Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents

Monday, May 27, 2002 Volume 38—Number 21 Pages 849–910 Contents

Addresses and Remarks Joint Statements See also Meetings With Foreign Leaders Joint Declaration by President George W. Cuba, Initiative for a New—852 Bush and President Vladimir V. Putin on Florida, 100th anniversary of Cuban the New Strategic Relationship Between independence in Miami—854 the United States of America and the Germany Russian Federation—894 Bundestag, special session in Berlin—881 Joint Statements by President George W. Departure for Berlin—875 Bush and President Vladimir V. Putin NCAA champion teams—862 Counterterrorism Cooperation—899 Radio address—851 Developments in the U.S.-Russian Russia, community and religious leaders in Economic Relationship—900 Moscow—904 New U.S.-Russian Energy Dialogue—903 Situation in the Middle East—898 Communications to Congress U.S.-Russian People-to-People Contacts— Supplemental and emergency appropriations, 902 letter transmitting requests—866 Treaty Between the United States of America Interviews With the News Media and the Russian Federation on Strategic Offensive Reductions—893 Interviews Christian Malar of TF–3 French Meetings With Foreign Leaders television—873 Germany Claus Kleber of ARD German television— Chancellor Schroeder—875, 881 858 President Rau—881 European journalists—866 Russia, President Putin—886, 887 Giulio Borrelli of RAI Italian television— 860 Proclamations News conferences National Maritime Day—863 May 23 with Chancellor Schroeder of National Missing Children’s Day—864 Germany in Berlin—875 National Safe Boating Week—849 May 24 with President Putin of Russia in Prayer for Peace, Memorial Day—865 Moscow—887 World Trade Week—850

(Continued in the inside of the back cover.)

Editor’s Note: The President was in Moscow, Russia, on May 24, the closing date of this issue. Releases and announcements issued by the Office of the Press Secretary but not received in time for inclusion in this issue will be printed next week.

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

Statements by the President Statements by the President—Continued ‘‘Citizen Service Act of 2002,’’ proposed—907 Senate action on proposed ‘‘Andean Trade Conference on Improving Forest Health and Preference Expansion Act’’—886 Reducing Risk of Wildfire—885 Sudan, peace process—863 Congressional action on proposed ‘‘Public Health Security and Bioterrorism Supplementary Materials Preparedness and Response Act of 2002’’— Acts approved by the President—910 886 Checklist of White House press releases—909 East Timor, establishment—863 Digest of other White House House of Representatives action on announcements—907 appropriations legislation—906 Nominations submitted to the Senate—908 Week Ending Friday, May 24, 2002

Proclamation 7563—National Safe coordination include motion, vibration, en- Boating Week, 2002 gine noise, wind, sun, and any spray. Boat May 17, 2002 operators with a blood alcohol concentration above .10 percent are ten times more likely By the President of the United States to be killed in a boating accident than boat of America operators who have not been drinking. Dur- ing National Safe Boating Week, we must un- A Proclamation derscore again that to operate a boat or any America is blessed with beautiful coast- vehicle while under the influence is never lines, lakes, and waters that offer ample op- safe. portunities for boating recreation. More than A less recognized boating hazard involves 70 million recreational boaters use our waters a silent killer: carbon monoxide. Dangerous every year and boat registrations continue to or deadly fumes can accumulate in confined increase. Although the number of rec- spaces on boats, near stern ladders, and reational boats and boaters is growing, the under swimming platforms. Swimmers and incidence of boating deaths continues to drop, thanks to an increasing emphasis on water-skiers behind running boat engines safety. face the greatest risk of exposure to exhaust Despite this positive trend, much work re- fumes, which can build up to deadly levels. mains to further reduce boating accidents Boaters should be aware of the threats posed and fatalities. National Safe Boating Week by carbon monoxide and take steps to avoid and the North American Safe Boating Cam- them. Individuals may learn more about car- paign remind us that safety must always re- bon monoxide and other ways to stay safe main a top priority when boating on our Na- while boating by visiting the U.S. Coast tion’s waterways. Guard’s website at www.uscgboating.org. To further reduce boating deaths, it is vital In recognition of the importance of safe that both children and adults wear life jackets boating practices, the Congress, by joint res- while boating. Nearly 70 percent of rec- olution approved June 4, 1958 (36 U.S.C. reational boating deaths are by drowning, 131), as amended, has authorized and re- and nearly 90 percent of these victims were quested the President to proclaim annually not wearing life jackets. Many of these fatali- the 7-day period prior to Memorial Day ties could have been avoided had a Coast weekend as ‘‘National Safe Boating Week.’’ Guard-approved life jacket or personal flota- tion device been worn. Thanks to new tech- Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, nology and designs, life jackets are now less President of the United States of America, burdensome to wear. do hereby proclaim May 18 through May 24, Another major cause of boating accidents 2002, as National Safe Boating Week. I en- is the operation of boats while drunk or oth- courage the Governors of the 50 States, the erwise impaired. Boating under the influence District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of of alcohol or drugs is illegal in every State Puerto Rico, and the officials of other areas and is a violation of Federal law. According subject to the jurisdiction of the United to the United States Coast Guard, the dan- States, to join in observing this occasion. I gerous effects of alcohol on persons oper- also urge boaters to learn about proper boat- ating boats are even greater than for individ- ing practices and to take advantage of pro- uals operating land vehicles. The additional grams offered by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxil- factors that can further impair judgment and iary. By taking sensible precautions on the 849 850 May 17 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 water and learning more about potential dan- to promote an aggressive trade agenda that gers, boaters can enjoy boating recreation opens markets and builds economic oppor- and help ensure the safety of others. tunity. In support of this goal, my Adminis- In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set tration has worked to help secure the entry my hand this seventeenth day of May, in the of China and Taiwan into the World Trade year of our Lord two thousand two, and of Organization. We also completed trade the Independence of the United States of agreements with Vietnam and Jordan and America the two hundred and twenty-sixth. launched new global trade negotiations in George W. Bush Doha, Qatar. But more remains to be done. At present, there are about 150 free trade [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, agreements in effect worldwide, nearly 25 8:45 a.m., May 21, 2002] percent of which involve countries in the Western Hemisphere. The United States is NOTE: This proclamation was published in the a party to only three of these pacts. To give Federal Register on May 22. This item was not received in time for publication in the appropriate U.S. exporters much broader access to mar- issue. kets throughout the hemisphere, our Nation envisions a Free Trade Area of the Americas (FTAA), an area that would be the world’s Proclamation 7564—World Trade largest open market. The FTAA would in- Week, 2002 clude more than 800 million consumers in May 17, 2002 countries with a combined Gross Domestic Product of around $13 trillion. Our Nation By the President of the United States would also benefit from renewal of the Ande- of America an Trade Preference Act, which would con- tinue to help create economic alternatives to A Proclamation drug production in Andean region countries. Trade plays a vital role in encouraging Economists have calculated that lowering prosperity and improving the lives of people trade barriers by just one-third will strength- around the world. It fosters economic en the world’s economic welfare by up to growth, ingenuity, and innovation. And it $613 billion and that of the United States builds high-quality jobs and promotes eco- by $177 billion. For the average American nomic and political stability around the family of four, that amounts to $2500 of an- world. During World Trade Week, we recog- nual savings. nize the importance of trade to building a Another critical step for U.S. economic brighter future for our Nation and for coun- growth is successful passage of Trade Pro- tries throughout the world. motion Authority. Under this legislation, the Over the last decade, U.S. exports have ac- Congress grants the President the authority counted for as much as a quarter of our Na- to negotiate trade agreements. Trade Pro- tion’s economic growth. Most of our export- motion Authority demonstrates to our trad- ers are small- and medium-sized firms that ing partners the alliance that exists between have fewer than 100 employees. An esti- the executive and legislative branches to help mated 12 million U.S. jobs are supported by raise living standards through out the world. our export of manufactured products, agri- This is vital to securing new free trade agree- cultural goods, technology, and other goods ments with potential negotiating partners. and services. These jobs are high-quality, Fundamental to free trade is competitive high-paying positions that provide good fairness. America’s support of an aggressive, wages. forward-looking trade agenda requires that As the world’s largest exporter, the United government assist industries’ interests when States is a leader in promoting free trade. they are challenged by unfair trading prac- Free trade and open markets benefit busi- tices or subsidies. We must insist that our nesses, employees, and consumers by cre- trading partners honor their commitments. ating a competitive environment with greater As we open markets for American companies choice and lower prices. We must continue competing internationally, we need tools to Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 / May 18 851 secure a level playing field for American does not provide it. And because Medicare businesses. And we will remain committed does not cover prescription drugs, seniors to improving both the environment and often pay the highest prices for drugs out worldwide labor standards. of their own pockets, forcing too many of In the future, trade will continue to play our seniors to choose between paying for pills a crucial role in creating economic and polit- or paying their bills. ical stability, building democracies, reducing Medicare is an essential program, but it poverty, and contributing to an increased has not kept pace with the advances in medi- standard of living around the world. Open cine. The Medicare program is costly for sen- trade will help ensure a more peaceful and iors and too often does not provide the prosperous tomorrow for all people. choices that our seniors need and our seniors Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, want, so Medicare must be strengthened, President of the United States of America, and it must be improved. by virtue of the authority vested in me by Congress is working hard to pass legisla- the Constitution and laws of the United tion that will help many seniors with their States, do hereby proclaim May 19 through drug costs and guarantee all senior citizens May 25, 2002, as World Trade Week. I en- prescription drug coverage. I strongly sup- courage all Americans to observe this week port these efforts. with events, trade shows, and educational At the same time, I am working for a programs that celebrate the benefits of trade Medicare-endorsed drug card that will allow to our economy and the global economy. seniors to get lower prices from drug manu- In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set factures right away. And I’m working for my hand this seventeenth day of May, in the temporary assistance with drug costs for sen- year of our Lord two thousand two, and of iors with limited incomes, even before the the Independence of the United States of full prescription drug benefit becomes avail- America the two hundred and twenty-sixth. able a few years from now. George W. Bush Medicare also needs to give every senior affordable, up-to-date health insurance op- [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, tions. Right now, more than 5 million Medi- 8:45 a.m., May 21, 2002] care members have access to valuable mod- ern health insurance benefits and prescrip- NOTE: This proclamation was published in the tion drug coverage in Medicare Plus Choice Federal Register on May 22. This item was not received in time for publication in the appropriate plans. issue. These improved benefits, along with inno- vative treatments, probably saved Joe Hotin’s life. Mr. Hotin served in the Navy in World The President’s Radio Address War II. He joined his Medicare Plus Choice May 18, 2002 in 1995. Because his health plan covers an- nual checkups, Joe’s doctor caught a spot and Good morning. Medicare is one of the got it treated before it turned into life threat- most important and compassionate programs ening cancer. in American history. It provides medical care Many of these treatments and programs to the elderly and people with disabilities. that can save and improve lives and reduce It is a source of security and dignity for tens health care costs are only available through of millions of Americans. The health of Medicare’s private plans. Unfortunately, mil- America’s senior citizens is one of America’s lions of Medicare members do not have the most sacred obligations, and it is a commit- option to choose these benefits. The Federal ment my administration will fully honor. Government has long provided reliable cov- Yet we need to do more to fulfill Medi- erage choices to all its employees, but cur- care’s promise. Seniors should have afford- rent law prevents private health plans from able coverage choices that meet their needs, giving Medicare enrollees the same choices. but Medicare does not do that. Many seniors As a result, over 100 private plans have left need prescription drug coverage; Medicare Medicare, and millions of seniors have lost 852 May 18 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 the valuable additional benefits that private Ros-Lehtinen and Lincoln Diaz-Balart. plans provide. Thank you all for coming. We must act now to provide every Medi- Cuba’s independence one century ago care member with more choices and more today was the inspiration of great thinkers savings. Medicare needs a fair system of com- such as Felix Varela. It was the result of de- petition, a system that encourages additional termination and talent on the part of a great benefits and options for better care at lower statesman such as Jose Marti and great sol- cost. Medicare is crucial to elderly Ameri- diers such as Antonio Maceo and Maximo cans. I urge members of both parties to work Gomez. Most of all, Cuba’s independence together to protect and improve Medicare was the product of the great courage and sac- and to maintain our moral commitment to rifice of the Cuban people. millions of Americans. Today, and every day for the past 43 years, Thank you for listening. that legacy of courage has been insulted by a tyrant who uses brutal methods to enforce a bankrupt vision. That legacy has been de- NOTE: The address was recorded at 9:10 a.m. on May 17 in the Cabinet Room at the White House based by a relic from another era who has for broadcast at 10:06 a.m. on May 18. The tran- turned a beautiful island into a prison. script was made available by the Office of the In a career of oppression, Mr. Castro has Press Secretary on May 17 but was embargoed imported nuclear-armed ballistic missiles, for release until the broadcast. The Office of the and he has exported his military forces to en- Press Secretary also released a Spanish language courage civil war abroad. He is a dictator who transcript of this address. jails and tortures and exiles his political oppo- nents. We know this. The Cuban people know this, and the world knows this. After Remarks Announcing the Initiative all, just a month ago the United Nations for a New Cuba Commission on Human Rights, in a resolu- May 20, 2002 tion proposed by the nations of Latin Amer- ica, called upon Cuba’s Government to fi- Bienvenidos. Welcome to the White nally—to finally—begin respecting the House for the 100th anniversary of Cuban human rights of its people. independence. Today we honor the ties of Through all their pains and deprivation, friendship and family and faith that unite the the Cuban people’s aspirations for freedom Cuban people and the people of the United are undiminished. We see this today in Ha- States. We honor the contributions that vana, where more than 11,000 brave citizens Cuban Americans have made to all aspects have petitioned their Government for a ref- of our national life. And today I am issuing erendum on basic freedoms. If that ref- a proposal and a challenge that can put Cuba erendum is allowed, it can be a prelude, a on the path to liberty. beginning for real change in Cuba. I appreciate our Secretary of State being The United States has no designs on here. He and I take this issue very seriously. Cuban sovereignty. It’s not a part of our strat- He loves freedom as much as I love freedom. egy or a part of our vision. In fact, the United I want to thank Mel Martinez, a graduate States has been a strong and consistent sup- of Pedro Pan, for being here. Mr. Secretary, porter of freedom for the Cuban people. And you’re doing a great job. Welcome. it is important for those who love freedom I appreciate members of the diplomatic on that beautiful island to know that our sup- corps who are here. Thank you all for com- port for them will never waver. ing; I’m honored to have you here. Today I’m announcing an Initiative for a I want to thank Senator George Allen from New Cuba that offers Cuba’s Government the Commonwealth of Virginia. I want to a way forward towards democracy and hope thank Congressman Dan Burton; Mr. Chair- and better relations with the United States. man. And of course, two great Members of Cuba’s scheduled to hold elections to its the United States Congress, people who have National Assembly in 2003. Let me read Arti- got a lot to offer, a lot of sound advice: Ileana cle 71 of the Cuban Constitution. It says, Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 / May 20 853

