Union and flected in the largest two-way trading and in- the NATO Alliance. The United States and vestment relationship in the world. Today Belgium are close allies, and we will always more than a fifth of all U.S. exports go to be warm friends. the European Union, and millions of Ameri- You know, on this journey to Europe, I cans depend for their paychecks on the local follow in some large footsteps. More than affiliates of European parent companies. two centuries ago, Benjamin Franklin arrived I will work with our European partners to on this continent to great acclaim. An ob- open markets and expand opportunities for server wrote, ‘‘His reputation was more uni- our businesses, our workers, and farmers, versal than Leibnitz or Newton, Frederick and to advance the Doha Round of trade or Voltaire, and his character more beloved talks. I will make clear that one of my top and esteemed than any or all of them.’’ The priorities is to reduce the remaining Euro- observer went on to say, ‘‘There was scarcely pean barriers to U.S. agricultural goods. a peasant or a citizen who did not consider Even the best of friends do not agree on him as a friend to humankind.’’ I have been everything. But at the dawn of the 21st cen- hoping for a similar reception—[laughter]— tury, the deepest values and interests of but Secretary Rice told me I should be a real- America and Europe are the same, defeating ist. [Laughter] terrorism, conquering poverty, expanding I appreciate the opportunity, in this great trade, and promoting peace. On both sides hall, to speak to the peoples of Europe. For of the Atlantic, terrorist attacks on our cities more than 60 years, our nations stood to- and civilians have shown that freedom has gether to face great challenges of history. To- dangerous enemies and that the key to a last- gether, we opposed totalitarian ideologies ing peace is the advance of human liberty. with our might and with our patience. To- Today, security and justice and prosperity gether, we united this continent with our for our world depend on America and Eu- democratic values. And together we mark, rope working in common purpose. That year by year, the anniversaries of freedom,

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from D-day to the liberation of death camps Our efforts are guided by a clear vision. to the victories of conscience in 1989. Our We’re determined to see two democratic transatlantic alliance frustrated the plans of states, Israel and Palestine, living side by side dictators, served the highest ideals of human- in peace and security. The Palestinian people ity, and set a violent century on a new and deserve a government that is representative, better course. And as time goes by, we must honest, and peaceful. The people of Israel never forget our shared achievements. need an end to terror and a reliable, steadfast Yet, our relationship is founded on more partner for peace. And the world must not than nostalgia. In a new century, the alliance rest until there is a just and lasting resolution of Europe and North America is the main to this conflict. pillar of our security. Our robust trade is one All the parties have responsibilities to of the engines of the world’s economy. Our meet. Arab states must end incitement in example of economic and political freedom their own media, cut off public and private gives hope to millions who are weary of pov- funding for terrorism, stop their support for erty and oppression. In all these ways, our extremist education, and establish normal re- strong friendship is essential to peace and lations with Israel. Palestinian leaders must prosperity across the globe, and no tem- confront and dismantle terrorist groups, fight porary debate, no passing disagreement of corruption, encourage free enterprise, and governments, no power on Earth will ever rest true authority with the people. Only a divide us. democracy can serve the hopes of Palestin- Today, America and Europe face a mo- ians and make Israel secure and raise the flag ment of consequence and opportunity. To- of a free Palestine. gether we can once again set history on a A successful Palestinian democracy should hopeful course away from poverty and de- be Israel’s top goal as well, so Israel must spair and toward development and the dig- freeze settlement activity, help Palestinians nity of self-rule, away from resentment and build a thriving economy, and ensure that violence and toward justice and the peaceful a new Palestinian state is truly viable, with settlement of differences. Seizing this mo- contiguous territory on the West Bank. A ment requires idealism; we must see in every state of scattered territories will not work. person the right and the capacity to live in As Palestinian leaders assume responsibility freedom. Seizing this moment requires real- for Gaza and increasingly larger territory, we ism; we must act wisely and deliberately in will help them build the economic and polit- the face of complex challenges. And seizing ical and security institutions needed to gov- this moment also requires cooperation, be- ern effectively. And as that democracy rises, cause when Europe and America stand to- the United States and Europe will help the gether, no problem can stand against us. As parties implement the roadmap to peace. past debates fade, as great duties become These vital steps are also difficult steps, clear, let us begin a new era of transatlantic because progress requires new trust and be- unity. cause terrorists will do all they can to destroy Our greatest opportunity and immediate that trust. Yet we are moving forward, and goal is peace in the Middle East. After many we are doing so in practical ways. Next month false starts and dashed hopes and stolen lives, in London, Prime Minister Blair will host a a settlement of the conflict between Israelis conference to help the Palestinian people and Palestinians is now within reach. Amer- build the democratic institutions of their ica and Europe have made a moral commit- state. President Abbas has the opportunity ment: We will not stand by as another gen- to put forward a strategy of reform which eration in the Holy Land grows up in an at- can and will gain support from the inter- mosphere of violence and hopelessness. national community—including financial America and Europe also share a strategic support. I hope he will seize the moment. interest. By helping to build a lasting peace, I have asked Secretary Rice to attend the we will remove an unsettled grievance that conference and to convey America’s strong is used to stir hatred and violence across the support for the Palestinian people as they Middle East. build a democratic state. And I appreciate

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the prominent role that Prime Minister Blair pectations must be realistic, our ideals must and other European leaders are playing in be firm, and they must be clear. We must the cause of peace. expect higher standards from our friends and We seek peace between Israel and Pal- partners in the Middle East. The Govern- estine for its own sake. We also know that ment of Saudi Arabia can demonstrate its a free and peaceful Palestine can add to the leadership in the region by expanding the momentum of reform throughout the broad- role of its people in determining their future. er Middle East. In the long run, we cannot And the great and proud nation of Egypt, live in peace and safety if the Middle East which showed the way toward peace in the continues to produce ideologies of murder Middle East, can now show the way toward and terrorists who seek the deadliest weap- democracy in the Middle East. ons. Regimes that terrorize their own people Our shared commitment to democratic will not hesitate to support terror abroad. A progress is being tested in Lebanon, a once- status quo of tyranny and hopelessness in the thriving country that now suffers under the Middle East, the false stability of dictatorship influence of an oppressive neighbor. Just as and stagnation, can only lead to deeper re- the Syrian regime must take stronger action sentment in a troubled region and further to stop those who support violence and sub- tragedy in free nations. The future of our version in Iraq and must end its support for nations and the future of the Middle East terrorist groups seeking to destroy the hope are linked, and our peace depends on their of peace between Israelis and Palestinians, hope and development and freedom. Syria must also end its occupation of Leb- Lasting, successful reform in the broader anon. Middle East will not be imposed from the The Lebanese people have the right to be outside; it must be chosen from within. Gov- free, and the United States and Europe share ernments must choose to fight corruption, an interest in a democratic, independent abandon old habits of control, protect the rights of conscience and the rights of minori- Lebanon. My Nation and France worked to ties. Governments must invest in the health pass Security Council Resolution 1559, which and education of their people and take re- demands that Lebanon’s sovereignty be re- sponsibility for solving problems instead of spected, that foreign troops and agents be simply blaming others. Citizens must choose withdrawn, and that free elections be con- to hold their governments accountable. The ducted without foreign interference. In the path isn’t always easy, as any free people can last several months, the world has seen men testify, yet there’s reason for confidence. Ul- and women voting in historic elections from timately, men and women who seek the suc- Kabul to Ramallah to Baghdad, and without cess of their nation will reject an ideology Syrian interference, Lebanon’s parliamentary of oppression and anger and fear. Ultimately, elections in the spring can be another mile- men and women will embrace participation stone of liberty. and progress—and we are seeing the evi- Our commitment to democratic progress dence in an arc of reform from Morocco to is being honored in Afghanistan. That coun- Bahrain to Iraq to Afghanistan. try is building a democracy that reflects Af- Our challenge is to encourage this progress ghan traditions and history and shows the by taking up the duties of great democracies. way for other nations in the region. The We must be on the side of democratic re- elected President is working to disarm and formers. We must encourage democratic demobilize militias in preparation for the Na- movements, and we must support demo- tional Assembly elections to be held this cratic transitions in practical ways. spring. And the Afghan people know the Europe and America should not expect or world is with them. After all, Germany is pro- demand that reforms come all at once. That viding vital police training. The United King- didn’t happen in our own histories. My coun- dom is helping to fight drug trade. is try took many years to include minorities and giving assistance on judicial reform. NATO’s women in the full promise of America, and growing security mission is commanded by that struggle hasn’t ended. Yet, while our ex- a Turkish general. European Governments

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are helping Afghanistan to succeed, and I believe that the advance of freedom within America appreciates your leadership. nations will build the peace among nations. Together, we must make clear to the Iraqi And one reason for this belief is the experi- people that the world is also with them, be- ence of Europe. In two World Wars, Europe cause they have certainly shown their char- saw the aggressive nature of tyranny and the acter to the world. An Iraqi man who lost terrible cost of mistrust and division. In the a leg in a car bombing last year made sure , Europe saw the so-called stability he was there to vote on January the 30th. of Yalta was a constant source of injustice He said, ‘‘I would have crawled here if I had and fear, and Europe also saw how the rise to. I don’t want terrorists to kill other Iraqis of democratic movements like Solidarity like they tried to kill me. Today I am voting could part an Iron Curtain drawn by tyrants. for peace.’’ Every vote cast in Iraq was an The spread of freedom has helped to resolve act of defiance against terror, and the Iraqi old disputes, and the enlargement of NATO people have earned our respect. and the European Union have made partners Some Europeans joined the fight to lib- out of former rivals. America supports Eu- erate Iraq, while others did not. Yet all of rope’s democratic unity for the same reason us recognize courage when we see it, and we support the spread of democracy in the we saw it in the Iraqi people. And all nations Middle East, because freedom leads to now have an interest in the success of a free peace. America supports a strong Europe be- and democratic Iraq, which will fight terror, cause we need a strong partner in the hard which will be a beacon of freedom, and work of advancing freedom and peace in the which will be a source of true stability in the world. region. In the coming months, Iraq’s newly European leaders demonstrated this vision elected assembly will carry out the important in . Presidents Kwasniewski of Po- work of establishing a government, providing land, Adamkus of , of security, enhancing basic services, and writ- the EU helped to resolve the election crisis ing a democratic constitution. Now is the and bring Ukraine back into the camp of time for established democracies to give tan- freedom. As a free Government takes hold gible political, economic, and security assist- ance to the world’s newest democracy. in that country and as the Government of In Iran, the free world shares a common President Yushchenko pursues vital reforms, goal. For the sake of peace, the Iranian re- Ukraine should be welcomed by the Euro- gime must end its support for terrorism and Atlantic family. We must support new de- must not develop nuclear weapons. In safe- mocracies, so members of our Alliance must guarding the security of free nations, no op- continue to reach out to Georgia, where last tion can be taken permanently off the table. year peaceful protests overturned a stolen Iran, however, is different from Iraq. We’re election and unleashed the forces of demo- in the early stages of diplomacy. The United cratic change. States is a member of the IAEA Board of I also believe that Russia’s future lies with- Governors, which has taken the lead on this in the family of Europe and the transatlantic issue. We’re working closely with Britain, community. America supports WTO mem- France, and Germany as they oppose Iran’s bership for Russia, because meeting WTO nuclear ambitions and as they insist that standards will strengthen the gains of free- Tehran comply with international law. The dom and prosperity in that country. Yet, for results of this approach now depend largely Russia to make progress as a European na- on Iran. We also look for Iran to finally de- tion, the Russian Government must renew liver on promised reform. The time has ar- a commitment to democracy and the rule of rived for the Iranian regime to listen to the law. We recognize that reform will not hap- Iranian people and respect their rights and pen overnight. We must always remind Rus- join in the movement toward liberty that is sia, however, that our alliance stands for a taking place all around them. free press, a vital opposition, the sharing of Across the Middle East, from the Pales- power, and the rule of law. And the United tinian Territories to Lebanon to Iraq to Iran, States and all European countries should

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place democratic reform at the heart of their we do so, we’ll resolve our trade disagree- dialog with Russia. ments in a cooperative spirit. And we should As we seek freedom in other nations, we share the benefits of fair and free trade with must also work to renew the values that make others. That’s why we’ll continue to advance freedom possible. As I said in my Inaugural the Doha Development Agenda and bring Address, we cannot carry the message of global trade talks to a successful conclusion. freedom and the baggage of bigotry at the We should all pursue fiscal policies in our same time. We must reject anti-Semitism nations, sound fiscal policies of low taxes and from any source, and we must condemn vio- fiscal restraint and reform, that promote a lence such as we have witnessed in the Neth- stable world financial system and foster eco- erlands. All our nations must work to inte- nomic growth. grate minorities into the mainstream of soci- Our alliance is determined to show good ety and to teach the value of tolerance to stewardship of the earth, and that requires each new generation. addressing the serious, long-term challenge The nations in our great alliance have of global climate change. All of us expressed many advantages and many blessings. We our views on the Kyoto Protocol, and now also have a call beyond our comfort; we must we must work together on the way forward. raise our sights to the wider world. Our ideals Emerging technologies, such as hydrogen- and our interests lead in the same direction: powered vehicles, electricity from renewable By bringing progress and hope to nations in energy sources, clean coal technology, will need, we can improve many lives and lift up encourage economic growth that is environ- failing states and remove the causes and mentally responsible. By researching, by de- sanctuaries of terror. veloping, by promoting new technologies Our alliance is determined to promote de- across the world, all nations, including the velopment and integrate developing nations developing countries, can advance economi- into the world economy. The measure of our cally while slowing the growth in global success must be the results we achieve, not greenhouse gases and avoid pollutants that merely the resources we spend. Together, we undermines public health. All of us can use created the Monterrey Consensus, which links new aid from developed nations to real the power of human ingenuity to improve reform in developing ones. This strategy is the environment for generations to come. working. Throughout the developing world, Our alliance is determined to meet natural governments are confronting corruption, the disaster, famine, and disease with swift and rule of law is taking root, and people are en- compassionate help. As we meet today, joying new freedoms. Developed nations American and European personnel are aid- have responded by increasing assistance by ing the victims of the tsunami in Asia. Our a third. combined financial commitment to tsunami Through the Millennium Challenge Ac- relief and reconstruction is nearly $4 billion. count, my Nation is increasing our aid to de- We’re working through the Global Fund to veloping nations that govern justly, expand combat AIDS and other diseases across the economic freedom, and invest in the edu- world. And America’s Emergency Plan has cation and health of their people. While still focused additional resources on nations providing humanitarian assistance and sup- where the needs are greatest. Through all port, developed nations are taking a wiser ap- these efforts, we encourage stability and proach to other aid. Instead of subsidizing progress, build a firmer basis for democratic failure year after year, we must reward institutions, and above all, we fulfill a moral progress and improve lives. duty to heal the sick and feed the hungry Our alliance is determined to encourage and comfort the afflicted. commerce among nations, because open Our alliance is also determined to defend markets create jobs and lift income and draw our security, because we refuse to live in a whole nations into an expanding circle of world dominated by fear. Terrorist move- freedom and opportunity. Europe and Amer- ments seek to intimidate free peoples and ica will continue to increase trade, and as reverse the course of history by committing

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dramatic acts of murder. We will not be in- and respect the creative gifts of their people. timidated, and the terrorists will not stop the Freedom is the direction of history, because march of freedom. I thank the nations of Eu- freedom is the permanent hope of humanity. rope for your strong cooperation in the war America holds these values because of on terror. Together, we have disrupted ter- ideals long held on this continent. We proud- rorist financing, strengthened intelligence ly stand in the tradition of the Magna Carta, sharing, enhanced our law enforcement co- the Declaration of the Rights of Man, and operation, and improved the security of the North Atlantic Treaty. The signers of that international commerce and travel. treaty pledged ‘‘To safeguard the freedom, We’re pursuing terrorists wherever they common heritage, and civilization of their hide. German authorities recently arrested peoples, founded on the principles of democ- two terrorists plotting to attack American in- racy, individual liberty, and the rule of law.’’ terests in Iraq. Both will be prosecuted under In this new century, the United States and new German laws enacted after September Europe reaffirm that commitment and renew the 11th. Just last week, the United Nations our great alliance of freedom. added Muhsin al-Fadhli to its Al Qaida and May God bless you all. Taliban Sanctions Committee list. This man NOTE: The President spoke at 2:08 p.m. at the is a known Al Qaida operative and Zarqawi Concert Noble. In his remarks, he referred to associate, provided support to the terrorists Prime Minister Guy Verhofstadt of Belgium; who conducted the 2002 bombing of a Prime Minister Tony Blair of the United King- French oil tanker. Working together, Amer- dom; President Mahmoud Abbas (Abu Mazen) of ica, France, and other nations will bring him the Palestinian Authority; President Hamid Karzai to justice. For the sake of the security of our of Afghanistan; Lt. Gen. Ethem Erdagi, com- people, for the sake of peace, we will be re- mander, International Security Assistance Force, lentless in chasing down the ideologs of hate. NATO; President Aleksander Kwasniewski of Po- On September the 11th, America turned land; President Valdas Adamkus of Lithuania; Sec- retary General Javier Solana of the European first to our immediate security and to the Council; President of Ukraine; pursuit of an enemy, and that vital work goes and senior Al Qaida associate Abu Musab Al on. We also found that a narrow definition Zarqawi. of security is not enough. While confronting a present threat, we have accepted the long- term challenge of spreading hope and liberty Joint Statement by President George and prosperity as the great alternatives to ter- W. Bush and President Jacques ror. As we defeat the agents of terror, we Chirac: Lebanon will also remove the sources of terror. February 21, 2005 This strategy is not an American strategy or a European strategy or a Western strategy. The United States and France join with Spreading liberty for the sake of peace is the the European Union and the international cause of all mankind. This approach not only community in condemning the assassination reduces a danger to free peoples; it honors of former Lebanese Prime Minister Rafiq the dignity of all peoples by placing human Hariri, and in their support for a free, inde- rights and human freedom at the center of pendent, and democratic Lebanon. We sup- our agenda. And our alliance has the ability port the U.N. investigation into this terrorist and the duty to tip the balance of history act and urge the full cooperation of all parties in the favor of freedom. in order to identify those responsible for this We know there are many obstacles, and act. we know the road is long. Albert Camus said We urge full and immediate implementa- that ‘‘Freedom is a long-distance race.’’ tion of UNSCR 1559 in all its aspects, includ- We’re in that race for the duration, and there ing its call for a sovereign, independent, and is reason for optimism. Oppression is not the democratic Lebanon as well as for the con- wave of the future; it is the desperate tactic solidation of security under the authority of of a few backward-looking men. Democratic a Lebanese government free from foreign nations grow in strength because they reward domination.

