Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents
Monday, June 18, 2007 Volume 43—Number 24 Pages 773–820
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 1249 Sfmt 1249 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNF4.015 P24JNF4 Contents
Addresses and Remarks Addresses and Remarks—Continued See also Appointments and Nominations; Victims of Communism Memorial Meetings With Foreign Leaders dedication—793 Albania Luncheon hosted by Prime Minister Appointments and Nominations Berisha of Albania in Tirana—785 Defense Department, Joint Chiefs of Staff Small-business owners, meeting in Fushe- Chairman, statement—773 Kruje—785 Vice Chairman, statement—773 Associated Builders and Contractors—803 White House Office, Counselor to the Bulgaria President, remarks—798 American University in Bulgaria in Sofia— 792 Communications to Congress Luncheon hosted by President Parvanov of Belarus, continuation of the national Bulgaria in Sofia—791 emergency blocking property of certain Italy, meeting with members of the persons undermining democratic processes Community of Sant’Egidio in Rome—774 or institutions, message—812 Kansas Budget amendments, letter transmitting—786 Arrival in Wichita—814 U.S. Combat-Equipped Armed Forces, letter Boys & Girls Club of South Central reporting on deployments around the Kansas—21st Street Club in Wichita— world—815 815 Military leaders, meeting—803 Communications to Federal Agencies National Hispanic Prayer Breakfast—813 Assignment of Certain Reporting Functions of President’s Dinner—799 the John Warner National Defense Republican Senate Policy Committee, Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2007, meeting—795 memorandum—796 Southern Baptist Convention annual meeting, Maritime Security (Piracy) Policy, satellite remarks—796 memorandum—803
(Continued on the inside of the back cover.)
Editor’s Note: The President was at the Bush Ranch in Crawford, TX, on June 15, the closing date of this issue. Releases and announcements issued by the Office of the Press Secretary but not received in time for inclusion in this issue will be printed next week.
WEEKLY COMPILATION OF Distribution is made only by the Superintendent of Docu- ments, Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402. PRESIDENTIAL DOCUMENTS The Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents will be furnished by mail to domestic subscribers for $80.00 per year Published every Monday by the Office of the Federal Reg- ($137.00 for mailing first class) and to foreign subscribers for ister, National Archives and Records Administration, Washing- $93.75 per year, payable to the Superintendent of Documents, ton, DC 20408, the Weekly Compilation of Presidential Docu- Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402. The ments contains statements, messages, and other Presidential charge for a single copy is $3.00 ($3.75 for foreign mailing). materials released by the White House during the preceding The Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents is also week. available on the Internet on the GPO Access service at http:// The Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents is pub- www.gpoaccess.gov/wcomp/index.html. lished pursuant to the authority contained in the Federal Reg- There are no restrictions on the republication of material ister Act (49 Stat. 500, as amended; 44 U.S.C. Ch. 15), under appearing in the Weekly Compilation of Presidential Docu- regulations prescribed by the Administrative Committee of the ments. Federal Register, approved by the President (37 FR 23607; 1 CFR Part 10).
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 1249 Sfmt 1249 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNF4.015 P24JNF4 Contents—Continued
Interviews With the News Media Proclamations News conferences Father’s Day—793 June 9 with Prime Minister Prodi of Italy in Rome, Italy—775 Statements by the President June 10 with Prime Minister Berisha of See also Appointments and Nominations Albania in Tirana, Albania—779 Deaths June 11 with President Parvanov of Ruth Bell Graham—811 Bulgaria in Sofia, Bulgaria—786 Parliament Member Walid Eido of Lebanon—798 Meetings With Foreign Leaders Iraq, bombing of the Al-Askari Mosque in Albania, Prime Minister Berisha—779, 785 Samarra—798 Bulgaria, President Parvanov—786, 791 Virginia Tech tragedy, report—799 Italy, Prime Minister Prodi—775 Supplementary Materials Notices Acts approved by the President—820 Continuation of the National Emergency Checklist of White House press releases—819 Blocking Property of Certain Persons Digest of other White House Undermining Democratic Processes or announcements—817 Institutions in Belarus—812 Nominations submitted to the Senate—819
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 1249 Sfmt 1249 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNF4.015 P24JNF4 VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 1249 Sfmt 1249 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNF4.015 P24JNF4 VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 7969 Sfmt 7969 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNF4.015 P24JNF4 newmail.eps Week Ending Friday, June 15, 2007
Statement on the Nomination of lied and Joint Commands. And when he is Admiral Michael G. Mullen To Be confirmed by the United States Senate, he Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff will make a superb Chairman of the Joint and General James E. Cartwright To Chiefs of Staff. Be Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Admiral Edmund Giambastiani has been of Staff a strong and effective Vice Chairman. He is June 8, 2007 an officer of vision and determination, and he has served at a time of unprecedented General Peter Pace has served our Nation danger for America. His time in the Joint with great distinction for 40 years. He is an Chiefs capped an exemplary military career. outstanding marine, and he made history as As commander of the U.S. Joint Forces Com- the first marine to serve as Chairman of the mand in Norfolk, he helped transform our Joint Chiefs of Staff. Nation’s military so it could better face the As Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, Pete’s job new threats of a new century. And he did has been to help ensure that America’s mili- the same for NATO while serving as its first tary forces are prepared to meet the threats Supreme Allied Commander, Trans- of this new century. This is a difficult task formation. The admiral is a highly decorated in a time of peace. Pete Pace has done it officer, but he is most proud of his unit in a time of war, and he has done it superbly. awards and commendations because they As part of our senior military leadership, Pete represent team accomplishments. I thank his has helped oversee the liberation of more wife, Cindy, his daughter, Cathy, and his son, than 50 million people. I have relied on his unvarnished military judgment, and I value Pete, for the support they have provided. I his candor, his integrity, and his friendship. salute Admiral G for his long career of distin- Pete’s life is the story of the American guished service. He has earned the thanks Dream. He grew up in an immigrant family, of a grateful nation. graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy, and I am also pleased to announce that I am went on to hold the highest position in our accepting Secretary Gates’s recommendation Armed Forces. He is a man of character who to nominate General James E. Cartwright as leads by example. I thank his wife, Lynne, the new Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs who knows from long experience that mili- of Staff. General Cartwright is a Marine tary service is a family commitment. I also Corps pilot who serves as commander, thank his son, Peter, and his daughter, Tif- United States Strategic Command—where fany. America has been blessed by Pete’s life- he has done an outstanding job managing time of service. And I wish all the best for America’s global strategic forces. In that role, the Pace family as this good man begins a he is responsible for the global command and new chapter in his life. control of U.S. Strategic Forces. He is an I am pleased to accept the recommenda- exceptional officer, and when he is confirmed tion of Secretary Gates that I nominate Ad- by the Senate, he will be an outstanding Vice miral Michael Mullen to succeed General Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Pace. Admiral Mullen has performed ably as Chief of Naval Operations. He holds degrees from the U.S. Naval Academy, the Harvard NOTE: In his statement, the President referred Business School, and the Naval Postgraduate to Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates. This School. He has served ably in both the Atlan- item was not received in time for publication in tic and Pacific Fleets—as well as in both Al- the appropriate issue. 773
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 774 June 9 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2007
Remarks in a Discussion With Today, there are communities of Members of the Community of Sant’Egidio in 70 countries, with 60,000 Sant’Egidio in Rome, Italy members all over the world. Its spirituality June 9, 2007 is founded on several pillars—just three pil- lars, Mr. President. First, prayer, which takes The President. I want to thank the good place every day in all our communities—a folks of Sant’Egidio for joining us. personal prayer, reading the Scripture every Sant’Egidio is one of the great faith-based day, but also common prayer. It means that organizations in the world. And we’re here every day, 60,000 people open the Scrip- to talk about our common commitment to tures. They read it and pray to the Lord from help the poor, feed the hungry, and help the beautiful churches of Rome—like the eradicate disease. United States is firmly Basilica of Santa Maria, Trastevere, that you committed to helping people on the con- would have visited—to the hearts of Africa, tinent of Africa. We have committed in our— or so many places in the immense lands of and we’ll work with our Congress to spend Latin America. Mr. President, prayer is our $30 billion to deal with HIV/AIDS, over a friend. billion to deal with malaria, billions to deal The second pillar is mission, reaching out with hunger, money to deal with education. to all those who seek and ask for a sense But these programs cannot be effective of their rights. without loving people on the ground helping Finally, the third pillar, solidarity with the a neighbor in need. I want to thank you for poor. There’s a voluntary service carried out being a part of the international army of com- for free because no one is paid for his service passion. I thank you for hearing the call to to the poor in our community, no one. love a neighbor like you’d like to be loved Gratuitousness, Mr. President, is what our yourself. I’m looking forward to hearing your society is missing today. Everything is there strategies in dealing with some of the most to buy or to sell. But Jesus said, you received difficult problems in the world. I’m proud without payment, give without payment, of your organization, and I thank all members of your organization for being such loving Jesus said. This word of Jesus is the serve souls. of our member’s work. In our study, one Thank you for having us here. thing has always proved, too, there is no loss Marco Impagliazzo. Thank you, Mr. for the poor without pay. President. Before our strategy, some little Christians must live with the freeness of word about our community, with your per- the heart. One never has the solution to ev- mission. erything, but we must not close our hearts The President. Please. when we do not have a solution. We are all Mr. Impagliazzo. The Community of the window of the world. That is why we Sant’Egidio was born in Rome, in this city, cannot forget demands of the poor peoples in 1968. At that time, the West was won- of the world. dering about its future and the young people So what is striking in our thought is that were looking for something. Andrea Riccardi, these signs, signs of resurrection, to praise who is the founder of our community, was in those very places where it seems there is a student at the time in a high school of no hope left, like Africa. With your permis- Rome. He called some of his fellow students sion, Mr. President, I would like to pass now to listen and to live according to the gospel, the floor to my friends who work every day gospel of Jesus. in Africa. In those years, people believed that the Thank you. revolution would change the world. Andrea The President. Thank you very much. understood that there would have been no Thank you all. lasting chance unless the people’s hearts were touched by the word of Jesus. This [At this point, the public portion of the event word put into practice, man, first of all, to concluded; however, the discussion contin- be friends with the poor. ued, and no transcript was provided.]
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 Administration of George W. Bush, 2007 / June 9 775
NOTE: The President spoke at 1:01 p.m. at the wonderful way to bring two countries closer, U.S. Embassy. Participating in the discussion were especially when we consider that the flow of Andrea Riccardi, founder, Marco Impagliazzo, immigration between our two countries has president, Mario Giro, director for international stopped; it stopped a long time ago. affairs, and members Cristina Marazzi, Leonardo Now, going on to other issues, of course, Palombi, Elard Sadimba Allumando, Beatrice Kun Adon, and Claudio Betti, Community of we agree that we need some new major play- Sant’Egidio. A portion of these remarks could not ers, new major world players, and we have be verified because the tape was incomplete. to, in fact, work together with China, India, Brazil, Mexico. And we agree on that ap- proach. The President’s News Conference We also talked about some meetings that With Prime Minister Romano Prodi we had with Mr. Lula and President Hu of Italy in Rome Jintao after the end of the G–8 summit. And June 9, 2007 we realize, as I’ve said, that we’ve got to work more and more together. And I think that Prime Minister Prodi. Good afternoon the progress that has been made by the everyone. I am delighted to have received United States in reaching an agreement, a President Bush today, and I thank President broad agreement on climate change has been Bush for having chosen to spend a couple a wonderful step forward, and I think that of days in Rome for his European mission— this is taking us in the right direction. In a rather long European mission, I would say. other words, we have to work together on And this is the first in his second term. these issues. Our talks today have been very, very inter- We haven’t yet finalized just about the esting, indeed, very friendly talks. And I must quantitative details of this agreement, but ob- say that we took the opportunity, in fact, to viously, the underlying message is to work pursue some issues that we already began together, to cooperate. And I would say that discussing in Heiligendamm, and in fact, we maybe just a few months ago that seemed had a bilateral meeting today and discussed to be unlikely. some of the issues, as I said, that we already Now, we also had a good discussion on went over in Germany. other issues of common concern. We talked We talked about climate change, energy, about Kosovo, for example, Lebanon, Af- our fight against poverty, our Africa policies. ghanistan, and we spoke about some respon- These are all very, very important decisions sibilities that we should take on together. So and choices that we have to make and, of both our countries should work together in course, that are going to be important for order to restore peace and stability in these the future, the next generation as well. different areas of the world. We briefly went over some bilateral issues. We need to do more. We need to keep Fortunately, we don’t have any bilateral working together, especially when it comes problems, I would say, no serious problems to Middle Eastern issues. We know, of that have created any divisions between our course, that we have not yet been able to two countries. And in particular, in fact, we put an end to the crisis which has been ongo- do share the same views with regard to many ing now for a number of years. And in Leb- issues, many matters. And we basically agree anon, in fact, the peace mission has certainly on how the future of the world should look, led to some positive outcomes, yet there are should be. still tensions, there are still many difficulties. Now, I thanked President Bush for some And that’s an open-ended issue, therefore, symbolic gestures that he has shown. Our that we have to continue being concerned countries are becoming closer and closer. about. And, in fact, Italian, the Italian language is Now, that’s what we discussed today. I one of the language that can be freely chosen don’t wish to add any further remarks. I in American schools. All high schools in would like to give the floor right over to America offer Italian as a language of study. President Bush. And I thank you so very And I think that this is a wonderful step, a much for having come today, and I thank
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 776 June 9 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2007
you for making it possible to cooperate to- for all of us to see the truth in that part of gether and, of course, for enabling this co- the world. And I know we can continue to operation with success in the future. Thank work together. It’s very important that for- you. eign influences, like that of Syria, not be con- President Bush. Buongiorno. Mr. Prime tinually disrupting the Siniora Government. Minister, thank you. Laura and I are glad I want to thank you very much for our dis- to be back in your beautiful country. Rome cussions on Kosovo. This is a part of the is a spectacular city. And I’m sorry we’re dis- world you know a lot about, and Romano rupting traffic, but nevertheless, it is great made some very significant contributions to be back here. Thank you for the wonderful during the roundtable discussions at the G– meal, and thank you for our friendship. I 8 and was, again, very eloquent today about think it’s important for the people of your two things: one, obviously, a deep concern country to know, relations between our coun- about the Kosovars, their desire to be inde- tries are strong, and we intend to keep them pendent, coupled with making sure there is that way. And I appreciate that; I appreciate a avenue forward for Serbs through the EU the good conversation we had. and maybe NATO. And I appreciate you I thank you for your commitment to the leading on this issue. It’s important that the people of Afghanistan. Your country has been United States and Italy work together on an integral part of the NATO mission. You common problems. After all, we share com- provided a lot of important troops for NATO, mon values. And today’s discussion just goes, you’re involved with the PRTs in Afghani- at least, to show me how much we can do stan. I thank you, but no more so than the when we work in a collaborative way. Afghan people thank the people of Italy. As Romano said, the bilateral relations are These people are desperate to live in a free pretty darn solid, and I appreciate that. society, and you ought to take great pride, There’s a lot of Italian Americans who have Romano, and I know you do, in making a got great pride for their homeland. They’re significant contribution to their freedom. I watching this press conference—well, they also appreciate your very—your strong ad- may not be watching all of it, Romano, but vice in making sure that we all understand they’ll be watching some of it, and they’re this is not just a military operation, that there going to want to know, are we doing well? has to be a political track and a reconstruc- And the answer is, we are. And I’m grateful. tion track in order for this democracy to sur- Answer a couple of questions, or what do vive. And so I’m looking forward to con- you think? tinuing to work on this important issue. Prime Minister Prodi. Yes. I thank you, as well, for your leadership President Bush. Okay, yes. in Lebanon. It was a year ago when we were at the G–8—you remember the attacks came Italy-U.S. Relations on Israel, and then all of a sudden, the situa- Q. Mr. President, you just said that you tion began to look like it needed some help. had lunch with Prodi today. Then later you’ll And there was a lot of doubt in the world’s have a coffee break with Mr. Berlusconi. mind until Italy stepped up and said, ‘‘We What do you enjoy most, the lunch or the will provide troops, and we’ll be the military coffee break? [Laughter] Or would you have leader in Lebanon.’’ And then the world fol- preferred to be on a diet today? [Laughter] lowed. And I want to thank you for your lead- And to Prime Minister Prodi, now, I’m ership on that important issue. perhaps not going to be so ironic in my ques- And now we’ve just got to make sure the tion. Now, the friendship is wonderful. Siniora Government survives. One of the You’ve made progress. But I know that there best ways to do so is to insist that we proceed have been some differences between the forward with the Hariri trial, to make sure U.S. and Italy over the months, even though that there are consequences for behavior that the friendship is solid and progress has been may affect the stability of a democracy. I made. So President Bush is asking you to per- don’t want to prejudge the outcome of the haps change your rules of engagement in Af- trial, but I do think it’s an important measure ghanistan, and even with regard to Iran that
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 Administration of George W. Bush, 2007 / June 9 777
there are some differences of opinion and, future—how we can perhaps harmonize our in general, in the Middle East. So have you production systems; how we can make sure managed to close that gap a bit, or how do that our political decisions are, in fact, in con- you think you might be doing that in the fu- formity with these needs. And I think, again, ture? that we’ll definitely be able to make huge President Bush. Yes, I’m going to have progress together. coffee with the former Prime Minister, Prime Minister Berlusconi. I’m doing so for Pope Benedict XVI a couple of reasons. One, he is the opposition Q. Thank you, sir. Can you talk about your leader; two, he is a friend. And I mentioned conversation with Pope Benedict earlier? this to Romano, and his attitude was, I don’t Did you have a fundamental disagreement blame you—it’s the kind of thing he does over whether Iraq was a just war? And what when he goes to other countries. And I’m of his concerns about Iraq did you take to looking forward to seeing Silvio. One heart? shouldn’t read anything into it other than, And, if I could, to the Prime Minister, we made some decisions together; we’ve what did you tell the President today about known each other for a while—just like I’ve the trials going on here involving Americans? known Romano—actually, I’ve known Ro- President Bush. Jennifer [Jennifer Loven, mano a long time too. He was President of Associated Press], I’ll be glad to share some the EU early on in my Presidency. And so of the private conversation with His Holy Fa- I consider it an honor to have friends with ther. First, I’ll give you an impression. I was two important leaders here in Italy. talking to a very smart, loving man. And, you Prime Minister Prodi. We spoke very know, after 61⁄2 years of being the President, frankly about many of the issues that you’ve I’ve seen some unusual—I’ve been to some just raised in your question. And, yes, there unusual places, and I’ve met some interesting certainly is an active cooperation between us. people. And I was in awe, and it was a moving And this is with regard to problems we’ve experience for me. had in Afghanistan and, of course, the very We didn’t talk about ‘‘just war.’’ He did difficult situation in Iran. And we both share express deep concern about the Christians the same position, the same views with re- inside Iraq, that he was concerned that the gard to the danger that we are running if society that was evolving would not tolerate we allow the proliferation of nuclear weap- the Christian religion. And I assured him ons, and we also agree on the course of action we’re working hard to make sure that people that should be followed. lived up to the Constitution, the modern So I think that in the future we’ll certainly Constitution voted on by the people that be able to work together, and we’ll be able would honor people from different walks of to exert pressure, both of us, on the Iranian life and different attitudes. Government. We don’t want them to exceed We talked about a lot of other subjects. the limits, as it were, of a peaceful and mon- We talked about our attempts to help the itored or controlled use of nuclear tech- people in Africa deal with HIV/AIDS and nology. So this is our position, and, as I said, malaria and hunger. I reminded him that we we share the same view. made a significant commitment to that end; Now, of course, we also discussed other that about 3 years ago, 50,000 people were issues on our common agenda, and we were getting antiretroviral drugs; now over able to reiterate the fact that there is an inter- 1,100,000 people are getting them, as a result dependence here and a need to work to- of our initiative on HIV/AIDS, and that I’m gether, not only because it is helpful or use- going to double that commitment—or ask ful, but it is a strong need that we have to Congress to double the commitment from 15 focus on to restore peace in the world. billion to 30 billion. Now, we spoke about climate change, I talked to him about our malaria program, about global warming in our meetings over about how we intend to reduce malaria by the past few days. And I think that this has 50 percent in certain countries, and that I’d somehow set out a course of action for the continue to remind the world of our duty