‘‘The National Assembly is composed of dep- rency wages and pass on a pittance in the uties elected by free, direct, and secret vote.’’ form of pesos. And the signs at hotels reading That’s what the constitution says. Yet since ‘‘Solamente Turistas’’ should finally be taken 1959, no election in Cuba has come close down. to meeting these standards. In most elec- Without major steps by Cuba to open up tions, there has been one candidate, Castro’s its political system and its economic system, candidate. All elections in Castro’s Cuba have trade with Cuba will not help the Cuban peo- been a fraud. The voices of the Cuban people ple. It’s important for Americans to under- have been suppressed, and their votes have stand: Without political reform, without eco- been meaningless. That’s the truth. Es la nomic reform, trade with Cuba will merely verdad. enrich Fidel Castro and his cronies. Well- In the 2003 National Assembly elections intentioned ideas about trade will merely in Cuba, Cuba has the opportunity to offer prop up this dictator, enrich his cronies, and Cuban voters the substance of democracy, enhance the totalitarian regime. It will not not its hollow, empty forms. Opposition par- help the Cuban people. With real political ties should have the freedom to organize, as- and economic reform, trade can benefit the semble, and speak, with equal access to all Cuban people and allow them to share in airwaves. All political prisoners must be re- the progress of our times. leased and allowed to participate in the elec- If Cuba’s Government takes all the nec- tion process. Human rights organizations essary steps to ensure that the 2003 elections should be free to visit Cuba to ensure that are certifiably free and fair—certifiably free the conditions for free elections are being and fair—and if Cuba also begins to adopt created. And the 2003 elections should be meaningful market-based reforms, then and monitored by objective outside observers. only then I will work with the United States These are the minimum steps necessary to Congress to ease the ban on trade and travel make sure that next year’s elections are the between our two countries. true expression of the will of the Cuban peo- Meaningful reform on Cuba’s part will be ple. answered with a meaningful American re- I also challenge Cuba’s Government to sponse. The goal of the United States policy ease its stranglehold, to change its strangle- toward Cuba is not a permanent embargo hold on private economic activity. Political on Cuba’s economy. The goal is freedom for and economic freedoms go hand in hand, and Cuba’s people. if Cuba opens its political system, funda- Today’s initiative invites the Cuban Gov- mental questions about its backward eco- ernment to trust and respect Cuban citizens. nomic system will come into sharper focus. And I urge other democracies, in this hemi- If the Cuban Government truly wants to sphere and beyond, to use their influence on advance the cause of workers, of Cuban Cuba’s Government to allow free and fair workers, surely it will permit trade unions National Assembly elections and to push for to exist outside of Government control. If real and meaningful and verifiable reform. Cuba wants to create more good-paying jobs, Full normalization of relations with private employers have to be able to nego- Cuba—diplomatic recognition, open trade, tiate with and pay workers of their own and a robust aid program—will only be pos- choosing, without the Government telling sible when Cuba has a new government that who they can hire and who they must fire. is fully democratic, when the rule of law is If Cuba wants to attract badly needed in- respected, and when the human rights of all vestment from abroad, property rights must Cubans are fully protected. be respected. If the Government wants to Yet, under the Initiative for a New Cuba, improve the daily lives of its people, goods the United States recognizes that freedom and services produced in Cuba should be sometimes grows step by step, and we’ll en- made available to all Cuban citizens. Workers courage those steps. The current of history employed by foreign companies should be runs strongly toward freedom. Our plan is paid directly by their employers, instead of to accelerate freedom’s progress in Cuba in having the Government seize their hard-cur- every way possible, just as the United States 854 May 20 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 and our democratic friends and allies did suc- one. There is only one national leader whose cessfully in places like Poland or in South position of power owes more to bullets than Africa. Even as we seek to end tyranny, we ballots. Fidel Castro has a chance to escape will work to make life better for people living this lonely and stagnant isolation. If he ac- under and resisting Castro’s rule. cepts our offer, he can bring help to his peo- Today I’m announcing a series of actions ple and hope to our relations. If Mr. Castro that will directly benefit the Cuban people refuses our offer, he will be protecting his and give them greater control of their eco- cronies at the expense of his people. And nomic and political destiny. My administra- eventually, despite all his tools of oppression, tion will ease restrictions on humanitarian as- Fidel Castro will need to answer to his peo- sistance by legitimate U.S. religious and ple. other nongovernmental organizations that di- Jose Marti said, ‘‘Barriers of ideas are rectly serve the needs of the Cuban people stronger than barricades of stone.’’ For the and will help build Cuban civil society. And benefit of Cuba’s people, it is time for Mr. the United States will provide such groups Castro to cast aside old and failed ideas and with direct assistance that can be used for to start to think differently about the future. humanitarian and entrepreneurial activities. Today could mark a new dawn in a long Our Government will offer scholarships in friendship between our people, but only if the United States for Cuban students and the Castro regime sees the light. professionals who try to build independent Cuba’s independence was achieved a cen- civil institutions in Cuba and scholarships for tury ago. It was hijacked nearly half a century family members of political prisoners. We are ago. Yet, the independent spirit of the Cuban willing to negotiate direct mail service be- people has never faltered, and it has never tween the United States and Cuba. My ad- been stronger than it is today. The United ministration will also continue to look for States is proud to stand with all Cubans and ways to modernize Radio and TV Marti, be- all Cuban Americans who love freedom. And cause even the strongest walls of oppression we will continue to stand with you until lib- cannot stand when the floodgates of informa- erty returns to the land you love so well. tion and knowledge are opened. Viva Cuba Libre. And in the months ahead, my administra- tion will continue to work with leaders all NOTE: The President spoke at 10:15 a.m. in the around our country, leaders who love free- East Room at the White House. In his remarks, dom for Cuba, to implement new ways to he referred to President Fidel Castro of Cuba. empower individuals to enhance the chance He also referred to Operation Pedro Pan, a 1960s for freedom. immigration program in which thousands of The United States will continue to enforce Cuban children were sent to the United States economic sanctions on Cuba and the ban on by their parents. The Office of the Press Secretary travel to Cuba until Cuba’s Government also released a Spanish language transcript of proves that it is committed to real reform. these remarks. We will continue to prohibit U.S. financing for Cuban purchases of U.S. agricultural Remarks on the 100th Anniversary of goods, because this would just be a foreign aid program in disguise, which would benefit Cuban Independence in Miami, the current regime. Florida Today’s initiative offers Cuba’s Govern- May 20, 2002 ment a different path leading to a different future, a future of greater democracy and The President. Thank you very much. prosperity and respect. With real reform in Sientense. Voy a hablar en Espan˜ol hoy, pero Cuba, our countries can begin chipping away no. No. [Laughter] No quiero destruir un at four decades of distrust and division. And idioma que bonita, y por eso voy a hablar the choice rests with Mr. Castro. en Ingles. [Laughter] Thank you for having Today, there is only one nation in our me. God bless you all, and thanks for coming. hemisphere that is not a democracy—only It is such an honor—it is such an honor— Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 / May 20 855 for me to be here today with so many who Reich, the Under Secretary for the State De- love freedom. partment. Dr. Elsa Murano is here today as One hundred years ago, a proud island well, who is in my administration. Thank you, people declared independence and put Cuba Elsa, for being here. Where are you? Thank on a democratic course. We’re here today you, Doc—appreciate you coming. Emilio to celebrate this important anniversary. We Gonzalez, the Director of the Western are here today to honor the Cubans and Hemisphere Affairs of the National Security Cuban Americans who strengthen America Council—where are you, Colonel? Yes, with their character and with their enter- Emilio. He’s on my National Security Coun- prise. We are here today—we are here today cil. He reports directly to Arroz—[laugh- to proclaim loudly and clearly to the entire ter]—Senorita Arroz. [Laughter] world—to todos—that the Cuban people’s Today, when I landed in Miami, I got off love of liberty cannot and will not be denied. the airplane there and had a chance to meet Audience members. [Inaudible] a young man named Emilio J. Rodriguez. The President. Not only today will we re- Emilio is with us today. Emilio, stand up for mind the world how much we love freedom a second. [Applause] The reason I bring up and long for freedom, but I also want to talk Emilio is, I say oftentimes to Americans who about a proposal and a challenge that will want to—how best they can participate in our help put Cuba on the path to freedom. country, how best to fight evil is to do some I want to thank mi hermano—mi good, is to love a neighbor like you’d like hermanito—[laughter]—y el gran Goberna- to be loved yourself. If you’re interested— dor de este estado. Thank you, Jeb. We love if you’re interested in helping define our Na- you y mi cun˜ada bella. [Laughter] I love tion to the world and if you’re interested in being with my family. I love being with my resisting evil, do some good. And that’s what family. There’s nothing more important than Emilio does. He is a 19-year-old honor stu- family in life, and I love my brother Jeb a dent at Miami-Dade Community College. lot. He volunteers in park cleanup programs. He I’m honored to be with a great American, does art shows for children, and he hosts ac- a great American who is a graduate of Pedro tivities at a school for mentally challenged Pan, Mel Martinez, who brings a big dif- Cuban American children. For this, we’re ference in our Cabinet. [Applause] I didn’t grateful for your service. Thank you for being realize Mel had that many cousins. [Laugh- here. ter] The accomplished individuals I just named I want to thank the two United States Sen- are just a small handful of over a million fel- ators from Florida for being here, Senator low Americans from Cuban descent who Graham and Senator Nelson. I’m honored make such an incredibly important contribu- that you’re here. Thank you all for coming. tion to our country. So, as on the one hand I appreciate working with Senator Graham we—we celebrate independence, but we also and his important job of chairing the Intel- celebrate the greatness of America that ligence Committee in the United States Sen- opens her doors so that people can realize ate. I want to thank two fine Congressmen, their dreams. The success stories are unbe- Ileana Ros y Lincoln Diaz-Balart. lievable and unbelievably powerful. People I can’t—listen, every time I see and hear have escaped a jail and have come to America Gloria Estefan sing, it makes my heart feel and have succeeded and have been able to better. Gloria, thank you, and it’s good to raise their families and have been able to see Emilio. And I appreciate Jon Secada as prosper. It’s a wonderful part of the Amer- well. Jon, you did a great job. Thank you very ican story. much—honored you’re here. But it’s not just a story of the elderly and I appreciate Vicki Huddleston, our Ambas- the older Cuban Americans; it’s a story sador, Principal Officer at the U.S. Interests throughout generations. I want to talk about Section in Havana, for being here. Vicki, Miguel Arguelles, who came to America in thank you for coming—appreciate you. I’m 1995, at age 10 years old. At age 10, he honored to be traveling today with Otto couldn’t speak English. A few weeks from 856 May 20 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 now, he’ll graduate as the valedictorian of But the amazing thing is, through all the Miami Lakes’ Barbara Goleman Senior High pains—through all the pains—the Cuban School. He comes in 1995; he is going to people’s aspirations for freedom are be the first person to have graduated from undiminished. We see this today in Havana, that high school to attend Harvard Univer- where more than 11,000 brave citizens have sity. petitioned their Government for a ref- I want to read what Miguel wrote in his erendum on basic freedoms. If that ref- application essay, and I want all Americans erendum is allowed, it can be a prelude to from all backgrounds to listen to what this real change in Cuba. young man said. He said he was born in a This country has no designs on Cuba’s sov- place where the sun shines brightest and ereignty. We have no designs on the sov- drowns in tears, where Santa Claus has not ereignty of Cuba. But we’ll continue to be the visa to enter and dreams cannot escape a strong and consistent supporter of the their prison of nonexistence, where hopes are Cuban people’s aspirations for freedom. And shattered and religion is an endangered spe- nowhere is that support stronger than right cies, where freedom is in shackles. here in the streets of Miami, Florida. The I love how you put that. It’s essential support will never waive here, and it’s not that—Miguel, that you not only succeed, but going to waive in my heart, either. For how it’s essential that we remember the shackles long it takes—after all, we fight for freedom of freedom that Miguel wrote about, that here in America. We love freedom. We love there are people whose lives are being dis- what freedom means. It is the cornerstone rupted because Cuba is not free. I want to of our country, and therefore, we will never thank you for your poignancy. stop in our search for ways to advance free- And the shackles that this young man dom in Cuba. wrote about are an insult—an insult—to the Earlier today, in la Casa Blanca, I an- Cuban independence dreamed of by Felix nounced an initiative for a new Cuba that Varela and generations of Cuban patriots. offers Cuba’s Government a way forward, to- They’re an insult. The shackles he wrote ward democracy and hope and better rela- about are an insult to Jose Marti, who sac- tions with the United States. Cuba is sched- rificed his life for a great principle. No, we uled to hold elections to its National Assem- stand here today to declare loud and clear bly in 2003. I challenge Cuba’s Government to the entire world: Cuba must not only be to make these elections free and to make independent; Cuba must be free. them fair. One hundred years ago, Cuba declared her To make them free and fair, they must give independence. And nearly 50 years ago, opposition candidates the freedom to orga- nearly a half century ago, Cuba’s independ- nize, assemble, and speak. They must give ence and the hopes for democracy were hi- them the chance to open up the airwaves, jacked by a brutal dictator who cares every- so they can get their message out to the peo- thing for his own power and nada for the ple. To make them free and fair, they must Cuban people. In an era where markets have release all political prisoners so they can par- brought prosperity and empowerment, this ticipate in the elections. In order to make leader clings to a bankrupt ideology that has sure we know if they’re free and fair, they brought Cuba’s workers and farmers and must let human rights organizations into families nothing—nothing—but isolation and Cuba, to make sure that the elections are misery. I was amazed to read in this modern free and fair. Once the 2003 elections are era, the Cuban regime banned the sale of certified as free and fair by international computers to the public. What does that tell monitors, once Cuba begins the process of you? In an era where every other nation in meaningful economic reform, then and only our hemisphere has chosen the path to de- then I will explore ways with the United mocracy—every nation in our hemisphere States Congress to ease economic sanctions. has chosen the path to democracy—this lead- For 43 years—for 43 years—every election er instead chooses to jail, to torture, and exile in Cuba has been a fraud and a sham. Mr. Cuban people for speaking their minds. Castro, once, just once, show that you’re Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 / May 20 857 unafraid of a real election. Show the world ways to continue the inevitable march and you respect Cuba’s citizens enough to listen to hasten the inevitable march toward free- to their voices and to count their votes. Start dom. to release your chokehold on the working Mr. Castro must now act. He has his people and on enterprise. Then and only chance. He’s been given an opportunity. We then will we talk about easing sanctions and will continue to enforce economic sanctions not before. and ban the travel to Cuba until Cuba’s Gov- The goal of the United States, the goal of ernment shows real reform. our policy towards Cuba is not a permanent Audience members. Cuba si, Castro no! embargo on Cuba’s economy; our goal is Cuba si, Castro no! Cuba si, Castro no! freedom for Cuba’s people. Full normaliza- The President. And when we—when I tion of relations with Cuba, diplomatic rec- talk about economic reform—when I talk ognition, open trade, and a robust aid pro- about economic reform, I mean real eco- gram will only—only—be possible when nomic reform. The Government must allow Cuba has a new Government that is fully for workers to be able to organize in unions democratic, when the rule of law is re- outside of the control of the Government. spected, and when the human rights of all The Government must respect private prop- Cubans are protected. erty. Economic reform means the Govern- Under the new initiative for Cuba—under ment must allow employers to hire who they this new Initiative for a New Cuba, the want to hire, as opposed to those on a special United States recognizes that freedom some- list. Economic reform means that when times grows step by step, and we will encour- workers earn hard currency, they get to keep age those steps. You need to know that I feel the hard currency, as opposed to it going to so strongly about freedom—I mean, the cur- the Cuban Government. We know what the rent of history runs toward freedom; eventu- Cuban Government’s up to. We trade in hard ally, it’s not going to be denied. And our plan currency; they pay in pesos and keep the dif- is to accelerate freedom in Cuba in every way ference. And therefore, without meaningful possible. We’ll work to encourage freedom reform, trade with Cuba would do nothing within Cuba by making life better for people more than line the pockets of Fidel Castro living under and resisting the Castro regime. and his cronies. So, today I want to talk about some steps Audience members. Cuba si, Castro no! we can take, the beginning of some impor- Cuba si, Castro no! Cuba si, Castro no! tant steps. The President. I say reform because we My administration will ease restrictions on care about the people. We want to reform, humanitarian assistance from legitimate U.S. insist upon reform so the people will benefit. religious and other nongovernmental organi- We hurt for the people in Cuba. We long zations that directly serve the needs of the for a day when they realize the same free- Cuban people, and to help build a Cuban doms we have here in America. I want you civil society. The United States will provide to understand that I know what trade means such groups with direct assistance that can with a tyrant. It means that we will under- be used for humanitarian and entrepre- write tyranny, and we cannot let that happen. neurial activities. Our Government will offer And I also want you to know I will not allow scholarships in the United States for Cuban our taxpayers’ money to go to enrich the Cas- students and professionals who are trying to tro regime, and I’m willing to use my veto. build independent civil institutions. And we The initiative I’ve just—the initiative I’ve will offer scholarships to the children of polit- outlined today offers the Cuban Government ical prisoners. We’re willing to negotiate di- a way forward, a way towards democracy, a rect mail service between the United States way towards prosperity, a way towards re- and Cuba. My administration will also con- spect. The choice now rests with Mr. Castro. tinue to look for ways to modernize Radio Audience members. Boo-o-o! and TV Marti. The President. If Mr. Castro does not These are beginning steps. We’ll listen to allow free elections, he will be protecting his the leaders in the community for innovative cronies at the expense of his people. And 858 May 20 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 eventually—and eventually—despite all his The President. Oh, well, thank you. tools of oppression, Castro will need to an- Mr. Kleber. ——given the achievements swer to his people. of your father, especially. But still, the city, Ten years before Cuba achieved inde- right now, even as we speak, is bracing, ex- pendence, Jose Marti wrote this: ‘‘If our suf- pecting huge demonstrations. And the largest fering homeland could see the care with police force in the history of the city has been which her absent children are preparing to mobilized to protect you. serve her, if our homeland could see the ten- The President. Thank you. derness with which she is loved by her chil- Mr. Kleber. Not only against terrorism— dren in exile, the joy of their faith and her yes, I guess. It is not only about the terror pride at once would give her the strength threat, which of course is on everybody’s to break her chains at last.’’ mind. Those words, written a long time ago, The President. Sure. apply with equal power today. The dream of Mr. Kleber. But also, thousands of dem- a free and independent Cuba has been de- onstrators of all colors, more than ever be- ferred, but it can never be destroyed, and fore. Have you been made aware of that? it will not be denied. The President. No. I—but that’s good. For those listening on Radio Marti, it’s im- That’s democracy. See, I love to visit a place portant for you to know the United States that is confident in her freedom, a place stands with the Cuban people, not just on where people feel free to express themselves, Independence Day but on every day—every because that’s what I believe in. day. Every day we stand with those who re- And so I’m looking forward to my visit. ject tyranny and torture and embrace liberty I’m going to have a great visit with the Chan- and life. Every day we stand with the cellor. I’ll be at the Bundestag, and I look plantados in prison confronting illegitimate forward to a speech there that talks about power with righteous truth. Every day we the importance of our relationship; that is, stand with the Cuban families everywhere the relationship between Germany and seeking a better future. Every day we cul- America and what we can do together. tivate ‘‘una rosa blanca’’ for Cuba’s freedom. I’m anxious—I’ve never been to Germany, Thank you all for coming. Viva Cuba libre! so I’m anxious to go, and I’m looking forward to it. NOTE: The President spoke at 3:10 p.m. at the James L. Knight Center. In his remarks, he re- Mr. Kleber. It’s too bad that the President ferred to Gov. Jeb Bush of Florida and his wife, never gets to really see a city like Berlin. Columba; entertainers Gloria Estefan and Jon The President. Yes. Secada; Gloria Estefan’s husband, producer Mr. Kleber. There’s always this security Emilio Estefan, Jr.; Under Secretary of Agri- around. culture for Food Safety Elsa A. Murano; National The President. The bubble. Security Adviser Condoleezza Rice; and President Mr. Kleber. Yes. Fidel Castro of Cuba. He also referred to Oper- The President. That’s true. And that’s ation Pedro Pan, a 1960s immigration program in which thousands of Cuban children were sent part of my life; that’s part of the—that’s one to the United States by their parents. The Office of the drawbacks of being the President. You of the Press Secretary also released a Spanish lan- really are encapsulated into a bubble, wheth- guage transcript of these remarks. er it be in Germany or in America, for that matter. Mr. Kleber. There is, beyond the dem- Interview With Claus Kleber of ARD onstrations and beyond the people who show German Television up everyplace just to cause havoc, there is May 21, 2002 a mood in Germany right now, pervasive among decent people, who are concerned President’s Upcoming Visit to Germany about an America that more and more seems Mr. Kleber. Mr. President, ‘‘George to stand in many important questions outside Bush’’ is probably the best name a man can the global consensus, from the Kyoto agree- carry to Berlin—— ment to the International Criminal Court to Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 / May 21 859

Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty, military op- know wants to develop weapons of mass de- tions versus Iraq, all these questions. My struction. They may have weapons of mass question to you: Is your Government really destruction; we just don’t know. This is a dan- still part of that global family? Or is it more, gerous regime. And for the good of freedom America looks for coalitions of the willing, and for the good of our future, we’ve got meaning if you go with us, fine; if you don’t, to deal with it. we find somebody else or we go it alone? Mr. Kleber. One way or the other? The President. Well, that’s a very com- The President. One way or the other, ab- plicated question. Let me just tell you this: solutely. I’m coming to Germany to say that together Now, I’m not going to—I have no military we can work to achieve peace, and we must plans on my desk that calls for—that plots work together to achieve peace. out a military operation. I’m looking at all I’m going to talk about a NATO—the idea options. And of course, I’ll consult closely of expanding NATO to help achieve peace. with our allies and friends. I look forward I’m going to reaffirm those institutions that to talking this subject with the Chancellor are important, where we can cooperate. of Germany. I will be very blunt in my assess- I am—listen, I believe in alliances. I know ment of his—‘‘his’’ being Saddam Hus- America can’t win the war on terror alone. sein’s—threat to the freedom of the world. I understand there’s some reluctance about But this is a threat that we better take seri- some of the positions I take. But one of the ously, and we better take it seriously now. things that the German people at least ought to respect is, I speak my mind. There’s no September 11 doubt where I stand. And I remember, when Mr. Kleber. One question about Sep- Ronald Reagan came to Germany, he said: tember 11th. Mr. Gorbachev, tear down the whole wall. The President. Sure. He didn’t say, tear down a couple of bricks. Mr. Kleber. I don’t care about this Wash- He said, tear the whole thing down. And I ington second-guessing game; this is really guess I tend to speak that way too. not what I’m getting to. We have pictures But the German people will know, if they of your travel pool on Air Force One looking listen to my speech, that I care deeply for in horror at this little flat screen which was the alliance and friendship we have with the back in the plane, seeing the second tower German people. And I believe together we collapse. can do a lot of good in the world. The President. Yes. Mr. Kleber. I wondered what was going President Saddam Hussein of Iraq on at about that time in the front of the Mr. Kleber. Iraq is an issue very much plane? on everybody’s mind in this context. Your The President. Well, thanks for asking. Government seems to be determined to end First of all, I learned about the attack—the the regime of Saddam Hussein by any means second attack; I knew about the first attack necessary. This seems to include military op- when I walked into a schoolroom. I thought tions. Is there any way that this man, this it was an accident. And I’m listening to an dictator, can address your concerns and stay education briefing, and Andy Card, my Chief in power? Or are we drifting towards a war? of Staff, whispered in my ear, he said, ‘‘Amer- The President. Well, first, let me say this, ica’s under attack. There’s been a second that Iraq ought to be on the minds of the plane crash. America is under attack.’’ I made German people, and they ought to be on the up my mind right then and there that if minds of the American people, because the somebody was attacking us, we would re- Iraq Government is a dangerous Govern- spond with the full might of America. ment. Iraq ought to be centerpiece in our Mr. Kleber. But there was little you could thinking. do at that moment, in that plane. This is a Government that’s gassed its own The President. At that moment, no, there people. This is a Government that is not wasn’t. You’re right. I mean, I was trying to transparent, and this is a Government we get out of harm’s way. We were concerned 860 May 21 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 about threats on the President. We were wor- and the Director of the FBI was expressing ried about future attacks, and there’s a lot a general threat—they’re basically saying— of belief that Flight 93 was headed to the with which I agree—that the Al Qaida still White House. exists; they still hate America and any other I was concerned about things like, is my country which loves freedom; and they want wife safe? You know, I was worried about to hurt us. They’re nothing but a bunch of that. I was worried about things such as my coldblooded killers. parents. I was worried about my girls. And And if we had a specific threat to ourselves that’s what I was concerned—I was worried or to Italy, for that matter, we would deal about Americans who were grieving. with it in a way that you probably wouldn’t But at the same time, you need to know know about. In other words, we’d be on the about me that I was also thinking clearly phone to the Italian authorities, sharing in- about how to respond. If America is under formation to protect our—just so that they attack, my job as the President is to protect would help our friends protect themselves. the homeland, to find out the facts, and to Had we had a specific threat here in Amer- deal with it in a firm way. ica, we would have used our assets to harden I want to thank the German people and the threat. But no, it’s a real problem. the German Government, not only for their The best way to secure our homeland, the sympathy but for understanding the new war best way for Italy to be secure, and other of the 21st century. And we have a new war, countries, is to find these killers, is to hunt and we’d better deal with it, because this is for them, is to chase them down. And that’s an evil group of people that are interested what we’re going to do. And the good news in destroying civilization. And so long as I’m is, for those of us who love freedom, and the President, I’m going to do everything I the bad news is, for the enemy, this country can to prevent that from happening. is very patient and very united and going to Mr. Kleber. Your people give me the sig- be very deliberate in our pursuit of freedom. nal to stop. I would love to keep going. The President. Well, I’m sorry we can’t, Europe-U.S. Relationship but maybe some other time. Mr. Borrelli. The U.S. and Europe are Mr. Kleber. Have a safe trip. divided on important issues, as the next step The President. Thank you. in the war on terrorism and steel trade. Do Mr. Kleber. Take care. Bless you. you think you have to change something in The President. Thank you. your leadership to be more convincing with European countries? Or do they have to NOTE: The interview was taped at 1:12 p.m. in modify their policy? the Map Room at the White House for later broadcast. In his remarks, the President referred The President. Well, I don’t think either to Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder of Germany. A of us have to change because we share great tape was not available for verification of the con- values. See, we love freedom. We hate those tent of this interview. who want to kill. That’s the common ground, and that’s very important. And that’s the high ground. Interview With Giulio Borrelli of And you bring up interesting issues, you RAI Italian Television know. You bring up the issue of steel. We May 21, 2002 trade—first of all, we have trade disputes be- cause there is so much trade. If we had no Terrorist Alerts trade, there would be no disputes. And we’ve Mr. Borrelli. Mr. President, raising the got $2 trillion worth of trade, which is a sig- alarm about the possibility of new terrorist nificant amount of trade. Obviously, I was attack without being specific is a way of cry- concerned about what imports were doing ing wolf, which can frighten people. Can to our industry. And under the rules of the Americans stop the suicide bombers? WTO, under the guidelines that we’ve all The President. Yes, it’s a very interesting agreed to, I acted. I am confident and hope question. Well, first of all, the Vice President that our European trading partners will also Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 / May 21 861 respond within the guidelines of the WTO. cannot do so until there is the institutions And that’s the way you settle disputes. A of a credible state in place. In other words, trade dispute is hardly a breach of an impor- we’re not going to give money if it ends up tant relationship. It is a way to work through going into somebody’s pockets and not to a difficult situations. help the people we’re trying to help. And as far as the axis of evil, you know, So we’ve got the framework. We’ve got the I understand there are some that would hope vision for peace and the framework for get- that the threat would go away just on its own, ting there, and now we’ve just got to continue but we’re going to have to act. I will, of working together to achieve it. It is a difficult course, consult with our friends. I’m delib- subject. People have been killing each other erate in my thinking. I have no set plans right there for a long period of time. But once now. But I am serious about making it clear there is the collective vision for peace—and to countries around the world that we need I think we’re building that collective vision— to work together to rid the world of the and once people understand their respon- threat. And the threat is a nontransparent sibilities—and we’re now laying out the re- dictator—dictatorship having a weapons of sponsibilities—we have an opportunity to mass destruction to be used countries such move toward that vision of peace, and that’s as yours and mine. And that’s a threat that exactly what we’re doing. we must deal with if we want to do our duty to history. Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi of Italy Mr. Borrelli. Last time I came here I Situation in the Middle East asked you if you received an invitation to Mr. Borrelli. How can America and Eu- have dinner with Mr. Chirac or Mr. rope improve their efforts to make peace in Berlusconi, which one would you accept? the Middle East? You answered, you like Italian food. Do you The President. Yes, that’s a great ques- still enjoy Italian cuisine made by tion. We are working together well, I believe. Berlusconi? I was very pleased with—and the Secretary The President. I love Italian cuisine. And of State is the one who keeps me abreast I’m very close to the Prime Minister. He is of the levels of cooperation. During the re- a—he is a good man; he’s easy to be around cent issues in the Middle East, the EU and because he is a good listener and a good talk- our country worked very closely to try to lay er. And I like his judgment, and I like his out the foundations and a pathway to peace. friendship. I gave a speech right here in the Rose Gar- den on April the 4th that said parties have President’s Upcoming Meeting With Pope responsibilities: Israelis have got responsibil- John Paul II ities if they’re interested in peace; the Arab Mr. Borrelli. When you go to Rome, you world has responsibilities; as do the Palestin- meet the Pope. ians. I’ve talked about a vision of two states The President. Yes. living side by side, at peace, with respect to Mr. Borrelli. One of his desires is to visit each other. The Europeans agree with that Ground Zero in New York. Will he be visiting position, so we’re on the same—we share the soon? same vision. And I believe that the Euro- The President. I hope so, but that’s up peans also agree that there will never be for the Pope to make that decision. He is peace so long as terrorists continue to kill a—I had the honor of visiting the Holy Fa- and that we’ve all got to use our collective ther the last time I was—the visit in beautiful efforts to stop the terrorist attacks. Rome. And actually, it was outside of Rome; We definitely agree that we’ve got to pro- we went to the summer—the summer palace vide hope for the Palestinian people. There’s overlooking the spectacular lake. And you a lot of people who’ve been suffering for a know, he’s getting older, and whether or not long period of time. We need an economic he’s able to travel to Ground Zero will be development package that will help the Pal- up to—up for the Holy Father to decide. But estinians realize a hopeful future. But we I just want you to know I’m looking forward 862 May 21 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 to that visit. It is a great honor to be in his Mr. Auriemma. Auriemma. presence. He’s a great man. The President. Auriemma. Okay, fine. Mr. Borrelli. Thank you, Mr. President. [Laughter] I’ve never been too good in The President. Thank you, sir. English. [Laughter] But he’s a heck of a coach, however he says his name. [Laughter] NOTE: The interview was taped at 1:33 p.m. in the Map Room at the White House for later I want to congratulate the UConn wom- broadcast. Mr. Borrelli referred to President en’s basketball team for an unbelievable sea- Jacques Chirac of France. A tape was not available son. It—what great athletes, and they were for verification of the content of this interview. really fun to watch. And then, much to the delight of thou- sands of people around here, and many who Remarks Honoring NCAA Champion work upstairs in the White House, the mighty Teams Terps of Maryland are the NCAA champions. May 21, 2002 I want to congratulate Dan Mote, the presi- dent, and Gary Williams, the coach. You guys The President. Welcome. Please be seat- need to know that there was a lot of people ed. It’s a beautiful day to welcome a bunch that were stepping a little lighter in my fam- of champs to the White House. I want to ily, as well as who work in this compound, welcome you all; I want to welcome the when you won. It was a great feat in an unbe- teams. Thanks for coming. lievably tough field. And so congratulations Thank you, Senators, for being here. I see to you all. Senator Dodd, Dayton. I—Senator You’ve now got a—you showed some Lieberman’s on his way; I know that for a things that I think are important for our fact. I want to thank my friend Johnny Row- country, particularly at this time, that if you land, the Governor of Connecticut, here. He serve something greater than yourself, called told me, he said, ‘‘The Connecticut women’s basketball team is pretty good this year.’’ I a team, you can achieve great things. If you said, ‘‘Oh, yeah?’’ He said, ‘‘No, they’re real recognize that life is more than just an indi- good.’’ And I said, ‘‘Well, how good?’’ He vidual record, that if you recognize there said, ‘‘They’re going to go undefeated.’’ I are—something bigger than an individual ac- said, ‘‘Sure, Governor.’’ Thanks for making complishment, you can win. You can win in me look bad, Johnny. [Laughter] a broader sense. And to me, that’s what these Senator Wellstone, thanks for coming as championships mean. well, honored you’re here. It’s kind of what our country has got to I want to thank the representatives from do as well. If we serve something greater the universities. My good friend Mark Yudof than materialism or self-absorption, we can is here from the University of Minnesota. I do some great things as a country. Starting want to thank Don Lucia as well, the head with loving our neighbor like we’d like to be coach of the men’s hockey team. I want to loved ourselves, making sure the country is congratulate the Minnesota team; you won as hopeful and promising as it can possibly it in dramatic fashion. And you had to let be. down your—change your immigration laws As well as the result of being champs— to allow somebody from North Dakota to I mean big-time champs—you’ve now got a come in to score. [Laughter] But it was a lot of people looking at you, a lot of kids great victory. wondering, how does a champ behave? What I want to thank Kathryn Martin and Shan- does a champ do when they win the crown? non Miller from the University of Minnesota- It’s a great opportunity to set an example for Duluth women’s hockey team for coming other people, to help people understand back again. It is a repeat performance by a they’re responsible for the decisions they great group of athletes. I want to congratu- make in life. You have that chance right now late you all for winning it two years in a row. as a champ. I want to thank and welcome Geno You’ve been champs on the field and on Aurinuma—is that right? the courts and on the rinks. Now you can Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 / May 21 863 be champs off, and do your country a great at the talks in Kenya. To achieve a lasting service. and just peace, all parties at the talks must It’s my honor to welcome you all here. I make every effort to ensure the discussions love championship day at the White House. are a success. I love to be around success. I hope you cher- ish these memories in winning these great championships for a long time coming and Statement on the Establishment of use them as an opportunity to work to make East Timor your Nation the best it can possibly be. May 21, 2002 May God bless your talents, and may God bless America. The United States salutes the establish- ment of East Timor, the first new nation of NOTE: The President spoke at 2 p.m. on the South the millennium. With those in Dili, we cele- Lawn at the White House. In his remarks, he re- brate the successful conclusion of the long ferred to Mark Yudof, president, and Don Lucia, struggle of the people of East Timor for an head men’s ice hockey coach, University of Min- independent nation. We are heartened that nesota; Kathryn Martin, chancellor, and Shannon Miller, head women’s ice hockey coach, University the people of East Timor have embraced the of Minnesota-Duluth; Geno Auriemma, head path of democracy that will lead their nation women’s basketball coach, University of Con- to peace and prosperity. On behalf of the necticut; and Dan Mote, president, and Gary Wil- American people, I congratulate Xanana liams, head men’s basketball coach, University of Gusmao, who was sworn in as East Timor’s Maryland. The President honored the University first President. of Connecticut’s women’s basketball team, the The United Nations has played a pivotal University of Maryland’s men’s basketball team, role in bringing East Timor into the family the University of Minnesota’s men’s ice hockey of nations. We praise the contributions and team, and the University of Minnesota-Duluth’s efforts of the international community which women’s ice hockey team. helped make the United Nations Transitional Administration in East Timor a success. Statement on the Peace Process in Sudan Proclamation 7565—National May 21, 2002 Maritime Day, 2002 Senator Danforth has made considerable May 21, 2002 progress in helping to bring both sides in Su- dan’s peace process closer to the negotiating By the President of the United States table. I am grateful for Senator Danforth’s of America efforts, and I have asked him to continue to serve as my envoy. The road ahead will be A Proclamation difficult. Lives continue to be lost, and condi- Our commercial maritime tradition dates tions for the people of Sudan are hard. back to the founding of our Nation; and it Achieving peace will require verifiable ac- continues to play an important role today, tion by both sides. We must see deeds, not moving passengers and freight, protecting just words. The Government of Sudan cannot our freedom, and linking our citizens to the make empty promises while continuing to world. wage war against its own people. It must stop Merchant mariners have served America interfering with food deliveries. It must stop with distinction throughout our history, but attacking civilians. It must honor fully its especially at critical moments. Before World commitments to Senator Danforth. It must War II, they made dangerous and difficult accept that it cannot win the war. It must voyages carrying vital supplies to Europe. seek peace. During that war, more than 700 United The United States is committed to helping States merchant ships were lost to attack, and the aggrieved people of the Sudan. We will more than 6,000 merchant mariners lost their continue to urge the parties toward peace lives. Merchant mariners played a vital role 864 May 21 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 in the Korean Conflict, especially in the res- States at their homes and in their commu- cue of 14,000 Korean civilians by the SS nities. I also request that all ships sailing MEREDITH VICTORY. During the Viet- under the American flag dress ship on that nam War, ships crewed by civilian seamen day. carried 95 percent of the supplies used by In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set our Armed Forces. Many of these ships my hand this twenty-first day of May, in the sailed into combat zones under fire. In fact, year of our Lord two thousand two, and of the SS MAYAGUEZ incident involved the the Independence of the United States of capture of mariners from the American mer- America the two hundred and twenty-sixth. chant ship SS MAYAGUEZ. George W. Bush More recently, during the Persian Gulf War merchant mariners were vital to the [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, largest sealift operation since D-Day. And 8:45 a.m., May 23, 2002] after the tragic attacks of September 11th, NOTE: This proclamation was published in the professional merchant mariners and mid- Federal Register on May 24. shipmen from the United States Merchant Marine Academy transported personnel and equipment and moved food and supplies to Proclamation 7566—National lower Manhattan. Their efforts enhanced Missing Children’s Day, 2002 rescue operations and helped save many May 21, 2002 lives. Today, the men and women of the United By the President of the United States States Merchant Marine and thousands of of America other workers in our Nation’s maritime in- dustry continue to make immeasurable con- A Proclamation tributions to our economic strength and our On May 25, 1979, 6-year old Etan Patz ongoing efforts to build a more peaceful disappeared on his way to school in New world. We must ensure our maritime system York City. The ensuing search focused na- can meet the challenges of the 21st century. tional attention on the tragedy of missing As cargo volume is expected to double within children, as well as the lack of resources and the next 20 years, a viable maritime network information available to help locate and re- will help our country compete in our global cover missing children. Since that time, many economy. high-profile cases and the dedicated efforts Accordingly, my Administration is working of parents, the law enforcement community, with government agencies, the shipping in- and others concerned with children’s well- dustry, labor, and environmental groups to being have generated even greater awareness ensure that our waterways remain a sound about the need to protect children from transportation option that complements our criminals and other predators. overland transportation network. During this year, we mark the 20th anni- In recognition of the importance of the versary of the passage of the Missing Chil- U.S. Merchant Marine, the Congress, by dren Act, originally signed into law by Presi- joint resolution approved on May 20, 1933, dent Reagan. Over the past two decades, the as amended, has designated May 22 of each Department of Justice, along with many im- year as ‘‘National Maritime Day’’ and has au- portant community and faith-based partners, thorized and requested that the President have made great progress in raising public issue an annual proclamation calling for its awareness, improving public safety, locating appropriate observance. and recovering missing children, and pro- Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, tecting children from exploitation on the President of the United States of America, Internet. do hereby proclaim May 22, 2002, as Na- Americans must continue to work together tional Maritime Day. I call upon the people to ensure the safety of our children. The De- of the United States to celebrate this observ- partment of Justice will commemorate Na- ance and to display the flag of the United tional Missing Children’s Day by presenting Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 / May 21 865 six awards that recognize outstanding efforts From war-torn battlefields and jungle skir- to safeguard our youngest citizens. The re- mishes to conflicts at sea and air attacks, gen- cipients deserve our heartfelt thanks and ap- erations of brave men and women have preciation for their dedicated work. As they fought and died to defeat tyranny and protect are honored for their contributions, I urge our democracy. Their sacrifices have made all Americans to take an active role in up- this Nation strong and our world a better holding the safety of our communities and place. in defending the well-being of our children. Upwards of 48 million Americans have Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, served the cause of freedom and more than President of the United States of America, a million have died to preserve our liberty. by virtue of the authority vested in me by We also remember the more than 140,000 the Constitution and laws of the United who were taken prisoner-of-war and the States, do hereby proclaim May 25, 2002, as many others who were never accounted for. National Missing Children’s Day. I call upon These memories remind us that the cost of Americans to join me in commemorating this war and the price of peace are great. observance and to remember those young The tradition of Memorial Day reinforces people who are missing. I also call on our our Nation’s resolve to never forget those citizens to recognize and thank those who who gave their last full measure for America. work on behalf of missing children and their As we engage in the war against terrorism, families. By renewing our commitment to we also pray for peace. When America protect our children from harm, we can save emerged from the Civil War, President Abra- lives and prevent untold suffering and grief ham Lincoln called on all Americans to among the most vulnerable of our society. ‘‘cherish a just and lasting peace.’’ In these In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set extraordinary times, our Nation has once my hand this twenty-first day of May, in the again been challenged, and Lincoln’s words year of our Lord two thousand two, and of remain our guiding prayer. the Independence of the United States of We continue to rely on our brave and America the two hundred and twenty-sixth. steadfast men and women in uniform to de- George W. Bush fend our freedom. United as a people, we pray for peace throughout the world. We also [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, pray for the safety of our troops. This new 8:45 a.m., May 23, 2002] generation follows an unbroken line of good, courageous, and unfaltering heroes who have NOTE: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on May 24. never let our country down. As we commemorate this noble American holiday, we honor those who fell in defense Proclamation 7567—Prayer for of freedom. We honor them in our memory Peace, Memorial Day, 2002 through solemn observances, with the love May 21, 2002 of a grateful Nation. In respect for their devotion to America, By the President of the United States the Congress, by a joint resolution approved of America on May 11, 1950 (64 Stat. 158), has requested the President to issue a proclamation calling A Proclamation on the people of the United States to observe Every Memorial Day, Americans remem- each Memorial Day as a day of prayer for ber the debt of gratitude we owe to our vet- permanent peace and designating a period erans who gave their lives for our country. on that day when the people of the United On this important day, communities across States might unite in prayer. The Congress, our Nation stop to remember and to honor by Public Law 106–579, has also designated the great sacrifices made by our men and the minute beginning at 3:00 p.m. local time women in uniform. on that day as a time for all Americans to Since its beginnings, our country has faced observe the National Moment of Remem- many threats that have tested its courage. brance. 866 May 21 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2002

Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, During the current year, VA has made dra- President of the United States of America, matic improvements processing claims, sig- by virtue of the authority vested in me by nificantly accelerating the rate of payments. the Constitution and laws of the United This supplemental request for $1.1 billion is States, do hereby designate Memorial Day, needed to help pay the benefits associated May 27, 2002, as a day of prayer for perma- with reducing the backlog of claims from pre- nent peace, and I designate the hour begin- vious years. ning in each locality at 11:00 a.m. of that day Absent this adjustment, there would be in- as a time to unite in prayer. I also ask all sufficient funds in September to pay the 2.5 Americans to observe the National Moment million veterans who are entitled to benefits. of Remembrance beginning at 3:00 p.m. local This transmittal also contains requests for time on Memorial Day. I urge the press, FY 2002 supplemental appropriations for the radio, television, and all other media to par- legislative branch. As a matter of comity, ap- ticipate in these observances. propriations requests of the legislative I also request the Governors of the United branch are transmitted without change. States and the Commonwealth of Puerto Furthermore, in accordance with provi- Rico, and the appropriate officials of all units sions of Public Law 107–63, the Department of government, to direct that the flag be of the Interior and Related Agencies Appro- flown at half-staff until noon on this Memo- priations Act, 2002, I hereby request and rial Day on all buildings, grounds, and naval make available $54.0 million in emergency vessels throughout the United States and in appropriations for the Department of the In- all areas under its jurisdiction and control. terior’s Bureau of Land Management. These I also request the people of the United States emergency funds will be used to undertake to display the flag at half-staff from their necessary rehabilitation projects on lands homes for the customary forenoon period. damaged by wildland fires and to support fire In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set suppression activities. I hereby designate this my hand this twenty-first day of May, in the amount as an emergency requirement in ac- year of our Lord two thousand two, and of cordance with section 251(b)(2)(A) of the the Independence of the United States of Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit America the two hundred and twenty-sixth. Control Act of 1985, as amended. The details of these requests are set forth George W. Bush in the enclosed letter from the Director of the Office of Management and Budget. I [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:45 a.m., May 23, 2002] concur with his comments and observations. Sincerely, NOTE: This proclamation was published in the George W. Bush Federal Register on May 24.