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Lebanon’s forthcoming parliamentary alive these values which we share, and which elections can mark another milestone in Leb- our people share and hold very dear to their anon’s return to independence and democ- hearts, and which we are very attached to. racy if they are free and fair, conducted with- We are present together, that is to say out outside interference, and guaranteed by France and the United States, in some of international observers. The implementation the world’s hotspots. I’m thinking of Afghani- of UNSCR 1559 is essential to the organiza- stan. I’m thinking of the Balkans, of course, tion and success of these elections. The peo- but I’m thinking also of what we’re doing in ple of Lebanon deserve this opportunity, and Haiti and in Africa. I’m thinking also of our we stand with them in their aspirations for excellent cooperation over the tragedy in freedom, sovereignty, and security. Asia, from the tsunami here. And let me take this opportunity to thank the President for NOTE: An original was not available for all the help that was extended to our military verification of the content of this joint statement. by the American military, for instance, the making available to our military of American helicopters, which made our work that much Remarks Following Discussions With easier. President Jacques Chirac of France So we do share many, many ideals and val- and an Exchange With Reporters in ues. We have many things in common. For Brussels instance, we, together, are struggling against February 21, 2005 the scourge of weapons of mass destruction and terrorism. And we adopted—we have the President Bush. It’s my honor to be join- same approach to the situation which is pre- ing Jacques Chirac for dinner. I thank you vailing in Lebanon, especially following the for coming, sir. I’ve really been looking for- murder of former Prime Minister Hariri, ward to this moment. who, of course, was a man who enshrined Every time I meet with Jacques, he’s got the ideals of democracy, independence, and good advice. And I’m looking forward to lis- liberty of that country. tening to you. We’ve got a lot of issues to Therefore, I am looking forward to a very talk about, Middle Eastern peace, Lebanon, constructive discussion, and I welcome this Iran, helping to feed the hungry, working to- new opportunity to meet with the President gether to help spread medicines necessary and in a broader context, which is that of to cure illness. the continuing dialog, ongoing dialog be- So, Mr. President, thank you very much tween the United States and the rest of Eu- for your—coming back for dinner, and thank rope. you for your time. President Bush. Tom [Tom Raum, Asso- President Chirac. Thank you. It’s, of ciated Press]. course, a great pleasure. It always is great pleasure to meet with President Bush. And Russia let me take this opportunity to thank him for Q. For both Presidents: You talked about his very warm welcome to me today as al- Russia, Mr. President, in your speech. What ways. practical things can you do to pressure Russia Now, President Bush and I have always to go back to a path towards democracy? And shared very—always had very warm relations, should you, for instance, make membership which in fact translate, to a certain extent, in the WTO contingent on Russia renewing of relations—of warm relations that have al- its commitment to democracy? For both ways been characterized—the links between Presidents, please. our countries and the relations, be they bilat- President Bush. Part of the WTO re- eral or transatlantic ones, which have always quirements are that there be an open market, been excellent between France and the that there be a liberal economy. And open United States. markets and liberal economies tend to attract Indeed, we have struggled for some two countries that are open to the voices of their centuries, 200 years now, to uphold and keep people.

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I look forward to seeing Vladimir Putin in and it’s with Jacques Chirac, and that ought 2 days. I’ve got a good relationship with to say something. It ought to say how impor- Vladimir; I intend to keep it that way. But tant this relationship is for me, personally, as well, I intend to remind him that if his and how important this relationship is for my interests lie West, that we share values, and country. that we—and those values are important. They’re not only important for people that NOTE: The President spoke at 7:13 p.m. in the live within Russia; they’re important to have Ambassador’s Residence at the U.S. Embassy. In good relations with the West. his remarks, he referred to President Vladimir Putin of Russia. President Chirac referred to France-U.S. Relations former Prime Minister Rafiq Hariri of Lebanon, Q. The first question to President Chirac. who was assassinated on February 14 in Beirut. You have said, sir, yourself, that relations President Chirac spoke in French, and his re- have always been excellent between France marks were translated by an interpreter. A tape and the United States. We get the sense that was not available for verification of the content in recent weeks they have become even bet- of these remarks. ter. They have become warmer and that there’s a veritable new honeymoon, as it Remarks Following Discussions With were, taking place. Prime Minister Tony Blair of the And to you, President Bush, may I ask the United Kingdom in Brussels following question: If, indeed, relations have improved, if certainly they are better be- February 22, 2005 tween France and the United States, are they good enough as yet for that to warrant an President Bush. I just had a good break- invitation to President Chirac to go to the fast. I always enjoy being with my friend United States or even to your ranch? [Laugh- Tony Blair. We talked about the progress ter] being made in Iraq, and I want to congratu- President Bush. I’m looking for a good late you on your vision. The Iraqis are—you cowboy. [Laughter] know, have defied the terrorists and showed President Chirac. Let me say—repeat the world they want to live in a free society, what I already said, namely, that our relations and we’re there to help them achieve that. are indeed excellent. But they have been ex- I’m looking forward to the NATO meeting cellent for over 200 years now, because— today. NATO is a vital relationship for the why do I say that? Because they are based United States and for Europe. And I’m look- upon common values, common values that ing forward to meeting with the EU as well. we share. And these things don’t change As I said in my speech yesterday, a strong overnight, with the wave of a wand. Europe is very important for the United Now, of course, that doesn’t mean that be- States, and I really meant that. And the cause we share common values we don’t— Prime Minister is one of the strong leaders we necessarily agree on everything all the in Europe, and I really enjoy my relationship time. Of course, we can have our differences, with him. our divergence of opinion. Recently, this was Prime Minister Blair. First of all, I’m the case. We didn’t share the same view over pleased to come and talk to the President Iraq. But this in no way affects or in no way again and go through the range of different undermines the bedrock of our relations, issues that we face in the world today. And namely, our common values and our com- I both welcome the President’s speech yes- mon vision. And I repeat what I said earlier terday very much and thanked him for it. on, namely, that I feel it’s so important that And I think what it sets out is a very clear within the broader context of U.S.-EU rela- way forward for us now. Whatever the dif- tions, this relationship should continue to be ferences in the international community have cemented, broadened, and strengthened. been over the past couple of years, I think President Bush. This is my first dinner, we have a really solid basis now for going since I’ve been reelected, on European soil, forward in a unified way. And if we take that

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opportunity, it will be greatly for the benefit The President’s News Conference of the international community. With Secretary General Jakob We can see this, obviously, with Iraq, Gijsbert ‘‘Jaap’’ de Hoop Scheffer of where after the democratic elections that are the North Atlantic Treaty held now, it’s possible to see a way forward Organization in which Iraq can become a stable and a pros- February 22, 2005 perous and a democratic state. And after all the tragedies of the past and the dictatorship Secretary General de Hoop Scheffer. and the loss of life under Saddam, there’s Good afternoon. Very good afternoon to you. now real prospect for the Iraqi people. And Let me start by—this press conference by that, joined to what has happened in Afghani- echoing what was said many times around stan, I think gives us real hope for the future. the table this morning, and that is, thanks In addition, the President set out very to President Bush that he is here, showing clearly a way forward on the Middle East the continued commitment to NATO so peace process. There’s a renewed sense of shortly after his Inauguration. I mean, I vigor and optimism in that process. And with would be unfaithful to the discussion if I the London conference coming up next didn’t start like this. So let me say once again week, I think we’ve got every possibility now on my own behalf, Mr. President, thank you for being here. Thank you for coming. of trying to reach a settlement, which I think What did we discuss; what have I heard would do so much for international relations today? I have heard strong support for the worldwide. Atlantic Alliance. I have heard strong support Then, of course, we also went through for the common values which bind us, in the many of the other issues, to the upcoming past, in the present, and in the future. G–8 later in the year and so on. So it was, I have heard strong support for NATO’s as ever, a very constructive, very useful dis- operations and missions, strong support for cussion across a whole range of issues. And what we are doing in Afghanistan and our as I say, I think that yesterday’s speech and further ambitions, strong support for the today’s meeting at NATO gives us an oppor- training mission in Iraq, where we have fur- tunity to restate for people in Europe and ther ambitions in setting up the training in America the fundamental importance of academy and where we have now fully this transatlantic alliance. It’s been a corner- manned and financed what we committed to stone of our security for many, many years. do. And you know it’s the Iraqi Government’s It’s based on shared values. It’s absolutely first priority, training the Iraqi security forces the right thing for us to have at the center so that their dependence on others can be of our relations. And we’ll do everything we less than it is at the moment. I heard strong can to make sure that that relationship is support for our continued presence in strong. Kosovo and stability in the Balkans. I’ve heard a discussion on the importance of a strong NATO-EU partnership. At length, NOTE: The President spoke at 8:42 a.m. at the government leaders, heads of state discussed Chief of Mission Residence at the U.S. Embassy. the political role of NATO, the stronger polit- In his remarks, Prime Minister Blair referred to ical role of NATO, and there was a lot of former President Saddam Hussein of Iraq. A tape support for what I have been saying over the was not available for verification of the content past 8, 9 months: that this political role is of these remarks. important, that NATO is a political-military alliance and that we should not shy away from discussing political subjects of rel- evance. Many remarks and interventions were made on the Middle East, the importance of NATO’s Mediterranean dialog, which is being strengthened, the importance of the

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Istanbul Cooperation Initiative for these ac- cessful alliance in the history of the world. tivities of NATO in this very pivotal region Because of NATO, Europe is whole and where security and stability is not only impor- united and at peace. And that’s a milestone tant for the region but far beyond. Of course, in the history of liberty. the hopes for progress in the Israeli-Pales- NATO is the home for nine former mem- tinian question were discussed, and I think bers of the Warsaw Pact. You know, the lead- it’s important that, by outreaching into the ers of those countries, when they sit around region, NATO follow this process, although the table, bring such vitality to the discus- it does not play a primary role. sions that we have. See, it’s still fresh in their Of course, let me come back to Ukraine memories what it meant to live in a society this morning. There is strong support, strong that wasn’t free. I said in my remarks today support, first of all, for NATO’s bottom line, that, you know, sometimes you can take a which is NATO has an open door for those relationship for granted, and it was very im- European democracies who fulfill the obliga- portant for us not to take the NATO relation- tions, strong support for giving President ship for granted. One thing is for certain: The Yushchenko, in his challenging endeavor to newly admitted countries don’t take NATO bring Ukraine closer to Euro-Atlantic inte- for granted. As a matter of fact, they add gration—to support him in that respect. a vitality to the discussions that I find refresh- In other words, because I want to be brief, ing and hopeful. NATO is an important orga- it was an excellent . It was an excel- nization, and the United States of America lent summit. It was an excellent idea of the strongly supports it. President to come here, to have this summit I appreciate so very much the trans- here and now, because there is a daunting formation of NATO that’s taking place. In and challenging task and a daunting and chal- order for NATO to be vital, it’s got to be lenging agenda waiting for NATO. And we’ll relevant, and if it stays stuck in the past, it’s go for that agenda. And I’ll make proposals in the not too distant future on this political slowly but surely going to fade into oblivion. role for NATO. And the atmosphere was ex- But it’s not staying stuck in the past. We’ve cellent, and that was the way it should be, created the NATO Response Force—and I because what binds us are the values. We’ll want to thank you for your leadership on that, discuss them; we’ll have difference of opin- Jaap—and the chemical and biological and ion, yes, from time to time, but there is a radiological and nuclear battalion. The lot more we agree upon, and that is the bot- NATO command structure is streamlined. tom line. And that’s the basis for this great NATO is involved in the Middle East, a Alliance, and that’s the way I, in my responsi- world—a part of the world desperate for bility, having this privilege of being Secretary freedom. And I want to thank you for your General, I will run the Alliance. leadership on that. And we had a lot—spent Mr. President. a lot of time talking about the NATO con- President Bush. Thank you, sir. It’s good tribution to Afghanistan, and it is real and to be back here to the NATO Headquarters. it is important and it is substantial. And more This is my first trip overseas of my second countries are committed to providing help term, and I’m proud to make the home of for the RPTs [PRTs] * as well as the upcom- NATO my first stop. And I appreciate the ing elections, and I’m most grateful. invitation. You’ve done a fine job of running And then we discussed the NATO con- the meetings. You’re doing a fine job of being tribution in Iraq. First, many member coun- the Secretary General, I want you to know, tries have sent troops into Iraq as a part of and I appreciate all our friends who were the liberation of Iraq. And I thanked them around the table today for their strong com- there, and I reminded them that every life mitment to NATO. is precious and we appreciate the sacrifices It was a healthy dialog, and that strong being made by their citizens. But 26 nations commitment is important. After all, NATO sat around the table saying, ‘‘Let’s get the is the most successful alliance in the history of the world—think about that, the most suc- * White House correction.

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past behind us, and now let’s focus on help- President Bush. Well, I talked about this ing the world’s newest democracy succeed.’’ issue with President Chirac last night and And I appreciated the contributions. And the Prime Minister Blair, and I intend to talk NATO training mission is an important mis- about it here in a couple of hours at the Eu- sion, because, after all, the success of Iraq ropean Union meeting. We didn’t discuss the depends upon the capacity and the willing- issue at NATO, by the way. And here’s what ness of Iraqis to defend their own selves I explained. I said there is deep concern in against terrorists. our country that a transfer of weapons would So the discussions were fruitful. The be a transfer of technology to China, which Ukraine—the meeting with President would change the balance of relations be- Yushchenko was, I thought, historic. I tween China and Taiwan, and that’s of con- thought it was really interesting to be sitting cern. And they, to a person, said, well, they next to a person—the Secretary General put think they can develop a protocol that isn’t— me right next to President Yushchenko—who that shouldn’t concern the United States. had just led a revolution, a peaceful revolu- And I said I’m looking forward to seeing it tion, based upon the same values that we and that they need to make sure that if they hold dear. And it was a remarkable moment, do so, that they sell it to the United States I thought. Congress, that the Congress will be making And we—at least in my intervention and the decisions as to whether or not—as to how other interventions, we welcomed President to react to what will be perceived by some, Yushchenko and reminded him that NATO perhaps, as a technology transfer to China. is a performance-based organization and that But it was an important dialog. It was a the door is open, but it’s up to President very open dialog. There’s no—it was very Yushchenko and his Government and the constructive. And so they will, as I under- people of Ukraine to adapt the institutions stand it—and I don’t want to put words in of a democratic state. And NATO wants to people’s mouth, but I am told that there is help, and we pledged help. I pledged my own a—that they’ve heard the concerns of the Government’s help to a fund that will help United States. They’re listening to the con- get rid of MADPADS—MANPADS and cer- cerns of the administration as first articulated tain different types of weapons. In other by Secretary of State Rice, and they know words, the country has got work to do, but the Congress’s concern. And so they will try we want to help them achieve that work. It to develop a plan that will ease concerns. was a remarkable moment. I appreciate you Now, whether they can or not, we’ll see. inviting him, Jaap, to come. Q. So do you think it might fly? We also look forward to working with Al- President Bush. Pardon me? I don’t bania, , and Macedonia as these states know. It’s all speculation at this point. The participate in NATO’s Membership Action purpose of this trip has been to articulate Plan. All in all, the meeting was really impor- concerns that are being expressed through- tant. I am really glad I came. It gave me out the Government, both in the executive a chance to say that the relationship between branch and legislative branch, about the deci- the United States and Europe is a vital rela- sion—or the potential decision. And I’ve tionship, a necessary relationship, an impor- been listening. And you might call this a lis- tant relationship, and our relationship within tening tour, that people have got things on NATO is the cornerstone of that relationship. their mind and they want me to hear it, and So, Jaap, thank you for your hospitality. Glad part of what they’ve got on their mind is the to be here. dialog that’s taking place with China and the Arms Embargo on China European Union. Q. Mr. President, European countries are talking about lifting their 15-year arms em- Role of NATO bargo on China. What would be the con- Q. Mr. President, about a week ago in Mu- sequences of that? And could it be done in nich, we have had the old and the new Rums- a way that would satisfy your concerns? feld—[laughter]—but the thing is——