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 778 June 9 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2007
to work together to achieve a major goal, Q. Sorry. And do you wish that President which is to try to eradicate malaria through- Prodi will pay a visit to you in Washington out Africa. in the next months? And I talked to him about our attempts President Bush. Yes, and yes. to feed the hungry, and I also reminded him Q. And on the deadline? that we’ve got poor people in our own neigh- President Bush. I’d love to welcome the borhood that need to be affected. Prime Minister. We’re just going to have to He talked about immigration. He’s watch- work through our schedules, but he’s invited ing the immigration debate very closely in any time. Listen, Italy is a great friend. There America. And I told him I was a person who are millions of people in our country who strongly supports comprehensive immigra- love Italy because that’s where their heritage tion reform, that, on the one hand, we’ll en- is from. My Ambassador’s grandfather was force our law, on the other hand, we need from Italy. I’m sure you know this, but the to treat people with dignity. And we had a heritage—the Italian heritage is a powerful good discussion. part of our country and its culture. And the Q. ——Pope has said—— Prime Minister is welcome. In terms of the deadline, there needs to President Bush. What? be one. This needs to come—this needs to Q. The Pope has said Iraq was worrisome. happen. Now it’s time, in our judgment, to President Bush. Yes, he’s worrisome move the Ahtisaari plan. There’s been a se- about the Christians inside Iraq being mis- ries of delays. You might remember, there treated by the Muslim majority. He’s deeply was a moment when something was hap- concerned about that, and we spent a lot— pening, and they said, no, we need a little spent a fair amount of time talking about it. more time to try to work through a U.N. Se- Prime Minister Prodi. We did not discuss curity Council resolution. And our view is the issue that you raised in your question just that time is up. a moment ago. And I’ve already clarified And so we’re working with our friends and many times that Italy, of course, is a demo- allies, and I had a long discussion with Vladi- cratic country. We have very clear-cut rules mir Putin on the subject. To share with you that we follow, and we, therefore, enforce my thoughts, what I told him there at the our rules. And I am confident that there is table was, ‘‘It’s time; it’s time to bring this no conflict here, in terms of our friendship issue to a head.’’ And obviously, there’s deep and our cooperation with the United States. concern about what that would mean, wheth- er he’d accept it, or not. I understand that. Italy-U.S. Relations/Kosovo/G–8 Summit But the Kosovars are eagerly anticipating a in Heiligendamm, Germany decision by the world. And at the same time, Romano is right, Q. Thank you. You’ve just told us that you we need to make sure that the Serbs see a and President Bush have just returned from way forward. And one good way forward is your G–8 summit. Now, the outcomes that through potentially EU membership. I don’t have been stated on the many issues that you have that much to say in it, but I can talk discussed—climate, development, and the to the Serbs about economic development missile shield—now, are those real—is that and can talk about a better relationship with real progress, or not? And the deadline for the United States. And therefore, we will. the Kosovo independence—— Prime Minister Prodi. Going back to the President Bush. What? Say that again? summit, I can say that it has been an actual Q. Deadline for the Kosovo independ- success, real progress, in other words. I ence? mean, just think, people were expecting a President Bush. A decline? rift, problems, arguments, and instead we did Q. Deadline, deadline. reach some important conclusions. Now, President Bush. Oh, a deadline. Beg your even the issue of global warming, for exam- pardon. My English isn’t very good. [Laugh- ple, we realize that there is a predominant, ter] a prevalent principle, and that is that global
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 Administration of George W. Bush, 2007 / June 10 779
issues have to be dealt with globally. In fact, climate in Washington, that it was decided we all talk about the Kyoto Protocol, for ex- that maybe it would be better to have a new ample, and we said that this was the first step Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, rather than towards international cooperation in this have a bruising battle on Capitol Hill. field, in this sector. President Bush. Pete Pace is a fine man Now, again, we still have some technical- and a great general. And I think the fact that ities to work out; some little pieces there are Secretary Gates made the recommendation missing, as it were. But definitely there is not to move forward with a renomination a clear-cut will to move forward. We have speaks to the U.S. Congress and the climate a resolve there—India, China, Brazil, Mex- in the U.S. Congress. ico, everyone has shown the same resolve. Pete Pace always gave me candid advice. There were other countries in addition to Pete Pace is an excellent strategic thinker. these; even though they’re not G–8 mem- And the interesting thing about Pete Pace— bers, they’re all there to work on global solu- even though he had four stars on his shoul- tions because this is the only way we can pos- der, always talked about the private. He spec- sibly reach some kind of equilibrium in the ulated out loud about Private Pace, what future. would Private Pace think of this decision, Now, with regard to the other issues— what would Private Pace’s family think about Kosovo, for example, and our relations with a decision that he was recommending to me. Russia—well, I would say that during our And so the decision has been made, and meeting, there was a certain ambiance. We I’m going to miss him. And the country owes talked about interdependence. I think that’s him a great debt of gratitude for years of a good way of putting it. We didn’t feel any service, first at Vice Chairman and then as tensions, but rather we were all seeking a Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. way to strengthen our interdependence. And Thank you all. I think that this is something that should be Prime Minister Prodi. Thank you. guiding us in our relations with Russia, and this is how we can build up a peaceful system NOTE: The President’s news conference began at for the future. 3:48 p.m. at Chigi Palace. In his remarks, he re- Those are the goals of the G–8. In fact, ferred to Prime Minister Fuad Siniora of Leb- G–8 summits don’t always have technical anon; former President Martti Ahtisaari of Fin- agendas that are predefined, predetermined. land, United Nations Special Envoy of the Sec- That’s not how it works. We need to meet retary-General for the Future Status Process of and to freely discuss some of these long-term Kosovo; President Vladimir Putin of Russia; and Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates. Prime issues. So we were able to do that very freely, Minister Prodi referred to President Luiz Inacio very openly. And I must say that we all Lula da Silva of Brazil; and President Hu Jintao agreed on our future course of action, and of China. Prime Minister Prodi spoke in Italian, I think that we couldn’t have hoped for any and his remarks were translated by an interpreter. better than that. Now, with regard to Kosovo, again, now we know how to move forward, after our dis- The President’s News Conference cussions there. And I think that that, basi- With Prime Minister Sali Berisha of cally—I mean, we couldn’t have hoped for Albania in Tirana, Albania any better outcome than that there. June 10, 2007 Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Prime Minister Berisha. Honorable Mr. Q. Thank you, sir. Mr. President, General President Bush, honorable close collabo- Pace, an Italian American, Pace, as you know, rators of Mr. President Bush, ladies and gen- is leaving—a distinguished marine, with a tlemen: Today is a beautiful day. Today is lengthy career, somebody that all indications a great day, historic for all Albanians. Among are, you and Secretary Gates enjoyed work- us is the greatest and most distinguished ing with a great deal—is on his way out. And guest we have ever had in all times, the Presi- I wonder what this says about the political dent of the United States—[inaudible]—
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 780 June 10 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2007
George W. Bush, his lady, Mrs. Laura Bush, from the barbarian occupation. And today, and their close aides. For me, it’s a great Kosovo citizens find in you and your adminis- honor and a special pleasure to thank them tration, Mr. President, the greatest hope and with gratitude and extend the most heartfelt support for their project of a free, inde- welcome in this historic visit, the first visit pendent, and integrated state in Europe. ever of a United States President in Albania. Centuries ago, until our present days, hun- Thank you heartily, Mr. President, from dreds and thousands of Albanians migrated the bottom of our hearts, fulfilling ardent and to your great country. They are loyal and long-awaited wish of all Albanians to have honorable citizens of the United States who a special guest in their home. Tungjatjeta, have always loved and still love the nation an Albanian word, means ‘‘May you have a and the country of origin. They have—[in- long life.’’ This is a most traditional greeting audible]—a lot; they have kept a life of hope of Albanians that I chose to greet you on their and freedom for Albanians always on. behalf, on behalf of Albanians. Welcome to In your presence, I’d like, today, to extend Albania, President Bush. the most cordial greetings and my deepest Mr. President, you are, today, an honor- gratitude. The friendly feelings towards able guest and friend of a nation whose grate- the—your Nation and your great country, the fulness and friendship towards your great proud Americanism of Albanians are indeed Nation and your country have been deeply a matter of their national pride. Albanians embodied in the historic memory and in the are very proud about the friendship with the conscience of its citizens. No other nation U.S.A. and the cooperation they have with in the region or in Europe has ever gone your nation in the war against international through so much suffering, ethnic cleansing, terrorism, of their presence on your side in racism, partitions, occupations, and severe Iraq, Afghanistan. I assure you that they will dictatorships as we Albanians have. History be on your side wherever their modest, but was unjust and very severe to us. resolute contribution is needed against inter- We have been blessed, however. We have national terrorism, this most dangerous won in all our efforts to defend our identity enemy of free people. in Western-oriented national vocation to Above all, Albanians feel proud of their emerge from the age of oppression to the friendship with your nation because we share age of dignity, from the age of darkness to the values and the principles of freedom and the age of freedom. We have won because market-oriented democracy. In this road, our just cause has always had the powerful they have received an exceptional overall po- support of the U.S.A., the greatest and the litical, economic, financial, and technical as- most precious friend of Albanian nation. God sistance provided—military—provided by bless your great Nation. the U.S. and the EU countries and other At the beginning of last century, President friendly countries, for which we remain truly, Wilson did not allow the partition of the always grateful. newly proclaimed Albanian independent Sixteen years ago, Secretary James Baker state. The U.S.A. recognized Albania 85 years brought to Albanians the message from the ago. Your visit on this anniversary is its most country of freedom, ‘‘Freedom works.’’ beautiful crown, is the climax of excellent, Today, after 16 years, I can say that despite friendly relations between our two countries. the hardships of our country, experienced by Afterwards, President Truman made big our country, freedom for Albanians has efforts to free Albanians from their Orwellian worked more than any other nation. Albania, dictatorship. At the outset of the nineties, a country of denied freedoms and human President George Herbert Bush and his ad- rights, banned the Constitution, a country of ministration provided an exceptional con- hypercollectivization and true human slavery tribution to the fall of Berlin Wall, but the and the most extreme isolation, today is the fall of this wall in Tirana as well, opening country of political, economic, consolidated the doors of freedom for Albanians. pluralism, of excellent religious centers, of President Bill Clinton led the North Atlan- functioning, working democracy. It is the tic Alliance in the fight for Kosovo liberation country with a fast economic growth, with
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 Administration of George W. Bush, 2007 / June 10 781
the private sector accounting for 80 percent Croatia, Ivo Sanader, and Prime Minister of of GDP. And the income per capita have in- Macedonia, Nikola Gruevski. creased 20 times more. Special attention in our discussion was Albania is the country that signed and is given to solution of the final status of Kosovo implementing successfully their stabilization in compliance with the proposal of President association agreement with the EU and re- Ahtisaari for its independence as a—gradual ceived the message from Riga summit on the independence as a precondition for stability possibility of receiving an invitation for and peace in the region. NATO membership. It is a country that wel- Ladies and gentlemen, in December 1990, comes today the President of the United students and citizens in Tirana took to the States of America, George W. Bush. God streets and the squares with—shouting, bless Albanians. ‘‘U.S.A.’’ ‘‘Long live President Bush.’’ We Ladies and gentlemen, in our talks with want Albania like the rest of Europe. Presi- President Bush, we have discussed our excel- dent Bush visit Albania in 1994—2004 and lent, friendly bilateral relations and their fur- 2006, and Mr. Jimmy Carter before. And ther development. I informed him of other after this visit, Mr. President, our country will reforms launched by my Government and be visited by other Presidents of the United their results in strengthening the rule of law, States. But in their memory of Albanian citi- the zero tolerance fight against organized zens, the great honor that you made to them crime, the valuable assistance that law en- with your first visit of a United States Presi- forcement agencies from the United States dent in office in Albania. and other friendly countries are providing to Thank you very much, Mr. President Bush, this end. We talked about the fight against great friend of Albanian nation, of my nation. corruption and the much expected assistance President Bush. Miredita. [Laughter] that a series of projects funded by the Millen- Thank you for having me. Prime Minister, nium Challenge Account related to e-taxes, thank you for your hospitality. I thank the e-procurement, and one-stop shop offer in President for his hospitality as well. this regard and other reforms in the judicial I am proud to be the first American sitting system, police, education, et cetera. President to visit Albania. It’s a great honor I briefed President Bush on the significant to represent my country here. I’ve really reforms that we are undertaking in the view been looking forward to this trip, and so has of turning Albania into a very attractive coun- my wife, Laura. The reason being is that I try for U.S.A. and the foreign investors— love to come to countries that are working other foreign investors. We hope that this hard to establish the institutions necessary visit will encourage others. for a democracy to survive. I’m particularly A special place was the question of Alba- pleased to be here in Albania, in a country nia’s membership into NATO as the main that has casted off the shackles of a very re- priority of Albania. In this regard, we have pressive society and is now showing the world decided to increase our defense budget to what’s possible. And I congratulate the peo- 2 percent of GDP, to triple our presence in ple of Albania, and I thank you for the warm Afghanistan, and implement with seriousness welcome we received on your streets. the requirements of the ninth MAP cycle. We had a very good discussion. I learned In addition, let me mention that 90 percent a lot about your country. I learned the fact of Albanians support Albania’s membership that this is a country that embraces the mar- to NATO. The support of President Bush kets, is willing to do necessary reforms to and his administration is of a vital importance make sure that the small-business person sur- to Albania for membership into NATO as the vives, that the entrepreneur is strong, that most secure future. the tax code is fair. I’m impressed with the We discussed about the situation in the desire of the government to fight corruption, region. After this press conference, we’ll con- to make it clear that the government is of tinue the discussion in the framework of the people, that the government can be trust- Adriatic Charter, A–3, with the very good ed by the people, by routing out those who friends of Albania, the Prime Minister of would use their exalted positions to steal
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 782 June 10 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2007
from the taxpayers. I appreciate that kind of you just can’t say, I want to join. There are commitment, Mr. Prime Minister. certain standards that are expected to be met. I appreciate the fact that Albania is a And so I talked to the Prime Minister, first model of religious tolerance. And I appre- of all, about my deep desire for Albania to ciate the fact that Albania is a trusted friend join NATO. I support it. I also told him that and a strong ally. And this visit today hope- there needs to be additional political and fully will send the signal to the people of Al- military reforms, progress against organized bania, you can count on America, just like crime and corruption. And he understands America can count on you, to do hard work that. He said, ‘‘We’re committed.’’ That’s necessary to spread freedom and, therefore, what the Prime Minister said—Albania is peace. committed to meeting those standards. And We discussed a lot of issues. We discussed I said, ‘‘We’re committed to help you.’’ Iraq and Afghanistan. I thank the Prime Min- And it’s very important for the political fig- ister and his Government for putting troops ures here in this country to understand in harm’s way. Albanians know the horror of what’s at stake. The politicians have got to tyranny, and so they’re working to bring the work together now to meet the standards. hope of freedom to people who haven’t They’ve got to set aside political differences known it. And that’s a noble effort and a sac- and focus on what’s right for Albania. If the rifice, and I appreciate your sacrifice. Albanian people want to join NATO, then Albania now has 120 of its elite com- the politicians have got to work to meet the mandos stationed in Iraq. I had the privilege standards. of meeting some of the Albanian soldiers. And so I call upon all in the Government Here’s what I told them, I said, ‘‘First of all, and the opposition to do what is necessary you are respected by our military.’’ Your sol- to join NATO, and we’ll support you and help diers are good at what they do. They’re well- you. I think it’s best that Albania be a NATO trained; they’re disciplined; they’re coura- ally. I look forward to welcoming you some- geous. I told them that the United States ap- day into NATO. preciates their contribution. So do the Iraqi We also talked about Kosovo. I’m a strong citizens. And also told them, when they went supporter of the Ahtisaari plan. I said yester- home, to make sure that they told their wives day in Rome, the time is now. A fellow asked and their children thanks on behalf of the me a question, ‘‘Well, when does this end? United States of America as well. The fami- When does the process end?’’ I said, ‘‘The lies are just as much a part of a soldier’s life time is now.’’ In other words, I put a sense as the soldier himself. of—I made it clear that—two things: One, And so, Mr. Prime Minister, we thank you that we need to get moving; and two, that very much for your commitment to freedom the end result is independence. And we in Iraq as well as Afghanistan. The Prime spent a lot of time talking about this issue Minister has announced that Albania will de- here. The Prime Minister was anxious to hear ploy 120 additional troops to Afghanistan this my views. He wanted to make sure that what summer. These are two vital fronts on the I said was clear for everybody, and what I war on terror, and the United States has a said was, independence is the result; let’s get strong friend in Albania in this war. And I the process moving. thank you. Now, we want to make sure that Serbia We also talked about NATO and Albania’s hears that the United States supports their aspirations to join the NATO alliance. I com- aspirations for closer integration with the mended the Prime Minister for the progress West. That means working with the United that Albania has made in defense reform. In States in a bilateral fashion. It also means other words, part of becoming a member of potential membership of NATO, for exam- NATO requires a reformation of the defense ple. I urged the Prime Minister to work with forces. And Albania is working hard to do the leaders in Kosovo to maintain calm dur- that, as well as to meet performance-based ing these final stages of Kosovo final status standards for membership. In other words, process. He assured me he would. He’s got you’re just not accepted into membership; good contacts there, and Kosovars look to the
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 Administration of George W. Bush, 2007 / June 10 783
Prime Minister of Albania and the President And that’s—the issue is whether inde- for Albania for leadership, and they’re willing pendence or not. We strongly believe in to provide it. independence. And then the question is, the And so we discussed a lot of issues, and diplomatic moves necessary to achieve that. I must say, I was very impressed by the con- I happen to believe it’s important to push versations, impressed with the vision, and the process along; the time is now. And by want to help. The United States wants to be that I meant that Secretary Rice will be mov- a good ally and friend. ing hard to see if we can’t reach an agree- And again, I thank you all for the hospi- ment. And if not, we’re going to have to move tality, and I know you’re proud of the historic because independence is the goal, and that’s progress that you have made. May God bless what the people of Kosovo need to know. the people of Albania and, of course, the peo- Thank you for your question. ple of the United States. Toby [Tabassum Zakaria, Reuters]. Thank you, sir. Prime Minister Berisha. Thank you. Kosovo/Missile Defense System President Bush. A couple of questions here. He’s calling on you. Q. Thank you, Mr. President. Yesterday you called for a deadline for U.N. action on International Support for Kosovo Kosovo. When would you like that deadline Q. You guaranteed President Bush that set? And are you at all concerned that taking you will talk with the Kosovo leaders con- that type of a stance is going to further in- cerning the proposal of President Sarkozy flame U.S. relations with Russia? that may lead to the—[inaudible]—of the And is there any chance that you’re going Kosovars, that they may self-proclaim inde- to sign on to the Russian missile defense pro- pendence. And what would the attitude of posal? Albania be in this case? And did you touch President Bush. No, thanks. A couple of this factor, this opposition with President points on that. First of all, I don’t think I Bush? called for a deadline. I thought I said, time— Prime Minister Berisha. We discussed at I did? What exactly did I say? I said ‘‘dead- large about Kosovo with President Bush. line’’? Okay, yes, then I meant what I said. What I may publicly transmit to the leader- [Laughter] The question is whether or not ship and the citizens of Kosovo is that their there is going to be endless dialog on a sub- project has the full understanding, good un- ject that we have made up our mind about. derstanding and support, full support, of We believe Kosovo ought to be independent. President Bush. And in this context, as be- The G–8 discussions were all aimed at de- fore—now, as well—I don’t expect and I termining whether or not there is a way to don’t advise any movement. On the contrary, make this acceptable to Russia. The ideal I suggest persistence and calmness, would be for Russia to say, ‘‘Okay, we under- coolbloodedness. This is in the heart of— stand, and we accept this conclusion as well.’’ Kosovo is in the heart of President Bush. And obviously, they’re not there yet. And President Bush. What’s important is for therefore, the reason why I said there needs the people of Kosovo to know that the United to be movement is that there just cannot be States and Albania strongly supports inde- continued drift, because I’m worried about pendence, as did most of the people in the expectations not being met in Kosovo. That’s G–8. what I meant. And therefore, we’ll push the President Sarkozy’s recommendation was process. to try to provide some time for people to President Putin made an interesting pro- possibly work out differences. However, posal on missile defense for Europe. I sug- what would be acceptable to the United gested—and I’ve made an interesting pro- States and, I think, most people in the posal for missile defense in Europe, by the G–8 was that at the end of any process, there way, all aimed at protecting Europe, not be certain independence. That’s what’s im- aimed at Russia. The reason I did is because portant to know. the true threats we’ll be facing will be from