Interview With European Journalists Letter to the Speaker of the House of May 21, 2002 Representatives Transmitting Requests for Supplemental and The President. I have a couple comments, Emergency Appropriations and I’ll answer some questions, obviously. May 21, 2002 This is a trip that I’ve been looking forward to. I’ve never been to Germany; I’m looking Dear Mr. Speaker: forward to it. I’ve prepared a speech to the I ask the Congress to consider the en- Bundestag, which is going to be a very inter- closed request for an FY 2002 supplemental esting opportunity for me to talk about a very appropriation for the Department of Vet- important relationship. erans Affairs (VA). This request is for an in- In my speech I’m going to refer to my trip crease in the mandatory cost of disability to Russia as well, about how I view this as compensation and pension benefits for vet- an opportunity—my trip to Russia and Ger- erans. many and France and eventually Italy—as a Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 / May 21 867 way to confirm the importance of our rela- of whom who agree with what I believe in, tionship bilaterally as well as institutions like some of whom don’t—but all of them are NATO but as a way to talk about how wel- free to express their minds. coming Russia, Russia’s vision into the West And then, of course, go to Paris—it’s going is important for all of us. to be a magnificent moment—then Rome, I look forward to my bilaterals with and then as well the ‘‘at 20,’’ the NATO con- Gerhard Schroeder. We’ve got a good rela- firmation of a new relationship with Russia. tionship. I look forward to my bilaterals with But anyway, this is going to be a good trip. Jacques and Prime Minister Berlusconi, who I sent the best advance team I can send, and is—three friends. As you know, I rely upon that is the First Lady—[laughter]—pre- personal diplomacy a lot. I think it’s easy, paring my way. when people find areas of mutual respect, So why don’t we go around and answer to work together. I’ve got good relationships some questions? Who would like to start? with all three and, of course, we’ve got good relationships with President Putin as well. Europe-U.S. Relationship Q. He’s also a friend? The President. He is a friend; yes, he is, Q. Mr. President. very much. The President. Yes, sir. I will talk in the bilaterals as well, of Q. You are by now an experienced Euro- course, in my public addresses, about our pean traveler, so I would like to ask you, is need to continue to fight terrorism. You’ve there something wrong with the U.S.-Euro- seen our newspapers. You’ve seen members pean relationship in terms of a growing psy- of my administration, high-ranking members chological, military, technological gap? Is of my administration clearly talking about the there something that is worrying you and that potential threats and attacks on America. I you hear from your friends that is worrying will remind our friends that this war is far them? from over. I will praise the cooperation, be- The President. Well, first, I recognize cause I believe it. I will talk to them about that there are more ties that bind us than what we need to do to continue fighting for don’t. You see, when you love freedom, that’s liberty and freedom. a powerful tie. The German people, the In my speeches—in discussions privately French, Russians, and the Italians, like and in my public speeches, I will also remind Americans, love freedom. And so do I, a lot. us that we want the world to be not only And that’s what binds us. We’ve got values more secure but a better world. I’ll explain that bind us: rule of law, constitutions, mar- the Millennium Challenge Fund that I laid ketplace, the rule of the marketplace. These out in Monterrey, and I’ll talk about some are common values that make us bound to- of it publicly in the Bundestag as well. gether. I think this is an opportunity—I view this We’ve got common problems that we must as a great opportunity for those of us who solve that are also greater than any dispute are in positions of responsibility to defend that may arise. I mean, listen, fighting for our freedoms and to work collaboratively to terror is a common cause that is a powerful make the world a better place, improve the force that unites us. human condition. So I’m looking forward to So I think the relationship is a strong rela- it. It’s going to be an interesting experience. tionship, and it’s a healthy relationship. And I’m looking forward to going to Normandy of course there are disagreements at times. on Memorial Day. It’s going to be a very dra- We have trade disagreements, but that’s be- matic moment for the son of a World War cause we’ve got a lot of trade; we’ve got $2 II veteran. And I look forward to going to trillion of trade a year. If we didn’t have any a church and a synagogue in Russia, Sunday. trade, there would be no disagreements. But I look forward, as I said, going to the Bundes- that’s normal; that’s in the normal course of tag. It’s going to be a—it’ll be a memorable business. And I certainly do not let that affect event, to talk in front of the vast chamber my way of how I view this incredibly impor- with democratically elected members, some tant alliance and relationships. 868 May 21 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2002