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President Bush. Same old Bush. [Laugh- public, parliamentary support for its oper- ter] ations and for its missions, we really need Q. But the new Rumsfeld is still saying to discuss the key political questions sur- the mission determines the coalition. What rounding those operations and missions. does that mean, exactly, Mr. President? Does And you cannot deny that when NATO that mean that for you, this Alliance, NATO, is reinforcing its Mediterranean dialog, when is just one tool in the American toolbox to NATO is reaching out into the broader Mid- face crisis? dle East—and you know that the reactions President Bush. No, you’re going to have have been very positive up until now—it is to ask Secretary Rumsfeld what he meant by relevant for the NATO Alliance to discuss that when he said it. I’ll tell you what I think, these issues in the broadest sense. You can’t and since I’m his boss, it’s probably pretty do the one without the other. And as Presi- relevant. [Laughter] I think it is the vital rela- dent Bush was saying, this is the path. I’ll tionship for the United States when it comes try to lead, because a vital Alliance means to security. And it is a relationship that is— that this Alliance is a vital political-military has worked in the past and is adjusting so organization. That is the object of the exer- that it works in the future. It’s a relationship cise, to say it like this. and a organization that needs to make sure that its capabilities meet the threats of the NATO Contributions in Iraq 21st century. And so this is a vital relation- ship. Q. Thank you, sir. Some of the contribu- And as the Secretary General mentioned, tions on Iraq involve only a few people, mod- that there needs to be a political component, est amounts of money. Is this going to be a place for us to come and have a strategic enough, or is largely symbolic? dialog. He has raised that issue; Chancellor President Bush. Well, first of all, when Schroeder raised the issue. And everybody you look around the table, Steve [Steve Hol- heard Chancellor Schroeder loud and clear; land, Reuters], that you see countries that everybody heard the Secretary General loud have made enormous contributions, and the and clear, and that is, is that in order for biggest contribution of all is when they’ve NATO to be relevant, it has to be a place sent a person into combat and that person where people feel comfortable about talking lost their life. That is a significant contribu- about strategic issues. tion. And the United States of America is And we do talk about strategic issues. And grateful for those contributions, and we what Jaap has just said—and you’re welcome honor every life. The key is to make sure to clarify what you just said, if you feel like that those lives that were lost don’t go down it—but as he said, he’s going to come back in vain, that a free and democratic and peace- with an action plan to make sure that ful country emerges. Every contribution mat- NATO’s relevance is strong, not only to have ters. the capabilities necessary to defend our re- Twenty-six nations sitting around that spective securities but as a place for us to table said it’s important for NATO to be in- have meaningful dialog. Isn’t that what you volved in Iraq. That’s a strong statement. And said? NATO is involved in Iraq, and NATO is Secretary General de Hoop Scheffer. I doing a vital mission, which is to help an offi- could start by adding, of course, it’s young cer corps emerge. The truth of the matter Bush and young de Hoop Scheffer who are is, in order for Iraq to be a secure country, talking here. [Laughter] I mean, that goes there has to be a chain of command that is without saying. [Laughter] effective and works, so that commands go To come back to your question, it is, in- from a political body to a military, and the deed, as President Bush has said, it is— military commands goes down so that people NATO is a political-military organization. enact the orders in order to keep the people And when we want—in the areas where we safe. That is what has to happen. And NATO operate, be it Afghanistan, be it Kosovo, in is providing an officer training mission, which Iraq—if NATO wants to go on keeping the is vital.

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Every contribution matters, and every try’s interests that democracy take hold in country ought to be proud of the fact that the greater Middle East. they’re contributing to the world’s newest de- The policy in the past used to be, let’s just mocracy. This organization is an organization accept tyranny, for the sake of—well, you that’s based upon values, values that have know, cheap oil or whatever it may be and stood the test of time, values that are uni- just hope everything would be okay. Well, versal, and values that are necessary for the that changed on September the 11th for our world to be peaceful. And the contributions Nation. Everything wasn’t okay. Beneath made into Iraq are based upon those values. what appeared to be a placid surface lurked And I am grateful. an ideology based upon hatred. And the way to defeat that ideology is to spread freedom Europe-U.S. Relations/Democracy and democracy. That’s what NATO under- stands, see. That’s one of the reasons why— Q. I have two questions, one for the Presi- NATO is one of the reasons why Europe is dent and one for the Secretary General. whole and free and at peace, because democ- President Bush. Finally, he got a ques- racies defeat hatred and suspicion. tion. [Laughter] And so I will explain—continue to explain Q. Well, I’ll put my question first to you, as best I can to skeptical people about my Mr. President. The wider European audi- policy, that it’s based on this concept that ence, it won’t be a surprise for you, is still we all share, no matter your views on Iraq skeptical about the policies of your adminis- or not. And that is, every human being de- tration, often being considered as dictating serves to be free and that human dignity is or unilateral. Now, on this trip, you have vital and that free societies are peaceful soci- launched a sort of major charm offensive— eties. And I will make a commitment again at least the Europeans will see it that way. to you, just like I made yesterday and will [Laughter] continue to make, that I’ll take those values President Bush. Well, thank you. I appre- into the Middle Eastern peace process. As ciate it. First time I’ve been called charming I said in my State of the Union, peace is with- in a while. [Laughter] in reach—that’s right about here. And we’ve Q. But the question is, what are you going got to work together to achieve that. to do really differently in your second term And so my message is, is that the past is— to improve ? I made some hard decisions, as did other And for the Secretary General, the ques- leaders, by the way, in Europe, about how tion is, what should the Europeans do to im- to enforce 17 different United Nations reso- prove transatlantic relations? lutions on Iraq, not one resolution but 17 President Bush. Well, our bilateral rela- different resolutions. And we liberated Iraq, tions are very strong with many countries, and that decision has been made. It’s over like your country. We’ve had 4 years, great with, and now it’s time to unify for the sake relations. And matter of fact, last night, my of peace. And I believe that message—I be- dinner with President Chirac reminded me lieve—forget the charm part. I believe that that except for one major issue, and that message is a message that people can under- being Iraq, we’ve done a lot together in my stand. And they’re beginning to see that the first 4 years. If you think about it, we’ve par- strategy is working. ticipated in Afghanistan together; we’ve par- Millions of people of voted in Afghanistan. ticipated in Haiti; we’re working on the Glob- I doubt many of you here were writing arti- al Fund to battle AIDS. I mean, there’s a cles about, ‘‘Oh, gosh, the elections in Af- lot we have done together. ghanistan are going to be incredibly success- The major issue that irritated a lot of Euro- ful.’’ It didn’t seem like it was possible, did peans was Iraq. I understand that. I can fig- it? But yet, there’s something in everybody’s ure it out. And the key now is to put that soul, in my judgment, that desires to be free. behind us and to focus on helping the new And the people of Afghanistan showed that democracy succeed. It’s in our interests—it’s by the millions—not by the handfuls but by in your country’s interests; it’s in my coun- the millions—when given a chance to vote.

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Same in Iraq. And there was an election in to President Viktor Yushchenko of Ukraine; Presi- Ukraine—two elections in Ukraine. And then dent Jacques Chirac of France; Prime Minister there was the election in the Palestinian Ter- Tony Blair of the United Kingdom; and Chan- ritory. Freedom is on the march, is the way cellor Gerhard Schroeder of Germany. He also I like to put it. And the world is better off referred to Provincial Reconstruction Teams (PRTs), a component of NATO’s International Se- for it. And I look forward to continue to ar- curity Assistance Force operating in Afghanistan. ticulate how we can work together to keep freedom on the march. Thank you all very much. Joint Statement by the United States Secretary General de Hoop Scheffer. and the European Union: Let me—— Announcement on Iraq Conference President Bush. Oh, I’m sorry. Secretary General de Hoop Scheffer. February 22, 2005 No, no, no—— The United States and Europe stand to- President Bush. He gave me a hand sig- gether in support of the Iraqi people and the nal that said he didn’t want to answer. new Iraqi government which will soon come [Laughter] You don’t know what this means. into being. To that end, should the new Iraqi [Laughter] That means, ‘‘End the press con- government request it, the United States and ference.’’ [Laughter] the European Union are prepared to co-host Secretary General de Hoop Scheffer. I an international conference to provide a signaled to the President this was too difficult forum to encourage and coordinate inter- a question, but I nevertheless answer very national support for Iraq. briefly. NATO is 26—not 25 plus one or 24 plus NOTE: An original was not available for 2. NATO showed today that these 26 Allies verification of the content of this joint statement. in Europe or the United States of America or Canada will and must strengthen this Alli- ance, this very successful Alliance, which is The President’s News Conference doing—with the West and European partici- With European Union Leaders in pation—all the things I started to discuss in Brussels my introduction. Second remark would be that European February 22, 2005 integration, including in security and defense President Juncker. Good evening, ladies matters, is important. But in that area, it’s and gentlemen. As heads of state and govern- of the utmost importance that, also, that ment of the European Union, we’ve been process takes place in complementarity with very happy to welcome the U.S. President, NATO and without duplication. That’s im- Mr. George Bush, to the heart of the Euro- portant for NATO; it’s important for Euro- pean institutions. And once again, I would pean Union. That’s why I want this wide like to thank him for this visit and for the NATO-EU agenda that’s relevant. European fact that he has taken the initiative of coming integration is a great process, and I always to Europe so soon after his Inauguration for say I’m an Atlanticist and I’m European. But his second term as President of the United here is the point, where we are now standing States. in NATO Headquarters, where we see the In the course of our discussions, we have primary forum for transatlantic security co- touched on a whole range of issues, which operation, and we’ll do that at 26 and not it is clearly impossible for me—[inaudible]— at 24 plus 2 or 25 plus one. that wasn’t me; that was the microphone— Thank you very much. [laughter]—a whole series of issues which we President Bush. Now we’re finished. cannot summarize here. What I would say [Laughter] is that what we have established is that, as NOTE: The President’s news conference began at so often in our past, if we work together, if 2:45 p.m. in the Press Theatre at we pool our strengths, we as Europeans and NATO Headquarters. In his remarks, he referred Americans can make the difference. We have

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the strength; we have the legitimacy; and we Union, have called for a joint committee of have the means—because we have the same investigation. ambitions for the world, ambition of democ- [Inaudible]—discussed, I leave this to the racy, of freedom, of fighting together against President of the U.S. terrorism, the ambition to end the prolifera- George. tion of weapons of mass destruction. President Bush. Mr. Prime Minister, On our flags, we have the words ‘‘free- thanks. Jose, it’s good to see you, sir; thank dom’’ and ‘‘democracy.’’ And we recognize you. I’m looking forward to having dinner the obligations that result from this, the fight with you and Javier Solana and Jean-Claude against poverty, the fight against under- tonight. development. And so, in a very studious, con- Listen, it’s an honor to be here. I appre- structive, and friendly atmosphere, we ad- ciate the invitation. You called an extraor- dressed a number of issues. dinary meeting, and I’m honored you did so. Middle East: We both do consider that My first trip after my Inauguration was to peace prospects are better than they have Europe, and that’s the way it should be be- been for a long time, and we are looking for- cause Europe and the United States are close ward to cooperate in close partnership with friends. the U.S. and with other Quartet members. In my talk to the leaders in the room, I It is of crucial importance, we do think, to started by saying this: There should be no doubt in your mind that my Government and go back to the implementation of the road- the United States wants the European map. In Gaza, we do all hope and prospect project to succeed. It’s in our interests that for a negotiated, two-state solution as defined Europe be strong. It’s in our interests that in this roadmap. That means that we have the European Union work out whatever dif- to make sure for Israel that peace, security, ferences there are and become a continued, and recognition by all countries in the region viable, strong partner. It’s in our interests for are guaranteed. And that means for the Pal- commercial reasons; we trade a lot. And I estinians that they have the right to have a talked about the need to continue trade and viable, democratic, independent, and totally to work out our disputes in a sensible way. contiguous state. It’s in our interests because the values that As regards Iraq, we applauded the courage caused the European Union to exist in the of the Iraqi people and the results of recent first place, the values of human rights and Iraqi elections as far as the out-turn was con- human dignity and freedom, are the same cerned. We are pursuing our common en- values we share. And we have an opportunity gagement in Iraq. The United States and the to work together to spread those values. We U.S. stand together in support of the Iraqi talked about Iraq, and I appreciate the con- people and the new Iraqi Government, tributions and the new suggestion. I appre- which will soon come into action. To that ciate your contributions in Afghanistan. end, should the new Iraqi Government re- We talked about how hopeful the Middle quest it, the United States and European Eastern peace situation looks. And I told the Union are prepared to cohost an inter- leaders that my Government will be very national conference to provide a forum to en- much involved in the process. We believe courage and coordinate international support peace is within reach. Therefore, I want to for Iraq. work with the European Union to achieve We spoke at length about the Middle East that objective. and in particular about Lebanon—Lebanon, We talked about aid, the need to work to- this country which is lurching from misfor- gether to fight disease like HIV/AIDS, which tune to misfortune, from tragedy to tragedy. we are doing and will continue to do. And we condemned vigorously the assassina- I brought up global warming. I said that tion of the former Prime Minister. We in- the Kyoto debate is beyond us, as far as I’m sisted on full compliance and immediate concerned; now is the time to focus on our compliance with the Security Council resolu- abilities and research and capacity to develop tion, and we, the U.S. and the European technologies to make the air cleaner so that

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our people can have the standard of living political and financial support for the process they expect, at the same time that we’re good of democratic transition. And we hope that stewards of the Earth. if the new Iraqi Government makes a con- So it was a very optimistic, hopeful meet- crete proposal for joint action, we’ll be ready ing. I appreciate so very much the hospitality to assist. of the leaders, and I’m anxious to continue We also have a shared commitment to de- our dialog after this press conference. velopment, and I would add that we must President Juncker. Jose Manuel. measure ourselves by results, helping coun- President Durao Barroso. Thank you. I tries to progress towards the Millennium think that, on behalf of the European Com- goals. We must give urgent attention to Afri- mission, that the visit of President Bush is ca. We need a quantum leap in terms of re- really a very, very important one. Europe and sources and policy. America have reconnected. This visit has We’ll talk later about how we can work highlighted all that unites Europe and Amer- together also to fight climate change. The ica. It has focused the eyes of the world on United States and Europe, I think I can say all that we share. I believe that the relation- this, agree that climate change constitutes a ship between the United States and Europe major challenge. Now, we need to develop is the world’s strongest, most comprehensive new methods of working together to get re- and strategically important partnership. The sults that are effective over the long term. United States, a united Europe—this is really President Bush mentioned, for instance, the the indispensable partnership. prospects offered now by new technologies. If you look at the scale of the challenges We are very much wishing to work together ahead, like terrorism, poverty, one thing is with the United States in that field. certain: These are not challenges that any na- The United States and Europe are the two tion can tackle alone. Europe knows that; the largest economies in the world. We are de- United States know that. Even working to- termined to deepen the transatlantic eco- gether, it’s not sure that we will solve these nomic partnership. Trade and investment are problems because of their magnitude. But we the bedrock of transatlantic relations. We must try, and I believe that together, we will want to build on this. Our common objective prevail. The reality is that the world is safer must be to remove obstacles to transatlantic and more prosperous when Europe and trade and investment as well as making a suc- America work together as global partners. cess of Doha development round, which is Today we have had opportunity to discuss a catalyst for global growth. Europe is com- many of the challenges on the transatlantic mitted to promote growth and jobs through agenda, on the Middle East, on transatlantic knowledge, innovation, and opportunity. trade. There is a common outlook on many That is what the Lisbon agenda stands for. fronts. I believe that the European Union This visit has given new life to the partner- and America will be very strong partners in ship between Europe and United States. I supporting the efforts of Israel and the Pales- believe that transatlantic relations have tinian Authority to move towards a lasting turned a corner. A new listening partnership peace in the Middle East. We know that is emerging. The challenge now is to turn President Bush and America are fully en- this new spirit into reality and show the world gaged. There is a unique opportunity for we are able to translate it into concrete re- peacemaking. sults. The European Union and the United President Juncker. Thank you. So, well States are committed to continue to bring take three or four questions, two coming prosperity and solidarity across the broader from the European side, two from the U.S. Middle East, building, on the Europe side. [Inaudible]—please. Union’s side, on the decade of dialog and assistance through the Barcelona process. European Union and North Atlantic On Iraq, the Commission is and will re- Treaty Organization main committed to a stable and democratic Q. [Inaudible]—a question to U.S. Presi- country. We will continue to offer substantial dent and to Prime Minister of Luxembourg.