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 784 June 10 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2007
rogue nations that may end up with a deliver- quick integration of membership into able weapon. So I thought it was in the inter- NATO? And further, do you observe dif- est of peace that we have the capacity to ferences in speed of Adriatic 3 countries— intercept such a missile, and therefore, need A–3 countries? to proceed. Prime Minister Berisha. I can assure you And President Putin said, ‘‘Well, I think totally that President Bush and his adminis- I’ve got an idea that makes sense.’’ And this tration support powerfully Albania’s project is the joint use of radar in Azerbaijan. I said, for full membership into NATO. In this ‘‘Well, why don’t we look at it?’’ But during framework, I would say that this help and the discussions, it became apparent that he support has been of extraordinary impor- also had doubts about the proposal I made tance in all reforms of democratic institu- as to its effectiveness or necessity. And I said, tions, of the armed forces, and in cooperation ‘‘Well, you put out an idea, and I put an idea. in the framework of NATO during these Why don’t we both get a group together to years. discuss our relative ideas in a transparent Of course, the invitation is defined to be fashion; get people from your Foreign Min- given on the basis of performance. We are istry and we’ll get people from the State De- determined to take any decision, adopt any partment and our respective defense depart- law, undertake any reform that would make ments and militaries to sit at the table and Albania suitable to receive the invitation. to share different ideas, to share ideas about I think that the cooperation with Adriatic technologies on how to intercept a missile Charter, A–3, was fruitful—and very fruitful and radar positioning to make sure that and very successful. Our three countries have there’s effective coverage?’’ common things in specifics. If we take the I thought his statement was an important level where from which Albania started and statement to make. In other words, he recog- it’s progress, it is one of the most evaluated, nized that there’s an opportunity to work to- appreciated. gether. That’s what friends do, by the way. Second, Albania has a loyal cooperation Russia is not our enemy. As I said repeatedly, with NATO for 15 years. I have to stress, the cold war is over, and now we’re dealing one moment, that in ’99, when Milosevic with threats in the 21st century. And I appre- cleansed 1 million Albanians from their ciated his recognition that there could be an homes, thousands of the area’s homes, the opportunity to work together to deal with friendly countries built camps to receive the those threats. I viewed it as a very positive refugees. But about 500,000 Albanian fami- gesture, and looking forward to continuing lies turned their houses into tents of welcome discussions on this very subject in July when for NATO. You may say, they did it for Alba- he comes to Maine. nians. Absolutely, yes. But no one can prove Prime Minister Berisha. I would like to that Albanians wouldn’t do that for every cit- add for the citizens of Kosovo and its leader- izen of another ethnicity who would be in ship, in my discussions, I found out con- need, like the Kosovo people were at that sciousness and awareness of President Bush time. Ninety-three percent of Albanians sup- for the consequences of prolongation on— port membership into NATO. We have our unacceptable prolongation around justifi- own advantages. able—prolongation of the process. And in this context, they should be clear that the International Support for Kosovo President is aware of these consequences and Q. Thank you, Mr. President. You’ve said is not willing them to be. that it’s time to move the Kosovo—the Ahtisaari plan forward. What specifically are Albania’s NATO Membership you going to do to accomplish that, and at Q. In your meeting with President Bush, what point do you say, it’s not working? And what important place was occupied by NATO then what? membership—Albania being made a mem- President Bush. What you do is, you get ber of NATO? Do you assure us that you your diplomats working with Russian dip- have won the support of President Bush for lomats, as well as EU diplomats, to see if
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 Administration of George W. Bush, 2007 / June 10 785
there is not common ground. In other words, Remarks at a Luncheon Hosted by there has to be an effort to see if we can’t Prime Minister Sali Berisha of find a way for everybody to say, well, it’s a Albania in Tirana good idea. And if you end up being in a posi- tion where you don’t, at some point in time, June 10, 2007 sooner rather than later, you’ve got to say Mr. Prime Minister, if I might offer a toast. enough is enough; Kosovo is independent. Thank you for your hospitality. I’m honored And that’s the position we’ve taken. to be in the presence of the leaders of three The people of Kosovo need to know that important allies and friends of the United it is a solid, firm position. And even though States—Croatia, Macedonia, and, of course, there’s diplomacy and talks hopefully trying our host, Albania. to find a way forward to accommodate Russia We thank you for your strong leadership. and Serbia and the EU—by the way, most We join you in your aspirations to join Euro- people in the EU are very much in favor. Atlantic institutions. We appreciate you The EU position is for the Ahtisaari plan. working for peace. Thank you for the Adriatic They just hope that there is some way that Charter. May God bless your nations. May we can reach an accommodation with a vari- God bless you all. ety of interests so that the transition to inde- Thank you. pendence will be as smooth and easy as pos- sible. But if that becomes—is apparent that NOTE: The President spoke at 1:54 p.m. at the that’s not going to happen in a relatively Prime Minister’s villa. In his remarks, he referred quick period of time, in my judgment, we to Prime Minister Ivo Sanader of Croatia; and need to put forward the resolution. Hence, Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski of Macedonia. A deadline. tape was not available for verification of the con- tent of these remarks. Thank you all for your attention. Mr. Prime Minister, it was a great press con- ference. Proud to be the first American sit- Remarks Prior to a Meeting With ting President to actually hold a press con- Small-Business Owners in ference on Albanian soil as well. Thank you Fushe-Kruje, Albania very much. June 10, 2007 Prime Minister Berisha. Thank you, President. One of the exciting moments for our trip to Albania is to meet with small-business President Bush. Thank you all. owners. Laura and I thank the mayor. We Prime Minister Berisha. Thank you. thank the owner of the restaurant, and we President Bush. Good job. Thank you. thank these entrepreneurs for joining us to Prime Minister Berisha. Thank you. talk about your story, about your dreams, and about the opportunities a microloan pro- gram, provided by the taxpayers of the NOTE: The President’s news conference began at United States, is giving you to create jobs. 12:40 p.m. in the Courtyard at the Council of Min- And so we’re excited to be here. Thank isters. In his remarks, he referred to President you for coming. And we’re looking forward Alfred Moisiu of Albania; President Nicolas Sarkozy of France; and President Vladimir Putin to hearing your stories. of Russia. Prime Minister Berisha referred to Thank you. former President Martti Ahtisaari of Finland, United Nations Special Envoy of the Secretary- NOTE: The President spoke at 3:50 p.m. at Cafe General for the Future Status Process of Kosovo. Cela. In his remarks, he referred to Mayor Ismet Prime Minister Berisha and some reporters spoke Mavriqi of Fushe-Kruje, Albania. A tape was not in Albanian, and their remarks were translated by available for verification of the content of these an interpreter. remarks.
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 786 June 11 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2007
Letter to the Speaker of the House of good, reliable partners within NATO, within Representatives Transmitting the peacekeeping missions in different parts Budget Amendments of the world. This is a firm, long-term com- June 8, 2007 mitment. It is not affected by the changes and setup of the political situations in both Dear Madam Speaker: countries. I ask the Congress to consider the en- The second thing that strikes about it is closed FY 2008 Budget amendments for the the new dynamics in the development of our Departments of Commerce, Energy, Home- economic relations. We have either new or land Security, Justice, and Transportation, as updated treaties, bilateral treaties, which give well as the Legal Services Corporation. Over- the framework of our business contacts. all, the discretionary budget authority pro- There has been a sharp trend of improving posed in my FY 2008 Budget would not be the term over—and the American invest- increased by these requests. ments in Bulgaria, and the number of U.S. This transmittal also contains FY 2007 pro- tourists to Bulgaria also is on the increase. posals and FY 2008 Budget amendments for However, this is not the ceiling. We believe the Legislative Branch. As a matter of comity there is a much greater potential, and this between branches, appropriations requests is why we should seek and explore the ave- of the Legislative Branch are transmitted nues of promoting these trends in several di- without change. rections: A, by presenting a better, fuller, and The details of these amended requests and more adequate image of Bulgaria in the proposals are set forth in the enclosed letter from the Director of the Office of Manage- United States, with an emphasis on the busi- ment and Budget. ness information, addressed to the Sincerely, businesspeople. And I hope that the newly setup foundation, America for Bulgaria, will George W. Bush promote these efforts. NOTE: This letter was released by the Office of Second, in the foreseeable future, very the Press Secretary on June 11. soon we will hopefully have a positive solu- tion on the visa regime, on facilitating, lifting the visa barriers. And we do appreciate ev- The President’s News Conference erything that President Bush has personally With President Georgi Parvanov of been doing in the light of the negotiations Bulgaria in Sofia, Bulgaria within the United States and the European June 11, 2007 Union. And we, in turn, pledge to do our best to meet our commitments on the secu- President Parvanov. Distinguished rity, which is one of the major criteria in ad- members of the delegation, ladies and gen- dressing this issue. tlemen: I would like briefly to outline the I believe we should make an effort to im- results of the discussions we just had and just prove the structure of trade and investment. closed with the President of the United And I did lay down to my guest, President States, George Bush. I must say, this is a very significant visit. It is another proof, a very Bush, the possibility for a more significant cogent proof of the fact that our two coun- involvement of American businesses in the tries’ relations are in their best state now in major energy projects, both in Bulgaria and more than a hundred years of their establish- the Balkans, in the infrastructure, in the de- ment. fense industry. A better cooperation in this I am happy we had a chance today to draw area, in the defense industry, could be an the balance sheet of what has happened in important incentive for the development of the interim since the meeting, our visit there our economy as a whole. I do hope we will in Washington in October 2005. And indeed, have President Bush—the support of Presi- the balance sheet is definitely positive. The dent Bush and the United States in our effort United States and Bulgaria continue to be to modernize our armed forces at a faster
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 Administration of George W. Bush, 2007 / June 11 787
pace, so that we could be effective and effi- by results, by the results of attracting more cient in performing—discharging our com- capital. I know U.S. companies are seriously mitments as allies. looking at Bulgaria, and that’s because there And next, I would like to thank President is transparency and fairness in taxes. In other Bush for the support we’ve always enjoyed words, when somebody invests in a country, from the United States to our efforts to find they expect to get a reasonable rate of return, a fair, a just solution to the crisis with the and they expect government to not interfere Bulgarian medics in Libya and for their re- but, in fact, to expedite the flow of capital. lease. And I was happy to hear from him this And so therefore, when the President talks repeated support. about more capital coming to your country At the same time, we discussed the two from the United States, it means that the countries’ possibilities, both within the—our government has made reforms necessary to interaction with the European Union and attract capital. otherwise, to support and help for the treat- My call, of course, is to continue to make ment of the AIDS-infected children and reforms, and if you find corruption, rout it their families as a longer-term commitment through involvement in the International out. People of Bulgaria expect their govern- Fund, which is meant to streamline this proc- ment to be open and honest, and so do those ess. And I did point out to President Bush who spend capital in countries. And the that there are expectations both among the President is committed to that, I know. public and in the media in this country, an We talked about the energy diversification expectation from the major companies to get program for Bulgaria. America has got to di- involved and to donate to this fund. versify its energy too. We’re too dependent We also discussed a wide range of inter- on foreign sources of energy. So we share national issues related to the situation in the a common goal about diversification of en- Balkans, to our desire to play a stabilizing ergy supply. We’re in the process of spending role in the Balkans, to be a factor of stability a lot of money on new technologies that will here. We also commented on some of the enable us to diversify our energy supply and, issues that are on both countries’ agenda and at the same time, be good stewards of the on the agendas of the European Union and environment. And I look forward to sharing NATO. those technologies with countries, once they Thank you. become fully developed. President Bush. President Parvanov, I appreciate very much the reforms you thank you very much. I call him George. He made so that the EU is comfortable in ac- calls me George. It’s good to be here in your cepting Bulgaria as a member state, and I beautiful country. Laura and I are looking congratulate you on those accomplishments. forward to our lunches together. Thank you And of course, we’re proud to stand with you very much. in NATO. These are big achievements for We are allies; we share values; and we be- this country, and the people of Bulgaria lieve in freedom. And I appreciate the ought to be proud of the achievements that progress your country has made toward a free they have achieved. society. And I thank you for being an ally in helping others realize the blessings of lib- We discussed, of course, Iraq. And I thank erty. We have accepted our responsibilities the President and I thank the people of Bul- to help defend freedom against terrorists and garia for supporting those in Iraq who long extremists, and it’s hard work. And I thank to live in a free society. The fight is tough the people of Bulgaria for understanding the in Iraq, and I know some of your families stakes, the true challenges of the 21st cen- have suffered. And on behalf of our Nation, tury. I extend our condolences and prayers to the We had a great discussion, and that’s what families who have lost a loved one against you’d expect among friends. I am impressed these extremists and murderers. by the transition that Bulgaria has made to I thank you for your commitment to Af- a free market economy. Success is evidenced ghanistan. And I appreciate so very much
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 788 June 11 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2007
your willingness to do the hard work nec- middle of an immigration debate, as well, in essary to enable young democracies to sur- America. I hope that my country understands vive in the face of significant opposition from that it’s in our interest to treat people with ideologues who use murder as a weapon to respect and to treat people fairly. And so I achieve their objectives. Mr. President, I told the President that we’ll continue to work firmly believe the commitments that we’re with Congress to resolve this issue in a satis- making are laying the foundations of peace factory way. I’ve laid out a way forward, and for generations to come. I’m committed to seeing it through. I thank you for your advice on Kosovo. We And so, George, thanks for having me. It’s spent some time talking about Kosovo. The been a good visit. I’m looking forward to time is now to move the Ahtisaari plan. We— lunch. And I guess we’ll answer some ques- America believes that Kosovo ought to be tions. independent, and I sought the President’s advice. One of the things he made clear is Attorney General Alberto R. Gonzales/ something I agree with, and that is, is that Immigration Reform as we seek independence for Kosovo, we’ve also got to make it clear to the—Serbia that Q. Good morning, Mr. President. You’ve there’s a way forward, maybe in NATO, had quite a week in Europe, and I wonder, maybe in the EU, and definitely in better as we head home, if I could ask you to turn relations with the United States. So I thank to some domestic issues. Your Attorney Gen- you for your sound judgment and your solid eral is under fire in the Senate. General Pace advice. has had a setback. The immigration reform We talked about the Bulgarian nurses. bill seems not to be moving very quickly. And This is not the first conversation I’ve had with I won’t even mention the latest polls. So I’m the President on this subject. He’s deeply just wondering, sir, as you head home, to concerned about the fate of the nurses. We what extent do you still have the political spoke in person about it at the White House; clout and capital to get some of these issues we have had phone calls on the subject; and done? Do you have any left? If you do, how of course, today, again, he emphasized his do you intend to use it? deep concern for the nurses and their fami- President Bush. First of all, we’ve had a lies. And I appreciate your compassion, Mr. great trip, Ed [Ed Chen, Los Angeles Times]. President. It’s a chance for America to talk about a lib- We strongly support the release of the Bul- erty agenda and a chance to talk to our allies garian nurses in Libya. That’s the position about how we can advance it and what we of the United States. They should be re- can do together to make our respective coun- leased, and they should be allowed to be re- tries better off. turned to their families. We will continue to Listen, the immigration debate is a tough make clear to Libya that the release of these debate. I’m under no illusions about how nurses is a high priority for our country. hard it is. There are people in my party that Our hearts also go out to the children who don’t want a comprehensive bill; there are have been infected by HIV/AIDS. Together people in the Democrat Party that don’t with the EU, the United States is contrib- seem to want a comprehensive bill. I was dis- uting to a fund to provide assistance to the appointed that the bill was temporarily de- Libyan children suffering from this disease railed. and to their families. My hope is that this I, frankly, find it a little interesting that issue gets resolved quickly. a so-called important subject they need to We talked about visa reform. I assured the get to would be to pass a political resolution President what I said in the past is what I on my Attorney General that’s going to have still believe, and that is, we need to reform no bearing on whether he serves in office our visa system. The system is stuck in the or not. past. It can be reformed to work better for I believe we can get an immigration bill. the citizens of this country. And I’m working Now, it’s going to require leadership from with Congress to get it done. We’re in the the Democrat leaders in the Senate, and it’s
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 Administration of George W. Bush, 2007 / June 11 789
going to require me to stay engaged and work where people with HIV/AIDS could be treat- with Republicans who want a bill. ed? Last—earlier in this trip, I called three President Bush. There’s a fund into members of the Senate from the Republican which we’re contributing money. And I don’t Party and said, what can we do together to think you ought to be concerned about the get the bill back up? What do we need to source of the funding. What you ought to do to work with Senators like Senator Ted be focused on is whether or not the U.S. is Kennedy, who is strongly committed to a willing to commit funds, along with the EU. comprehensive bill? And tomorrow I’ll be And we are. And at the same time, we’re going to the Senate to talk about a way for- willing to send messages to the Libya Gov- ward on the piece of legislation. ernment that we expect the release of the It’s important that we address this issue nurses. We’ve been very much in concert now. And I believe we can get it done. Lis- with your Government. This is an issue that ten, there was—a lot of progress was made we care about. And so—but we do agree with between people in both parties making hard the strategy that there ought to be some com- decisions necessary to move a comprehensive pensation for the Libyan children and their plan. It’s in the Nation’s interest to get a families. comprehensive bill done. So the political President Parvanov. Ladies and gentle- process sometimes isn’t pretty to look at it. men, many of you know that I have visited There’s two steps forward, one step back. We Libya; I have visited the hospital in Benghazi. made two steps forward on immigration; we I’ve spoken with the parents and the infected took a step back; and now I’m going to work children, and I’m clearly aware of the great with those who are focused on getting an im- drama they’re suffering, they’re going migration bill done and start taking some through, and how much needs to be done steps forward again. I believe we can get it in order to invest in this hospital and in order done. I’ll see you at the bill signing. to relieve the pain and suffering of both the Bulgarian Nurses Held in Libya children and their kin—and their families Q. President Bush, you have already and friends. voiced your support in favor of our medics This is a Bulgarian, this is a European, this and their release. We appreciate that. Al- is a commitment of the entire democratic though—despite the fact that our fellow public, worldwide. By all means, Bulgaria country people are still in prison, absolutely and, I believe, our friends from the United innocent, as you well know, I would like to States and the European Union consider this ask you, as a part of the general effort to not a one-off, not a temporary—an attempt solve this drama, which has been going on to release the nurses and then we quit. For for more than 8 years now, my question is, us—and I’m happy that this was—we went would you commit yourself to lobbying in along with George on this. For us, this is a front of the U.S. Congress and doing so that long-term commitment. This is a commit- some of the funds under your 5-year program ment we take in respect of both those suf- for fighting HIV/AIDS can go to supporting fering in Benghazi, but also everyone suf- the children infected with AIDS and their fering of AIDS, not just in Benghazi, but in families? the whole of Africa. Let’s remember G–8 and And, President Parvanov, I would be their decision: $60 billion were allocated to happy to hear your view on the Libya issue, this policy by the world democratic commu- and notably, how would you comment the nity a few days ago. fact, or rather the Bulgarian media’s idea, I, for one, 6 months ago, in addressing the who are covering the trial in Libya, to send European Parliament, I said—and I appealed a letter to the hundred most influential rep- to the big players, so to speak, worldwide, resentatives of the economy and business, ac- in the businesses worldwide, to take a cording to the Forbes ratings, and call on more—a firmer commitment to this fund, to them to donate to the building of modern, donate more, contribute more to this fund. up-to-date medical center where children, or In this sense, I join my voice and I welcome