So I’m—I go to Europe feeling optimistic he cares deeply about moving forward. about our relationships and feeling optimistic There’s so much that can be done in the spir- about our capacities to work together to solve it of friendship, together. And that’s how I problems. view—that’s—and we’ve got a lot of prob- lems. Russia We’ve got AIDS ravishing an entire con- Q. Mr. President, some American political tinent. Well, imagine, here we are, we’re all scientists would prefer to see Russia in the representative of relatively wealthy nations— future as undeveloped. hopefully, Russia’s wealth will increase—and The President. Yes. yet, we’re confronted with a society that’s Q. As a strong developer—— being wiped out. And so one of the funda- The President. Pay attention to him. mental questions is how—what do we do? Q. ——they became a significant compet- We’ve got nations, responsible nations—how itor for the U.S.A. However, a poor and a do we respond to that? bitter country would be even more dan- And I’ve got some ideas. As you know, we gerous. put a—anyway, my point to you is that we The President. Yes. want Russia to succeed. We want Russia to Q. How do you, Mr. President, see Russia in the near future? be healthy. We want Russia, our partner now The President. Well, first of all, it’s the in fighting terrorism, to have the means to same issue that relates to the European continue the fight. And I hope this trip will Union and America as well as Russia and help, you know, assuage the doubts of some America. We want healthy competition. We in Russia who—and in America—who like want our friends to be strong and competi- the old way of resentment and bitterness and tive. We want the economies to grow. I think hatred. Vladimir Putin and I are putting that it’s essential for American policymakers to behind us for the good of both peoples. recognize that a healthy Europe and a Yes, sir. healthy Russia is in our Nation’s interests. It makes it easier; for example, a healthy NATO economy makes it more likely that a friend- Q. Mr. President, one of the main vehicles ship will develop in a more significant way. of the relationship between the U.S. and Eu- And so my message to the Russian people, rope is, of course, NATO. as well as to here at home, is that it is impor- The President. Yes. tant that Russia be viewed as a friend, not as an enemy. I said that right off the bat; Q. And we have many in Europe, and not that was my stated goal as a President, is to only Europe, are wondering, is NATO work with Russia as a friend, not as an doomed? Will it disappear at some point? enemy. I was able in Slovenia to realize that And if not, what is the purpose of NATO was possible when I visited with President in the coming years? Putin. And this head of his bureau there, or The President. Well, that’s a great ques- whatever you want to call the guy, asked me tion. NATO is more needed than ever in the question, first question: Do you trust many ways. And let me explain it to you this Putin? way. The nature of the threats to us—and Yes. I answered that several months ago I say ‘‘us’’ collectively—has changed. And when—what’s the boy’s name? Fournier what we’re learning is, it’s the ability for na- [Ron Fournier, Associated Press] is his tions to share information and to cut off fi- name—please, please, scratch that from nances, the ability for nations to deny safe the—[laughter]—scratch that from the haven, the ability for nations to keep these notes. killers on the run that’s going to make this They said, ‘‘How do you know?’’ I said, war successful. And therefore, it’s a collective ‘‘I looked into his eyes and was able to effort in order to beat a terrorist network. glimpse into his soul.’’ See, and I’ve been And NATO is a collection of freedom-loving proven right. I do trust him because I believe countries. Therefore, NATO must change its Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 / May 21 869 mission—not its mission, its focus and its ca- But gaps can be closed, and gaps can be pabilities in order to meet the threats that changed, particularly technological gaps, par- now face us. ticularly among friends. And I’ll repeat, I go So I think NATO is very relevant. That to Europe as a friend, and someone with is why in Prague, next fall, I will—depending whom—someone who wants to work with upon the actions of applicant states—will fol- Europe to achieve common objectives. low through my speech I gave in Warsaw and And I will say this again: The war on terror will reiterate somewhat in Germany, that I requires significant cooperation. We’re not see a Europe whole, free, at peace with itself. fighting a nation that has got the capacity to And NATO expansion is one way to achieve move tanks. We’re fighting a group of killers, that. international killers who hide in caves, who Now, I caution those who would read your burrow in free societies, who are patient and articles to not take anything for granted when tough and mean, and who want to destroy. it comes to the NATO expansion. But I have And therefore, we must cooperate with each been on record as one that has talked aggres- other; we must share intelligence; we must sively about expansion. The reason I do is run down leads; we must interdict; we must because I understand the importance of arrest. And a great place to start is with a NATO and the relevance of NATO. collection of freedom-loving countries, and And we need to work within NATO to that is NATO. make sure that NATO has got the capacities Yes, sir? to—to better use capabilities, define capabili- ties and strategies, make sure an expanded NATO is flawless and seamless in its capacity Russia to advance against a new threat. So I think Q. What is the Russia-NATO Council it’s a very relevant part of the future, and about? Does it give a say to Russia on NATO I will say that in Germany, and to Jacques. issues? And if not, what? Q. If I may have a followup on this—— The President. The ‘‘at 20’’ certainly does The President. Sure. not give Russia any veto power over military Q. Are you worried by the gap in military actions. And that’s important to know. capabilities, which is widening—and even, However, it recognizes that Russia can be with your budget, will be widening more— an important partner in a peaceful Europe between Europe and the U.S.? by working, initially working with Russia on The President. I think that’s an issue. I counterproliferation measures, terrorism do think it’s an issue. On the other hand, measures, ways to address the new threats it’s an issue that can be overcome with time. facing all of us. We’re transforming our military or trying Russia faces the same threat that Italy, to transform our military rapidly. There’s a France, Germany, and America faces, and few weapons systems that seem to keep pop- that is the threat of terrorism. It is important ping up, even though they may have been for your readers to know you face the threat, doomed at one point. But that’s part of the just like we face the threat. It may not seem process. And—but we are transforming. And so—it may not seem so. But I’m telling you NATO must transform as well in order to the threat is real. President Putin under- meet the true threats. Russia is not a threat. stands that. Therefore, it makes—as do Eu- Russia is not a threat to the West. And there- rope leaders as well, I want you to know. fore, NATO must align its capabilities and And it, therefore, makes eminent sense to its budgets to the new threat. And that’s include Russia in a new relationship with going to take awhile. I understand that. NATO, and that’s what we’re going to con- So I’m not in a—you know, I’m optimistic firm on the outskirts of Rome. about NATO changing. I’ve talked to Lord Robertson about this issue. I will address it in my speech in Germany as well, about how Iraq and State-Supported Terrorism to make sure NATO stays relevant as we Q. Mr. President, would you say that Iraq, head into the 21st century. for the time being, is basically contained? Or 870 May 21 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 do you think that there are urgent steps re- The President. Yes. quired to undertake against Saddam’s plans Q. How do you call each other during the with weapons of mass destruction? informal session? What are the subjects of The President. Sure. I’m a patient man. your conversation after official state session? And I am a deliberate man. But the word The President. Well, I would call my rela- ‘‘contain’’ doesn’t work if someone’s got the tionship warm. I enjoy his company. He has capacity to deliver a weapon of mass destruc- got a good sense of humor, and I appreciate tion. How can you contain somebody when that. And he has kindly invited me to his they’ve got the ability to blackmail or launch house, and I’m looking forward to going. a weapon? And that is my deep concern. Our conversations will be about—here’s a And I feel passionate about this concern, man who loves Russia, and he loves the Rus- because I know the nature of the regime. sian people. And he’s deeply concerned And I know the potential threat that could about problems facing Russia. And a lot of come if this terrorist organization that we’re times, even in the most informal gathering, hunting down teams up with—I’m not sure he shares with me his deep concerns. how you translate into German, but—— He is a—he also is a man who worries Q. We’ll find a way. about the threats that Russia faces. We share The President. ——coordinate, allies a common interest in this war on terror be- with, coordinates with—uses these weapons cause Russia, herself, has been attacked; in- of mass destruction to further their means nocent people have lost life. And he’s pas- as well. And I’m concerned about it. sionate on the subject, about protecting his I know there’s a lot of angst about my homeland. And we share information about statements about these nations, but I have how best to do that. I mean, we ask questions the responsibility to speak as clearly as I pos- as friends would ask questions: ‘‘How are you sibly can about how I view the nature of these doing this? Where are you doing that?’’ regimes. And I will continue doing that. Q. How do you call him? Vladimir? Q. Is that why the Vice President said that The President. Oh, I call him Vladimir, inspections are not really enough? yes. The President. Well, we certainly hope Q. Vladimir? that the Iraq Government will allow there The President. Yes. And he calls me to be full and open and unfettered inspec- George. tions. We want to know. This is a man who’s Press Secretary Ari Fleischer. Jorzh. denied inspections for years. I wonder why. The President. But he’s a—one of the in- I think the world ought to ask, why won’t teresting things we’re going to do is go to you allow for inspections? St. Petersburg together and go on the barges Every time they talk about inspections, and see the White Nights. he’s got a certain kind of caveats and strings, Q. Do you know a couple of words in Rus- and won’t let them—‘‘You can’t go here. You sian? can’t go there.’’ So I think the Vice President The President. No. was expressing some skepticism about the na- Q. No? ture of the regime itself. And we’d like to The President. Nyet. [Laughter] One. But see inspections, unfettered, whole, free in- I’ve got a Russian speaker with me, Senorita spections. We’d like these inspectors to go Arroz. ‘‘Arroz’’ means ‘‘Rice.’’ look where they want to look, just like Sad- dam Hussein agreed to do over a decade ago. Terrorist Alerts Mr. Volk? Q. Mr. President, the warnings which have been issued in the last days about terrorist Putin-Bush Relationship threat, including what the Vice President said Q. Mr. President, can you please describe on Sunday—is it a kind of general notice to your relationship—I’m excited, therefore I’m the American people that they must stay vigi- reading. [Laughter] Can you please describe lant in the demands on the U.S. front? Or your relationship with President Vladimir does it point out to any specific and immi- Putin? nent threat? Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 / May 21 871

The President. The FBI Director yester- I’m confident that the information has gone day, I talked to him—he comes in every to the intelligence-gathering networks of the morning, by the way. So this subject—he respected countries. And that’s very impor- came up this morning. He was talking tant; that’s very important. I don’t mean to about—he was speculating based upon a lot be an alarmist. And again, there are no— of intelligence that indicates that the Al I didn’t have a—there’s not a moment. Qaida is active, plotting, planning, you know, But there is an attitude of these people. trying to hit us. So he was speculating. He And they’re relentless, they just are. And basically said, ‘‘Look, I wouldn’t be surprised therefore, when you hear me say that the if there is another attack, and it’s going to best strategy, the best defense is an offense, be difficult to stop them,’’ is what he said. I mean it. And the best way to protect our The Vice President also reflected that atti- respective people is to hunt these people tude. down. Now, if and when we have a specific One of my jobs is to continually educate threat, you know, we—in other words, if I the American people and, for that matter, were to tell you that I know that there’s a— anybody who is interested in the world who thinking about an attack on a certain moment wants to listen, as to the true nature of what at a certain place, we would deal with that we face. I’ve got a better handle on it than in a way that would obviously harden that most. I pay attention to it every day. My most site. We would put our assets in place to pre- important job—we’ll debate all the debates vent that from happening. I doubt there’d and all the issues, but my most important be a lot of publicity. The people, obviously, job is to protect America and our friends and whose lives could be affected would be in- allies and work with our friends and allies formed, directly informed, as the country, as to protect the innocent people in your coun- the Government deployed assets to react. tries. These are very clever killers. And I refer You know, it’s a unique war we’re fighting. to them as killers because that’s what they The old wars, there would be battlelines and are. They’re out to kill, no other way to put movements, and you could measure progress it. And they—their communications are here and territory taken here. A lot of people adept. And we’re learning more about them. steeped in history kind of still think that way. But they’re—they’re a heck of a lot more so- But it’s a different kind of war. And we’re phisticated than people assume, I guess is recognizing how different it is as we get more the best way to put it. They think, and they intelligence. And it takes a different effort plan, and they plot. They burrow into free to fight it. societies. But it’s real; it’s absolutely real. I know And so what the Vice President and the some in the world don’t particularly want to FBI Director were reflecting was a general hear that. It’s much easier not to be con- understanding of the desires and attitudes fronted with the truth, because it means that and methodology or potential method- there’s going to be sacrifice and worry and ology—obviously, if we knew the exact meth- concern. But it’s a real threat, and I’m going odology, they wouldn’t be around; we would to—I’ll battle with all my—and I’ve got a have taken care of—well, protect our home- great country behind me doing—— land, I’ll put it to you that way, within the Q. On this point, were you disappointed Constitution of the United States, of course. by the questions raised by the Democrats They would be off the streets. about the way you were informed? Did the It’s a concern. This is—I mean, every conclusions you draw, you drew from this morning I read threats—some, by the way, information—— directed not toward U.S. assets, but to the The President. As I said, this is the—the assets of our friends. As a matter of fact, I thing about Washington. I suspect capitals am confident that I’ve read threats that were elsewhere—democracy, there’s nothing like directed to the countries represented here. a little second-guessing. As I said, in Wash- All the time, we share information imme- ington, the second-guessing is second nature. diately. As a matter of fact, before I see it, I’m used to it. I think there was a lot of— 872 May 21 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 most of the elected officials here are very for the Palestinian state to exist; the commit- responsible citizens. They understand the na- ment by the Palestinians to renounce and ture of the intelligence; they understand how fight terror; the commitment by the Arab it works. world to become engaged not only in the hu- We’re a united country—may flare up a manitarian aspects of the region but to be little, politics flares up. But we’re a united a part of the building of the institutions nec- country. And this country is—both Repub- essary for a Palestinian state to exist. licans and Democrats are united to win this That starts with a security apparatus that war on terror, and I appreciate that spirit actually functions for the benefit of the Pales- from Washington. tinian people by fighting off terror, by reject- ing extremism. There is—and at the same Chairman Yasser Arafat of the time, shows the world, not only just Israel Palestinian Authority but shows American and Arab nations and Q. On Middle East—— everybody, the EU, that there is a concerted The President. Make it a good one. effort to fight terror, a security force in which Q. Yes. authority and responsibility are properly The President. Be sure it’s a good one. aligned. That’s step one. [Laughter] I’m sure everybody here is inter- A while ago I announced that Tenet was ested in that subject. going to reengage in the process of devel- Q. Is peace possible with Arafat? oping this security force. There also needs The President. It’s a very interesting to be the institutions necessary for the question. First of all, I meant what I said growth of a state, such as the ability to dis- on April the 4th, when I said Mr. Arafat has burse money in a noncorrupt way, the capac- let the Palestinian people down. He’s had a ity to provide help for citizens—actual help chance to lead. He had a chance to get a for citizens who suffer—in a way that will peace agreement with my predecessor. He’s had chance after chance. And by failing to lead to the rebuilding of community; they lead, he has really let the Palestinians down. have the civil institutions necessary for I say that with a lot of angst in my heart growth. That will come when there are— because I am concerned about the plight of when there is the reforms necessary to make the Palestinian citizenry, poor and isolated sure there is accountability in the Palestinian and frustrated. Many live in refugee camps Authority. and have for years. And there’s obviously— There needs to be the conditions necessary I realize in many of their hearts, there’s little for economic vitality; that’s trade. There’s hope, and that’s frustrating. money willing to be spent. The EU—I’ve And so I am clearly disappointed. Some- talked to President Aznar on the subject; I’ve body said, ‘‘Has he earned your respect?’’ I talked to your respective leaders on the sub- said, he never had my respect, because he ject. I’ve committed to it. has—he let his people down. The role of a But I’m not committed to spending— leader is to lead. sending money in a place until I’m convinced Having said that, I do think peace is pos- it’s going to be spent to help the Palestinian sible, and I think it’s important. I think it’s people. And so I—yes, I think peace is pos- very important that we work toward a vision sible. It’s going to take awhile; it’s going to of two states, living side by side in peace. take a lot of work. And the first steps nec- There’s work for all of us involved in this essary are for people to assume their respon- process, to have that vision so necessary for sibilities, to assume a responsible role. a secure Israel and so necessary for a hopeful I am—I will tell you that you’ve read the Palestine. press accounting of what’s taking place. The process to get there is going to require There is a sense that—amongst some in the a commitment by all parties: a commitment region, a lot in the region, that there needs for the United States to continue to lead on to be a reform process in the Palestinians the issue, and we will; a commitment by the that will boost the confidence of, first, the Israelis to make the tough choices necessary people, second, the neighborhood, and third, Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 / May 22 873 the community of the world, of which the Americans love freedom. And Al Qaida hates EU and America are an integral part. freedom, and they can’t stand people who So I will continue to work for peace, and embrace freedom. I just—to renounce terror, insist that people I have no specific threat to America and fight off terrorist attacks, demand that there Americans or to the French. If I had a spe- be accountability for people who are involved cific threat, something that would hurt the in the process, cut off money wherever we French, I can assure you we would have can, to deny terrorists the capacity to derail shared that information immediately with peace by death. And we have to do that in our friends in the French Government. If I order to achieve peace. You’ve got to deny have a specific threat relating to America, we people—killers the ability to destroy hope would deal with that specific threat. We through death. And I’m optimistic we can would use our assets to harden whatever the do that. I believe we can. Thanks for asking. target might be. You probably wouldn’t know Okay, thanks for your time. about it. What you’re hearing is—you’re hearing— NOTE: The interview began at 10:20 a.m. in the the people of my administration are con- Roosevelt Room at the White House, and the cerned about a group of people who continue transcript was embargoed for release by the Office of the Press Secretary until 10 p.m. In his remarks, to plot and plan on ways to hurt us. And the the President referred to Chancellor Gerhard best way to prevent further attacks is to find Schroeder of Germany; President Jacques Chirac them and hunt them down, to chase them of France; Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi of one by one, and to bring them to justice. Italy; President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia; Sec- And that’s what my country and our coalition retary General Lord Robertson of the North At- will continue to do. lantic Treaty Organization; President Saddam Hussein of Iraq; and President Jose Maria Aznar of Spain in his capacity as President of the Euro- Iran and Iraq pean Council. He also referred to ‘‘NATO at 20,’’ Mr. Malar. Mr. President, you spoke a a proposed NATO-Russia cooperation mechanism lot about the evil axis. Are you still planning in which NATO member states and Russia will to attack Iraq? And what about Iran, which, work as equal partners in areas of common inter- according to our understanding of various est. Journalists participating in the interview were: sources, might have been harboring bin Leo Wieland, Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung; Patrick Jarreau, Le Monde; Gabrial Volk, Laden for the last few months? Argumenti i Fakti; and Alberto Flores-D’Arcais, The President. Oh, really? Well, I cer- La Repubblica. A tape was not available for tainly hope that’s not the case, for Iran’s sake, verification of the content of this interview. that they be harboring bin Laden. We don’t know about Mr. bin Laden. He might be dead; he might be alive. All I can tell you Interview With Christian Malar of is, I heard—I haven’t heard much from him TF–3 French Television in a long period of time. May 21, 2002 I do believe there is an axis of evil. These are countries that are not transparent; they’re Terrorist Alerts dictatorial; they’ve got designs for weapons Mr. Malar. Mr. President, thank you very of mass destruction, if they don’t have them much. Could you be more specific on the already. They hate—they preach a gospel of prospects of new attack against the United hate. And we’ll deal with each of them dif- States? It’s a source of concern for all of us, ferently. Obviously, the military is an option. of course. And do you think it’s a—concerns I have no plans on my desk right now, but also, for instance, the French, who have been whatever I decide and whatever we decide, severely targeted—struck recently by the ter- of course, we’ll consult closely with the rorist networks in Pakistan? French, our allies, and our friends. The President. Yes, it’s a good question. But we must deal with this threat, the First, I’m concerned about all people who threat of countries such as Iraq using a weap- love freedom. The French love freedom; ons of mass destruction to affect a balance 874 May 22 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 of power or to affect our willingness and abil- Europe-U.S. Relationship ity to go defend ourselves. And this is a dan- Mr. Malar. Mr. President, what do you gerous problem that we’ve got to deal with. answer to the Europeans, and especially the French, who are very fussy sometimes and Situation in the Middle East considers—the reproach of America’s Mr. Malar. Mr. President, concerning the unilateralism? What do you answer to them? peace process in the Middle East, it seems They even fear today, among Europeans, that there is no peace solution in sight right now. the new American-Russian axis which would Arafat doesn’t want—cannot control the Is- prevail over the rest of Europe. lamic terrorist acts against Israel. Mr. Sharon The President. Well, listen, my trip into doesn’t want him anymore as a partner for Europe will let people know me a little bet- peace. What can you do? The United States ter. I’m a person who knows that—first of is the only country to be able to impose a all, I know what I believe. And the thing I solution. What can you do concretely, Mr. believe—I believe strongly in the common President, to put peace back on track for values that we share. And I believe strongly good? in freedom. I mean, I believe we ought to do everything in our power to encourage The President. Yes, thank you. I’m not freedom all around the world. And that’s im- so sure you can ever impose a solution on portant. I also know we can’t win a war on people. In other words, the first job is to con- terror alone, that we’ve got to work with our vince people the need for peace, to give peo- allies and friends. I’ll confirm the importance ple a chance to work toward a vision. And of the NATO Alliance for all of us. I’ve laid out a vision. And the vision is two So I look forward to the trip. I’m confident states, Israel and Palestine, living side by side there are some there that have got an opinion in peace. That’s something we will work to- about me that I might not like, but that’s ward. the good thing about democracy. I welcome I believe we’re making some progress. It people—people’s opinions. And I’ll be hon- starts with convincing all parties in the region ored to represent our country overseas, and they have a responsibility toward peace. The to reconfirm our friendship. Israelis have got a responsibility; I’ve made I’m going to Normandy, and—— that clear to Prime Minister Sharon. The Pal- estinians have a responsibility, particularly to President’s Memorial Day Visit to denounce and to fight against terror, to stop Normandy these killers from derailing peace. And the Mr. Malar. You are going to Normandy, Arab world has the responsibility to be a so I imagine you are going to spend Memo- party to not only discussions but a party to rial Day on the beaches of Normandy. And providing hope for the Palestinians. I’m sure, Mr. President, it means a lot to And we are—we’ve got a dialog going on. you when we are in the world where a lot One of the first things we need to do is put of people try to fight for freedom and secu- the institutions in place that will help provide rity. a stable society in the Palestinian territory. The President. Yes. Well, it’s going to be That means a security force that actually an emotional moment, to think of all the sac- works, one that functions properly, one in rifice that went so that you and I can speak which authority and responsibility are here in freedom. I’m the son of a World War aligned. II veteran. I’m a product of what they call You need to know I’m an optimistic man. the Greatest Generation. And I just—my I believe we can achieve peace. It’s going friends who have been there tell me that it’s to take a lot of hard work. I have started an amazingly emotional place. Memorial Day this the first day of my administration, and is a great holiday here in America, where we I will continue during the last day of my ad- honor those who have sacrificed. And so I’ll ministration. give a speech that will talk about sacrifice Mr. Malar. Two quick last questions. and will call people to the memory of those The President. Sure. who have come before us and lay out the Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 / May 23 875 sacrifices that we’re going to need to do in bill. I hope they finish the debate and pass the future if we expect the world to be free. this important legislation. It’ll be a strong And I can’t wait to go. It’s going to be positive message. one of the best parts of the trip. It’s going I’m looking forward to the trip. I’m hon- to be a memorable trip, and I’m confident ored to represent the greatest nation on the that the trip to Normandy will be one of the face of the Earth in capitals around Europe. great highlights of the trip. And I look forward to reporting back to the Mr. Malar. Mr. President, I want to thank American people upon my return. you very much. I wish you all the best. Thank you very much. The President. Thank you, sir. Mr. Malar. And God bless you. NOTE: The President spoke at 6:05 a.m. on the The President. Thank you, sir. South Lawn at the White House.