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This EU-U.S. summit fueled speculation that Democracy in Russia there will be now two transatlantic tracks on Q. Mr. President, the Russians seem to foreign and security policy. One is the good be pushing back against some of the things old NATO and then the other one is the new that you’ve said, Mr. President. Their Ambas- one that’s direct EU-U.S. strategic talk. So sador to the U.S. wrote today that ‘‘there can- is this meeting between EU and U.S., this not . . . be a sole standard for democracy.’’ special summit, a kind of historic foundation So what I’m asking is just how flexible you of a new second track outside of NATO on think the standards for democracy can be. EU-U.S. relations? President Bush. First, we’ve got a con- President Juncker. I always wanted to structive relationship with Russia, and that’s make history, but I don’t think that this important. I’ve got a very good personal rela- time—[laughter]—is the moment for doing tionship with President Putin, and that’s im- so. We have an ongoing transatlantic dialog portant. And it’s important because it enables inside NATO. It can be improved, and we me and our country to remind President discussed this this morning together with the Putin that democracies are based upon rule President. And we have an ongoing trans- of law and the respect for human rights and atlantic dialog inside the framework between human dignity and a free press—you’ll be U.S. and European Union. We’ll have an- happy to hear. And that—a constructive rela- tionship allows me to remind him that I be- other summit by the end of this semester lieve Russia is a European country, and Eu- in June in Washington, where we are trying ropean countries embrace those very same to deliver as concrete results as possible, on values that America embraces. And I’m look- the basis of the good atmosphere we laid ing forward to continuing my dialog with down in the course of this meeting. him. We shouldn’t make a distinction between President Juncker. Next European ques- NATO and between the European Union. tion. [Laughter] These are two different things, but there are President Bush. I see you wanted to ask strong family relations and links between the a question, yes. two. This is not a question or/or; it is a ques- tion and/and. Iran/Upcoming London Meeting on the President Bush. I agree. I mean, I don’t Middle East view these two meetings as mutually exclu- Q. A question for President Bush. Presi- sive meetings. I think they’re both important; dent, you came to Europe with a very con- they’re both a part of an important dialog structive speech, and, indeed, you said very with Europe. NATO was set up for security few things the Europeans couldn’t agree matters. The EU is set up as a way to make with. But actions speak louder, so do you ac- Europe function better, to be able to achieve tually commit to taking more into account objectives for her people. And the United the European’s positions on international States looks forward to working with Europe matters? And do you actually commit to, for instance, prevent from launching action, both within NATO and as the European strikes against a sovereign member state, Union. state like Iran, without a mandate from the I’ve been meeting with the European United Nations Security Council? Union a lot since I’ve been the President. President Bush. I—You know, look, This isn’t the first meeting—your question I’m—let me talk about Iran. That’s a place kind of made it sound like, ‘‘He finally where I’m getting good advice from Euro- showed up and met.’’ This isn’t the first time pean partners. After all, Great Britain, Ger- we’ve met with the European Union in my many, and France are negotiating with the Presidency. As a matter of fact, we do so on ayatollahs to achieve a common objective, an annual basis, and I look forward to the something that we all want, and that is for meetings. And they’re constructive, and them not to have a nuclear weapon. It’s in they’re important. our interests for them not to have a nuclear Plante [Bill Plante, CBS News]. weapon. It’s also in our interests for them

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not to continue funding terrorist organiza- from the Baltic nations. And I look forward tions like Hezbollah, which has the desire to to carrying their message that it’s very impor- stop the Middle East peace process from tant for President Putin to make very clear going forward. And so these are great inter- why he’s made some of the decisions he’s locutors on behalf of the position we share. made and as well as respect his neighbors. So there’s an example of concrete action. And I’m confident that can be done in a I’m also looking forward to working with cordial way. It’s important for us to keep a our European partners on the Middle East- constructive relationship with Russia. We’ve ern peace process. Tony Blair is hosting a got a lot to do together. We’ve got a lot of very important meeting in London, and that common projects that will make people more is a meeting at which President Abbas will secure around the world, one of which is to hear that the United States and the EU is make sure that nuclear stockpiles are safe- desirous of helping this good man set up a guarded. I look forward to talking to him democracy in the Palestinian territories, so about that. But I also will remind him that that Israel will have a democratic partner in the United States believes strongly in demo- peace. I laid out a vision—the first U.S. cratic values. President to do so—which said that our vi- Thank you. sion is two states, Israel and Palestine, living President Juncker. That was it. Thank side by side in peace. That is the goal. And you. I look forward to working concretely with our European friends and allies to achieve that NOTE: The President’s news conference began at 6:58 p.m. at the Justus Lipsius Building. The goal. President met with Prime Minister Jean-Claude And finally, this notion that the United Juncker of Luxembourg, in his capacity as Presi- States is getting ready to attack Iran is simply dent of the European Council; President Jose ridiculous. And having said that, all options Manuel Durao Barroso of the European Commis- are on the table. [Laughter] sion; and Secretary General Javier Solana of the Bob [Bob Deans, Cox Newspapers]. European Council. President Juncker made a por- Democracy in Russia tion of his remarks in French, and his remarks were translated by an interpreter. In his remarks, Q. Mr. President, I wanted to follow up President Bush referred to President Vladimir on Plante’s question, if I could. I wanted to Putin of Russia; Prime Minister Tony Blair of the follow up on—— United Kingdom; and President Mahmoud Abbas President Bush. Is this a question on Rus- (Abu Mazen) of the Palestinian Authority. Presi- sia? dent Juncker referred to former Prime Minister Q. Sir? Rafiq Hariri of Lebanon, who was assassinated on President Bush. This is a question on February 14 in Beirut. A reporter referred to Rus- sia’s Ambassador to the U.S Yuriy Viktorovich Russia? Ushakov. Q. Yes, sir. President Bush. Okay. Q. Do you believe, sir, that Russia is back- Remarks at a Luncheon Hosted by sliding in its march toward democracy? What Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder of troubles you the most about that, and how Germany in Mainz, Germany is that going to shape your conversation with February 23, 2005 President Putin in 2 days from now? President Bush. I like a country with a Gerhard, before I raise my imaginary free press—an independent, free press. And glass—[laughter]—I do want to thank you for there has been some moves where the Rus- your hospitality. You and Doris have been sian Government, I guess, for better use of very kind to Laura and me, and we appre- the word, didn’t license certain members of ciate that. I want to thank all the folks who the press. I think it’s very important that have come to say hello from around this great President Putin hear not only from me in country. It means a lot to both of us that a private way, which he will, but also hear you’re here. some of the concerns that I heard around You know, in the course of my political the table today. There were some concerns career, I’ve often been accused of following

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in my father’s footsteps. I don’t know why find it very important, sir, that you take note people say that. [Laughter] I’m proud to be of one aspect that is important for both of here, 16 years after he was here. I hope he us. We also talked about climate problems brought my mother because, like me, we that we have worldwide, and this is an area both married above ourselves. [Laughter] where we also need a solution. You know we I’m proud to be traveling with Laura. have different—or used to have different The first trip I took since my second inau- opinions about how to go about these things. guration was to Europe, because Europe is The Kyoto Protocol was not appreciated by a vital relationship for the United States of everybody, and that is something that has America. It is in my Nation’s interest that continued to exist. But I would like to em- Europe be strong. We want a strong partner phasize that, despite that, we would like to for peace and freedom. We can’t have good, see practical cooperation with the reduction strong relations with Europe if we don’t have of problems in this area. And we think that good relations with Germany. This great na- there could be room for maneuver, particu- tion is the heart of Europe. larly in the field of technology, where the My trip today should say to the people of United States of America and Germany both this good country and my country that past have tremendous know-how, and we would disagreements are behind us, and we’re mov- like to deepen cooperation in this field, irre- ing forward for the good of mankind. And spective of the question of whether Kyoto that shouldn’t be a surprise to people, be- is the right tool to be going about things or cause we believe in human rights and human not. And that is something we have first said, dignity and the worth of every individual. and this is a piece of progress that you must And so today I come to Germany to raise not underestimate. my imaginary glass to our friendship, our re- Now, over and above that, we obviously lationship, our ability to work together, and talked about all of the international problems for freedom and peace. May God bless you on the agenda. Some of those problems have all. already been addressed yesterday in Brussels. NOTE: The President spoke at 11:58 a.m. in the I have to say it is good and it is right, and Grosser Saal Lobby of the Electoral Palace. In I think it is important for the development his remarks, he referred to Doris Schroeder- of peace in the world that President Bush’s Koepf, wife of Chancellor Schroeder. The tran- administration and he, himself, personally, script released by the Office of the Press Secretary have committed themselves to the situation also included the remarks of Chancellor Schroe- of the Middle East peace process. der. I think there is hope today and even more than hope, possibly, that we will come to a The President’s News Conference solution here. And a solution can only ever With Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder be mentioned and conceived if there is a of Germany in Mainz strong involvement of the United States of February 23, 2005 America. Now, obviously, the other members of the Chancellor Schroeder. Thank you very Quartet can be helpful. They want to be much, indeed, ladies and gentlemen. I’m helpful; there can be no doubt. The same very pleased, indeed, about this opportunity goes for us too. But I am very pleased that of welcoming President Bush and his wife, there is now this very strong commitment of Laura, here in Germany. I think Mainz is the U.S. Americans to this specific problem. an excellent venue for this meeting. Now, we obviously talked about Iraq as We had a very, very intense discussion, and well, and here, especially, we talked about we basically covered each and every subject what the perspective can be for the future. that is a high-ranking one on the inter- And nobody wants to conceal that we had national political agenda today. different opinions about these things in the Now, before I go into any kind of detail, past, but that is the past, as I just said. And let me begin by sharing with you that we now our joint interest is that we come to a

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stable, democratic Iraq. Germany was cer- nuclear weapons. They must waive any right tainly involved when it was about waiving to the production thereof, and they must re- debt for Iraq. You know that at the time we nounce the right to even close the fuel cycle. addressed this subject in New York. We have Now, what has now been—may have done committed ourselves, and it was a success. in a temporary agreement has to be nailed We would like to see a situation where Iraq down fully and completely and, well, can use its financial scope for reconstruction sustainably. and doesn’t have to use the money on debt Now, those were basically the topics that servicing. And what the Paris Club achieved we addressed. And over and above that, we was, I think, a great achievement. obviously talked about the situation in Eu- Now, secondly, we are ready, and when rope, the situation in Russia, and in other people like us say we’re ready, we are ready places of our beloved world. All in all, from and we do do something. We’re actually my perspective, a tremendously successful doing already; we are training policemen and meeting and a very friendly conversation I’m military security staff for Iraq in the United very pleased about. Thank you. Arab Emirates, and there I think we can President Bush. Thank you very much for modestly say it is a rather successful project your kind hospitality. And Laura and I are indeed. And all of that is, obviously, trying looking forward to eating lunch with you and to arrange for more homegrown Iraqi secu- Doris. And we’re so honored that you would rity. And we are very much interested in not greet us here in your beautiful country. just continuing with these things but to also I am—it’s obvious that my—it’s—an obvi- expand on those activities. ous decision was to come here on my first Now, what we do not want to do in Iraq trip since my Inauguration. After all, Europe has been accepted, and we then said we’d is America’s closest ally. I said yesterday and be very happy to make expertise available I want to say it again, the European project when it is about the rebuilding of democratic is important to our country. We want it to institutions, be it questions of drafting a con- succeed. And in order for Europe to be a stitution but also the establishment of min- strong, viable partner, Germany must be istries, for example. Germany has a host of strong and viable as well. And in order for experience with these things, and if the new us to have good relations with Europe, we Iraqi Government wishes us to do so, we’d must have good relations with Germany. And be most pleased to oblige. that is why this trip is an important trip for Now, the discussion about Iran took quite my country and for me. a bit of space during our meeting, and let And so I want to thank you very much for me say openly and frankly that regarding the the chance to be here, a chance to reconfirm targets that we are trying to achieve, we are the importance of the transatlantic alliance, fully congruous; that is to say we absolutely and a chance to talk about important issues. agree that Iran must say no to any kind of Gerhard went over the issues; I will go over nuclear weapon, full stop. That is the joint them briefly as well. target that Europeans uphold as much as the First, I do want to say how much I appre- U.S. Americans, and we are very much of ciated Minister Schily coming to Washington, the opinion that this is the target that needs DC. I had a good visit with him, as did other to be achieved through a diplomatic negoti- people in my administration. I appreciate so ating path, if at all possible. But this means very much the strong cooperation between there needs to be movement on both sides. Germany and the United States when it Now, we very much assume that this op- comes to sharing intelligence and to working portunity is there, and I very much am together to find and arrest and bring to jus- pleased to see that the activities undertaken tice people who would do harm to our re- by the three European powers—Great Brit- spective peoples or anybody else in the ain, France, and Germany—find the support world. And I want to thank you for that good of the U.S. American President. And we very work. much agree that the targets we’re going for Secondly, I appreciated your kind words is very much agreed: Iran must not have any about Iraq and the need for us to put past

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differences behind us and focus on the peo- sured the Chancellor that the United States ple of that country. After all, over 8 million cares about the quality of our air, obviously, people said, ‘‘We want to be free.’’ And in that we spend $5.8 billion on technology on the face of incredible threat to their life and an annual basis to help develop ways to be safety, they voted. And as democracies, we able to maintain our standards of living and, have now decided to help them. And I want at the same time, be good stewards of the to thank you for your contributions. I fully environment. And we have a great oppor- understand the limitations of German con- tunity to work with a great nation like Ger- tribution. However, the contributions that many to share research, share intelligence, Gerhard Schroeder talked about are not lim- and not only to make sure that kind of—I ited; they’re important. Whether it be min- mean, share technologies and to make sure istry building or training of law enforcement that kind of technology is available for not officers, those are vital contributions, and I only our own country but for developing appreciate—including debt relief, by the countries like China and . way, is a part of the vital contribution. And so we have a great opportunity, I We spent a lot of time talking about the think, Gerhard, and I appreciate you for see- Middle East. And I assured the Chancellor ing that opportunity as well. This is an impor- that this is a primary objective of my adminis- tant trip for me, and it’s—and one of the tration, is to help to move the process along. most important stops of all is right here in Peace will be achieved because the Israelis Germany. And I appreciate your hospitality. and the Palestinians want peace, and our job is to help them achieve that. And I look for- Germany-U.S. Relations ward to going to the meet- ing in London shortly to help the Palestinians Q. Mr. President, when your father, 15 develop the institutions necessary for a free years ago, visited Mainz, at the time he talked society to emerge. about partnership and leadership. Would you I said in my State of the Union that I be- give Germany the same role today, a partner lieve a settlement on this important issue is to the United States of America? within reach. I said that because I believe President Bush. He fondly remembers it. And because it is within reach, it is vital the trip. Thank you for remembering that he for all of us to do—to work together to help came, and I will tell him that the first ques- both parties achieve the two-state solution, tion I got on German soil had his name in two states living side by side in peace. it. [Laughter] We spent time talking about Iran, and I The United States relies upon our partner- want to thank Gerhard for taking the lead, ships in the world to spread liberty and along with Britain and France, on this impor- peace, to do our duties as a wealthy nation tant issue. It’s vital that the Iranians hear the to help the poor, and to work on matters such world speak with one voice that they as HIV/AIDS. And we need partners. And shouldn’t have a nuclear weapon. You know, Germany is a partner. We share the same yesterday I was asked about the U.S. posi- goals. We share the goal of a free and peace- tion, and I said all options are on the table. ful world. We share the goal of working to- That’s part of our position. But I also re- gether to convince the ayatollahs in Iran to minded people that diplomacy is just begin- give up their nuclear weapons ambitions. We ning. Iran is not Iraq. We’ve just started the care deeply about the fact that there’s disease diplomatic efforts, and I want to thank our on the continent of Africa, a pandemic in the friends for taking the lead. And I will—we form of HIV/AIDS. will work with them to convince the mullahs And so I would call Germany a partner that they need to give up their nuclear ambi- in peace and a partner in freedom and a part- tions. ner of doing our duty. I—we also talked about the environment. Keil. Richard Keil [Bloomberg News]. And obviously we’ve had differences on [Laughter] Here’s your mike. He’s a very tall Kyoto. Those differences were first made person. [Laughter] known in 2001 on my trip to Europe. I as- Chancellor Schroeder. I see, I see.