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 790 June 11 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2007
and I do support the appeal which the Bul- missile shield, our common—our coopera- garian media have issued. I hope their voice tion in using common sites, and also in re- will be heard. I know, whenever the media spect of the trade investment? speak, their voice is heard more clearly than President Bush. Do you want me to start that of politicians. on the missiles? The proposed missile shield is aimed at long-range missiles, missiles that Attorney General Alberto R. Gonzales/ would fly over Bulgaria. There are missile Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff systems and defense systems available that Q. Mr. President, I want to take you back would deal with intermediate-range missiles. to domestic issues again. You say the no-con- And so just because Bulgaria is not a part fidence vote has no bearing as to whether of the longer-range missile shield doesn’t Alberto Gonzales remains as Attorney Gen- mean that there won’t be equipment and eral. How can he continue to be effective? help available for intermediate range. That’s And it seems like you’re not listening to Con- how I can answer that question. gress when it comes to Gonzales, but you I know this creates some concerns around are listening to Congress when it comes to Europe, this missile shield, because of Rus- Peter Pace. sian objections. And so I had a meeting with President Bush. Yes, it’s an interesting President Putin in Germany at the G–8 and comment about Congress, isn’t it, that, on explained to him what I’ve been saying pub- the one hand, they say that a good general licly, is, the missile shield would be devel- shouldn’t be reconfirmed, and on the other oped to deal with a rogue regime that would hand, they say that my Attorney General try to hold a free nation hostage, or free na- shouldn’t stay. And I find it interesting. I tions hostage, that it’s not aimed at Russia. guess it reflects the political atmosphere of Washington. And they can try to have their I talked to Vladimir Putin a lot about our votes of no confidence, but it’s not going to relations and made it clear that I simply do determine—make the determination who not view Russia as an enemy. I view Russia serves in my Government. as a country with whom we should have and Pete Pace was going to go up for confirma- can have good relations to solve common tion. That’s the difference. I have—I had problems. confidence in Pete Pace. But people view One such problem is Iran. Another prob- this as an opportunity to make statements, lem is proliferation. There are areas we can and upon the recommendation of Secretary work together, and he brought an interesting of Defense Gates, I agreed to send up an- proposal. He said, ‘‘I have an idea. Why don’t other nominee. we jointly use a radar in Azerbaijan to help And as to Al Gonzales—first of all, this deal with a potential threat?’’ And I said, process has been drug out a long time, which ‘‘That’s a good idea. I don’t know how— says to me it’s political. There’s no wrong- whether it’s technologically feasible; I’m not doing. You know, he—they haven’t said, an expert. I’ve got experts in my Govern- ‘‘Here’s—you’ve done something wrong, At- ment, however, who could analyze your pro- torney General Gonzales.’’ And therefore, I posal, and I’d like for you to maybe—not ascribe this lengthy series of news stories and maybe—I’d like for you to assign some ex- hearings as political. And I’ll make the deter- perts in your Government to analyze my pro- mination if I think he’s effective or not, not posal.’’ those who are using an opportunity to make And that’s where we left it in Germany. a political statement on a meaningless resolu- So we’re going to have a group of people tion. come together from the State Department, Defense Department, and the military to dis- Missile Defense System/Energy cuss how to deal with the true threats of the Q. President, clearly the relations between 21st century. our two countries, politically, have been very And I would hope that would help explain good. How could we achieve the same in the some of the rhetoric that people in your area of security, in the context of the anti- country have seen coming out of the G–8,
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 Administration of George W. Bush, 2007 / June 11 791
that there’s a process where we can collabo- of the Balkans, a region for whose fate and rate and share information in a very trans- future I feel responsible. parent way, which I think will be beneficial. President Bush. Thank you. And I would hope that the Russians would see the meetings as beneficial and out of the NOTE: The President’s news conference began at meetings realize our true intent, and hope- 10:35 a.m. at the National Museum of Archae- fully design systems that protect us all. ology. In his remarks, he referred to former Presi- dent Martti Ahtisaari of Finland, United Nations President Parvanov. I would like to Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for the begin by saying that we welcome the strategic Future Status Process of Kosovo. President dialog, and it was described as a strategic dia- Parvanov and some reporters spoke in Bulgarian, log by both leaders, both by President Bush and their remarks were translated by an inter- and by Putin, a dialog which started within preter. the framework of G–8. We Bulgarians would accept any solution that would provide more Remarks at a Luncheon Hosted by guarantees, more security guarantees, more guarantees of the indivisibility of the security President Georgi Parvanov of of the Euro-Atlantic space—any solution that Bulgaria in Sofia has been achieved, hammered out through June 11, 2007 dialog and in transparency, and any solution that is not directed against a third country, Mrs. Parvanova, Prime Minister, Mr. notably Russia in this case. Speaker, members of the Government, and distinguished guests: Laura and I are thrilled I would take the liberty of paraphrasing to be with you, and we’re really happy to something that was said in Prague—hope- be in your country. fully my source was reliable; the President You know, sitting here in this beautiful would correct me if I’m wrong or impre- museum reminds me of the great history of cise—the Bulgarians must not choose be- Bulgaria. And it was important for me to be tween their friendship with the United States with leaders who are still writing a history and that with Russia. The Bulgarians should of this important country. And for a person and can maintain friendly relations with both who was raised in the deserts of Texas, this countries. Just as I am a friend with George is a magnificent view. It reminds me of the and a friend with Vladimir, we could main- beauty of your country. I was telling the tain, within the context of our Euro-Atlantic President, my only regret is that we didn’t orientation, friendly relations with both with- have this meeting on the beaches. out diluting the things, without losing sight I congratulate you on your admission into of our strategic priorities. We should main- the EU. A lot of people said, there is no way tain relations with everyone who thinks like- that Bulgaria can do the necessary things to wise. join the EU. And you proved the critics This means the same approach would wrong. We’re proud to be a member of apply to the energy, the infrastructure NATO with you. Bulgaria is a valued ally of sphere. This is why Bulgaria maintains—has all of us in NATO and a valued ally of the maintained active relations with Russia on United States. the major infrastructure, or rather energy I thank you for your strong stand for free- projects. dom. I thank you for helping spread liberty I myself, earlier today, offered to President into places like Iraq and Afghanistan, where Bush a clearer, firmer commitment by Amer- people want to live a peaceful and free life. ican companies to the energy project. Chev- I appreciate the sacrifices the people of this ron, in respect of Bourgas-Alexandroupolis, country have made to support the troops and or AMBO—I’m not going to list them all their families. I firmly believe that the actions here—this is an investment in peace and the we’re taking are laying the foundation of security of the region. This is a geostrategic peace for generations to come. I think people contribution. And I’m saying this both as the will look back at this moment in history and President of Bulgaria, but also as a citizen say, thank God there were people who still
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 792 June 11 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2007
stood strong for liberty and freedom as the thing we can do is to invite students to come alternative to tyranny and oppression. to our country. You’ll see what America is We discussed a lot of issues. I appreciated really like when you come. But you don’t your leader’s advice on Kosovo. It’s impor- have to, you know, just come to America to tant advice, and I took it seriously. Kosovo study. You can study all over the world, and must be independent. And I thank them for then go back to your countries and become their advice as to how to best achieve that. productive citizens and apply what you’ve I made it clear the visa policy needs to learned and help your countries grow, be- be changed. And I care deeply about the Bul- cause the potential in this part of the world garian nurses. We’re working on a strategy is wide open. We kind of have to do a little to make sure that these nurses come home political work in some places, but it’s wide as quickly as possible. open. And we wish you all the very best. I’m We had a constructive, candid, important honored to be with you. conversations today. Our friendship is strong, and we intend to keep it that way. Stanko, why don’t you share some thoughts So I’d like to propose a toast to the Presi- with us. dent, his good wife, to the people of Bulgaria, Stanko Stankov. Well, I have to—I mean, and to the friendship between the United I agree with the point about education. There States and Bulgaria. are many challenges here in the region, espe- cially after Bulgaria now entered European NOTE: The President spoke at approximately Union. And this period of transition, I think, 12:36 p.m. in Sunny Hall at the National Museum is going to be best dealt with by having a of History. In his remarks, he referred to Zorka good education and having competent peo- Petrova Parvanova, wife of President Parvanov; ple who can stand up to the challenge and Prime Minister Sergei Stanishev of Bulgaria; and just face it the proper way. Georgi Georgiev Pirinski, chairman, Bulgarian National Assembly. The transcript released by the The President. So, Stanko, what was your Office of the Press Secretary also included the major? remarks of President Parvanov. Mr. Stankov. My major was business ad- ministration. Remarks at the American University The President. Oh, that’s right. Yeah. And in Bulgaria in Sofia so what are you going to do? June 11, 2007 Mr. Stankov. Oh, first I’m going to do some work here in Bulgaria, because I need The President. Well, listen, thank you all some work experience before I apply to a for introducing yourselves. I want to thank grad school in the United States—that’s you very much, Olga, for giving me a chance where I hope to apply. And after I do this to visit with these students. work for 2 or 3 years, I’m going to go prob- First of all, I’m looking forward to hearing ably to the States and study, do my masters about your stories and your dreams. There’s there. And after that, well, we’ll see. no question that education is what’s going The President. And have you found a job? to help change the world; it certainly change Mr. Stankov. Yes, I’m being interviewed your personal lives. But it also has the oppor- still. And tomorrow I have a very important tunity to change regions in the world. And interview. [Laughter] My next job interview. I am excited that all of you have had a chance [Laughter] to go to higher education and that you aspire beyond your current education to achieve The President. Well, if the interviewer is new things, new dreams—Michigan State listening—[laughter]—Stanko is looking for Law School—I mean, Michigan Law School, a little work. [Laughter] It’ll make your excuse me, or mathematics. I mean, it’s up- mother happy when you find a job, won’t it? lifting for me to be with you. Mr. Stankov. Yes, she will be happy. America strongly supports education ini- The President. That’s good. Well, thank tiatives at home and abroad. I think the best you very much, Stanko. Thank you all.
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 Administration of George W. Bush, 2007 / June 12 793
NOTE: The President spoke at 2:57 p.m. at the ed (36 U.S.C. 109), do hereby proclaim June Eleiff Center for Education and Culture. In his 17, 2007, as Father’s Day. I encourage all remarks, he referred to Olga Borissova, director, Americans to express admiration and appre- Centre for European Programmes, American Uni- ciation to fathers for their many contributions versity in Bulgaria. Participating in the event were Stanko Stankov, Katya Georgieva, Hristina to our Nation’s children. I direct the appro- Jordanova, Nita Gojani, and Filjor Broka, recent priate officials of the Government to display graduates, and Nemanja Gruicic, student, Amer- the flag of the United States on all Govern- ican University in Bulgaria; Dilyana Mincheva and ment buildings on this day. I also call upon Bilyana Hristova, students, University of Sofia; State and local governments and citizens to and Hawa Ansary and Stanislav Andreev, recent observe this day with appropriate programs, graduates, American College of Sofia. ceremonies, and activities. In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this eleventh day of June, in the Proclamation 8156—Father’s Day, year of our Lord two thousand seven, and 2007 of the Independence of the United States of June 11, 2007 America the two hundred and thirty-first. By the President of the United States George W. Bush of America [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, A Proclamation 8:47 a.m., June 12, 2007]
On Father’s Day, we reflect on the many NOTE: This proclamation was published in the ways that fathers contribute to the lives of Federal Register on June 13. their children with spoken words and unspoken kindness. Fathers are one of the most important in- Remarks at the Victims of fluences in the lives of children, and their Communism Memorial Dedication unconditional love is an indispensable anchor June 12, 2007 of certainty and strength. By placing their family’s well-being above their own, fathers Thank you all for coming. Please be seat- provide children with an example of what it ed. Dr. Edwards, thanks for your kind words. means to be a responsible person. Through Congressman Lantos—no better friend to unwavering devotion and daily sacrifice, fa- freedom, by the way; Congressman Rohr- thers work to create an environment where abacher, the same. Members of the Czech children are protected and encouraged. Fa- and Hungarian Parliaments; Ambassadors; thers instill in their children an under- distinguished guests; and more importantly, standing of right and wrong and help them the survivors of Communist oppression, I’m to grow in confidence and character. These honored to join you on this historic day. dedicated men strive to give their sons and And here in the company of men and daughters the necessary foundation to make women who resisted evil and helped bring good choices and lead lives of purpose. down an empire, I proudly accept the Vic- On Father’s Day and throughout the year, tims of Communism Memorial on behalf of we honor the men who have taken on the the American people. great joy and responsibility of fatherhood, The 20th century will be remembered as and we celebrate their extraordinary impact the deadliest century in human history. And and influence. All Americans are especially the record of this brutal era is commemo- grateful to the many fathers who are serving rated in memorials across this city. Yet, until their country as members of the Armed now, our Nation’s Capital had no monument Forces, and we lift them and their loved ones to the victims of imperial communism, an up in prayer. ideology that took the lives of an estimated Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, 100 million innocent men, women, and chil- President of the United States of America, dren. So it’s fitting that we gather to remem- in accordance with a joint resolution of the ber those who perished at communism’s Congress approved April 24, 1972, as amend- hands and dedicate this memorial that will
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 794 June 12 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2007
enshrine their suffering and sacrifice in the Miskito Indians murdered by Nicaragua’s conscience of the world. Sandinista dictatorship; and Cuban balseros Building this memorial took more than a who drowned escaping tyranny. We’ll never decade of effort, and its presence in our Cap- know the names of all who perished, but at ital is a testament to the passion and deter- this sacred place, communism’s unknown mination of two distinguished Americans: victims will be consecrated to history and re- Lev Dobriansky, whose daughter Paula is membered forever. here—give your dad our best—and Dr. Lee We dedicate this memorial because we Edwards. They faced setbacks and challenges have an obligation to those who died to ac- along the way, yet they never gave up, be- knowledge their lives and honor their mem- cause in their hearts, they heard the voices ory. The Czech writer Milan Kundera once of the fallen crying out: ‘‘Remember us.’’ described the struggle against communism as These voices cry out to all, and they’re le- ‘‘the struggle of memory against forgetting.’’ gion. The sheer numbers of those killed in Communist regimes did more than take their communism’s name are staggering, so large victims’ lives; they sought to steal their hu- that a precise count is impossible. According manity and erase their memory. With this to the best scholarly estimate, communism memorial, we restore their humanity and we took the lives of tens of millions of people reclaim their memory. With this memorial, in China and the Soviet Union and millions we say of communism’s innocent and anony- more in North Korea, Cambodia, Africa, Af- mous victims, ‘‘These men and women lived, ghanistan, Vietnam, Eastern Europe, and and they shall not be forgotten.’’ other parts of the globe. We dedicate this memorial because we Behind these numbers are human stories have an obligation to future generations to of individuals with families and dreams record the crimes of the 20th century and whose lives were cut short by men in pursuit ensure they’re never repeated. In this hal- of totalitarian power. Some of communism’s lowed place we recall the great lessons of victims are well-known. They include a the cold war: that freedom is precious and Swedish diplomat named Raoul Wallenberg, cannot be taken for granted; that evil is real who saved 100,000 Jews from the Nazis, only and must be confronted; and that given the to be arrested on Stalin’s orders and sent to chance, men commanded by harsh and hate- Moscow’s Lubyanka Prison, where he dis- ful ideologies will commit unspeakable appeared without a trace. They include a Pol- crimes and take the lives of millions. ish priest named Father Popieluszko, who It’s important that we recall these lessons made his Warsaw church a sanctuary for the because the evil and hatred that inspired the Solidarity underground, and was kidnaped death of tens of millions of people in the 20th and beaten and drowned in the Vitsula by century is still at work in the world. We saw the secret police. its face on September the 11th, 2001. Like The sacrifices of these individuals haunt the Communists, the terrorists and radicals history, and behind them are millions more who attacked our Nation are followers of a who were killed in anonymity by com- murderous ideology that despises freedom, munism’s brutal hand. They include innocent crushes all dissent, has expansionist ambi- Ukrainians starved to death in Stalin’s Great tions, and pursues totalitarian aims. Like the Famine; or Russians killed in Stalin’s purges; Communists, our new enemies believe the Lithuanians and Latvians and Estonians load- innocent can be murdered to serve a radical ed onto cattle cars and deported to Arctic vision. Like the Communists, our new en- death camps of Soviet communism. They in- emies are dismissive of free peoples, claiming clude Chinese killed in the Great Leap For- that those of us who live in liberty are weak ward and the Cultural Revolution; Cam- and lack the resolve to defend our free way bodians slain in Pol Pot’s Killing Fields; East of life. And like the Communists, the fol- Germans shot attempting to scale the Berlin lowers of violent Islamic radicalism are Wall in order to make it to freedom; Poles doomed to fail. By remaining steadfast in massacred in the Katyn Forest; and Ethio- freedom’s cause, we will ensure that a future pians slaughtered in the ‘‘Red Terror’’; American President does not have to stand
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 Administration of George W. Bush, 2007 / June 12 795
in a place like this and dedicate a memorial Remarks Following a Meeting With to the millions killed by the radicals and ex- the Republican Senate Policy tremists of the 21st century. Committee We can have confidence in the power of freedom because we’ve seen freedom over- June 12, 2007 come tyranny and terror before. Dr. Edwards I just had a good exchange with my fellow said President Reagan went to Berlin. He Republicans. We talked about a lot of issues. was clear in his statement. He said, ‘‘Tear I briefed them on my trip to Europe. We down the wall,’’ and 2 years later the wall talked about—they were very interested in fell. And millions across Central and Eastern the Ahtisaari plan for Kosovo. They were in- Europe were liberated from unspeakable op- terested in my conversations with Vladimir pression. It’s appropriate that on the anniver- Putin on missile defense. We talked about sary of that speech, that we dedicate a monu- the energy bill. We talked about the appro- ment that reflects our confidence in free- priations process dom’s power. The men and women who designed this And we talked about immigration. Some memorial could have chosen an image of re- Members in there believe that we need to pression for this space, a replica of the wall move a comprehensive bill; some don’t. I un- that once divided Berlin, or the frozen bar- derstand that. This is a highly emotional racks of the Gulag, or a killing field littered issue, but those of us standing here believe with skulls. Instead, they chose an image of now is the time to move a comprehensive hope, a woman holding a lamp of liberty. She bill that enforces our borders and has good reminds us of the victims of communism and workplace enforcement, that doesn’t grant also of the power that overcame communism. automatic citizenship, that addresses this Like our Statue of Liberty, she reminds problem in a comprehensive way. us that the flame for freedom burns in every human heart, and that it is a light that cannot I would hope that the Senate majority be extinguished by the brutality of terrorists leader has that same sense of desire to move or tyrants. And she reminds us that when the product that I do—or the bill that I do an ideology kills tens of millions of people and these Senators do because now is the and still ends up being vanquished, it is con- time to get it done. It’s going to take a lot tending with a power greater than death. She of hard work, a lot of effort. We’ve got to reminds us that freedom is the gift of our convince the American people that this bill Creator, freedom is the birthright of all hu- is the best way to enforce our border. I be- manity, and in the end, freedom will prevail. lieve without the bill, that it’s going to be I thank each of you who made this memo- harder to enforce the border. The status quo rial possible for your service in freedom’s was unacceptable. And I want to thank those cause. I thank you for your devotion to the Senators on both sides of the aisle who un- memory of those who lost their lives to Com- derstand the time is now to move a com- munist terror. May the victims of com- prehensive piece of legislation. The White munism rest in peace. May those who con- House will stay engaged. tinue to suffer under communism find their Thank you very much. freedom. And may the God who gave us lib- erty bless this great memorial and all who come to visit her. NOTE: The President spoke at 1:54 p.m. at the U.S. Capitol. In his remarks, he referred to former God bless. President Martti Ahtisaari of Finland, United Na- tions Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for NOTE: The President spoke at 10:35 a.m. In his the Future Status Process of Kosovo; and Presi- remarks, he referred to Lee Edwards, vice chair- dent Vladimir Putin of Russia. The Office of the man, and Lev E. Dobriansky, chairman emeritus, Press Secretary also released a Spanish language Victims of Communism Memorial Foundation. transcript of these remarks.