NOTE: The interview was taped on May 21 at 1:24 p.m. in the Map Room at the White House for The President’s News Conference later broadcast, and the transcript was released With Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder by the Office of the Press Secretary on May 22. In his remarks, the President referred to Usama of Germany in Berlin bin Laden, leader of the Al Qaida terrorist organi- May 23, 2002 zation; and Prime Minister Ariel Sharon of Israel. Mr. Malar referred to Chairman Yasser Arafat of [The Chancellor’s remarks are joined in the Palestinian Authority. A tape was not available progress.] for verification of the content of this interview. Chancellor Schroeder. ——welcome you most warmly here to the garden of the Remarks on Departure for Berlin, Chancellery. We have exceedingly been look- Germany ing forward to this visit of the U.S. American May 22, 2002 President, George W. Bush. And the results of our conversations I think are such that we I’m looking forward to my trip to Europe. have every reason to be pleased. I’m going to take a couple of messages. U.S. American are in an exceedingly One, of course, I appreciate the friendship healthy state. It’s a very friendly atmosphere; with the European people, our strong alli- that has become abundantly clear in all of ance, and that our alliance must remain our conversations. But I also think that there tough in the war against global terror, that is a tremendous amount of agreement be- even though we’ve had some initial suc- tween the two of us and our two countries cesses, there’s still danger for countries as regards the assessment of the situation which embrace freedom, countries such as around the world. ours or Germany, France, Russia, or Italy. Now, to begin with, we have started to talk And as an alliance, we must continue to fight about, very intensely, about the U.S. Amer- against global terror. We’ve got to be tough. ican-European relations. I think what the Secondly, friends benefit through free American President and the Russian Presi- trade. I will reaffirm our commitment to dent have agreed together regarding ques- trade. I hope the United States Senate fin- tions of disarmament, but also regarding the ishes debate on the trade promotion author- process of approachment of Russia towards ity and passes the bill. It’s going to be impor- NATO, that that is of historic importance. tant for our friends around the world to see And I would very much say that—and we this commitment to trade. Trade is in the both agree that this process is going to be interests of our workers. Trade is in the inter- topped by what we’re going to be doing in est of job creation, and trade is in the interest Rome on the 28th of May together. The of developing nations as well as developed world is going to be a safer place for it, and nations. And so I want to thank those in the I think it’s a tremendous success not only United States Senate, both Republicans and of America but of this special U.S. American Democrats, who have worked hard on this President. 876 May 23 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2002

We then, obviously, talked about the ongo- We also addressed some other issues that are ing necessity to continue with our joint fight in existence regarding our bilateral relations. against international terrorism. And I have Thank you. been able to brief the President about my President Bush. Well, thank you, Chan- visit to Kabul and about the necessity of cellor. It’s an honor to be here in this historic maintaining the protection force on the city. I want to thank you for your hospitality, ground, the ISAF. They are the force to guar- and I want to thank you for treating Laura antee a minimum of security and, therefore, so well. a minimum perspective of hope of recon- The Chancellor and I have met—I think struction for people in this country. This is it’s now five times, and I value our friendship. also important: We want to rebuild economic I appreciate the frank discussions we have. and social structures in the country. We’re I’m here to let the German people know how very much in agreement that we have every proud I am of our relationship, our personal reason to trust the Interim Government with relationship, and how proud I am of the rela- Interim President Karzai and to give them tionship between our two countries. Ger- all of the support that they need to move many is an incredibly important ally to the their country forward as a way of their own United States of America. We respect the momentum. German people. We appreciate democracy Now, we very much agree that it is nec- in this land. We appreciate the struggles that essary and important to make sure we move Germany has gone through, and we value the the peace process forward in the Middle friendship going forward. East. I have emphasized very strongly that My speech today at the Bundestag will talk about the problems that we can solve to- the President’s speech in Washington was a gether, that we share so much particularly milestone regarding this situation. He went when it comes to values and a deep and abid- in and made it abundantly clear what we all ing concern for humanity and for peace. One believe in—at least we, too, certainly believe of the things I like about Gerhardt is, he’s in—that Israel has got a guaranteed—[in- willing to confront problems in an open way. audible ]—right of safe existence within And he is, hopefully like people consider me, strong and reliable borders, that it needs to a problemsolver, that we’re willing to use our be recognized by all of its neighbors, and that respective positions to solve problems, such by the end of the day, certainly there is going as making sure our respective homelands are to be an independent Palestinian state too. secure from terrorist attack. I’m going to talk And we’re very much agreed that this is clearly about that today, about the need for a job to be done by the international commu- us to continue to cooperate and to fight nity of states, certainly by means of the Quar- against terror—people who hate freedom, tet that arose from Madrid, the United States people who are challenging civilization itself. of America, the United Nations, Europe, and I want to thank again the German people Russia. Now, this Quartet is hopefully going and the German Government for the com- to support the constructive process as well mitment to Afghanistan. The Chancellor as they can, because we really need stability made a very tough but, I think, correct deci- and peaceful development for this region, sion in sending troops to Afghanistan, and specifically. those troops have performed brilliantly. I We very much share the concern about know you’ve lost life, as have we. And our the existing conflict between Pakistan, on one hearts go out to the families of the soldiers hand side, and India on the other hand. And who died. But in my judgment, the sacrifice we’re very much agreed that we have to do is necessary, because we defend freedom, whatever we can to bring a peaceful solution and freedom is precious. to this conflict. I mean, we must make sure We talked about weapons of mass destruc- that no further escalation happens over tion and the need for us to be concerned there. about weapons of mass destruction. As I will Now, moreover, we addressed questions of mention in my speech, one way to help our interest regarding trade with one another. mutual security is to work together to solve Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 / May 23 877 regional problems, and we spent a lot of time ever before. We’ve got a much better—doing talking about the Middle East. The German a much better job of sharing intelligence. Government has been very helpful in helping I, of course, want the Congress to take a set the foundation for peace. Both of us agree look at what took place prior to September that there ought to be two states, a Pales- the 11th. But since it deals with such sen- tinian state and obviously the Israeli state, sitive information, in my judgment, it’s best living side by side in peace, and we’re work- for the ongoing war against terror that the ing in that direction. A hot topic today, of investigation be done in the intelligence course, in the world and one that we spent committee. There are committees set up a lot of time talking about is, as Gerhardt with both Republicans and Democrats who mentioned, the India-Pakistan issue. understand the obligations of upholding our My point is, is that we’ve got a reliable secrets and our sources and methods of col- friend and ally in Germany. This is a con- lecting intelligence. And therefore, I think fident country led by a confident man, and it’s the best place for Congress to take a good that’s good. That’s good for world peace. It’s look at the events leading up to September good for those of us who love and embrace the 11th. freedom. The other question? So, Mr. Chancellor, thanks for—thanks for Q. The August 6th memo—— giving me a chance to come and visit with President Bush. Oh, yes. Well, one of the you. Thanks for your hospitality. Thanks for things that is very important, Ron, is that the giving me a chance to speak to the Bundestag information given to the President be pro- here in a little bit. tected, because we don’t want to give away We’ll be glad to answer a couple of ques- sources and uses and methodology of intel- tions for you. ligence gathering. And one of the things that Chancellor Schroeder. There is the pos- we’re learning is, in order to win this war sibility to put three questions from each side. on terror, we’ve got to have the best intel- Please, possibly, that the guests could start. ligence gathering possible. And not only have President Bush. Did he just call on you? we got to share intelligence between friends, Okay—[laughter]—okay, I’m sorry. Ron which we do, but we’re still at war; we’ve [Ron Fournier, Associated Press], have you got a question? [Laughter] still got threats to the homeland that we’ve got to deal with. And it’s very important for Q. I do—— us to not hamper our ability to wage that President Bush. That’s right. war. And so there are ways to gather informa- Q. This is a question to President tion, to help improve the system without Bush—— jeopardizing the capacity for us to gather in- President Bush. Wait a minute, how telligence, and those are the ways I support. many questions are you going to ask? Chancellor Schroeder. Saddam Hussein is a dictator, there can be no doubt, nothing Intelligence Before September 11/Iraq else. And he does act without looking after Q. Should the American people conclude his people at all, whatsoever. We’re agreed there were some intelligence lapses before when it comes to that. And we’re also agreed September 11th? And can you please explain to the fact that it is up to the international why you oppose an independent commission community of states to go in and exercise to look into the matter and why you won’t a lot of political pressure in the most—pos- release the August 6th memo? sible way. The United Nations have decided And quickly to you, sir, do you think there to do so as well. We need to pressurize him should be a regime change in Iraq? so that international arms inspectors can get President Bush. Well, first of all, I’ve got into the country to find out what weapons great confidence in our CIA and FBI. I know of mass destruction can be found in his what’s taken place since the attacks on Sep- hands. I mean, there is no difference there tember the 11th. Our communications be- between President Bush and myself when it tween the two agencies is much better than comes to the assessment of this situation. 878 May 23 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2002