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Syria stood the President in such a way that we’re Q. President Bush, do you feel that you jointly of the opinion—that it is necessary to have gained any momentum here on this trip take NATO and the European Union, both this week for possible new sanctions against of them, and to make them into a forum for Syria? important international transatlantic posi- And Chairman Schroeder, do you think tions, where these are openly, frankly, can- that considering new sanctions on Syria is didly discussed on a high level. That was very something that you could approve of at this much what I wanted to say at the time, and time? that is still what I think to this day. President Bush. Dick, the—I had a good President Bush. I interpreted the com- talk with President Chirac on this subject. ments to mean he wants NATO to be rel- France and the United States cosponsored evant, a place where there is meaningful stra- a resolution in the United Nations that made tegic dialog. And that was very clear to every- it very clear that Syria needs to withdraw her body sitting around the table. And the meet- troops from Lebanon. ing ended with Jaap saying to everybody that I will state it again: The position of our he’s going to come back with a plan to make Government is Syria must withdraw not only sure that the strategic dialog in NATO is rel- the troops but its secret services from Leb- evant. And so I appreciated the spirit in anon. And Syria, in so doing, will indicate which those comments were made. the other point that the President of France Fletcher [Michael Fletcher], Washington and I wanted to make, and that is those elec- Post. tions that are coming up need to be free, Iran without any Syrian influence. And so the charge is out there for the Syr- Q. Thank you, Mr. President. Chancellor ian Government to hear loud and clear. And Schroeder has said that Iran will abandon its we will see how they respond before there’s nuclear ambitions only after knowing that its any further discussions about going back to economic and legitimate security concerns the United Nations. have been addressed. First of all, do you Chancellor Schroeder. I very much agree with that assessment, and can that hap- share this opinion. And let me also add that pen without the United States joining the jointly we are of the opinion that there must talks with Iran? be an international investigation on the death President Bush. Yes, I appreciate that. of former Prime Minister Hariri in Lebanon. Look, first, let me just make this very clear: That is certainly one other aspect that— The party that has caused these discussions where we feel we stand united. And the to occur in the first place are the Iranians. French President agrees on this as well. And the reason we’re having these discus- sions is because they were caught enriching Role of NATO uranium after they had signed a treaty saying Q. Chancellor, I wanted to put a question they wouldn’t enrich uranium. So in other to you. You tabled an initiative to NATO re- words, there is a—these discussions are oc- form in Munich. It was tabled in your ab- curring because they have breached a con- sence, and you then went and explained tract with the international community. thereafter. Could you tell me where you They’re the party that needs to be held to agree when it comes to your ideas for NATO, account, not any of us. but also, can you tell me where the dif- And secondly, what we discussed with our ferences are? German friends and French and British Chancellor Schroeder. We have agreed friends as well is a series of negotiating tac- that we are not going to constantly emphasize tics—how to make sure the process moves where we’re not agreeing but we want to forward without yielding to our universal de- focus on where we do agree. And that is why mand. I can share with you that, regarding the ques- I might add, I believe there’s another de- tion as to where to go for NATO, we are mand that makes sense as well, and that is very much of the opinion—and I’ve under- that the Iranian Government listen to the

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hopes and aspirations of the Iranian people. nology for Sustainable Development, and the That’s what the German system does; that’s World Summit on Sustainable Development what the American system does. We believe Plan of Implementation. The United States that the voice of the people ought to be de- and Germany welcome the continued work termining policy, because we believe in de- in this area under United Kingdom’s G–8 mocracy and freedom. And so, as we go down Presidency. the road, we look forward to discussing ways 1) Cooperation with Developing Countries to make—to talk with the three interlocutors We are particularly committed to working without yielding at all on the universal de- with developing countries to help them meet mand that they must give up their weapons their own development and poverty reduc- in a transparent way. And I’m hopeful we tion priorities, which requires increased ac- can achieve our objective. And we discussed cess to all forms of cleaner, more abundant, tactics, some of which have bubbled up, obvi- and more affordable modern energy sources, ously, into the public domain. including renewable and efficiency tech- And we will continue to talk tactics, to nologies. To this end, we have worked to in- make sure that we achieve the objective: Iran clude major developing countries in our mul- must not have a nuclear weapon. For the tilateral technology partnerships, to ensure sake of security and peace, they must not that cleaner, more efficient technologies are have a nuclear weapon. And that is a goal appropriate to all major nations and regions shared by Germany, France, Great Britain, of the world. We will broaden and reinforce and the United States. And working together, those activities. We anticipate additional op- we can get this accomplished. portunities as we work together to address Thank you all. global environmental, economic and social challenges and opportunities. NOTE: The President’s news conference began at 2) Energy Conservation and Efficiency 12:24 p.m. at the Electoral Palace. In his remarks, Considerable economically viable tech- he referred to Doris Schroeder-Koepf, wife of nologies exist, and should be encouraged, for Chancellor Schroeder; German Interior Minister boosting energy efficiency in industrialized Otto Schily; President Jacques Chirac of France; and developing countries. Progress on energy and NATO Secretary General Jakob Gijsbert efficiency provides one of the greatest oppor- ‘‘Jaap’’ de Hoop Scheffer. Chancellor Schroeder tunities for cost-effective reduction in pollu- referred to former Prime Minister Rafiq Hariri of Lebanon, who was assassinated on February tion and greenhouse gases and improvement 14 in Beirut. Chancellor Schroeder spoke in Ger- in energy security. Examples range from man and some reporters asked their questions in highly efficient power stations, through en- German, and their remarks were translated by an ergy-saving products, to fuel-efficient vehi- interpreter. cles. Innovative future technologies such as fuel cells and photovoltaics offer great eco- nomic prospects. A promising new field is Joint Statement: U.S.-German Joint the area of nanosciences. They have the po- Actions on Cleaner and More tential of offering higher energy efficiency, Efficient Energy, Development and in particular more energy efficient commer- Climate Change cial and household products, including vehi- February 23, 2005 cles, through the use of new materials and new illumination technologies. An inten- Germany and the United States have a his- sification of our bilateral cooperation in the tory of working together bilaterally and mul- field of energy conservation, efficiency and tilaterally to promote strong economic new technologies could accelerate our growth, reduce harmful air pollution, im- progress. Grasping these opportunities will prove energy security, and mitigate green- strengthen our economy and open up profit- house gas emissions through such mecha- able markets for our companies. nisms as the UN Framework Convention on The United States and Germany also have Climate Change and its Delhi Declaration, a joint commitment to the multilateral Meth- the G–8 Action Plan on Science and Tech- ane to Markets Partnership that will advance

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the commercial use of methane, a potent 5) International cooperation for renewable greenhouse gas, from coalmines, natural gas energy and oil reserves and landfill sites. This initia- Renewable energies should play an in- tive promises to significantly reduce methane creasing role in the portfolio of modern en- emissions and put them to profitable use as ergy systems. Renewables 2004, an inter- a clean energy source. national conference convened by the Ger- 3) Modernization of domestic power gen- man government, provided a platform to ad- eration vance renewable energy (e.g., biomass, wind, Efficient and cleaner production of heat geothermal, solar, and hydropower) tech- and power from coal and natural gas are ad- nologies and policies. Both the United States vanced by German-U.S. cooperation in the and German governments pledged financial Carbon Sequestration Leadership Forum and technical resources to advance develop- (CSLF), FUTUREGEN, and CORETECH. ment of renewable energy in the overall glob- These three initiatives will help dramatically al mix of heat and power production. Recog- advance cleaner heat and power production nizing that a wide range of different renew- from coal and natural gas via focused re- able technologies offer a variety of possibili- search and development efforts. ties for joint projects on both bilateral and These activities underscore the important multilateral levels, the German and U.S. gov- contribution of modernization of energy sys- ernments will work together to fulfill the tems to supporting economic growth, im- pledges made at Renewables 2004. proving energy security, and reducing pollu- tion and greenhouse gas emissions. Highly Summary efficient technologies offer great opportuni- ties to cost-effectively reduce energy con- The United States and Germany will sumption, pollution, and greenhouse gas broaden and reinforce their activities in three emissions. Germany and the United States areas of common action to improve energy will make joint efforts to apply these tech- security and reduce pollution and green- nologies domestically and worldwide, espe- house gas emissions, while supporting strong cially in fast growing developing countries. economic growth: • 4) Innovation for future energy systems First, joint activities to further develop The United States and Germany lead glob- and deploy cleaner, more efficient tech- al efforts to develop future energy systems nologies to support sustainable develop- including the use of hydrogen as an energy ment. • carrier. Both countries are founding mem- Second, cooperation in advancing cli- bers of the International Partnership for the mate science, and developing effective national tools for policy action. Hydrogen Economy established by 15 coun- • ties and the European Commission in 2003 Third, joint action to raise the efficiency to conduct advanced research and develop- of the energy sector and address air pol- ment in hydrogen and fuel cell technologies. lution and greenhouse gas emissions in Germany and the United States cooperate bi- our own countries and around the laterally and multilaterally in the develop- world. ment of hydrogen powered fuel cells use in We will continue working together and the transport and stationary sectors. A close through partnership with the G–8 countries cooperation in the research and innovation under the Action Plan for Science and Tech- activities of the United States and Germany nology for Sustainable Development to en- for future energy and transport systems, in- hance these efforts. cluding fuel cells and hydrogen, will be a driving force to make these technologies NOTE: An original was not available for available and price competitive. verification of the content of this joint statement.

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Remarks in a Discussion With President Bush. First of all, Sharansky’s Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder of book confirmed how I was raised and what Germany and Young Professionals in I believe, and it’s essentially this, that deep Mainz in everybody’s soul—everybody’s soul—is February 23, 2005 this deep desire to be free. That’s what I be- lieve: No matter where you’re raised, no mat- President Bush. Gerhard, thank you very ter your religion, people want to be free, and much for your hospitality. I want to thank that a foreign policy, particularly from a na- you all for coming. This is a good opportunity tion that is free, ought to be based upon that for me to really listen to what you have to thought. You know, you can’t discriminate. ask and tell me about a lot of things. I’m Freedom is not a discriminatory thought, at interested in economy, the entrepreneurial least in the White House—in other words, spirit. I’m interested in attitudes about free- if you say certain people should be free but dom and peace. I’m interested to know, obvi- others shouldn’t free. It’s a universal thought, ously, what you think about or answer ques- as far as I’m concerned. tions about policies that I’ve decided. I obvi- And therefore, our foreign policy is based ously know there’s a lot of disagreement upon this notion that the world is a better about some of the decisions I’ve made, and place when people are able to realize that I’m interested in sharing with you why I which is embedded in their soul, because in made the decisions I have made. that book, also, he talks about the idea that I really want to thank you for your time, free societies are peaceful societies; demo- and I appreciate your willingness to come cratic societies don’t attack each other. And and speak to two old guys like me and Gerhard. Isn’t that right, Gerhard? Europe is a classic example of countries Chancellor Schroeder. I’m the older which have embraced values based upon de- man. mocracy and is peaceful. President Bush. Older man. [Laughter] And yes, this same principle applies to not But this is a fantastic moment. This is going only Iraq or Iran or America or Germany but to be one of the highlights of my trip to Eu- also Russia. And as you know, there’s a lot rope, and I can’t thank you enough for being of focus on my meeting with Vladimir Putin here. tomorrow. As a matter of fact, Gerhard and Gerhard, do you want to say a few things? I spent a lot of time talking about Russia Chancellor Schroeder. No, you can—— today. He’s got a close relationship with President Bush. Okay, we’ll start with the Vladimir, on a personal basis. I’ve got a close questions. relationship with Vladimir, on a personal Democracy/Upcoming Meeting With basis. I expressed some concerns at the Euro- President Putin of Russia pean Union yesterday about some of the de- cisions, such as freedom of the press, that Q. Okay, once again, welcome. Mr. Presi- our mutual friend has made, and I look for- dent, you said in a recent interview with the ward to talking to him about his decision- Washington Times that if people want to get making process. a glimpse of how you think about foreign pol- One of the interesting things about being icy, they should read ‘‘The Case for Democ- racy’’ by Natan Sharansky. In this book, as with a Chancellor or, in Putin’s case, a Presi- you know, Sharansky suggests the so-called dent, is that we share something: We make town square test—— decisions. And I like to learn from people President Bush. Yes. how they make decisions. They say to me, Q. ——can a person walk into the middle ‘‘What’s the President like? Give me a job of the town square and express his or her description.’’ The job description is ‘‘deci- views without fearing arrest or physical harm. sionmaker.’’ And maybe we can talk a little My question for you: Did Sharansky’s book bit about that later on. But yes, it applies have influence on your approach toward Rus- to Russia as well. sia? Yes.

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Energy Policy to clean air requirements. Unfortunately, it’s Q. My name is Loretta Wuertenberger, an issue that’s hard to get through our Con- from Blue Corporate Finance. Concerning gress. I mean, there’s a lot of people still fear- Russia, the Iraq crisis has made quite clear ful of nuclear power, and it’s a debate I’ve to all of us how dependent we are on the engaged in. It’s a subject I brought up in oil resources from that region. And for the my State of the Union Address, and it’s a future, it is certainly necessary for us all to subject I’ll continue to talk about because I kind of look for strategies to become more think it is a way for the United States to be independent of these resources. less dependent on foreign sources of energy, President Bush. Yes. which is good for our economy and, frankly, Q. Does this aspect, for you, have influ- helps us with foreign policy. ence on your relationship to Russia? President Bush. That’s an interesting [At this point, the open portion of the discus- question. The foreign policy of our country sion ended.] for years—I’m stepping back; I’m kind of going to branch out from Russia, and I’ll get NOTE: The President spoke at 2:40 p.m. at the back to Russia. For years, there was this Electoral Palace. A tape was not available for sense that we could tolerate tyranny for the verification of the content of these remarks. sake of energy. And yet, beneath the surface of that policy lurked this hatred and feeling of oppression and frustration and hopeless- Remarks to U.S. Troops at ness, which lent itself to an ideology of hatred Wiesbaden Army Airfield, Germany that ended up manifesting their hatred on February 23, 2005 America. And let me say something about Sep- Thank you all. Thank you very much. tember the 11th. I think this will help frame Thank you for the warm welcome. Laura and the conversation as we go forward. For some, I were in the neighborhood—[laughter]— September the 11th was a passing moment and we thought we’d just drop by to say hello. in history. In other words, it was a terrible Howdy. [Laughter] moment, but it passes. For me and my Gov- It’s an honor to be here with so many out- ernment and many in the United States, it standing soldiers, sailors, airmen, marines permanently changed our outlook on the from this base and others in Germany. Laura world. Those two attitudes caused us, some- and I are proud to be with you. I’m glad times, to talk past each other, and I plead to be with the men and women of the 3d guilty at times. But as this conversation goes Support Command and the 421st Medical on, I want you to remember that point of Evacuation Battalion. I see a lot of ‘‘Big Red view. Ones’’ here in the crowd. I know you’ve just As a result of feeling like—that my main back from Iraq. I’m pleased to say, ‘‘Job well obligation is now to protect the American done.’’ It’s good to be at the proud home people and to confront an ideology of hate, of the 1st Armored Division. Some of you we are no longer—our primary objective is ‘‘Iron Soldiers’’ might have seen me before. the spread of freedom. I was the guy serving turkey. The best way to diversify, at least for my I arrived this morning from Brussels, country—and I don’t want to raise a sore sub- where I was meeting with some of our vital ject here—but diversify away from depend- allies in the war on terror. I came to Wies- ence on foreign sources of energy is for us baden to meet the men and women fighting to take advantage of new technologies and on the frontlines of that war. You are carrying expand safe nuclear power in the United out challenging duties with skill and honor, States of America. and today I bring you a message from back To me, that would achieve several objec- home. The American people are grateful to tives. One, it’s a renewable source of energy; you. Your communities are proud of you. two, it’s a domestic source of energy; and And as you defend the cause of freedom, three, it would help us meet our obligations America stands with you.