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 796 June 13 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2007
Memorandum on Assignment of I appreciate the fact that you’re meeting Certain Reporting Functions of the to join in prayer and to seek a common direc- John Warner National Defense tion for the ministry of Southern Baptist Authorization Act for Fiscal Year churches. I thank you for your Christian wit- 2007 ness; I thank you for your defense of religious liberty; and I appreciate your many good June 12, 2007 works that make our Nation a stronger and Memorandum for the Secretary of State, more hopeful place. See, every day Southern Secretary of Defense, and the Director of Baptists are giving back to their communities National Intelligence and ministering to those in need. And you made our Nation stronger as a result. Subject: Assignment of Certain Reporting You have contributed millions of dollars Functions of the John Warner National to fight world hunger and logged countless Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year hours in disaster relief and rebuilding. You’ve 2007 provided training to lift people out of poverty By virtue of the authority vested in me as and dependency, and you’ve spread the Gos- President by the Constitution and the laws pel. You’ve loved your neighbors as your- of the United States, including section 301 selves. In other words, you’ve made a great of title 3, United States Code, I hereby assign contribution to our country. And I appreciate to the Secretary of State the functions of the that. President under sections 1211(b), 1213(b), I also appreciate the fact that Southern and 1226(c) of the John Warner National De- Baptists are supporting our brave men and fense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2007 women in uniform and their families. I know (Public Law 109–364). you pray for their safety as they defend our In the performance of such functions, the people and extend the hope of freedom to Secretary of State should coordinate with the the oppressed across the globe. I appreciate Secretary of Defense and the Director of Na- the fact you’ve sent care packages and tend tional Intelligence, and the heads of other to the spiritual needs as military chaplains departments and agencies, as appropriate. or kneel in prayer. I thank you as you support The Secretary of State is authorized and those who volunteer to serve our Nation. directed to publish this memorandum in the Just like our troops, you have the gratitude Federal Register. of the Commander in Chief as we do the hard work necessary to defend our country George W. Bush and, at the same time, lay the foundation of NOTE: This memorandum was released by the Of- peace. fice of the Press Secretary on June 13. I appreciate the fact that Southern Baptists understand the importance of fair-minded and impartial judges to our democracy. I was Satellite Remarks to the Southern proud to nominate John Roberts and Sam Baptist Convention Annual Meeting Alito to the Supreme Court. And I will con- June 13, 2007 tinue to nominate good judges who will inter- pret the law and not legislate from the bench. Thank you all very much. Thanks for the Southern Baptists have committed to warm welcome, Frank, and thanks for your building a culture of life, and my administra- kind introduction. I really appreciate you giv- tion shares that great goal. Since taking of- ing me a chance to speak to the annual meet- fice, I’ve signed the Born Alive Infants Pro- ing of the Southern Baptist Convention, right tection Act and the Unborn Victims of Vio- there in my home State of Texas. I appreciate lence Act, also known as Lacy and Connor’s the fact that messengers from all over the Law. I’ve refused to fund programs overseas Nation have gathered in San Antonio this that promote or perform abortions. I used week. You could have chosen a cooler time my first veto on a bill that would have com- of the year to visit, but I’m sure you’ll still pelled American taxpayers to support the de- experience our famous Texas hospitality. liberate destruction of human embryos. And
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 Administration of George W. Bush, 2007 / June 13 797
I will veto any bill Congress sends me that because I firmly believe, like Southern Bap- violates the sanctity of human life. tists believe who are working to raise aware- I worked with Congress to pass the Partial ness about the suffering that takes place in Birth Abortion Ban Act, and since I spoke the world, that to whom much is given much to you last year, the Supreme Court upheld is required. And by dealing with disease, in- this vital law. fectious diseases, we can make the world a I believe building a culture of life in our better place, and that helps us here at home. country also means promoting adoption and I also believe it helps lift our soul and lifts teaching teen abstinence, funding crisis preg- our spirits when we help those who suffer nancy programs, and supporting the work of among us. And that’s why I strongly support faith-based groups. In defending the lives of what you’re doing and helping to do in the the weakest and the most vulnerable mem- Darfur region of Sudan. I appreciate the fact bers of our society, we reflect the compassion that my friend Richard Land is working tire- and humanity of America. And we will con- lessly to help those suffering in that troubled tinue to work toward the day when every nation. child is welcomed in life and protected in For too long, the people of Darfur have law. suffered at the hands of a government that I thank the Southern Baptists who are is complicit in the bombing, rape, and mur- working to promote a culture of life abroad der of innocent civilians. The world has a re- by helping lead the fight against malaria and sponsibility to end this genocide and to hold HIV/AIDS. Southern Baptists run hospitals accountable those perpetuating the violence. and provide medical care to many suffering And America has taken the lead. So 2 weeks from malaria and HIV/AIDS across Africa. ago, I announced new actions to address this In Uganda, Southern Baptists sponsor an ab- persecution. The Department of Treasury is stinence program called True Love Waits. tightening existing economic sanctions And thanks to efforts like yours, Uganda has made progress against HIV/AIDS. And now against Sudan, and we’re imposing additional you’re building on the success by expanding ones. Secretary Rice is working with our al- this important program to six more countries lies to draft a new U.N. Security Council res- in Africa. olution that will seek to impose new sanc- My administration shares your sense of ur- tions, expand an arms embargo, and prohibit gency in the fight against these terrible dis- Sudan’s Government from conducting offen- eases. And that’s why we created a $1.2 bil- sive military flights over Darfur. lion malaria initiative to provide protection The people of Darfur are crying out for to people in some of the most heavily af- our help, and the Southern Baptists and the fected countries in Africa. So far we have United States will not turn away because we helped more than 10 million Africans, and believe that what matters overseas matters we expect to reach a total of 30 million peo- here at home. ple by the end of 2007. God has blessed our Nation with pros- We’re also combating the spread of HIV/ perity and great abundance. And I firmly be- AIDS. In 2003, my administration launched lieve, like you, that we should use our re- a $15 billion Emergency Plan for AIDS Re- sources to help those that need here at home, lief. And thanks to the generosity of the and help those who need abroad. American people and support in Congress, And this is a central part of the work of we have supported lifesaving treatment for the Southern Baptist Convention. You’re ris- 1.1 million people infected with HIV in some ing to meet the challenges of broken souls of the poorest nations on Earth. in a broken world with compassion and cour- This program makes a huge difference in age. You’re living out the call to spread the saving lives. And so, last month, I asked Con- Gospel and proclaim the Kingdom of God. gress to double our initial commitment and And I thank you for your leadership, and I provide an additional $30 billion for HIV/ thank you for the prayers that you offer to AIDS prevention, treatment, and care over Laura and me. And I thank you for your the next 5 years. And the reason why is, is strong voice in the public square.
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 798 June 13 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2007
May God bless you, and may God bless Statement on the Bombing of the America. Thank you. Al-Askari Mosque in Samarra, Iraq June 13, 2007 NOTE: The President spoke by satellite at 11:43 a.m. from the Map Room at the White House I condemn in the strongest terms today’s to the convention meeting in San Antonio, TX. terrorist attack on the Al-Askari Mosque in In his remarks, he referred to Frank S. Page, Samarra. This barbarous act was clearly president, Southern Baptist Convention; and aimed at inflaming sectarian tensions among Richard Land, president, Southern Baptist Con- the peoples of Iraq and defeating their aspi- vention’s Ethics and Religious Liberty Commis- rations for a secure, democratic, and pros- sion. perous country. I join Iraq’s leaders in calling on all Iraqis to refrain from acts of vengeance Remarks Announcing the and reject Al Qaida’s scheme to sow hatred Appointment of Edward W. Gillespie among the Iraqi people and to instead join as White House Counselor to the together in fighting Al Qaida as the true enemy of a free and secure Iraq. President At the Prime Minister’s request, the coali- June 13, 2007 tion has dispatched a rapid reaction force to Samarra to assist Iraqi forces in guarding the When Dan told me that he was going to mosque and restoring calm and security to leave the White House so he could spend the area. The United States also stands ready more time with his three young children and to help the Iraqi people rebuild and restore his wife, I never thought I’d be able to find this holy shrine. I call upon the international somebody that could possibly do as good a community and Iraq’s neighbors to do every- job as he has done. I’m fortunate that Ed thing in their power to help Iraq’s Govern- Gillespie has agreed to join the administra- ment and people combat the terrorists, espe- tion. He is a seasoned hand who has got ex- cially in stopping the flow of foreign terrorists cellent judgment. He’s a good strategic think- into Iraq. Those responsible for this outrage er that I know will do a fine job. must be found and brought to justice. The We’re going to miss Dan. He’s been a United States stands by the Iraqi people in friend of mine for—gosh, since 1993, but I this difficult moment and remains fully com- fully understand why a young dad needs to mitted to helping all Iraqis realize their be with his family. And I admire the fact that dreams of a peaceful future. he has set such an important priority. And I also—thank you for your service. NOTE: In his statement, the President referred And I also thank Ed for agreeing to come to Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki of Iraq. over here to the White House. We’ve got a lot to do. We’ve got to continue laying the foundation for peace. We’ve got an immigra- Statement on the Death of tion bill that will help enforce our borders. Parliament Member Walid Eido of We’ve got an energy bill that we need to get Lebanon out that will make us less dependent on for- eign oil. And we’ve got to remind the Con- June 13, 2007 gress that they need to be fiscally wise with I strongly condemn today’s assassination of the people’s money; that we can balance this Lebanese Member of Parliament Walid budget of ours without raising taxes. Eido, who was murdered along with his son, And so, Ed, I’m looking forward to work- two bodyguards, and a number of others. ing with you. I thank you for your service. There has been a clear pattern of assas- And, Bartlett, good luck to you, brother. sinations and attempted assassinations in Thank you. Lebanon since October 2004. Those working for a sovereign and democratic Lebanon have NOTE: The President spoke at 12:43 p.m. in the always been the ones targeted. The victims Oval Office at the White House. have always been those who sought an end
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 Administration of George W. Bush, 2007 / June 13 799
to Syrian President Asad’s interference in the Federal Government is essential in help- Lebanon’s internal affairs. ing to keep guns out of the wrong hands and The United States will continue to stand to punish those who break the law. up for Lebanon, its people, and its legitimate I thank Secretaries Leavitt and Spellings Government as they face these attacks. The and Attorney General Gonzales for their fine special tribunal for Lebanon must be allowed work on this important report. to do its work so that those behind the assas- With the findings in this report in mind, sination of former Prime Minister Hariri and I am closely following legislative efforts to related crimes can be brought to justice. The strengthen the instant background check sys- assault on Lebanese state institutions by ter- tem. I look forward to working with Congress rorists and armed extremists, cross-border on this effort. arms trafficking, and efforts by the regimes in Damascus and Tehran to foment insta- bility in Lebanon must stop now. Remarks at the President’s Dinner We ask for the international community to support the Lebanese Government as it June 13, 2007 investigates this latest assault on its democ- Thank you all. It’s good to be with you. racy. The perpetrators of these political as- Thank you for your warm welcome. Appre- sassinations must be brought to justice, and ciate it. Thank you. Please be seated. I re- we all have an obligation to help the Govern- member back in 1997, when Corker hosted ment of Lebanon identify, investigate, and a deal for me. I was Governor, and he looked prosecute these killers. at me, and he said, ‘‘I don’t think you’ll ever be President.’’ Of course, I looked at him Statement on the ‘‘Report to the and said, ‘‘I don’t think you’ll ever be Sen- President on Issues Raised by the ator.’’ [Laughter] But I appreciate you, Bob. Virginia Tech Tragedy’’ Thank you for your strong friendship, and thanks for running and winning in the great June 13, 2007 State of Tennessee. Shortly after the tragic shootings at Vir- I’m proud to be with you. We have a goal, ginia Tech, I directed Secretary Michael and that is to retake the House, retake the Leavitt, Secretary Margaret Spellings, and Senate, and keep the White House in 2008. Attorney General Alberto Gonzales to exam- And I appreciate you joining us tonight to ine the broad and complex issues raised by see that that goal becomes reality. this tragedy. I asked them to determine how I’m sorry Laura is not here. She is a patient the Federal Government could best help to woman. She’s also a fabulous First Lady. I support State and local efforts to ensure that appreciate the members of my Cabinet our communities, including college cam- who’ve joined us tonight. puses, are safe. They responded quickly, trav- I want to thank my friend Senator Mitch eling to a dozen States to hear from Gov- McConnell. The country will be better off ernors, law enforcement officials, mental with Mitch McConnell as leader of the health professionals, educators, and other United States Senate. And I thank John State and local officials. Boehner, the House Republican leader. And They learned a great deal and today pre- the country would be better off if he’s the sented me with their key findings. I look for- Speaker of the House of Representatives. ward to reviewing their recommendations in I thank John Ensign—Senator Ensign more detail, but a few points are immediately from Nevada; Tom Cole from Oklahoma. clear: Information sharing among the health They’re the chairmen of the NRSC and care, law enforcement, and education com- NRCC. Their job is to field the candidates munities must improve; those groups must that are going to enable us to achieve our better understand the Federal laws related goal. Your job has been to make sure they to information sharing; and accurate, com- got enough money to run. And I thank you plete information sharing between States and for coming, and so do they.
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 800 June 13 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2007
I want to thank my friend Congressman humanity. They have a desire to spread their Roy Blunt, who is the cochairman of this din- ideology as far and wide as possible to rees- ner, and he’s here tonight with his wife, tablish what they call a caliphate. And they’re Abbey. I thank Congressman Joe Wilson willing to use murder as the tool to achieve from South Carolina. He is the other cochair- their objective. You cannot reason with these man. He’s here with Roxanne. Thank you all people; you cannot negotiate with these peo- for working hard to make sure this dinner ple. The only way to protect America is, de- is a tremendous success. feat them overseas so we do not have to face I appreciate the chairman of the Repub- them here at home. lican Party, the general chairman, Mel Mar- And that’s exactly the strategy we’ve been tinez—Senator Mel Martinez from the State keeping on. We’ve reformed our intelligence of California [Florida] * and his wife, Kitty. services to make sure we can find the enemy I thank Mike Duncan, chairman of the RNC. before they strike. We believe we ought to Their job is to make sure the Republican deny safe haven so they can’t plan and plot Party welcomes people from all walks of life again. We believe that we must take threats who believe in less government, strong de- seriously before they fully materialize. fense, and low taxes. This country of ours is now engaged in a I thank you all for being up here tonight, global war against these extremists and radi- and thanks for your leadership on this dinner. cals. It’s a war that will define the 21st cen- The only way to call this dinner is an unquali- tury. We’re fighting them in Afghanistan, and fied success. I appreciate very much the en- we’re fighting them in Iraq, and we’re fight- tertainment that’s been here. I thank all the ing them wherever we can find them. Members of the United States Congress who I had a tough call to make, and that’s what have joined us and the United States Senate. Presidents do—they make decisions. In Iraq, I want to talk about two subjects tonight. I saw a threat to the United States of Amer- I want to talk about how we keep the peace ica. After all, that country was run by an and defend this country, and I want to talk enemy of the United States; the dictator had about prosperity. used weapons of mass destruction; he had First, let me talk about the fact that this been paying families of suicide bombers; they Nation is at war. I wish I could report to had harbored terrorists. He was a threat. you we were not at war, but we are. And The President has always got to try diplo- the most important job of this government macy before the use of military force. That’s is to protect the United States from further precisely what I did. I went to the United attack. Nations, where we received a unanimous My thinking about the world changed on United Nations Security Council resolution September the 11th, 2001. After the enemy that said clearly to the dictator in Iraq, dis- attacked us and killed nearly 3,000 innocent arm, or face serious consequences. The civilians, I vowed that for however long I was choice was his. He chose to ignore the de- President, I would rally this Nation and use mands of the free world. I decided to remove our resources to protect you. And that’s ex- Saddam Hussein, and the world is better off actly what we have done. without Saddam Hussein in power. The danger has not passed. And it’s—our And now the task at hand is to help this job here in Washington, DC, is to always re- young democracy stabilize so it can become member, always remember, the nature of the an ally in the war on terror. And it’s hard enemy we face. These people are ideologi- work, but I believe it’s necessary work. I be- cally driven people. They have a vision as lieve it is necessary to the security of the to how government should work. They don’t United States that we help the Iraqi Govern- believe in dissent. They don’t believe in free- ment succeed. dom of religion. They don’t believe people It is interesting that David Petraeus, our should be able to express themselves in the commander on the ground, has declared that public square. They have a dark vision for Al Qaida is the number-one enemy to the people of Iraq. Well, Al Qaida also happens * White House correction. to be the number-one enemy to the people
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 Administration of George W. Bush, 2007 / June 13 801
of the United States. And what does that tell to the enemy and defeat them where we find you? It tells you that you’ve got to succeed. them. In the long term, the way to defeat So last fall I had a decision to make: Do an ideology of hate is with an ideology of we allow the sectarian violence that Al Qaida hope. And there’s no more hopeful ideology had started as a result of the bombing of reli- than an ideology based upon freedom. I be- gious sites to get out of control and perhaps lieve in the universality of freedom. I believe spill out across the countryside and the re- there’s an Almighty, and a great gift of the gion, or do you do what’s necessary to help Almighty to each man and woman and child give this Government a chance to succeed? on the face of the Earth is freedom. And After listening to the military commanders, I think it’s in the interests of the United I made a tough decision. And the decision States to spread freedom far and wide across was not withdraw, but instead reinforce- the globe. ments. And the reinforcements are headed In the early years of my Presidency, one in. As a matter of fact, I talked to General of my best friends in the diplomatic arena David Petraeus today. The final troops have was Prime Minister Koizumi of Japan. I’ve just arrived—some progress and some set- now established a close working relationship backs. with his successor, Prime Minister Abe. The But in the face of this horror on our TV reason I tell you this is because the lessons screens, perpetuated by murderous of two George Bushes relative to the Japa- ideologues who are willing to kill the inno- nese gives me great hope in the ability for cent to achieve their objectives, I want you us to succeed in laying a foundation for to remember that when given a chance, 12 peace. million Iraqis voted for a free country. This You see, young Ensign Bush was called Government of theirs has got to make more into action against the Japanese during progress on benchmarks, but I believe it’s World War II. They were the bitter enemy in the interest of the United States to help of the United States of America. We fought them. a bloody war with the Japanese. And yet I’m going to tell you what will happen if some 60 years later, his son sits at the table we don’t. This enemy that attacked us on talking about how we can—with the Japa- September the 11th will become nese—talking about how we can spread de- emboldened. They create chaos in order to mocracy to achieve peace. We sit at the table confuse the civilized world and to take advan- talking about making sure that the leader of tage of security vacuums. That chaos gets North Korea doesn’t get a nuclear weapon. spread throughout Iraq and in the region, We talk about peace in the world. thereby emboldening countries like Iran. Isn’t it interesting? My dad fought the Jap- They could gain safe—new safe havens, for anese; I’m making peace with the Japanese. which they have announced they’re intending Something happened. What happened was, to do, from which to attack America. liberty took hold in Japan. Liberty has the Fifty years from now, people will look back capacity to convert enemies into allies. Lib- and say, ‘‘How come they couldn’t see the erty has the capacity to yield the peace we impending threat? How come the United all want for generations of Americans to States of America forgot the lessons of Sep- come. tember the 11th? Why weren’t they willing And I believe if our candidates take the to do the hard work necessary to help this message of doing what is necessary to protect young democracy survive?’’ I believe the the American people and take the message, work we’re doing is necessary. I believe we the hopeful message of helping others realize will succeed. And I believe generations from the blessings of liberty, that we will retake now, Americans will realize the cause was the House and retake the Senate and hold just and necessary for our own security. [Ap- the White House in 2008. plause] Thank you all. Ours is a party that believes that we ought We have done this kind of work before. to trust individuals to make the proper deci- We have been in ideological struggles. Our sions for their families. See, we trust you. strategy is, in the short term, to take the fight The other bunch trusts government to make
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00029 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 802 June 13 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2007
the decisions for you and your families. And up 8 percent. Yet last year, as you might re- there’s no better way to determine that trust member, we cut discretionary spending. In than looking at our fiscal policies here in other words, we believe the best way to bal- Washington, DC. ance the budget is to keep the economy It wasn’t all that long ago that the country strong by keeping taxes low and by being was in a recession. We had corporate scan- wise about how we spend your money. The dals which affected our economy, and we had deficit has been reduced ahead of schedule, to recover from a September the 11th attack. and I believe that by working together with And yet, because the United States Congress the Congress, we can totally eliminate the worked closely with the President, we cut deficit within 5 years. taxes on everybody who paid taxes. We’re not I met with the leadership of the Congress one of these parties that says, we’ll play favor- today. We had a good discussion about ites in the Tax Codes. We said, if you pay spending, and I told them I submitted a top taxes, you ought to pay less taxes because line for the budget that I believe is necessary we trust you with your money, and we also so we can be fiscally sound here in the understand that if you have more money in United States. And if the Democrats want your pocket to save, spend, or invest, the to test us, that’s why they give the President economy will grow. the veto. I’m looking forward to vetoing ex- And our plan worked. America has created cessive spending, and I’m looking forward to more than 8 million jobs in the past 4 years. having the United States Congress support The unemployment rate is low. Inflation is my veto. low. Real wages are rising. The entrepre- My point to you is, we got a solid record neurial spirit is strong. Our economy is when it comes to protecting the United strong, thanks to the leadership of the Re- States of America, and we got a solid record publicans in the United States Congress. when it comes to growing this economy. And And now the fundamental question is, are we going to keep taxes low? If you look at in most elections, you can win elections the budget carefully that the Democrats pro- based upon strong national defense and good posed, they want to return to the days of economic policy. And that’s precisely what spending a lot and taxing you to make sure we’re going to bring to the voters in 2008. that they can do so. Oh, they may try to run We also bring one other thing to the vot- from that idea, but if you look at the budget ers: We understand that many of our Nation’s they submitted, their blueprint for how we problems cannot be solved by government ought to go forward, you can’t escape the but can be solved by loving citizens who have fact that they’re going to run up your taxes. heard the call to love a neighbor just like And if our candidates remind the American you’d like to be loved yourself. We believe voter that tax cuts have worked, that the strongly in the power of individuals to help economy is strong as a result of the tax cuts, improve our society one heart, one soul at and instead of raising taxes, we ought to make a time. We believe strongly that we ought the tax cuts permanent, we will retake the not fear faith in our society, but we ought House, retake the Senate, and hold the to welcome faith-based organizations into White House in 2008. solving some of the difficult problems our And here in Washington, you’ll hear them society faces. say, no, you’ve got to balance the budget by We believe in human life and human dig- raising taxes. That’s not the way it works nity. We believe to whom much is given, here. They’ll raise your taxes, but they won’t much is required. We believe in principles, balance the budget. They’ll raise the taxes not polls or focus groups. We believe in doing and figure out new ways to spend your what’s right for America. We believe that the money. best days lay ahead for our country. And I Our candidates need to travel the country believe that we’re going to succeed in 2008, and remind them about our record when it and I want to thank you for your support. comes to reducing the deficit. This year, May God bless you, and may God bless Treasury recently reported that revenues are America.