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I also want to thank all the military families nessed the violence and grief that terrorists who are here today. They tell me the quality can inflict. We had a glimpse of the greater of life here is really good—[laughter]—but destruction the terrorists intend. On behalf it’s a long way away from home, and it can of our Nation, I made a pledge: We will bring be lonely when your loved ones are deployed our enemies to justice or bring justice to our on dangerous missions in distant lands; I enemies. know that. You built a strong, close-knit com- And you are the ones who are carrying out munity here. You support all those who wear this vital mission. Every one of you is a volun- the uniform, and you support each other teer. You stepped forward to accept the hard- through difficult times. The service and sac- est duties in this new war. And over the past rifice of America’s military families is vital 3 years, you have added to the great achieve- to our success in the war on terror, and your ments of your divisions. You are part of the President is here to tell you I’m proud of history of freedom and peace. You know that our military families as well. terrorists will not be stopped by negotiations I appreciate Major General Marty or concessions or appeals to reason. Terror- Dempsey’s introduction, and his wife, ists must be confronted, and they must be Deanie. I appreciate their leadership. Today defeated. In this war, there is only one option we’ve got General Jim Jones, NATO’s Su- for victory: We must take the fight to the preme Allied Commander Europe, and his enemy. wife, Diane, with us. At this hour, brave Americans in uniform I’m traveling in some pretty good com- are protecting our country and others by pany. I like to be around strong women. I hunting down the terrorists around the want your men listening to your wives just world, one by one. Since September the like I listen to mine. Laura is a fabulous First 11th, more than three-quarters of Al Qaida’s Lady for our country. I’m proud of her. This known key members and associates have Nation has got a great Secretary of State in been brought to justice. The rest of them Condoleezza Rice. are on the run, and the world’s greatest fight- I appreciate Ambassador Dan Coats and ing force is on their trail. wife, Marsha. Dan has been our Ambassador The day our Nation was attacked, I also from the United States to Germany, and both made it clear that regimes that support terror have done a spectacular job on behalf of our would be considered equally guilty of ter- Nation. rorist murder. A few weeks later, the Taliban I want to thank Diana DeGarmo for help- found out what we meant. With good allies ing to entertain you. I don’t know if you know at our side, America’s military liberated the this, Laura and I were raised in west Texas. people of Afghanistan from one of the most Three boys were raised right down the street brutal regimes on Earth. We destroyed the from us there in west Texas. Those were the training camps where the attacks of Sep- Gatlin boys, and I’m proud they’re here. tember the 11th were conceived. We showed Thanks for coming. the terrorists there’s no cave deep enough The 1st Armored and 1st Infantry Divi- to hide from American justice. sions are two of the oldest, proudest units Today, Afghanistan is a free country and in the United States Army. You predecessors an ally in the war on terror. After long years fought the great battles of World War II, of oppression, women are participating in stood vigil through the decades of the cold that society. Boys and girls are going to war, and served with distinction in Vietnam school. The Afghan Army and police are se- and Bosnia and Kosovo. And on this day 14 curing their country. And last October, more years ago, soldiers in both your divisions than 8 million Afghan citizens cast their votes spent their final night in Saudi Arabia before in the first free Presidential election in Af- charging into Iraq to crush the army of Sad- ghanistan’s 5,000-year history. dam Hussein. As our men and women in uniform helped On September the 11th, 2001, history to transform Afghanistan, we also confronted brought new responsibilities to our Nation, a growing danger in Iraq. One of the key new challenges. That morning, America wit- lessons of September the 11th is that we

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must confront threats before they fully mate- Kirkuk to Samarra to Tikrit, the soldiers of rialize. In Iraq, we found a threat to the en- the 1st Infantry Division worked around the tire world. Saddam Hussein supported ter- clock to prepare Iraq for free elections. Your rorists; he pursued deadly weapons; he de- challenges were unprecedented, and so was fied the just demands of the international the outcome. More than 8 million Iraqi vot- community, year after year, resolution after ers defied the terrorists by lining up at the resolution. The world gave him a final chance polls, dipping their fingers in ink, and casting to disarm. And when he refused to comply, the first free vote of their lives. Their courage he met the might and the resolve of the was noteworthy and inspiring. One voter United States military. came to the polls in a wheelchair pushed by At a decisive moment in the history of her grandson. She said, ‘‘I am here to cast freedom, America once again turned to the my vote. Saddam killed six members of my 1st Armored Division, and once again, the family. This is the best revenge.’’ ‘‘Iron Soldiers’’ answered the call. You moved The Iraqi people have now taken rightful into Iraq in April of 2003, and you stayed control of their destiny, and that would not for 15 months. You waged an innovative, dis- have been possible without the 1st Infantry ciplined campaign, and because of your skill Division. By helping the people of that coun- and sacrifice, Iraq is sovereign and Iraq is try turn back the enemies of democracy, you free. have acted in the great liberating tradition Before the ‘‘Iron Soldiers’’ left for Iraq, of our Nation. And like generations of sol- secret police held the population in fear. By diers before you, you have shown that Amer- the time you came home, you had trained ica’s military is one of the world’s greatest thousands of Iraqi security forces who are forces for good. now on the job defending their free country. Together, the 1st Infantry Division and the Before ‘‘Iron Soldiers’’ left for Iraq, a terrible 1st Armored Division have helped to bring regime had decimated the country’s edu- freedom and hope to a suffering people. cation and health care systems. By the time These units have a few other things in com- you came home, you had repaired hundreds mon. They both count on the fearless soldiers of schools and hospitals. When ‘‘Iron Sol- of the ‘‘Dustoff Europe’’ battalion for med- diers’’ left for Iraq, Saddam Hussein was sit- ical care on the battlefield. They both rely ting in a palace, and by the time you came on the 3d Support Command to deliver just home, he was sitting in a prison cell. about everything else they need. In a year You have served with honor and distinc- of service in Iraq, the 3d Support Command tion—and a little longer than some of you delivered more than 185 million gallons of expected. [Laughter] Some of you were fuel, issued more than 50 million meals, and boarding the plane home to return to your logged more than 25 million miles on the families when you got word that we’d ex- road. That’s the equivalent of more than tended your tour. I know that was a trying 1,000 trips around the world. The 3d Support time. But no change in plans could shake Command carried out these duties on tight your resolve. As a sergeant I met last year deadlines and often under enemy fire. Your put it, ‘‘We’re soldiers, and we drive on.’’ courage is appreciated by every soldier at this In your final months in Iraq, you drove base, every soldier in the theater, and I keep on to seven major cities, defeated Sadr’s mili- you—I thank you for keeping the force for tias decisively; you restored control of Iraq’s the fight. holy sites to peaceful citizens. With your vic- In the war on terror, all of you have taken tories in Najaf and Karbala, you helped the great risks on my orders, and your service Iraqi people take critical steps toward free- reflects the best qualities of America. You dom. And you proved to a watching world have been brave in the face of danger, that the United States of America will never unshakable in the times of testing, and gen- retreat before a band of thugs and assassins. erous to those in need. Some in your units The ‘‘Iron Soldiers’’ built the foundation have survived terrible injuries, and a grateful for democracy in Iraq, and to help finish the America will do everything we can to help job, we turned to the ‘‘Big Red One.’’ From them recover. Some of you have said farewell

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to some fine Americans. They represent a sion; entertainers Diane DeGarmo and the Gatlin new generation of heroes, as great as any who Brothers; former President Saddam Hussein of have come before. Their example of unselfish Iraq; and Iraqi Shiite cleric Muqtada Al Sadr. courage inspires all who serve, and America will honor their names forever. The sacrifices you have made will change Remarks Following Discussions With the world for decades to come. By fighting Prime Minister Mikulas Dzurinda of terrorists in places like Baghdad and Karbala Slovakia and an Exchange With and Tikrit, you are making sure we do not Reporters in Bratislava, Slovakia face those enemies at home. By helping cap- February 24, 2005 tive peoples gain their freedom, you have made a critical contribution to the history of Prime Minister Dzurinda. Ladies and liberty. And that means the world will be gentlemen, I’m very happy that the President more peaceful and our children and grand- of the United States is, for the first time, in children will be more secure. Your success Slovakia. This day is historical for my country. is sending a clear message throughout the I have had very good debate with President Middle East that the only force powerful Bush, telling him the basic orientation of our enough to stop the rise of tyranny and terror and replace hatred with hope is the force of foreign policy. I appreciate the role of the human freedom. United States, doing a lot of things in the You are serving in a critical period in free- world. dom’s history, and there will be more dif- I told to President Bush that Slovakia sup- ficult work ahead. Yet I’m optimistic about ports the policy of the United States based our future, because I know the character of on advancing freedom and democracy, based freedom’s defenders. I know the history of on preventing nuclear proliferation. This is those who have defended our freedom. Fifty why Slovakia supports the position of prin- years ago this summer, the Soviet Union im- ciple of the United States in many areas, re- posed a blockade on West Berlin. Keeping garding Iran, North Korea. This is why we free Berlin alive seemed an impossible task, support the effort of the United States to ad- yet America and our allies refused to give vance peace and stability in the Middle East in. From this airfield, American pilots and the democratization process all over the launched dangerous missions to supply Ber- world. lin, and they continued those flights at great I told to President Bush that there are risk for 11 months. The heroes of the Berlin many reasons why not only America but also Airlift saved that city, and with their early the democratic world, including Slovakia, my resolve, they helped freedom triumph in the home—we all need to have a strong Presi- cold war. dent in the United States. And I’m very, very Today, America is again called to defend happy that the U.S. President is really very freedom. And once again, our military is an- swering the call. I have hope for our country strong and courageous leader. and faith in our cause and great confidence Thank you very much. in the men and women who wear our Na- President Bush. Thank you, Mr. Prime tion’s uniform. With your courage, with your Minister. I’m thrilled to be here. I have really determination, and with your skill, the cause been looking forward to this trip to Slovakia. of freedom will prevail, and we’ll achieve the We just had a great discussion. First, I peace that we all want for future generations complimented the Prime Minister on putting to come. policies in place that have helped this econ- Thank you for letting us come by. Thank omy grow. The most important responsibility you for serving our great land. May God bless we have at home is to make sure our people you. May God bless America. can find work. And the President [Prime

NOTE: The President spoke at 4:56 p.m. In his remarks, he referred to Maj. Gen. Martin E. Dempsey, USA, commander, 1st Armored Divi-

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Minister] * put a flat tax in place; he sim- that the first visit needs to give an oppor- plified his tax code, which has helped to at- tunity—— tract capital and create economic vitality and President Bush. Of course they were growth. planned, Mr. Prime Minister. [Laughter] I really congratulate you and your Govern- Prime Minister Dzurinda. One or two ment for making wise decisions. Slovakia is questions, please. a great example of what can happen when people are set free. And this is an exciting Iran place to be. Secondly, I appreciate so very much the Q. Mr. President, you’ve talked a lot about Prime Minister’s vision on foreign policy. I Iran in many of your meetings on this trip, want to thank you for having your troops by and we understand that you did a lot of lis- our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan. The tening about incentives for Iran, using them Prime Minister understands that those of us as negotiating tools, if you will. And first I’d who are free have a responsibility to help free ask you, why will you not join the EU–3 in others in order to make ourselves more se- direct talks with Iran? And then, what would cure. I’m so honored to have your commit- you approve of as possible incentives? Did ment. you hear anything that you liked? I told him that the supplemental that’s President Bush. I appreciate that. First working its way through Congress—in the of all, we talked about Iran here, with our supplemental there will be money for reim- great friend. The reason why we talked about bursement to help our friends with troops it, because it’s a world problem. And one of on the ground. the things I wanted to make sure I heard I also talked about visa policy. The Prime clearly from our friends in Europe was Minister was very strong about reminding me whether or not they viewed the Iran problem that he wants there to be a different visa pol- the same way I did. And they do. Chancellor icy, a better visa policy for the citizens of Schroeder and Prime Minister Blair and Slovakia. He made the case very clearly on President Chirac all said loud and clear that behalf of the citizens of Slovakia. I listened the Iranians should not have a nuclear weap- very closely to what he had to say. I told him on. that we will work with the Slovakian Govern- And secondly, I was listening very carefully ment to reform the visa policy—reform in to the different ideas on negotiating strate- a way that conforms with the desires of our gies. We have a common objective, which Congress, but nevertheless, the Slovakian is to convince the ayatollahs not to have a people should see a different visa policy com- nuclear weapon. And I’m going to go back ing out of the United States because we’ve now got a roadmap that we both must work and think about the suggestions I’ve heard on. It won’t happen instantly—the policy and the ways forward. But the key thing is, won’t happen instantly, but the Prime Min- is that we’re united in our—in the goal. ister urged me to move down the roadmap. The most effective way to achieve that goal And I want to thank you for taking that lead- is to have our partners, Great Britain and ership position as well. France and Germany, represent not only the Again, I want to thank the citizens of this EU, not only NATO but the United States. great country for your hospitality. I want to And hopefully we’ll be able to reach a diplo- thank my friend the Prime Minister for invit- matic solution to this effort. We’re more like- ing me here in the first place and for extend- ly to do so when we’re all on the same page, ing such a warm greeting to me and Laura and I know we’re on the same page on this and our delegation. issue when it comes to a common goal. Thank you, sir. Appreciate you. Prime Minister Dzurinda. The last one, Prime Minister Dzurinda. Questions please. were not planned, but I asked Mr. President President Bush. Anybody from Slovakia who would like to ask a question to the Prime * White House correction. Minister?

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Visa Policy agenda, so I’m very, very happy because of Q. Mr. President, dropping of visa regime it. is probably the most important thing for Slo- President Bush. It is. vak citizens that would like to come to Amer- Prime Minister Dzurinda. We will con- ica and get to know your country. And I’m tinue on this tour. Thank you very much. sure that all of them are very interested if President Bush. Thank you. you could tell us approximate date, when do NOTE: The President spoke at 11:15 a.m. in the you believe that these visas could be Office of the Prime Minister. In his remarks, he dropped? Thank you. referred to Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder of Ger- President Bush. Well, I appreciate you many; Prime Minister Tony Blair of the United asking that. I can’t give you a date. I wish— Kingdom; and President Jacques Chirac of you know, if I could, I would. What I can France. A tape was not available for verification tell you is that, one, the issue had been effec- of the content of these remarks. tively put on the table by the Prime Minister and the Government; secondly, that we do Remarks in Bratislava have the way forward, a way to—look, the visa policy was basically set based upon deci- February 24, 2005 sions made prior to 1989. And so our policy Thank you all. Dobr den. Mr. President, still reflects overstays as a result of people Mr. Chairman, Mr. Prime Minister, thank who left when the people of this part of the you for your strong leadership and friend- world were not free. And we need to adjust ship. Mr. Mayor, distinguished guests, citi- that. We need to address those overstays in zens of a free Slovakia, thank you for your the light of people escaping a totalitarian re- hospitality. Laura and I are honored, ex- gime. And we’re in the process of doing that tremely honored, to visit your great country. not just for Slovakia but for other countries We bring greetings, and we bring the good in Eastern Europe. And we want to do this wishes of the American people. as quickly as possible. With us here today is a group of remark- Secondly, something else has changed, and able men and women from across Central that is the Slovak Republic has joined the and Eastern Europe who have fought free- European Union. And there is a new history dom’s fight in their homelands and have now that that has been done, and that history earned the respect of the world. We welcome needs to be included in the process. And so you. We thank you for your example, for your we’re working our way through a new set of courage, and for your sacrifice. analyses that we can take to our Congress I’m proud to stand in this great square, and say here’s how people are—people from which has seen momentous events in the his- the Slovak Republic have behaved since free. tory of Slovakia and the history of freedom. And that’s very important; that’s very impor- Almost 17 years ago, thousands of Slovaks tant. gathered peacefully in front of this theater. It’s—I can’t predict how fast bureaucracies They came not to welcome a visiting Presi- move. They tend not to move quickly. But dent but to light candles, to sing hymns, to the promise is, is that not only the President pray for an end to tyranny and the restoration but the Secretary of State will do all we can of religious liberty. to move this forward as quickly as possible, From the hotel to our left, Communist au- to be able to answer the question you asked, thorities watched thousands of candles shin- which is a legitimate question. I’m going to ing in the darkness and gave the order to speak to this issue, by the way, in the square extinguish them. The authorities succeeded in a couple of minutes here, because I want in crushing that protest. But with their can- people to hear that I am concerned about dles and prayers, the people of Bratislava lit making sure our visa policy works. a fire for freedom that day, a fire that quickly Prime Minister Dzurinda. I’m very spread across the land. And within 20 happy because Mr. President has confirmed months, the regime that drove Slovaks from that this problem is a part of his personal this square would itself be driven from

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power. By claiming your own freedom, you In recent times, we have witnessed land- inspired a revolution that liberated your na- mark events in the history of liberty, a Rose tion and helped to transform a continent. Revolution in Georgia, an Orange Revolution Since those days of peaceful protest, the in Ukraine, and now a Purple Revolution in Slovak people have made historic progress. Iraq. With their votes cast and counted, the You regained your sovereignty and independ- Iraqi people now begin a great and historic ence. You built a successful democracy. You journey. They will form a new Government, established a free economy. And last year, draft a democratic constitution, and govern the former member of the Warsaw Pact be- themselves as free people. They’re putting came a member of NATO and took its right- the days of tyranny and terror behind them ful place in the European Union. Every Slo- and building a free and peaceful society in vak can be proud of these achievements. And the heart of the Middle East, and the world’s the American people are proud to call you free nations will support them in their strug- allies and friends and brothers in the cause gle. of freedom. The terrorist insurgents know what’s at I know that liberty—the road to liberty and stake. They know they have no future in a prosperity has not always been straight or free Iraq, so they’re trying desperately to un- easy. But Americans respect your patience, dermine Iraq’s progress and throw the coun- your courage, and your determination to se- try in chaos. They want to return to the day when Iraqis were governed by secret police cure a better future for your children. As you and informers and fear. They will not suc- work to build a free and democratic Slovakia ceed. The Iraqi people will not permit a mi- in the heart of Europe, America stands with nority of assassins to determine the destiny you. of their nation. We will fight to defend this Slovaks know the horror of tyranny, so freedom, and we will prevail. you’re working to bring hope of freedom to Victory in this struggle will not come easily people who have not known it. You’ve sent or quickly, but we have reason to hope. Iraqis peacekeepers to Kosovo and election observ- have demonstrated their courage and their ers to Kiev. You’ve brought Iraqis to determination to live in freedom, and that Bratislava to see firsthand how a nation has inspired the world. It is the same deter- moves from dictatorship to democracy. Your mination we saw in Kiev’s Independent example is inspiring newly-liberated people. Square, in Tbilisi’s Freedom Square, and in You’re showing that a small nation, built on this square almost 17 years ago. a big idea, can spread liberty throughout the We must be equally determined and also world. patient. The advance of freedom is the con- At this moment, Slovak soldiers are serving centrated work of generations. It took almost courageously alongside U.S. and coalition a decade after the Velvet Revolution for de- forces in Afghanistan and Iraq. Some have mocracy to fully take root in this country. given their lives in freedom’s cause. We And the democratic revolutions that swept honor their memory. We lift them up in our this region over 15 years ago are now reach- prayers. Words can only go so far in cap- ing Georgia and Ukraine. In 10 days, turing the grief of their families and their Moldova has the opportunity to place its countrymen. But by their sacrifice, they have democratic credentials beyond doubt as its helped purchase a future of freedom for mil- people head to the polls. And inevitably, the lions. Many of you can still recall the exhilara- people of will someday proudly be- tion of voting for the first time after decades long to the country of democracies. Eventu- of tyranny. And as you watched jubilant ally, the call of liberty comes to every mind Iraqis dancing in the streets last month, hold- and every soul. And one day, freedom’s ing up ink-stained fingers, you remembered promise will reach every people and every Velvet Days. For the Iraqi people, this is nation. their 1989, and they will always remember Slovakia has taken great risks for freedom who stood with them in their quest for free- in Afghanistan and Iraq. You have proved dom. yourself a trusted friend and a reliable ally.