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00030 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 Administration of George W. Bush, 2007 / June 14 803
NOTE: The President spoke at 7:14 p.m. at the have an interest and responsibility in pro- Washington Convention Center. In his remarks, tecting those rights and freedoms. he referred to Chairman Kim Jong Il of North Korea. George W. Bush
NOTE: This memorandum and its attached annex Memorandum on Maritime Security were released by the Office of the Press Secretary (Piracy) Policy on June 14. June 13, 2007 Remarks Following a Meeting With Memorandum for the Vice President, the Military Leaders Secretary of State, the Secretary of the June 14, 2007 Treasury, the Secretary of Defense, the Attorney General, the Secretary of It’s been my honor to receive General Commerce, the Secretary of Transportation, Dempsey and his wife here to the Oval Of- the Secretary of Energy, the Secretary of fice to thank both of them for their service Homeland Security, Assistant to the to the country. General Dempsey has just President and Chief of Staff, Director of the come out of Iraq, where he is working with Office of Management and Budget, Director the Iraqi troops to prepare for—to prepare of National Intelligence, Assistant to the them for the day when they will be respon- President for National Security Affairs, sible for the security of their country. He ex- Counsel to the President, Assistant to the plained to me the progress that has been President for Homeland Security and made over the years that he has been there. Counterterrorism, Director of the Central Obviously, we have still more work to do. Intelligence Agency, Chairman of the Joint But I—my main purpose of inviting the Chiefs of Staff, Director of the Federal general here is to hear his summary, but to Bureau of Investigation, and Director, thank him. It’s an extraordinary country National Counterterrorism Center where people volunteer to go into combat zones to protect the security of the United Subject: Maritime Security (Piracy) Policy States of America. No more important mis- The attached Policy for the Repression of sion for our military than Iraq and Afghani- Piracy and Other Criminal Acts of Violence stan. at Sea (Piracy Policy) is approved for imme- And General Dempsey and his family have diate implementation, consistent with appli- been very much involved in this war on ter- cable law and subject to the availability of ror. And we appreciate you and thank you appropriations. The policy shall be appended and wish you all the best in your next assign- to the National Strategy for Maritime Secu- ment. rity as Annex B. Thanks for being here. This policy responds to the emergence of high-risk maritime areas that threaten U.S. NOTE: The President spoke at 10:22 a.m. in the interests. Recent instances of piracy have Oval Office at the White House. Participating in highlighted the need for this policy in order the meeting were Vice President Dick Cheney; Gen. Peter Pace, USMC, Chairman, Joint Chiefs to coordinate U.S. Government response and of Staff; and Lt. Gen. Martin E. Dempsey, USA, to promote international solutions. This pol- former commander, Multi-National Security icy advances our commitment to cooperate Transition Command—Iraq, and his wife, Deanie. with other states, regional and international organizations, and the maritime industry in order to counter this threat. The United Remarks to the Associated Builders States has long been a leader in the protec- and Contractors tion of navigational rights and freedoms. Our June 14, 2007 objectives consistently have been to promote and facilitate peaceful international uses of Thank you all. Thank you. Thanks for com- the oceans. We recognize that all nations ing. I’m proud to be with you; glad to be
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00031 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 804 June 14 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2007
back with the Associated Builders and Con- I’m grateful. The role of government is to tractors. I appreciate your organization. I make your jobs easier, not harder. It makes didn’t realize you were founded in 1950, sense to encourage entrepreneurship. about the same time a piano nearly fell And that begins with tax policy. I believe through the roof at the White House— if you have more money in your pocket, [laughter]—thereby causing Harry Truman you’re more likely to buy a piece of equip- to decide to renovate it. And for that, Laura ment or hire a new worker. I think the best and I are very grateful. [Laughter] way to overcome economic difficulties that I am grateful for your organization as well. we’ve had in the past is to cut the taxes on I thank you for being builders, doers, and everybody who pays taxes. That requires fun- dreamers. I thank you for being people who damental trust, for those of us in govern- are willing to take risk to help build our Na- ment, in your capacity to spend your money tion and, at the same time, employ people. better than the government can spend it. But I want to talk to you today about how to keep that’s what I believe. the entrepreneurial spirit strong, how to keep And I also believe that with more money this economy growing, and our need to pro- in circulation in private hands, it encourages tect the American people from harm. And small-business growth and activity and com- I appreciate you giving me a chance to come merce. And that’s why we cut taxes not only and do so. on people with children and people who are David Meyer, thank you, and I thank your married, but we cut taxes on small busi- board for inviting me. Joining us today is one nesses. As a matter of fact, I thought it was of my finest Secretaries, Secretary Carlos fair to cut taxes on everybody who pays taxes, Gutierrez, Secretary of the Department of not to say, ‘‘Okay, well, this group pays, and Commerce. I appreciate you coming, Carlos, you get a tax cut, but this group pays, and and thank you for being here. Carlos was you don’t get a tax cut.’’ That’s not good tax born in Cuba. His folks decided that it would be best that he and they come to a free soci- policy, as far as I’m concerned. ety. He rose to become the CEO of a major We put the—cut taxes on dividends and U.S. corporation, and now he sits in the Cabi- capital gains to encourage investment. We net of the United States of America. That’s put the death tax on the road to extinction. what the American Dream is all about, and I say, ‘‘on the road to extinction’’; it’s not to- it’s in this Nation’s interest to preserve tally extinct. And I would hope that you dreams. would prioritize getting rid of the death tax I want to thank Congressman Todd Platts as part of your legislative agendas for not only from Pennsylvania for joining us. Todd— this year but next year and the years to come, there you are. How you doing, Todd? Thanks to make sure that we get rid of the death for being here; honored you’re here. His tax once and for all. It would be good for mother is a manufacturer. She manufactures our farmers and small-business owners. I peanut fudge, and Platts always brings me don’t think you ought to be taxed twice, once some of it. [Laughter] I can’t ride enough when you’re living and once when you die. mountain bikes to—[laughter]. Give her my [Laughter] best. There is a lot of political debate in Wash- Thanks for letting me come by. I love en- ington about tax cuts, if you can imagine. trepreneurs, and I like to be with them. En- Some would rather have your money to in- trepreneurs are folks that really work hard. crease the size of government. Others, like Nothing more exciting than having your own me, say, ‘‘Well, we got plenty of money. You business. I’m sure some of you probably won- ought to have more money.’’ I just want to dered growing up whether it’d be possible, point out the facts. Since we enacted major whether you’d be able to have the ingenuity tax relief in 2003, in the face of recession and the capacity to say, ‘‘This is my business.’’ and corporate scandals and attacks, our econ- But you’ve obviously overcome the difficult omy has added more than 8 million new jobs hurdles that face small-business owners and in 45 months of uninterrupted job growth. businessowners, and you’re succeeding. And Unemployment is low. Inflation is down. The
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00032 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 Administration of George W. Bush, 2007 / June 14 805
entrepreneurial spirit is strong. Small busi- cerns. I also understand your concerns about nesses are growing. This economy is good, these junk lawsuits. The country needs to and the way to keep it good and to keep it make sure we put an end to junk lawsuits strong is to make the tax cuts we passed per- that threaten job providers and job creators manent. such as yourself. You’ll hear people say, ‘‘No, we can’t do You know, I just returned this week from that because we must balance the budget.’’ Poland—Gdansk, Poland. We had a great Now really, I’ve been around here long trip, by the way. And it was really fantastic enough to know how it works in Washington, to represent the United States of America and that is—they’ll say, ‘‘Well, we’re going overseas. We’re such a beacon of hope and to raise your taxes. Don’t worry, we’re just a beacon of liberty. And anyway, we just only going to tax the rich.’’ Well, first of all, came—and that’s a city, by the way, where it doesn’t work that way. You can’t raise trade union activists once risked and gave enough money on the so-called rich in order their lives for the right to elect their govern- to whet the appetite of some of the spenders ment freely under a secret ballot. [Laughter] here. [Laughter] And for the last 60 years in our country, And secondly, the money is not going to secret ballots have allowed workers to vote go to balance the budget. The money inevi- their conscience on whether to form a union tably goes to new programs, expanded gov- or remain unaffiliated. The House has ernment. The best way to balance the budg- passed, as you well know, and the Senate is et, in my judgment, is to keep taxes low, so considering what they call card check legisla- the economy grows, and be wise about how tion. It simply means that workers would be we spend your money. And our strategy is denied the right to have a secret ballot. The working. This just isn’t theory; it’s actually legislation would expose workers to intimida- working. This year, the Treasury Department tion. It violates the principle of our democ- reported that Federal revenues through May racy. And if it ever makes it to my desk, I’m are up 8 percent over the same period last going to veto it. year. In other words, a revenue stream is Supporting free enterprise also means growing because of economic activity. And building an immigration system that upholds because we worked with the Congress last our laws and keeps this economy strong. You year to hold down spending, the budget def- have made comprehensive immigration re- icit this year is about a third lower than it form one of your top legislative priorities, was at this time last year. and I thank you for your commitment on this And if we continue to be wise about how vital issue. And it is a vital issue. We have we spend the money and keep the economic worked—Carlos Gutierrez and Michael vitality alive, we can balance the budget by Chertoff, two members of my Cabinet, have 2012. Now this is going to take discipline worked very closely with others in my admin- here in Washington, DC. Sometimes this city istration, with Republicans and Democrats in may be short of fiscal discipline, but that’s the United States Senate to produce a bipar- why they give the President the veto. And tisan immigration bill. And it took a lot of I’m looking forward to working with the Con- work. It took many months of intense nego- gress to make sure that we’re wise about how tiations. And it represents the best hope for we spend your money. lasting reform. A couple of other issues I want to talk I was disappointed last week when the bill briefly about. Look, I understand the health was temporarily withdrawn by the Senate care issues you face. Health care needs to majority leader. Leaders of both parties since be affordable and available, no question. But then have expressed their commitment to re- we’ve got to make sure we do it without ask- solving the issues that led to the setback and ing the Federal Government to run the bring the bill back to the floor. And I appre- health care program. We want decisions ciate that commitment, and I urge them to made by providers and patients. do so as quickly as possible so Congress can I heard the word Dave said about regula- pass and I can sign, this year, comprehensive tion and redtape. I understand your con- immigration reform.
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00033 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 806 June 14 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2007
The need for reform is urgent. Our immi- system that works, all the issues must be ad- gration system has been broken for many dressed. years. Most Americans agree that the 1986 By moving forward with the bill in the Sen- immigration law failed; it didn’t work. It ate, we will make our border more secure. failed because it did not secure our border. In other words, if you’re worried about bor- It failed because it did not create a reliable der security, you ought to be supporting this system for employers to verify the legal status bill. For decades, we have not been in com- of their workers. And it encouraged more plete control of the border. I was honored people to come to America illegally. It didn’t to be the Governor of Texas. I know some- work, and it needs to be fixed. When you thing about a large border with Mexico— find something that doesn’t work, you have [laughter]—and we weren’t in control of that a responsibility to fix it. border. A lot of people then say, ‘‘Well, if The number of illegal immigrants in our you hadn’t been in control, do you have the country has continued to grow, and illegal capacity to secure the border?’’ You’ll hear immigration is now supported by criminal a lot of people here say, ‘‘Well, since you enterprises. In other words, there are people didn’t do it in the past, you can’t do it in who are preying on these folks that are com- the future.’’ In other words, people are wor- ing to do work that Americans aren’t doing. ried about that issue. You’ve got a whole system of coyotes; those The first step to comprehensive reform are smugglers, human smugglers taking ad- must be to enforce immigration laws at the vantage of a broken system. You’ve got docu- border and at worksites across the country. ment forgers—people wanting to work and The administration—our administration has they know they’ve got to have some papers, taken significant steps, by the way, to in- and there are people, a whole industry of crease border security and worksite enforce- people providing them with false documents. ment. Since I’ve took office, we’ve more than People are being exploited as a result of a doubled funding for border security. I mean, broken system, and this isn’t right. We can there’s a focused effort, by the way, to do do better. what many Americans want us to do, which I understand Americans are skeptical is to secure that border. We’ve expanded the about immigration reform. There’s a lot of number of Border Patrol agents from about people saying, ‘‘Well, there’s just no possible 9,000 to about 13,000. We’ve set our Nation way that they can achieve important objec- on the course to double the size of Border tives. After all, they tried in ’86, and it failed.’’ Patrol during my Presidency. In other words, People are—got a lot of emotions on this we’re going to add another 5,000 agents. issue. You probably hear it at the coffee I was in Artesia, New Mexico, to a border shops, talking about the issue. People are training center. I watched these good folks very emotional about immigration reform, prepare for this very important job. We’ve and people have got different perspectives increased the number of Immigration and on a course of action. Most say—many say Customs Enforcement agents—I’m sure you the most important issue is to secure the bor- understand what an ICE agent is—from der. Others say an important part of immigra- about 8,000 in 2002 to more than 11,000. tion reform is to find the workers they need In other words, on the enforcement side, to help a growing economy. Still others say we’ve made some serious efforts to do what that it’s important to resolve the status of 12 the American people expect us to do. million people already here illegally and help There used to be a problem with catch- immigrants assimilate into our society. and-release. Our Border Patrol agents would There’s varieties of opinions about this sub- find somebody trying to sneak into our coun- ject. try illegally. They would say, ‘‘We caught you; I believe that we must address all these now report back to the local immigration concerns in order to have an effective system, court so you can have your hearing,’’ because and that’s why I strongly support comprehen- there was no place to hold these good peo- sive immigration reform. And I appreciate ple—or these people. And guess what would you understanding that in order to have a happen? They’d head off into society and say,
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00034 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 Administration of George W. Bush, 2007 / June 14 807
‘‘See you later,’’ and never return for the that you’re complying with the law, that you court date. So we worked with Congress and don’t have to guess, that you don’t hope expanded the number of beds on our border, you’re dealing with some forged document. and we’ve effectively ended catch-and-re- It will make it easier for you to do your— lease. run your businesses, and at the same time, I want to tell you a statistic that may sur- it will make it easier for the government to prise you. Last year, we apprehended and punish those who hire illegal immigrants— sent home more than about 1.1 million peo- knowingly hire illegal immigrants. In other ple entering our country illegally. Now think words, it gives us a chance to enforce the about that. In one year alone, our Border law, and that’s what the American people Patrol agents and law enforcement agents want. found 1.1 million people coming into our It’s important for the people to know that country illegally and sent them home. their government is serious about meeting They’re working hard down there, and these benchmarks. One common concern is they’re making progress. People are doing whether the government will provide the re- the jobs we expect them to do, and now we’re sources to meet the goals in the bill. People going to build on this progress. say, ‘‘It’s fine to talk about it; are you actually So this bill sets clear benchmarks for bor- going to do something?’’ To answer these der security that must be met before other concerns, I support an amendment that will elements of this legislation are triggered. We provide $4.4 billion in immediate additional make a priority of securing the border. These funding for securing our borders and enforc- benchmarks include further increasing Bor- ing our laws at the worksite. This funding der Patrol agents, building miles of fencing, will come from the fines and penalties that and modernizing the border. You can’t fence we collect from those who have come to our the whole border, but you can use fencing country illegally. in a way to help known—to help stop people By matching our benchmarks with these at known crossing points. It’s a smart part critical funds, we’re going to show the Amer- of making sure the border is secure, along ican people that the promises in this bill will with other ways to modernize the border— be kept. And so I call on the Senators to berms and electronics and UAVs. We’re pass this amendment and to show the Amer- going to improve our surveillance capability. ican people that we’re going to do our jobs In other words, we’re modernizing the bor- of securing this border once and for all. der. It hadn’t been that way. And we’re mak- But by moving forward with this bill, we’ll ing progress to modernize that border. also help meet the needs of a growing econ- It also includes benchmarks for giving hon- omy. When the economy grows, people are est employers the tools to verify that they’re looking for workers. That’s economics one. hiring legal workers. Most people want to [Laughter] You’re probably some who are comply with the law. I know you do. Yet it’s looking for workers. As you get expanded awfully hard for you to be a document work orders, you’re wondering whether you verifier. That’s not what you—[applause]. It’s can find the workers to meet the needs. a burden to place on small-business owners, That’s what happens when the economy to be—say, ‘‘Okay, you’ve got to make sure grows. You need workers to make the econ- that the documents that look real are real.’’ omy grow. These document forgers are good. They The reality is, in America, that the con- know what they’re doing. They’re preying on struction industry and other sectors depend innocent people who want to simply find on foreign workers to fill jobs Americans are work to put food on the table back at home. not doing. That’s the reality of the world we And so the bill we’re talking about says, live in. So once our border security and work- okay, enough is enough when it comes to site enforcement measure is in place, this bill document forgery. We’ll create a tamper-re- will create a new temporary-worker program. sistant identity card for foreign workers and The program will establish a lawful and or- a mandatory electronic system for verifying derly process for foreign workers to come to employment eligibility. This will make sure America on a temporary basis. This will help
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00035 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 808 June 14 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2007
reduce the number of people trying to sneak The legislation will also help newcomers across our border. If you’re truly interested to our country assimilate into our society. in border security, it makes sense to give peo- One of the great beauties of America has ple a legal way to come to do work Americans been, people can come to this country with aren’t doing, on a temporary basis. a dream and become Americans; that’s as- See, people are sneaking in because they similate. want to work. It makes sense, to me, to say, Carlos Gutierrez’s story is a great story. ‘‘Instead of sneaking in, here’s a temporary- Mel Martinez’s parents put him on an air- worker card that’s tamper-proof, that you can plane from Cuba to Florida because a tyrant go fill jobs that Americans aren’t doing. emerged on that island. He was in my Cabi- Therefore, you don’t sneak across.’’ Such a net. I was at the Coast Guard Academy the system will take pressure off the border and other day; the number-one graduate at the let our Border Patrol agents focus on drug Coast Guard Academy talked about his mi- runners or gun runners or terrorists. I strong- grant worker grandfather who came to Amer- ly believe that it’s in our economic interest ica with a dream. And now the grandson and in our security interest to have a tem- stands in front of the President talking about porary-worker program. the beauties of America. You know, Ameri- This legislation will also create a merit- cans must be confident in our ability to as- based point system for admitting new immi- similate newcomers. We have done so in the grants to our country. The system will reward past, and we will do so in the future. People new applicants based upon skills and edu- newly arrived with dreams lift our soul; they cation so we can ensure that America con- invigorate our society; they work hard to be- tinues to have the world’s most talented come Americans. And it’s important for us workforce. It’s a reform of an immigration to help them assimilate. system that hadn’t worked. The bill is a prac- And the key to that, the key to unlocking tical way to address problems that have the full promise of America is the ability to sprung up as a result of an immigration sys- read, write, and speak English. And so the tem that hasn’t worked. By moving forward, bill affirms that English is the language of this bill will resolve the status of those who our land. And the bill will expand opportuni- are here illegally—already here illegally. ties to help new immigrants learn our lan- Look, we need to do this without animosity guage and the shared ideals that make us all and without amnesty. I know there are some Americans. people who, I guess, believe that we could We have an historic window of opportunity just kick them out of the country. That’s just to act now. Now is the time to get it done. totally impractical. It won’t work. We need We’ve got to summon the political courage a practical solution to a problem that has aris- to move forward on comprehensive reform. en as a result of a bill that didn’t work, the Doing nothing is not a solution. If we fail 1986 immigration bill. to act, the problems of 1986 will continue. Amnesty is forgiveness with no penalty for The pressures on our border will not be alle- people who have broken our laws to get here. viated. Employers will be left without a reli- In contrast, this bill requires illegal workers able system for verifying the legal status of to pay a fine, to register with the government, their workers. Jobs will go unfulfilled. Hard- to undergo background checks, to pay their working immigrants will remain in the shad- back taxes, to hold down a steady job, and ows of our society. And our Nation will con- to learn English in a set period of time. tinue to have a broken immigration system. At the end of 8 years, if they want to apply The American people expect people in for a green card—in other words, get in line Washington, DC, to solve problems. I believe for citizenship—after 8 years, they’ll have to we can express our feelings, disagree on cer- return to their home country so they can tain elements of the legislation, and still apply from there, pay an additional fine. In come together on a solution. I’m confident short, they will prove themselves worthy of that we can pass a bill into law this year, and a great land. it will show the American people that we can
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00036 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 Administration of George W. Bush, 2007 / June 14 809
prove we’re serious about confronting the not once, but numerous times. He made the great issues of our time. wrong choice. I made the choice to uphold Now is the time to set aside all the political what the free world said. The world is better wrangling that tends to dominate the scene off without Saddam Hussein in power, and here in Washington, DC, and do hard work so are the Iraqis. and pass a comprehensive immigration bill. And now we’re undertaking the difficult And I’m counting on your help to get it done. and dangerous work of helping Iraq establish [Applause] Thank you all. a functioning democracy that can protect our As we work on this legislation at home, people and be an ally in this struggle against we’re meeting important responsibilities radicals and extremists who use murder to abroad. On September the 11th, 2001, we achieve an ideological objective. And the saw that problems originating in a failed and stakes are high, and it’s tough work. oppressive state 7,000 miles away could bring In December 2005, if you can remember murder and destruction to our cities. Nine- that far back—[laughter]—nearly 12 million Eleven was a turning point for our Nation. Iraqis went to the polls. I was pleased but We learned that our Nation’s security de- not surprised. I believe in the universality of pends on fighting our enemies overseas so freedom. I believe people want to be free. we do not have to face them here at home. And here, after years of tyranny, when given And we learned that to secure our country, a chance, 12 million people went to the polls. we must advance the cause of freedom as And by going to the polls, they chose a new the great alternative to tyranny and terror. Government under the most progressive, We’re in an ideological conflict with ambi- democratic Constitution in the Arab world. tious men who have a different view of gov- ernment than we do. They don’t believe in A thinking enemy watched all this. And dissent. They don’t believe in freedom to in 2006, Al Qaida—the folks who orches- worship as one sees fit. They want to extend trated the attack on the United States of their power and reach throughout the Mid- America on September the 11th, 2001—and dle East. They want to reestablish a caliph- other Sunni extremists ramped up their at- ate. And they murder to achieve their objec- tacks, which led to a tragic escalation of sec- tives. You can’t talk reason to these people. tarian violence. In the face of the violence, You cannot negotiate with them. We must I had a choice to make: to withdraw our stay on the offense and bring them to justice troops, or to send reinforcements to help the before they hurt us again. Iraqis quell the violence. We went into Afghanistan and helped re- Had I been polled during that period of move an oppressive government that har- time, I’d have said I was—I didn’t approve bored the terrorists who planned the 9/11 of what was happening in Iraq. I’d have been attacks. Today, because we acted, the ter- one of the, ‘‘You can put me down as not rorist camps in Afghanistan have been shut approving.’’ The sectarian violence was get- down. Al Qaida lost its safe haven. Twenty- ting more severe, and I had a choice. It’s five million people have been liberated. The what Presidents do. They make decisions. Afghan people have elected a Government And that’s what you do. You make decisions. that is fighting terrorists instead of harboring I made a decision. I decided to send more them. It’s in our Nation’s security interests, troops with a new mission to help the Iraqi it’s in our national interest to stand with that Government secure the population and get young democracy in Afghanistan and give control of Baghdad. I put our troops under their people a chance to live in liberty. a new commander, General David Petraeus, In Iraq, we removed a cruel dictator who who wrote the Army’s new manual on was an enemy of the United States of Amer- counterinsurgency warfare. ica, had used—who had used weapons of It is too early to judge the results of this mass destruction, who was paying the fami- new strategy. General Petraeus recently put lies of suicide bombers, who had invaded his it this way: ‘‘We haven’t even started the full neighbors, who was given a chance to dis- surge yet.’’ He just got his troops on the close or disarm by the U.N. Security Council ground. Only at the end of this week will
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00037 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 810 June 14 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2007
the last of the five reinforcement brigades Just yesterday, two minarets of the Golden become fully operational. Mosque of Samarra were blown up in an at- Under our new strategy, American and tack that had all the hallmarks of Al Qaida. Iraqi forces are now living side by side in The mosque is one of the most sacred places Baghdad neighborhoods. As Iraqis see forces in Shi’a Islam. The same mosque that was patrolling their streets, they’re gaining the blown up last year—the Golden Dome was trust, and they’re getting new cooperation blown up, and that caused the sectarian vio- from the residents. lence to get out of hand, which caused me Now, just as an example of what I’m talk- to make a decision to send more troops in, ing about, Iraqi and coalition forces have cap- as opposed to withdrawing them. tured more weapon caches since the begin- You see, these killers hope that their at- ning of the year than they did all of last year. tacks, like this one, will create enough confu- Why? Because people are beginning to trust sion and chaos that we will abandon this that the security situation will improve. young democracy. They have objectives; they They’re willing to step forward. Most people have goals; they want to drive us out. They want to live in peace. Iraqi mothers want thrive on chaos. Why? Because it enables their children to grow up in a peaceful world, them to develop safe haven. If they ever gain just like our mothers do. There’s something safe haven, the United States becomes even universal about motherhood, isn’t there? more vulnerable to attack. One of the lessons They want something better for their chil- of September the 11th is, what happens over- dren, and they don’t like the violence, and seas matters to the security of the United they’re expecting their Government to help States of America. It is better to defeat them them. And that’s what we’re doing; we’re overseas than face them here on our soil helping to provide security. again. We’re also seeing gains from our new strat- The act of cruelty that took place yesterday egy in Anbar Province. Anbar is a large Sunni and has taken place by these car bombs that area west of Baghdad that has been a hotbed destroy innocent life reveals the terrorists for for insurgents and Al Qaida. This is where what they are: the enemy of every Iraqi who Al Qaida said they were going to establish seeks to live in peace. That’s what they are. a new safe haven. They have made it clear They’re the enemy of people who want to they want safe havens. Why? Because they live in peace. want to attack again; they want to spread I call on Iraqis to reject this provocation. their ideology. This is what the enemy has America will continue to stand behind the said. And I take the words of the enemy very Iraqi people as they fight these extremists seriously, and so should the American peo- and terrorists, people who want to destroy ple. both our countries. With our help, we expect With the help of tribal sheikhs, American the Iraqi Government to pass laws that help and Iraqi forces have cleared and held ter- the people of that troubled land reconcile rorist strongholds in Ramadi and Fallujah. their differences so that the people who The population is tired of Al Qaida. They’re voted for democracy can raise their families tired of murder. And we’re striking powerful in a secure environment. We all have obliga- blows against Al Qaida in Anbar, and that tions to make sure that this young democracy helps our security here at home. survives. That’s what the Iraqi people expect The summer is going to be a critical period our Government to do, and that’s what the for our new strategy. I’ve cautioned that the American people expect us to tell the Iraqi enemies of free Iraq will—particularly Al Government to do. Qaida and illegal militias—are going to con- Obviously, this is more than a military mis- tinue their campaigns of terror and intimida- sion; there must be a political track at the tion to stop the progress of a free society. same time. This is a difficult fight, and the We can expect heavy fighting in the coming temptation is to look for an easy way out. weeks. We can expect more casualties, both Some in Washington who—want to declare American and Iraqi casualties. defeat before our troops even had the chance
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00038 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 Administration of George W. Bush, 2007 / June 14 811
to make it work. The consequences of failure got the capacity to transform enemies into would be grave. allies. But that’s what happened. If we withdraw before the Iraqi Govern- I went to the G–8, and Angela Merkel, ment can defend itself, we would leave a dan- who is a really fine leader for Germany, was gerous security vacuum, which extremist at the table. And Shinzo Abe from Japan was forces like Al Qaida would compete to fill. at the table. We’re talking about peace. Sectarian violence would multiply on a hor- We’re talking about dealing with the condi- rific scale. Fighting could engulf the entire tions that cause radicalism to prevail, dealing region in chaos. The extremists who emerge with forms of government that frustrate peo- victorious in this struggle could use Iraq as ple so much that 19 kids get on an airplane a base to launch new attacks against America. and kill nearly 3,000 Americans. But we’ve Ultimately, our troops might have to return got to be confident as we look at the future. to Iraq in order to protect ourselves, and con- Liberty has transformed enemies to allies. front an entrenched enemy that is even more Liberty has got the capacity to defeat an ide- dangerous. The stakes are high. ology based upon hate. Liberty has got the We will not abdicate our responsibility and ability to bring light into societies. leave this problem to future generations. We’ve done this kind of hard work before. Now is the time to confront the danger. Now And it’s in our interests to secure a young is the time to do the hard work necessary generation of Americans against the threats for this democracy to survive. Now is the of the 21st century, to do this work again. time to stand with the Iraqi people, not only I’m optimistic about our future. I believe the for their security but for our own. And that United States can achieve anything she sets is why we will complete the mission. her mind to. And so I come to you today For all the talk about consequences of fail- to talk about making this economy stronger, ure, we also need to remember the con- to dealing with problems, and to how the sequences of success in Iraq. Success will United States intends to handle the biggest give us a new ally in the war on terror. This issue facing us, and that’s to make sure we is a global war that we’re fighting against protect the American people. The challenges ideologues who use murder as a weapon to are great, but this country can handle any achieve their objectives. It’s important for us challenge that comes our way. to support forms of government that defeat Proud to be with you. May God bless you. an ideology of hate. And the best form of government that defeats ideology of hate is NOTE: The President spoke at 10:39 a.m. at the one of hope, and that’s liberty. And it’s Capital Hilton. In his remarks, he referred to David R. Meyer, chairman, Associated Builders worked throughout the history of the United and Contractors National Executive Committee; States of America and the world, for that and President Fidel Castro Ruz of Cuba. matter. We have seen freedom’s power to transform societies before. My dad, like many of your relatives, de- Statement on the Death of fended our Nation in a bloody war against Ruth Bell Graham the Japanese and the Germans. I doubt right June 14, 2007 after World War II somebody would have predicted that one of George W. Bush’s— Laura and I are deeply saddened by the well, they wouldn’t have predicted I’d have death of Ruth Bell Graham, a remarkable been President anyway, but—[laughter]— woman of faith whose life was defined by particularly my friends in Midland, Texas. her belief in a personal, loving, and gracious [Laughter] But I doubt somebody would God. She was an encouraging friend, accom- have said a future President would be sitting plished poet, and devoted mother of 5 and down at a table with the Japanese, keeping grandmother of 19. the peace. After a bloody war, with the sworn Ruth’s marriage to her husband, Billy, was enemy being the Japanese and the Germans, a true and loving partnership. As the wife I doubt anybody would have said—had the of the world’s most beloved evangelist, she confidence necessary to say that liberty has inspired people around the world with her
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00039 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 812 June 14 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2007
humor, intelligence, elegance, and kindness. NOTE: This notice was published in the Federal Laura and I offer our prayers and condo- Register on June 15. lences to Billy and the Graham family. Message to the Congress on Notice—Continuation of the Continuation of the National National Emergency Blocking Emergency Blocking Property of Property of Certain Persons Certain Persons Undermining Undermining Democratic Processes Democratic Processes or Institutions or Institutions in Belarus in Belarus June 14, 2007 June 14, 2007 On June 16, 2006, by Executive Order 13405, I declared a national emergency and To the Congress of the United States: ordered related measures blocking the prop- Section 202(d) of the National Emer- erty of certain persons undermining demo- gencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)) provides for cratic processes or institutions in Belarus, the automatic termination of a national emer- pursuant to the International Emergency gency unless, prior to the anniversary date Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701– of its declaration, the President publishes in 1706). I took this action in response to the the Federal Register and transmits to the unusual and extraordinary threat to the na- Congress a notice stating that the emergency tional security and foreign policy of the is to continue in effect beyond the anniver- United States constituted by the actions and sary date. In accordance with this provision, policies of certain members of the Govern- I have sent to the Federal Register for publi- ment of Belarus and other persons that have cation the enclosed notice stating that the undermined democratic processes or institu- national emergency and related measures tions; committed human rights abuses re- blocking the property of certain persons un- lated to political repression, including deten- dermining democratic processes or institu- tions and disappearances; and engaged in tions in Belarus are to continue in effect be- public corruption, including by diverting or yond June 16, 2007. misusing Belarusian public assets or by mis- The actions and policies of certain mem- using public authority. bers of the Government of Belarus and other Because these actions and policies con- tinue to pose an unusual and extraordinary persons pose a continuing unusual and ex- threat to the national security and foreign traordinary threat to the national security and policy of the United States, the national foreign policy of the United States. These ac- emergency declared on June 16, 2006, and tions include undermining democratic proc- the measures adopted on that date to deal esses or institutions; committing human with that emergency, must continue in effect rights abuses related to political repression, beyond June 16, 2007. Therefore, in accord- including detentions and disappearances; ance with section 202(d) of the National and engaging in public corruption, including Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)), I am by diverting or misusing Belarusian public as- continuing for 1 year the national emergency sets or by misusing public authority. For declared in Executive Order 13405. these reasons, I have determined that it is This notice shall be published in the Fed- necessary to continue the national emer- eral Register and transmitted to the Con- gency and related measures blocking the gress. property of certain persons with respect to George W. Bush Belarus.
The White House, George W. Bush June 14, 2007.
[Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, The White House, 12:01 p.m., June 14, 2007] June 14, 2007.