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That is why I recently announced a new Soli- The President’s News Conference darity Initiative for nations like Slovakia that With President Vladimir Putin of are standing with America in the war on ter- Russia in Bratislava ror. We will help you to improve your mili- tary forces so we can strengthen our ability February 24, 2005 to work together in the cause of freedom. We’re working with your Government to President Bush. Thank you all. I’ve just make it easier for Slovaks to travel to the had a very important and constructive dialog United States of America. Hundreds of thou- with my friend. It’s great to see—I know sands of our citizens can trace their roots Laura was pleased to see Lyudmila Putin as back to this country. Slovak immigrants well. We have had, over the past 4 years, helped build America and shape its char- very constructive relations, and that’s the way acter. We want to deepen the ties of friend- I’m going to keep it for the next 4 years as ship between our people, ties based on com- well. mon values, a love of freedom, and shared We’ve had an open and candid exchange belief in the dignity and matchless value of of views and positions. In our meeting ear- every human being. lier, I said, ‘‘Vladimir, when we get in here, The Velvet Generation that fought for I think people are going to be very interested these values is growing older. Many of the in this press conference for some reason; I’m young students and workers who led free- not sure why.’’ Perhaps it’s because you’re dom’s struggle here now struggle to support a leader of a great nation, and I’m fortunate families and their children. For some, the enough to be one too. But you can see we’ve days of protest and revolution are a distant drawn quite a crowd here. So I’m looking memory. Today, a new generation that never forward to answering their questions. experienced oppression is coming of age. It We produced a lot of positive results at is important to pass on to them the lessons this meeting. We agreed to accelerate our of that period. They must learn that freedom work to protect nuclear weapons and mate- is precious and cannot be taken for granted; rial, both in our two nations and around the that evil is real and must be confronted; that world, and I want to thank you for that. And lasting prosperity requires freedom of I want to thank our Defense Ministers for speech, freedom to worship, freedom of asso- working on that issue as well. Minister Ivanov ciation; and that to secure liberty at home, is here. He and Secretary Rumsfeld have had it must be defended abroad. a very constructive relationship. Our mil-to- By your efforts in Afghanistan and Iraq mil exchanges are very positive, and I appre- and across the world, you are teaching young ciate that. You and I talked about that a cou- Slovaks these important lessons. And you’re ple of years ago. I think they’re coming to teaching the world an important lesson as fruition, which is a very important way to well, that the seeds of freedom do not sprout make sure we understand each other better. only where they are sown; carried by mighty We agreed upon new efforts to fight the winds, they cross borders and oceans and war on terror, to combat MANPADS and im- continents and take root in distant lands. provised explosive devices, and I want to I’ve come here to thank you for your con- thank you for that. Vladimir has been a— tributions to freedom’s cause and to tell you ever since the—September the 11th, he has that the American people appreciate your clearly understood the stakes that we face. courage and value your friendship. On behalf And every time we meet, he is—we have an of all Americans, dakujem, and may God interesting and constructive strategy session bless you all. about how to continue to protect our peoples from attack. He is—he has confronted some NOTE: The President spoke at 12:17 p.m. in Hviezdoslavovo Square. In his remarks, he re- serious attacks in his country. I know what ferred to President Ivan Gasparovic and Prime that means as a fellow leader. I know the Minister Mikulas Dzurinda of Slovakia; Chairman strain; I know the agony; I know the sadness; Pavol Hrusovsky of the Slovak Parliament; and I know the emotion that comes with seeing Mayor Andrej Durkovsky of Bratislava. innocent people lose their lives, and we have

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shared that. I hope we never have to share We may not always agree with each other, it again, that common situation. and we haven’t over the last 4 years, that’s We agreed that Iran should not have a nu- for certain. But we have found a lot agree- clear weapon. And I appreciate Vladimir’s ment—a lot of common ground, and the understanding on that issue. We had a very world is better for it. Even though we didn’t constructive dialog about how to achieve that agree on certain issues, if you really think common goal. We agreed that North Korea about what we have done the last 4 years, should not have a nuclear weapon. And and what we want to do during the next 4 again, this is an area where we’re working years, the common ground is a lot more than closely together as two nations of the five those areas where we disagree. And by work- nations that are involved with North Korea. ing together, this world will be a safer, freer, We agreed to accelerate negotiations for and more prosperous place. Russia’s entry into the WTO. I stated that Mr. President, it’s great to see you again. the other day in Brussels. We talked about Thank you. ways to make—to move this process forward. President Putin. First of all, I would like We agreed to cooperate in the field of en- to say that my meeting with the President ergy. I told Vladimir that Secretary Bodman of the United States has been a friendly one, would be our main representative on this has taken place in a very trustful atmosphere. issue, and I look forward to constructive dia- This has been a dialog of interested partners, which became clear right away. log—hearing about constructive dialog on In the course of our meeting, starting from energy. the first minutes of our dialog, we had a sub- We agreed to work together to find peace stantive discussion of the entire international in the Middle East. Russia’s a part of the agenda. The President has mentioned the Quartet, and they played a constructive role key items in our dialog. We share a position in establishing the roadmap. And now we on the status of the Russia-U.S. relationship. look forward to working together to achieve It is true that over the past few years, through peace. joint efforts, we have been able to accumu- This meeting also gave me an opportunity late a unique—[inaudible]—cooperation. We to share my belief that it’s in my country’s are engaged in a constructive political dialog, interest that Russia be a strong and viable and we are discovering new opportunities for partner with the United States. It’s very im- joint business, cultural, and scientific initia- portant that we establish not only a working tives. relationship but that we understand that in It is obvious that Russia and the U.S. share the 21st century, strong countries are built long-term interests, genuine strategic goals, by developing strong democracies. And so we and certainly a great degree of responsibility talked about democracy. Democracies always before our own people and people of other reflect a country’s customs and culture, and countries. We talked about international se- I know that. Yet democracies have certain curity. This reality is not affected by the cir- things in common: They have a rule of law cumstances of the moment or the consolida- and protection of minorities, a free press and tion of political interests. Therefore, we can a viable political opposition. see no alternative to the consistent strength- Russia has made tremendous progress ening of the Russia-U.S. relationship. over the last 15 years. It’s an amazing trans- In the course of this summit, we have formation of the nation. And I applaud Presi- agreed upon specific guidelines that will dent Putin for dealing with a country that navigate us through the process of coopera- is in transformation. And it’s been hard work. tion in the forthcoming 3 years. This has to I was able to share my concerns about Rus- do primarily with addressing the threats and sia’s commitment in fulfilling these universal challenges of today—first and foremost, principles. I did so in a constructive and fighting terrorism. We have agreed to better friendly way. I reaffirmed my belief that if— coordinate our efforts on these fronts, includ- that it is democracy and freedom that bring ing through the Russia-U.S. working group true security and prosperity in every land. on counterterrorism, which has existed 5

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years. Among the highlighted priorities have progress. We’re going to continue this dialog. been the neutralization of the systems of fi- Some issues have been positively resolved in nancing and recruiting of terrorists and work terms of expanding the operation of U.S. on identifying terrorist cells, et cetera. companies in Russian energy market. We are ready to jointly work on the press- ConocoPhillips, as you know, has bought a ing problem of stemming the illicit trade in stake in Lukoil, one of the major Russian oil MANPADS. Our colleagues today agreed companies. It bought a stake that used to be- upon this in very concrete terms. I’d like to long to the Russian state. This happened re- note that on the sidelines of this summit, the cently, and I’m confident that this will be Russian Minister of Defense, Sergey Ivanov, a success story both for Russian and U.S. and Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice partners. Another important and interesting signed a Russian-U.S. arrangement on co- opportunity is our cooperation in the supplies operation in enhancing control over of liquified natural gas. In the year 2010, MANPADS. It is important to neutralize the 2011, a large amount of liquified natural gas attempts to proliferate weapons of mass de- can be supplied from Russia to the United struction. States. We talked a lot about nonproliferation. We Our investment cooperation is becoming talked a lot about the situation in Iran, about generally bilateral. The first steps, but con- the situation in Iran—North Korea, and we fident steps, are being made by Russian com- share a common opinion in this regard, and panies that are starting to invest their capital we are taking a similar approach. We should into American economy. put an end to the proliferation of missiles We have also discussed the status and and missile technology. The proliferation of prospects of Russia’s cooperation in science, such weapons is not in the interest of specific high-tech, in particular, in the exploration of countries or the international community in outer space. general. In conclusion, I would like to say that I We have also exchanged our views on the highly appreciate the outcome of this sum- situation in Iraq, in the Middle East. Russia mit. Later this year, we are going to meet and the U.S. have at their disposal some solid a few more times within the framework of opportunities for normalizing the situations various international fora. I would like to take in places where regional crises take place. this opportunity to thank the President of the We intend to actually use this potential. United States, who has accepted the invita- We have paid great attention to economic tion to participate in the festivities on the cooperation including, as has already been occasion of the anniversary of the great vic- said, the possible accession of Russia to the tory in May—on May 9th in Moscow. This WTO. We have reaffirmed our intention to is a natural manifestation of respect of his- continue our search for mutually acceptable toric memory and the memory of the alliance solutions of the outstanding problems. Russia that bonded our two countries in the years is ready for a reasonable compromise, but of the Second World War. this compromise should not go beyond the Thank you. usual responsibilities assumed by countries acceding to the WTO. In the presence of the press, I would like to thank the President Russia-U.S. Relations/Democracy of the United States for the serious message Q. Mr. President, 4 years ago when you that our negotiators noticed in the course of first met with President Putin, at a time some negotiations, a message aimed at resolving all in the world were questioning his commit- the problems that stand in the way of Russia’s ment to democracy, you reassured a lot of accession to the WTO. I’m sure that not only those critics by saying that you had looked Russian economy but also the U.S. economy into his soul and saw a man that you found are interested in the positive outcome. trustworthy. You’ve just listed some concerns We have also discussed the issues relating here today. I’m wondering if you could un- to Russia-U.S. energy dialog. We’ve had equivocally and without reservation repeat some progress in this area, some good that statement today?

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And Mr. Putin, I’d like to ask you to ad- sia today. Any kind of turn towards totali- dress critics in the United States and else- tarianism for Russia would be impossible, where who saw Mr. Gorbachev and Mr. due to the condition of the Russian society. Yeltsin as taking early steps on the path to As far as the questions that are being dis- democracy and worry that you have reversed cussed among our partners in the media, I course. can only repeat what has been said by the President Bush. One thing I—that gave President of the United States. First, we are me comfort in making the statement I made not going to make up, to invent any kind of in was that Vladimir said, ‘‘When special Russian democracy. We are going to I agree with you, I’ll agree with—I’ll tell you, remain committed to the fundamental prin- and when I disagree with you, I’ll tell you.’’ ciples of democracy that have been estab- In other words, we’ll have a very frank and lished in the world. But of course, all the candid and open relationship. And that’s the modern institutions of democracy—the prin- way it’s been. There was no doubt in my ciples of democracy should be adequate to mind what his position was on Iraq. He didn’t the current status of the development of Rus- kind of hedge. He didn’t try to cloud up the sia, to our history, and our traditions. issue. He made it abundantly clear to me that There is nothing unusual here, either. In he didn’t agree with my decision. And that’s every country, these overall principles are an important part of having a trustworthy re- embodied in this or that way. In electoral lationship, a relationship where, when a per- law, we can compare the United States and son tells you something, you know he means a number of European countries. In the op- what he says and yes means yes and no means eration of major democratic institutions, no. Sometimes in politics, yes means there may be some differences, but the main, ‘‘maybe’’ and no means ‘‘if.’’ This is the kind fundamental principles are going to be im- of fellow who, when he says yes, he means plemented in the form in which they have yes, and when he says no, he means no. been developed by the modern, civilized so- And we had a discussion about some deci- ciety. sions he’s made. He’s had some interest in As far as the preceding period in our devel- the decisions I’ve made. And that’s a very opment, no doubt the credit that can be important dialog. And as I said—I’ll say it given to that period in the development of again—I think it’s very important that all na- the Russian Federation for the fact that the tions understand the great values inherent in previous generation of politicians, despite all democracy, rule of law and protection of mi- the difficulties that have arisen due to norities, viable political debate. And when I changes in Russia, they have given the main brought that—I don’t want to put words in— thing to the Russian people—that is, free- Vladimir can speak for himself on this issue, dom. but all I can tell you is he said—yes meant But I believe that a lot of people will agree yes, when we talked about values that we with me, the implementation of the prin- share. ciples and norms of democracy should not President Putin. First of all, I would like be accompanied by the collapse of the state to say that we discussed these issues at and the impoverishment of the people. We length, face to face, just the two of us. Russia believe and I personally believe that the im- has made its choice in favor of democracy. plementation and the strengthening of de- Fourteen years ago, independently, without mocracy on the Russian soil should not jeop- any pressure from outside, it made that deci- ardize the concept of democracy. It should sion in the interests of itself and interests of strengthen statehood, and it should improve its people, of its citizens. This is our final living standards for the people. It is in this choice, and we have no way back. There can direction that we’re going to act. be no return to what we used to have before. Q. First of all, I wanted to ask another And the guarantee for this is the choice of question, but we have an interesting con- the Russian people, themselves; no, guaran- versation now. Therefore I’m going to ask tees from outside cannot be provided. This about the following: It seems to me that you is impossible. It would be impossible for Rus- have nothing to disagree about. The regimes

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that are in place in Russia and the U.S. can- There are great differences between Rus- not be considered fuller democratic, espe- sia and the U.S. as well. If we talk about cially when compared to some other coun- where we have more or where we have less tries of Europe, for example—for example, democracy, is not the right thing to do. But the . It seems to me that as far if we talk about how the fundamental prin- as Russia is concerned—[inaudible]—every- ciples of democracy are implemented in this thing is clear, more or less. But as far as the or that historic soil, in this or that country, U.S. is concerned, we could probably talk at is an option; it’s possible. This does not com- length. I am referring to the great powers promise the dignity of the Netherlands or that have been assumed by the security serv- Russia or the U.S. ices, due to which the private lives of citizens Q. [Inaudible]—on some of the decisions are now being monitored by the state. This he has made on his democratic institutions, could be explained away by the con- or have you just agreed to disagree? And, sequences of September 11th, but this has President Putin, did anything President Bush nothing to do with democratic values. How said to you today prompt you to reconsider could you comment on this? I suggest that you can probably agree—that you can prob- some of those decisions? ably shake hands and continue to be friends President Bush. I think the most impor- in future. tant statement that you heard and I heard President Bush. I live in a transparent was the President’s statement, when he de- country. I live in a country where decisions clared his absolute support for democracy in made by Government are wide open, and Russia, and they’re not turning back. To me, people are able to call people to—me to ac- that is the most important statement of my count, which many out here do on a regular private meeting, and it’s the most important basis. Our laws and the reasons why we have statement of this public press conference. laws on the books are perfectly explained to And I can tell you what it’s like dealing with people. Every decision we have made is with- the man over the last 4 years: When he tells in the Constitution of the United States. We you something, he means it. have a Constitution that we uphold. And if He asked what some of my concerns were, there is a question as to whether or not a and he explained answers. I told him that law meets that Constitution, we have an inde- it was very important that capital see rule pendent court system through which that law of law, that there be stability, there not be is reviewed. any doubt about whether or not—if some- So I’m perfectly comfortable in telling you, body invests, whether or not the laws change. our country is one that safeguards human And I think Vladimir heard me loud and rights and human dignity, and we resolve our clear, and he explained why he made deci- disputes in a peaceful way. sions he made. President Putin. I would like to support But we had very frank discussions about my American counterpart. I’m absolutely a variety of issues. And the operative—again, confident that democracy is not anarchy. It the operative statement, the summary state- is not the possibility to do anything you want. It is not the possibility for anyone to rob your ment that I think is important for people to own people. Democracy is, among other hear in our countries, precisely his opening things, and first and foremost, the possibility statement to King’s [John King, CNN] ques- to democratically make democratic laws and tion—speaking about monarchies. Anyway— the capability of the state to enforce those get it? [Laughter] It’s late in the trip. [Laugh- laws. ter] Which is, firm belief in democracy. And You have cited a curious example, the I appreciate that. Netherlands. The Netherlands is a mon- President Putin. I have already men- archy, after all. I have no doubts about the tioned that we have paid a lot of attention democratic nature of that country. That is to these issues. I get the impression that certainly a democratic nation, but this is very sometimes the public in the now partner different from the United States and Russia. countries do not have the full knowledge and,