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00040 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 Administration of George W. Bush, 2007 / June 15 813
Remarks at the National Hispanic America one heart and one soul and one con- Prayer Breakfast science at a time. Many of you at this breakfast devote your June 15, 2007 lives to serving others. By doing so, you’re answering a timeless call to love your neigh- Gracias. Sientese, por favor. Buenos dias. bor as yourself. You really represent the true Si. I thank my friend Luis. This isn’t the first strength of America, and I thank you for time he’s introduced me. I’m proud to be being of service to our country. back. I thank you for the chance to come This prayer breakfast has come a long way to the National Hispanic Prayer Breakfast. since it started 5 years ago. We could have Appreciate the opportunity to be with His- held it in a little tiny closet. And now, as panic American pastors and priests and com- Luis tells me, it’s oversubscribed the minute munity leaders and faith-based activists from it gets announced. It’s a good sign for our all over the United States. I thank you for country, isn’t it? People want to come to- coming, and thanks for having me come. I gether in prayer. appreciate your leadership; I appreciate your Instead of a single morning meeting, you compassion; and I thank you for your abiding have now come to Washington for a 3-day faith in the power of prayer. conference. And I appreciate the chance— I’m pleased that two Senators who have you’ve had a chance to go to Congress and got corazones grandes—[laughter]—on the discuss your concerns with Members of Con- immigration bill are with us today, Senator gress. I appreciate your support for policies Ted Kennedy and Senator Mel Martinez. that expand homeownership. We want more Thank you all for coming. Y tambien, Con- Americans saying, ‘‘Welcome to my home. gresswoman Grace Napolitano y Luis Come and see my piece of property.’’ I ap- Fortuno—thank you all for coming; proud preciate the fact that you’re promoting small you’re here. businesses. We want more Americans real- I thank the veterans and members of the izing the dream of owning their own busi- military who are here today. I thank the pas- ness. And by the way, the Latino small-busi- tors and community leaders. ness community is strong, and we intend to At this breakfast, we set aside our politics keep it that way. and come together in prayer. That’s what I appreciate your working to raise aware- we’re doing. When we pray, we acknowledge ness on HIV/AIDS. I appreciate you working our total dependence on Almighty God, we hard to make sure every child gets a good put our future in His hands, and we find that education. Thank you for your concern for prayer lifts our spirits and changes our lives. our country. You’re demonstrating el Sueno This morning we have many things to pray Americano es para todos. for. We pray for our families and our loved And I thank you for making comprehen- ones and our friends. We pray for the sive immigration reform your top priority. I strength and safety of our Nation. We pray share that priority. These Senators share that for wisdom and grace in times of trial. And priority. I appreciate the fact that you under- we pray to give thanks for the many blessings stand that this debate can be emotional, and that God has bestowed upon America. it’s complex. I appreciate the fact that you Among those blessings are millions of tal- understand that Members need to hear from ented men and women of Hispanic origin you about where you think this country ought who call this country home. Our Nation is to go when it comes to immigration reform. more vibrant because of the contributions There’s a lot of emotion on this issue, and made by Hispanic Americans in all sectors it makes sense to have people from around of our society—from the arts to business to the country come and sit down with Mem- religion to education. Our Nation is more bers of Congress to talk rationally about the hopeful because of the Hispanic Americans issue. who serve in the armies of compassion, who Our responsibilities are straightforward. are surrounding neighbors in need who hurt We’ve got to enforce the border, a basic duty with love; people who are helping to change of a sovereign nation. We’ve got to create
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00041 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 814 June 15 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2007
a lawful way for foreign workers to fill jobs thousands of Hispanic Americans who wear that Americans are not doing. Our economy the uniform of the United States military. depends on them. And we must resolve the Today we’re joined by a group of Hispanic status of illegal immigrants already in our American soldiers from Walter Reed Army country without amnesty and without ani- Medical Center. I thank these brave men for mosity, because that is the only practical way stepping forward to protect our freedom. I to fix the problem that has been decades in join all of you in praying for their full recov- the making. We must help new immigrants ery. And I’m honored to be their Com- assimilate. That’s what has always made our mander in Chief. Nation strong. People in America must have Our Nation is blessed to call these men confidence in this country to help people as- fellow Americans. We thank God for sending similate. us such brave and selfless people. We ask Mel Martinez’s parents put him on an air- that He give His—give us the wisdom and plane because they didn’t want him raised grace to be worthy of the sacrifices they make in a tyrannical society on the island of Cuba, and the ideals of liberty they defend. and here he now sits as a Member of the Thank you very much for letting me come United States Senate. I was deeply touched by again. Y tambien, que Dios los bendiga. at the Coast Guard Academy, when I was Amen. Thank you very much. sitting there as the Commander in Chief of a bunch of kids who just got bars on their NOTE: The President spoke at 8:15 a.m. at the shoulders, and the head of the class got up JW Marriott Hotel. In his remarks, he referred to Rev. Luis Cortes, Jr., president and chief execu- to speak, and he talked about his migrant tive officer, Esperanza USA. grandfather. This Hispanic American started his speech to his classmates—because I was there, there was a lot of cameras, maybe the Remarks on Arrival in Wichita, country—talking about his migrant grand- Kansas father. Isn’t it a fabulous country where a June 15, 2007 migrant grandfather can come and have a dream and work hard, and there’s his grand- Thank you all for coming out to say hello. son talking about the promise of America in Thank you for making this a really com- front of the President of the United States fortable airplane. [Laughter] I can’t tell you and his classmates? That’s the beauty of what an honor it is to fly overseas in Air America. Force One and have that big bird park, have We must meet our moral obligation to people around the world see the great maj- treat newcomers with decency and show esty of our country reflected in this airplane. compassion to the vulnerable and exploited, And I know many of you are working hard because we’re called to answer both the de- to outfit its companion. I appreciate your mands of justice and the call for mercy. hard work. I will assure you one thing: I will Most Americans agree on these principles. ride that airplane with great pride. I mean, And now it’s time for our elected leaders in there’s nothing better than representing the Congress to act. You don’t have to worry greatest nation on the face of the Earth. about these two Senators; they’re acting; I appreciate your hard work. Thanks for they’re in the lead. Each day our Nation fails coming out to say hello. I’d like to kind of to act, the problem only grows worse. I will work along here and make sure I don’t lose continue to work closely with members of my touch and shake a few hands. I’m hon- both parties to get past our differences and ored to be here with Senator Pat Roberts pass a bill I can sign this year. and Vicki Tiahrt. They’re strong supporters One of the reasons that America leads the of the programs here, strong supporters of world is that we’ve always welcomed people Boeing. who are determined to embrace our democ- I appreciate you coming out to say hello. racy and stand for freedom. We see that de- And I ask for God’s blessings on your families termination every day in the hundreds of and on our country. Thank you very much.
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00042 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 Administration of George W. Bush, 2007 / June 15 815
NOTE: The President spoke at 11:30 a.m. at Letter to Congressional Leaders McConnell Air Force Base. In his remarks, he Reporting on the Deployments of referred to Vicki Tiahrt, wife of Representative Todd Tiahrt of Kansas. United States Combat-Equipped Armed Forces Around the World June 15, 2007 Remarks at the Boys & Girls Club of Dear Madam Speaker: (Dear Mr. President:) South Central Kansas—21st Street I am providing this supplemental consoli- Club in Wichita dated report, prepared by my Administration and consistent with the War Powers Resolu- June 15, 2007 tion (Public Law 93–148), as part of my ef- forts to keep the Congress informed about The President. I have come to this fan- deployments of U.S. combat-equipped tastic facility to, first of all, thank the people Armed Forces around the world. This sup- that have supported the programs that exist plemental report covers operations in sup- here. I like the idea of mentors reaching out port of the war on terror and Kosovo. to children to set good examples and to en- courage them to achieve big goals in life. And that’s what happens here in this Boys and THE WAR ON TERROR Girls Club in Wichita. This is a place where Since September 24, 2001, I have re- dreams are fostered and skills are given so ported, consistent with Public Law 107–40 that people can realize their dreams. and the War Powers Resolution, on the com- This is a community-based program. It bat operations in Afghanistan against al- gets some help from the government, but it Qaida terrorists and their Taliban supporters, gets a lot of help from the local community. which began on October 7, 2001, and the And I think it’s very important for the people deployment of various combat-equipped and of Wichita to support program such as this— combat-support forces to a number of loca- after all, we can change our country one tions in the Central, Pacific, European heart and one soul at a time. So I’m really (KFOR), and Southern Command areas of pleased to be here. It’s a beautiful facility operation in support of those operations and full of beautiful people. of other operations in our war on terror. I will direct additional measures as nec- And so thank you for giving me a chance essary in the exercise of the U.S. right to self- to come by and say hello. Yes, you won an defense and to protect U.S. citizens and in- award didn’t you? terests. Such measures may include short-no- Ciera Ivy. Yes. tice deployments of special operations and other forces for sensitive operations in var- The President. What award did you win? ious locations throughout the world. It is not Ms. Ivy. Youth of the Month. possible to know at this time either the pre- The President. Youth of the Month. cise scope or duration of the deployment of That’s good. Congratulations to you. U.S. Armed Forces necessary to counter the terrorist threat to the United States. Ms. Ivy. Thank you. United States Armed Forces, with the as- The President. I want to thank the coun- sistance of numerous coalition partners, con- selors who are here and all the adults that tinue to conduct the U.S. campaign to pursue are working with the boys and girls. al-Qaida terrorists and to eliminate support Anyway, nice to see you all. Thanks for to al-Qaida. These operations have been suc- coming by. Thank you. cessful in seriously degrading al-Qaida’s training capabilities. United States Armed Forces, with the assistance of numerous coa- NOTE: The President spoke at 12:15 p.m. A por- lition partners, ended the Taliban regime and tion of these remarks could not be verified be- are actively pursuing and engaging remnant cause the tape was incomplete. al-Qaida and Taliban fighters in Afghanistan.
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00043 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 816 June 15 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2007
The total number of U.S. forces in Afghani- contribution to the MNF is approximately stan is approximately 25,945, of which ap- 153,553 military personnel. proximately 14,340 are assigned to the Inter- In furtherance of our efforts against terror- national Security Assistance Force (ISAF) in ists who pose a continuing and imminent Afghanistan. The U.N. Security Council au- threat to the United States, our friends and thorized the ISAF in U.N. Security Council allies, and our forces abroad, the United Resolution 1386 of December 20, 2001, and States continues to work with friends and al- has reaffirmed its authorization since that lies in areas around the globe. These efforts time, most recently, for a 12-month period include the deployment of U.S. combat- from October 13, 2006, in U.N. Security equipped and combat-support forces to assist Council Resolution 1707 of September 12, in enhancing the counterterrorism capabili- 2006. The mission of the ISAF under NATO ties of our friends and allies. United States command is to assist the Government of Af- combat-equipped and combat-support forces ghanistan in creating a safe and secure envi- continue to be located in the Horn of Africa ronment that allows reconstruction and the region, and U.S. forces conducted air and reestablishment of Afghan authorities. Cur- sea-launched strikes against al-Qaida targets rently, all 26 NATO nations contribute to the in Somalia. ISAF. Twelve non-NATO contributing coun- tries also participate by providing military In addition, the United States continues and other support personnel to the ISAF. to conduct maritime interception operations The United States continues to detain sev- on the high seas in the areas of responsibility eral hundred al-Qaida and Taliban fighters of all of the geographic combatant com- who are believed to pose a continuing threat manders. These maritime operations have to the United States and its interests. The the responsibility to stop the movement, combat-equipped and combat-support forces arming, or financing of international terror- deployed to Naval Base, Guantanamo Bay, ists. Cuba, in the U.S. Southern Command area of operations since January 2002 continue to NATO-LED KOSOVO FORCE (KFOR) conduct secure detention operations for the As noted in previous reports regarding enemy combatants at Guantanamo Bay. U.S. contributions in support of peace- The U.N. Security Council authorized a keeping efforts in Kosovo, the U.N. Security Multinational Force (MNF) in Iraq under Council authorized Member States to estab- unified command in U.N. Security Council lish KFOR in U.N. Security Council Resolu- Resolution 1511 of October 16, 2003, and tion 1244 of June 10, 1999. reaffirmed its authorization in U.N. Security Council Resolution 1546 of June 8, 2004. In The original mission of KFOR was to mon- U.N. Security Council Resolution 1637 of itor, verify, and when necessary, enforce November 8, 2005, the Security Council, compliance with the Military Technical again noting the Iraqi government’s request Agreement (MTA) between NATO and Ser- to retain the presence of the MNF, extended bia (formerly the Federal Republic of Yugo- the MNF mandate for a period ending on slavia), while maintaining a safe and secure December 31, 2006. In U.N. Security Coun- environment. Today, KFOR deters renewed cil Resolution 1723 of November 28, 2006, hostilities and, with local authorities and the Security Council extended the MNF international police, contributes to the main- mandate until December 31, 2007. Under tenance of a safe and secure environment Resolutions 1546, 1637, and 1723, the mis- that facilitates the work of the United Na- sion of the MNF is to contribute to security tions Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK). and stability in Iraq. These contributions Currently, there are 24 NATO nations have included assisting in building the capa- contributing to KFOR. Eleven non-NATO bility of the Iraqi security forces and institu- contributing countries also participate by tions as the Iraqi people drafted and ap- providing military personnel and other sup- proved a constitution and established a con- port personnel to KFOR. The U.S. contribu- stitutionally elected government. The U.S. tion to KFOR in Kosovo is about 1,584 U.S.
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00044 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 Administration of George W. Bush, 2007 817
military personnel, or approximately 10 per- Members of Congress with regard to these cent of KFOR’s total strength of approxi- deployments, and we will continue to do so. mately 15,498 personnel. Sincerely, The U.S. forces have been assigned to the George W. Bush eastern region of Kosovo. For U.S. KFOR forces, as for KFOR generally, maintaining NOTE: Identical letters were sent to Nancy Pelosi, a safe and secure environment remains the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and Richard C. Byrd, President pro tempore of the primary military task. The KFOR operates Senate. under NATO command and control and rules of engagement. The KFOR coordinates with and supports UNMIK at most levels; provides a security presence in towns, vil- lages, and the countryside; and organizes Digest of Other checkpoints and patrols in key areas to pro- White House Announcements vide security, protect minorities, resolve dis- putes, and help instill in the community a The following list includes the President’s public feeling of confidence. schedule and other items of general interest an- In accordance with U.N. Security Council nounced by the Office of the Press Secretary and Resolution 1244, UNMIK continues to trans- not included elsewhere in this issue. fer additional competencies to the Kosovo Provisional Institutions of Self-Government, June 9 which includes the President, Prime Min- In the morning, in Rome, Italy, the Presi- ister, multiple ministries, and the Kosovo As- dent had an intelligence briefing. Later, he sembly. The UNMIK retains ultimate au- and Mrs. Bush went to Quirinale Palace. He thority in some sensitive areas such as police, then met with President Giorgio Napolitano justice, and ethnic-minority affairs. of Italy. NATO continues formally to review Later in the morning, the President and KFOR’s mission at 6-month intervals. These Mrs. Bush traveled to Vatican City where he reviews provide a basis for assessing current met with Pope Benedict XVI. Later, he and force levels, future requirements, force struc- Mrs. Bush and members of the U.S. delega- ture, force reductions, and the eventual with- tion met with the Pope. The President then drawal of KFOR. NATO has adopted the met with Secretary of State Cardinal Tarcisio Joint Operations Area plan to regionalize and Bertone of the Holy See. rationalize its force structure in the Balkans. In the afternoon, the President and Mrs. The UNMIK international police and the Bush returned to Rome, Italy, where they Kosovo Police Service (KPS) have full re- toured the Basilica of Santa Maria. Later, he sponsibility for public safety and policing went to Chigi Palace where he met with throughout Kosovo. The UNMIK inter- Prime Minister Romano Prodi of Italy. They national police and KPS also have begun to then had a working lunch. assume responsibility for guarding patrimo- Later in the afternoon, the President and nial sites and established border-crossing Mrs. Bush went to Villa Taverna where they met with U.S. Embassy staff and their fami- checkpoints. The KFOR augments security lies. Later, he met with former Prime Min- in particularly sensitive areas or in response ister Silvio Berlusconi of Italy. to particular threats as needed. I have directed the participation of U.S. June 10 Armed Forces in all of these operations pur- In the morning, the President and Mrs. suant to my constitutional authority to con- Bush traveled to Tirana, Albania, where, at duct U.S. foreign relations and as Com- the Palace of Brigades, they participated in mander in Chief and Chief Executive. Offi- an arrival ceremony with President Alfred cials of my Administration and I commu- Moisiu of Albania. He then met with Presi- nicate regularly with the leadership and other dent Moisiu.
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00045 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 818 Administration of George W. Bush, 2007
Later in the morning, the President met the Board of the Foreign Service at the De- with Albanian military personnel who served partment of State. in Iraq. He then went to the Council of Min- The President announced his intention to isters where he met with Prime Minister Sali appoint Bonnie McElveen-Hunter to be Berisha of Albania. Chairman of the Board of Governors of the In the afternoon, at the Tirana-Rinas Air- American National Red Cross. port, the President and Mrs. Bush met with The President declared a major disaster in U.S. Embassy staff and their families. They Missouri and ordered Federal aid to supple- then traveled to Sofia, Bulgaria, arriving in ment State and local recovery efforts in the the evening. area struck by severe storms and flooding on May 5–18. June 11 In the morning, the President had an intel- June 13 ligence briefing. Later, he and Mrs. Bush In the morning, the President had an intel- went to Nevsky Square where they partici- ligence briefing. pated in an arrival ceremony. Then, in Ple- In the afternoon, the President met with nary Hall, he met with President Georgi the Congressional Global War on Terror Parvanov of Bulgaria. Consultative Group. Later in the morning, the President went The President announced his designation to the Council of Ministers where he met of the following individuals as members of with Prime Minister Sergei Stanishev of Bul- a Presidential delegation to attend the garia. groundbreaking ceremony for the Museum In the afternoon, the President and Mrs. of the History of Polish Jews in Warsaw, Po- Bush went to the American Embassy Sofia land, on June 26: Tevi Troy (head of delega- and met with U.S. Embassy staff and their tion); Victor Henderson Ashe; Cheryl Feld- families. Later, they returned to Washington, man Halpern; and Michael M. Kaiser. DC, arriving in the evening. June 14 June 12 In the morning, the President had an intel- In the morning, the President had an intel- ligence briefing. ligence briefing. In the afternoon, the President went to the June 15 U.S. Capitol where he participated in a Sen- In the morning, the President had an intel- ate Republican Policy Committee lunch. ligence briefing. Later, he traveled to Wich- The President announced his intention to ita, KS, where, upon arrival, he met with nominate Lisa E. Epifani to be Assistant Sec- USA Freedom Corps volunteer Alex Robin- retary of Energy (Congressional and Inter- son. governmental Affairs). In the afternoon, at a private residence, The President announced his intention to the President made remarks at a luncheon nominate Gracia M. Hillman to be a member for senatorial candidate Pat Roberts. He then of the Election Assistance Commission. traveled to the Bush Ranch in Crawford, TX. The President announced his intention to The White House announced that the nominate Gail Dennise Mathieu to be Am- President will travel to Montebello, Quebec, bassador to Namibia. Canada, to meet with Prime Minister Ste- The President announced his intention to phen Harper of Canada and President Felipe nominate Harry K. Thomas, Jr., to be Direc- de Jesus Calderon Hinojosa of Mexico at the tor General of the Foreign Service and, upon North American Leaders’ Summit on August confirmation, appoint him as Chairman of 20–21.
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00046 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 Administration of George W. Bush, 2007 819
Nominations Checklist Submitted to the Senate of White House Press Releases
The following list does not include promotions of The following list contains releases of the Office members of the Uniformed Services, nominations of the Press Secretary that are neither printed as to the Service Academies, or nominations of For- items nor covered by entries in the Digest of eign Service officers. Other White House Announcements.
Released June 10 Submitted June 11 Transcript of a press gaggle by Deputy Press Thomas J. Barrett, Secretary Dana Perino of Alaska, to be Deputy Secretary of Trans- Released June 12 portation, vice Maria Cino, resigned. Transcript of a press briefing by Press Sec- Withdrawn June 11 retary Tony Snow Statement by the Press Secretary on disaster Michael J. Burns, assistance to Missouri of New Mexico, to be Assistant to the Sec- retary of Defense for Nuclear and Chemical Released June 13 and Biological Defense Programs, vice Dale Transcript of a press briefing by Press Sec- Klein, resigned, which was sent to the Senate retary Tony Snow on January 9, 2007. Transcript of remarks by Secretary of Health Submitted June 13 and Human Services Michael O. Leavitt after presentation of the ‘‘Report to the President Lisa E. Epifani, on Issues Raised by the Virginia Tech Trag- of Texas, to be an Assistant Secretary of En- edy’’ ergy (Congressional and Intergovernmental Affairs), vice Jill L. Sigal, resigned. Fact sheet: The Consequences of Inaction Released June 14 Gracia M. Hillman, of the District of Columbia, to be a member Transcript of a press briefing by Press Sec- of the Election Assistance Commission for retary Tony Snow a term expiring December 12, 2009 (re- Statement by the Press Secretary: President appointment). Bush To Meet With CARICOM Leaders Statement by the Press Secretary announcing Joseph N. Laplante, Jr., that the President signed S. 214 of New Hampshire, to be U.S. District Judge for the District of New Hampshire, vice Jo- Released June 15 seph A. Diclerico, Jr., retired. Transcript of a press gaggle by Deputy Press Gail Dennise Mathieu, Secretary Scott M. Stanzel of New Jersey, a career member of the Sen- Statement by the Press Secretary: USNS ior Foreign Service, class of Minister-Coun- Comfort Deployment to Latin America and selor, to be Ambassador Extraordinary and the Caribbean Plenipotentiary of the United States of Statement by the Press Secretary: President America to the Republic of Namibia. Bush To Attend North American Leaders’ Gustavus Adolphus Puryear IV, Summit in Canada of Tennessee, to be U.S. District Judge for Statement by the Press Secretary announcing the Middle District of Tennessee, vice Rob- that the President signed H.R. 1675 and S. ert L. Echols, retired. 1104
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00047 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4 820 Administration of George W. Bush, 2007
Acts Approved Approved June 15 by the President H.R. 1675 / Public Law 110–35 Preservation Approval Process Improvement Act of 2007 Approved June 14 S. 1104 / Public Law 110–36 S. 214 / Public Law 110–34 To increase the number of Iraqi and Afghani Preserving United States Attorney Independ- translators and interpreters who may be ad- ence Act of 2007 mitted to the United States as special immi- grants, and for other purposes
VerDate Aug 31 2005 12:16 Jun 19, 2007 Jkt 211250 PO 00000 Frm 00048 Fmt 1244 Sfmt 1244 E:\PRESDOCS\P24JNT4.015 P24JNT4