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consequently, do not have the full under- ber of the Russian press, you feel like the standing of what is taking place in the Rus- press is free. And that’s—feel that way? Well, sian Federation. Naturally, within our coun- that’s good. [Laughter] But I talked to Vladi- tries, there are people who are in favor and mir about that. And he wanted to know about there are those who are opposed to the deci- our press. I said, nice bunch of folks. And sions that are being made—for example, the he wanted to know about, as you mentioned, decision on the new procedure for the elec- the subject of somebody getting fired. People tion of regional leaders in the Russian Fed- do get fired in American press. They don’t eration. get fired by Government, however. They get But those who are opposed are richer than fired by their editors, or they get fired by those who are in favor. They have the oppor- their producers, or they get fired by the own- tunity to spread their opinion in the media, ers of a particular outlet or network. and we often do not pay the attention to that. But a free press is important. And it is an I’d like to draw your attention to the fact important part of any democracy. And if that the leaders of the regions of the Russian you’re a member of the press corps and you Federation will not be appointed by the feel comfortable with the press in Russia, I President. Their canvasses will be presented, think that is a pretty interesting observation will be submitted to regional parliaments that for those of us who don’t live in Russia to are elected through secret ballot by all the listen to. citizens. This is, in essence, a system of the But no question, whether it be in America electoral college, which is used, on the na- or anywhere else, the sign of a healthy and tional level, in the United States, and it is vibrant society is one in where there’s an ac- not considered undemocratic, is it? tive press corps. Obviously, there has got to We discussed these issues at length and be constraints. There’s got to be truth. Peo- some of the ideas—I wouldn’t say ‘‘advice’’— ple have got to tell the truth, and if somebody but some of the ideas that I heard from my violates the truth, then those who own a par- partner, who I respect a lot. And I believe ticular newspaper or those who are in charge that some of his ideas could be taken into of particular electronic station need to hold account in my work, and I will pay due atten- people to account. The press—the capacity tion to them, that’s for sure. Some other of the press to hold people to account also ideas, I will not comment on. Thank you. depends on their willingness to self-examine at times when they’re wrong. And that hap- Freedom of the Press pens on occasion in America. And that’s an Q. To follow up on the issue of democratic important part of maintaining a proper rela- institutions, President Bush recently stated tionship between Government and press. I that the press in Russia is not free. What is can assure you that the folks here are con- this lack of freedom all about? Your aides stantly trying to hold me to account for deci- probably mentioned to you that our media, sions I make and how I make decisions. I’m both electronic and our printed media, print comfortable with that. It’s part of the checks full coverage of the manifestations and pro- and balances of a democracy. tests in our country. Our regional and na- And so I’m glad to hear your editorial com- tional media often criticize the Government ment, so to speak, on your comfort with the institution. What about you? Why don’t you situation of the press corps in the Federation talk a lot about violations of the rights of jour- of Russia. nalists in the United States, about the fact President Putin. First of all, what do you that some journalists have been fired? Or do mean when you say I keep silent—or we you prefer to discuss this in private with your keep silent about this or that problem? First American colleague? of all, I’m not the minister of propaganda. President Bush. I don’t know what jour- Second, we discuss all issues in absolute nalists you’re referring to. Any of you all still openness. As George said, today we dis- have your jobs? No, I—look, I think it’s im- cussed this issue, as well, with regard to Rus- portant any viable democracy has got a free sia and the United States. But what is abso- and active press. Obviously, if you’re a mem- lutely obvious is that in the United States

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there are a lot of mechanisms to uphold the integrate Russia into the world economy. Our freedom of the press. And as far as the fact trade ministers have made progress in pur- that there is some kind of friction between suing our bilateral negotiations, and we have the media and the Government, there is an instructed them to accelerate these efforts. ongoing debate, an ongoing critical debate, Russia and the United States will continue going on. There is a lot of criticism coming to work closely in bilateral and multilateral from the media with respect to the Govern- negotiations to resolve remaining issues in ment. This is an manifestation of democracy. ways that benefit both countries. The rules- What you mentioned about the comments in based system of the WTO will further the media of the actions of the Russian Gov- strengthen our economic relationship in all ernment is testimony to the fact that we do areas, including agriculture, manufacturing, have freedom of the press. Although we’re services, and the improved protection and being criticized often of that, this is not the enforcement of intellectual property rights. case. We will work to identify areas for progress When we discuss these issues absolutely in our bilateral negotiations that will give mo- frankly, we, and I, in particular, do not think mentum to Russia’s accession to the WTO that this has to be pushed to the foreground, and to Russia’s economic reform program. that new problems should be created from nothing. And I do not think that we should NOTE: An original was not available for jeopardize the Russian-American relation- verification of the content of this joint statement. ship, because we’re interested in the devel- opment of this relationship. We are paying close attention to all the comments of the Joint Statement by President George press or opposing forces, but our responsi- W. Bush and President Vladimir V. bility is to—in spite of all these problems, Putin: U.S.-Russian Energy of which there are plenty, our responsibility Cooperation is to positively develop the Russian-American February 24, 2005 relationship. I would like to thank the President of the Cooperation on energy issues remains an United States for his constructive dialog that area of great promise for U.S.-Russian rela- we’ve had today. Thank you very much. tions. We will work further to realize the vi- sion for our energy cooperation in all aspects NOTE: The President’s news conference began at described in our statement in May 2002, in- 5:50 p.m. in Constitution Hall at Bratislava Castle. In his remarks, he referred to Lyudmila Putin, cluding through the mechanisms of the Com- wife of President Putin. President Putin spoke in mercial Energy Dialogue and the Energy Russian, and his remarks were translated by an Working Group. Accordingly, we have in- interpreter. structed our ministers to continue their en- ergy dialogue, concentrating on ways to en- hance energy security, diversify energy sup- Joint Statement by President George plies, improve the transparency of the busi- W. Bush and President Vladimir V. ness and investment environment, reduce Putin: Russia’s Accession to the obstacles to increased commercial energy World Trade Organization partnerships, and develop resources in an en- February 24, 2005 vironmentally safe manner. We call upon our Ministers of Energy and The United States and Russia are com- Commerce to develop recommendations, mitted to working together to complete our which we can support at one of our upcoming bilateral negotiations for Russia’s accession meetings, on how to further intensify and de- to the World Trade Organization (WTO) in velop our energy dialogue. Those rec- 2005. The results of the negotiations will en- ommendations will focus on identifying bar- hance commercial opportunities between our riers to energy trade and investment, pro- two countries, support economic reforms moting initiatives to remove them on the that Russia has made a priority, and further basis of predictability, fairness and law, and

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suggesting specific proposals for cooperating logical incident, including the development in developing energy trade and investment. of additional technical methods to detect nu- We will promote the creation of trans- clear and radioactive materials that are, or parent tax, legal, regulatory, and contractual may be, involved in the incident. conditions for our companies’ cooperation, We will work together to help ensure full and support Russia’s pipeline system devel- implementation of UN Security Council Res- opment, which will create the preconditions olution 1540 and early adoption of an Inter- for increasing deliveries of oil and gas export, national Convention on Nuclear Terrorism including to the U.S. market. and the amended Convention on Physical We are interested in increasing U.S. com- Protection of Nuclear Material. mercial investment in Russia, so as to create U.S. and Russian experts will share ‘‘best additional capacity for liquefied natural gas practices’’ for the sake of improving security (LNG) in Russia, and also with the aim of at nuclear facilities, and will jointly initiate increasing LNG exports to U.S. markets. We security ‘‘best practices’’ consultations with would welcome increased Russian oil exports other countries that have advanced nuclear to the world market and an increased pres- programs. Our experts will convene in 2005 ence of imports from Russia in the United a senior-level bilateral nuclear security work- States. We would also welcome expanding shop to focus increased attention on the ‘‘se- mutual investments in the energy sectors of curity culture’’ in our countries including fos- both countries. tering disciplined, well-trained, and respon- The initiation of several concrete projects sible custodians and protective forces, and should be targeted for no later than 2008. fully utilized and well-maintained security NOTE: An original was not available for systems. verification of the content of this joint statement. The United States and Russia will continue to work jointly to develop low-enriched ura- nium fuel for use in any U.S.- and Russian- Joint Statement by President George design research reactors in third countries W. Bush and President Vladimir V. now using high-enriched uranium fuel, and Putin: Nuclear Security Cooperation to return fresh and spent high-enriched ura- February 24, 2005 nium from U.S.- and Russian-design research reactors in third countries. The United States and Russia will enhance The United States and Russia will continue cooperation to counter one of the gravest our cooperation on security upgrades of nu- threats our two countries face, nuclear ter- clear facilities and develop a plan of work rorism. We bear a special responsibility for through and beyond 2008 on joint projects. the security of nuclear weapons and fissile Recognizing that the terrorist threat is both material, in order to ensure that there is no long-term and constantly evolving, in 2008 possibility such weapons or materials would our countries will assess the joint projects fall into terrorist hands. While the security and identify avenues for future cooperation of nuclear facilities in the U.S. and Russia consistent with our increased attention to the meet current requirements, we stress that security culture in both countries. these requirements must be constantly en- hanced to counter the evolving terrorist We have established a bilateral Senior threats. Building on our earlier work, we an- Interagency Group chaired by Secretary of nounce today our intention to expand and Energy Bodman and Rosatom Director deepen cooperation on nuclear security with Rumyantsev for cooperation on nuclear secu- the goal of enhancing the security of nuclear rity to oversee implementation of these coop- facilities in our two countries and, together erative efforts. A progress report will be due with our friends and allies, around the globe. on July 1, 2005, and thereafter on a regular To this end the United States and Russia basis. will continue and expand their cooperation on emergency response capability to deal NOTE: An original was not available for with the consequences of a nuclear/radio- verification of the content of this joint statement.

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Statement on Pope John Paul II February 22 February 24, 2005 In the morning, the President had an intel- ligence briefing. Later, at the U.S. Ambas- On behalf of all Americans, Laura and I sador’s Residence, he had a working break- send our heartfelt best wishes to Pope John fast with Prime Minister Tony Blair of the Paul II. The Holy Father is in our thoughts United Kingdom. and prayers, and we wish him a speedy recov- Later in the morning, at NATO Head- ery and return to the service of his church quarters, the President had a meeting with and all humanity. President Viktor Yushchenko of Ukraine. He then participated in a meeting of the NATO- Ukraine Commission. Later, he met with Prime Minister of Italy. He Digest of Other then participated in a plenary session of the North Atlantic Council followed by an official White House Announcements photo with NATO leaders. In the afternoon, at NATO Headquarters, The following list includes the President’s public the President had lunch with NATO leaders. schedule and other items of general interest an- Later, at the Justus Lipsius Building, he par- nounced by the Office of the Press Secretary and ticipated in a meeting followed by an official not included elsewhere in this issue. photo with European Union leaders. In the evening, in the Berlaymont Build- ing, the President met with European Com- February 19 mission President Jose Manuel Durao In the morning, the President had an intel- Barroso followed by a photo opportunity with ligence briefing. European Union Commissioners. He then had a working dinner with European Com- February 20 mission President Durao Barroso, European In the morning, the President and Mrs. Council President Jean-Claude Juncker, and Bush traveled to Brussels, Belgium, arriving European Council Secretary General Javier in the evening. Solana. The President announced his intention to February 21 nominate John C. Dugan to be Comptroller of the Currency at the Department of the In the morning, the President had an intel- Treasury. ligence briefing. Later, at the Sheraton Brus- sels Hotel and Towers, he and Mrs. Bush participated in a greeting with U.S. Embassy February 23 and Missions personnel. Then, at the Royal In the morning, the President had an intel- Palace, he and Mrs. Bush participated in a ligence briefing. Later, he and Mrs. Bush courtesy call with King Albert II and Queen traveled to Mainz, Germany, where, at the Paola of Belgium. Electoral Palace, they participated in an ar- Later in the morning, in the Prime Min- rival ceremony with Chancellor Gerhard ister’s Office at Lambermont House, the Schroeder of Germany and greeted Amer- President met with Prime Minister Guy ican and German soldiers who had served Verhofstadt of Belgium. Then, at the U.S. in Afghanistan. Ambassador’s Residence, the President met Later in the morning, at the Electoral Pal- with Secretary General Jakob Gijsbert ‘‘Jaap’’ ace, the President met with Chancellor de Hoop Scheffer of the North Atlantic Trea- Schroeder. ty Organization. In the afternoon, at the Electoral Palace, In the evening, at the U.S. Ambassador’s the President and Mrs. Bush had lunch with Residence, the President met with President Chancellor Schroeder, his wife, Doris Jacques Chirac of France. They then had a Schroeder-Koepf, and local leaders and working dinner. businesspeople. He then met with Angela

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Merkel, leader of Germany’s Christian Castle, he met with President Vladimir Putin Democratic Union party. of Russia. Later in the afternoon, the President and In the evening, at Bratislava Castle, the Mrs. Bush toured the Gutenberg Museum. President participated in a photo opportunity Later in the afternoon, the President and with President Gasparovic, Prime Minister Mrs. Bush traveled to Wiesbaden, Germany, Dzurinda, Speaker of the National Council where, at Wiesbaden Army Airfield, they par- of the Slovak Republic Pavol Hrusovsky, and ticipated in a photo opportunity with distin- President Putin. guished servicemembers of the U.S. Army’s In the evening, the President and Mrs. 1st Armored Division and their spouses. Bush returned to Washington, DC. In the evening, the President and Mrs. The President declared an emergency in Bush traveled to Bratislava, Slovakia, where, Nevada and ordered Federal aid to supple- at M.R. Stefanik Airport, they participated ment State and local recovery efforts in the in an arrival ceremony. area struck by record and/or near record The President announced his intention to snow on January 6–10. nominate William Cobey to be a member of the Board of Directors of the Metropolitan February 25 Washington Airports Authority. In the morning, the President had an intel- The President announced his intention to ligence briefing. appoint the following individuals as members The President announced his intention to of the Advisory Committee for Trade Policy nominate Nancy Ann Nord to be a Commis- and Negotiations: Peter F. Baranay; James sioner of the Consumer Product Safety Com- G. Berges; JoAnn Brouillette; Thomas J. mission. Donohue; Calvin M. Dooley; Jennifer Dunn; The President announced his intention to Edward Charles Emma; John Engler; Wil- nominate Christopher J. Hanley to be a liam Eldridge Frenzel; Allen E. Gant, Jr.; member of the Board of Directors of the Nicholas Giordano; Terry D. Growcock; Overseas Private Investment Corporation. Herbert Fisk Johnson; Scott Klug; Charles The President announced his intention to Edward Kruse; Larry A. Liebenow; Tracy appoint James C. Langdon, Jr., as a member Mullin Moroney; James Winston Morrison; of the President’s Foreign Intelligence Advi- Edward Joseph Perkins; Kevin Rol- sory Board and, upon appointment, to des- lins; Lea N. Soupata; Jose Antonio Villamil; ignate him as Chairman of the President’s Joseph P. Ward; Wythe Willis Willey; and Foreign Intelligence Advisory Board and Wendell L. Willkie II. Chairman of the Intelligence Oversight The President announced his intention to Board. designate Harvey S. Rosen as Chairman of The President announced his intention to the Council of Economic Advisers. designate Grover Whitehurst as Acting Com- missioner of Education Statistics at the De- February 24 partment of Education. In the morning, the President had an intel- The President announced his designation ligence briefing. Later, at the Radisson SAS of the following individuals as members of Carlton Hotel, he and Mrs. Bush participated the Presidential delegation to attend the In- in a greeting with U.S. Embassy personnel. auguration of President Tabare Vazquez of Uruguay on March 1: Elaine L. Chao (head Later in the morning, at the Presidential of delegation), Martin J. Silverstein, and Palace, the President met with President Marilyn Ware. Ivan Gasparovic of Slovakia. Later, in the Prime Minister’s Office, he met with Prime Minister Mikulas Dzurinda of Slovakia. Later in the morning, at the Slovak Na- tional Theater, the President participated in Nominations a greeting with Champions of Freedom. Submitted to the Senate Later, at the Treasures Museum of Bratislava

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NOTE: No nominations were submitted to the Released February 23 Senate during the period covered by this issue. Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Sec- retary Scott McClellan and background briefing by a senior administration official on the President’s visit to Germany Checklist Transcript of a press briefing by National Se- of White House Press Releases curity Adviser Stephen J. Hadley on the President’s visit to Germany Statement by the Press Secretary: Condo- The following list contains releases of the Office lences for the Victims of the Earthquake in of the Press Secretary that are neither printed as Iran items nor covered by entries in the Digest of Other White House Announcements. Released February 24 Statement by the Press Secretary on disaster Released February 20 assistance to Nevada U.S.-Russia joint fact sheet: Bratislava Initia- Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Sec- tives retary Scott McClellan and background briefing by a senior administration official on the President’s visit to Europe

Excerpts of the President’s speech at Concert Acts Approved Noble, Brussels, Belgium (advance text) by the President Released February 22 NOTE: No acts approved by the President were Statement by the Press Secretary: South Afri- received by the Office of the Federal Register ca during the period covered by this issue.

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