We then obviously also talked about the in your newspapers, they are now; they’re in- question as to what should happen in the fu- volved. ture, what could happen in the future. I have I think one of our—and the reason I men- taken notice of the fact that His Excellency, tion that is because I think their involvement the President, does think about all possible to a process that I’m optimistic will succeed alternatives. But despite what people occa- will then enable us to continue to more likely sionally present here in rumors, there are no have an effect on promoting values that we concrete military plans of attack on Iraq. And hold dear, values of rule of law and democ- that is why, for me, there is no reason whatso- racy and minority rights. The institutions of ever to speculate about when and if and how. change are more likely to be effective with I think such speculation should be forbidden. our ability to achieve a peace in the Middle That certainly is not the right thing for a East. And so much of the ability to promote Chancellor, and I am in this position. reform, which we’re for, hinges on our abili- We will be called upon to take our decision ties and capacities to get something done. if and when, after consultations—and we’ve And it’s going to take a while, I believe, but been assured that such consultations are nevertheless, we are making progress. And going to be happening—and then we’ll take my administration spends a great deal of time a decision. And before that, I think we should on the Middle East, because we understand not speculate about serious questions like it is a linchpin for convincing regimes to this one. adopt the habits of freedom that sometimes we take for granted in our respective coun- Situation in the Middle East tries. Q. Mr. President—[inaudible]—Chan- Chancellor Schroeder. Well, I don’t cellor, looking beyond Iraq, given the fact think I’ve got to add a lot to what’s been that Syria, too, in U.S. terminology, is a state said, but possibly so much. I think there can- sponsor of terrorism, given the fact that not be peace in the Middle East without the Saudi Arabia is anything but a democratic, United States of America and without them rule-of-law, pluralistic society, how do both being active in this field. And it was not with- of you want to have this whole region, the out reason that I pointed to the tremendously Middle East, look like once the fight against important speech of the President. It’s very terror is over? important. And that is why we support the President Bush. Yes, it’s a great question. efforts towards peace undertaken by the Would you care to go first, Mr. Chancellor? United States, but also by all other members [Laughter] I’ll be glad to answer it, if you of the so-called Quartet. We are supporting like. this in the framework of the European First, you need to know that in order for Union, but we’re also doing it through bilat- the region to be peaceful and hopeful, there eral channels. And my impression is—and must be a resolution to the Palestinian-Israeli here yet again, I fully agree with the Presi- conflict. I believe that strongly. And that’s dent—that a certain degree of progress is why my Government and I feel strongly that visible in this process. we’ve got to work toward a vision of peace Now, obviously, we cannot be satisfied that includes two states living side by side. with the degree of progress, but still we have And the positive news is that many Arab moved a little bit, and there is no alternative leaders understand that they have got to be to the way that the President just described. a part of the process now. We spent a great There is no such thing as a magic formula deal of time talking to the Saudis, for exam- to solve this tremendously difficult problem. ple—you mentioned the Saudis. They must Nobody has such a formula. And that is why be a party to the process. They have—some- I think the task that the President just de- times in the past, the process has not gone scribed is certainly one that needs to be seri- forward because there hasn’t been, as we say ously supported by the European Union and in America, the buy-in by the parties; they us, bilaterally. haven’t been a party to the process. And I’m President Bush. Steve Holland, Reuters. pleased to report, as you can probably see Q. Thank you very much. Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 / May 23 879

President Bush. A fine man, fine man. very specific right now when it comes to Chancellor Schroeder. We’ll see that plans to attack Iraq. Is that true, sir? And once he’s put his question. [Laughter] could you, nevertheless, try to explain to the President Bush. There you go. German people what your goals are when it comes to Iraq? Russia and Iran And secondly, by German standards, Ger- Q. When you meet with President Putin many has already shouldered a huge burden tomorrow, how are you going to talk him into in military terms of the fight against ter- ending nuclear cooperation with Iran? rorism. Are you satisfied with that, or do you President Bush. Well, that’s a—that’s want Germany to do more? going to be a topic. One way to make the President Bush. First, what the Chan- case is that if you arm Iran, you’re liable to cellor told you is true. get the weapons pointed at you, that you’ve Chancellor Schroeder. Of course it is. got to be careful in dealing with a country [Laughter] like Iran. This is a country that doesn’t—it’s President Bush. I’m surprised anybody not transparent; it’s not open. It’s run by a would doubt your word, Chancellor. [Laugh- group of extremists who fund terrorist activ- ter] ity, who clearly hate our mutual friend Israel. Yes, look, I mean, he knows my position, And you know, it’s very unpredictable. And and the world knows my position about Sad- therefore, Russia needs to be concerned dam Hussein. He is a dangerous man. He about proliferation into a country that might is a dictator who gassed his own people. He’s view them as an enemy at some point in time. had a history of incredible human rights vio- And if Iran gets a weapon of mass destruction lations. And he is a—it’s dangerous to think deliverable by a missile, that’s going to be of a scenario in which a country like Iraq a problem. That’s going to be a problem for would team up with an Al Qaida-type organi- all of us, including Russia. zation, particularly if and when they had the So that’s how I’m going to make the case. capacity—had the capacity, or when they We’ve got a lot of work to do with Russia. have the capacity to deliver weapons of mass I will continue to make the case. As you destruction via ballistic missile. And that’s a know, Steve, I have brought that subject up threat. It’s a threat to Germany; it’s a threat ever since I’ve started meeting with Vladimir to America; it’s a threat to civilization itself. Putin. And we’ve got to deal with it. We can play The good news is, we’re—our relationship like it’s not there. We can hope it goes away. is a friendly relationship; that I view Presi- But that’s not going to work. That’s not going dent Putin as a friend. I view Russia as a to make us safer. friend, not as an enemy. And therefore, it’s And I told the Chancellor that I have no much easier to solve these difficult issues, war plans on my desk, which is the truth, an issue like proliferation, amongst friends. and that we’ve got to use all means at our And I want to appreciate the Chancellor’s disposal to deal with Saddam Hussein. And kind words about tomorrow’s treaty signing. I appreciate the German Chancellor’s under- It’s going to be a positive development for standing of the threats of weapons of mass America and, I believe, a positive develop- destruction, and they’re real. Now, I know ment for Europe. And then, of course, we’re some would play like they’re not real. I’m going to Rome afterwards, and that, too, will telling you: They’re real. And if you love free- be a positive development for Europe and dom, it’s a threat to freedom. And so we’re America. And it is within the—it’s in this going to deal with it, and we’ll deal with it positive relationship and positive atmosphere in a respectful way. that we’re more likely to be able to achieve The Chancellor said that I promised con- satisfaction on nonproliferation. sultations. I will say it again: I promise con- sultations with our close friend and ally. We Iraq/State-Supported Terrorism will exert a unified diplomatic pressure. We Q. Mr. President, the Chancellor just said will share intelligence. We love freedom, and that your Government does not seem to be so does the Chancellor, and we cannot allow 880 May 23 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 these weapons to be in a position that will them on the launchers? Would you rather affect history. have the warheads pointed at people? I Listen, history has called us to action. I would think not. don’t want to be in a position where we look Secondly, this issue about the so-called back, and say, ‘‘Why didn’t they lead? Where loose nuke issue has been around for quite were they when it came to our basic free- a while. This isn’t anything new. This is a doms?’’ And we are going to lead. problem that we are jointly working on. As What was your other part of your ques- you know, Terry—and others may not tion? That’s what you get for asking long know—we’ve got what’s called Nunn-Lugar, questions, or what I get for answering long which is a significant expenditure of tax- answers. payers’ money to help Russia dispose of and dismantle nuclear warheads, which we’re Germany’s Role in the War on Terrorism willing to do. As a matter of fact, the ’03 Q. That’s perfectly all right. The second budget is nearly a billion dollars toward that question was, sir, that Germany has already end. shouldered a huge burden in military terms, We’re working with Chancellor Schroeder and do you expect more—— on what’s called 10-plus-10-over-10: $10 bil- President Bush. Germany has shouldered lion from the U.S., 10 billion from other a significant burden, and we are very grateful members of the G–7 over a 10-year period, for that. The Chancellor and I talked about to help Russia securitize the dismantling— how to make sure we complete the task in the dismantled nuclear warheads. Afghanistan, which is to continue chasing And President Putin understands that. He down the killers, by the way, and to find them understands the need to work closely with before they hit us, but as well is to leave all of us. Listen, he understands that a loose institutions behind so that Afghanistan can nuke could affect his security as it affects run herself, so Afghanistan can be a peaceful somebody else’s security. He’s a wise man; nation, so Afghanistan can function. And we he’s aware of the issues that we confront. both recognize that our presence is going to That’s why he’s one of the best partners we have to be there for a—for quite awhile. And have on the war against terror. He under- the Chancellor made that commitment, and stands the implications and consequences of I appreciate that. I’m very satisfied with the terror. And he also recognizes that a night- commitment of the German Government. mare scenario is a dirty bomb or some kind Yes, Terry [Terry Moran, ABC News]. of nuclear bomb in the hands of a—in the hands of any kind of terrorist organization. Disposition of the Russian Nuclear Chancellor Schroeder. Last question. Arsenal Q. Thank you, sir. On the subject of weap- ons of mass destruction, the strategic arms President’s Security Bubble/Addressing agreement you’ll sign in Moscow does not Issues of Hope address what many people say is now the Q. Mr. President, at the present you are greatest threat posed by the Russian arsenal visiting a kind of ghost town around here. of weapons of mass destruction, and that’s Do you feel a bit of pity about not to meet proliferation to terrorists or rogue states be- the Berlin people—[inaudible]—visit first? cause of insufficient security. What specific And then secondly, when discussing ways to plan do you have to address that issue with find a—[inaudible]—peace, did you discuss President Putin? Do you believe the Russian on social and developmental matters too, Government is doing a good job securing these means? Is there a chance that you’ll those weapons? And what do you say to crit- come back to the table to sign the Kyoto trea- ics of this arms deal who say that by taking ty? the material off the warheads, you provide President Bush. No. [Laughter] more opportunities for terrorists to get them? Q. Then what are your aims, concerns in President Bush. Well, I guess to start with the Johannesburg summit in August? Will the critics, I’d say, would you rather have you take part of it—[inaudible]? Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 / May 23 881

President Bush. Okay. Let’s see, part one So, you bet, we’re going to talk—we’ve of a four-part question. I live in a bubble. talked about and will continue to talk about That’s what happens when you’re the Presi- the human conditions necessary to really dent. So unfortunately, I don’t get to see as make sure the whole world is able to be free much of Berlin as I’d like to see. That’s just and at peace. life. So when I come back at some point in Thank you all. my life, Mr. Chancellor, you can show me Chancellor Schroeder. Thank you, ladies around. We’ll go fishing together. and gentlemen. No, I don’t—yes, of course, whether it be in Berlin or Moscow or anywhere else, I NOTE: The President’s news conference began at 1:28 p.m. in the courtyard at the Kanzleramt. mean, I’m a person who likes—I like to meet Chancellor Schroeder spoke in German, and his people. I like—I enjoy people. I had one remarks were translated by an interpreter. In his small glimpse of Berlin last night when we remarks, President Bush referred to President went to a restaurant. It was my pleasure to Vladimir V. Putin of Russia and President Saddam shake hands with everybody or most every- Hussein of Iraq. Chancellor Schroeder referred body in the restaurant. I enjoy that. It frus- to Chairman Hamid Karzai of the Afghan Interim trates me not to be able to see this growing Authority; and ISAF, the International Security city. But that’s just life in the bubble. That’s Assistance Force in Afghanistan. The transcript just what happens when you’re the President, released by the Office of the Press Secretary did and I knew that going in, so I’m not griping not include the complete opening remarks of Chancellor Schroeder. A portion of this news con- about it. ference could not be verified because the tape Yes, the human condition is very important was incomplete. to me. I mean, it is—and that’s one way to make sure that the terrorists are less likely to be effective in their recruiting, is to pro- Remarks to a Special Session of the mote those conditions necessary for human German Bundestag beings to realize their full potential, such as May 23, 2002 good health and good education and pros- perity—those habits necessary for the growth The President. President, thank you very of prosperity. And I will address that in my much for your kind introduction. And thank speech to the Bundestag. you for giving me this chance to be here And I don’t know whether or not you fol- today. President Rau, thank you very much; lowed it, but we’ve laid out an initiative called Chancellor Schroeder. I understand former the new Millennium Fund, where after 3 Chancellor Kohl is here. I want to thank the years our Government will be spending $5 members of the Bundestag. How are you, billion a year—new money—for develop- sir? I was a little nervous when the President ment. And that money is going to go pro- told me that you all are on vacation. [Laugh- mote—to countries which are willing to fight ter] I can just imagine how my Congress corruption and promote rule of law. Look, would react if I called them back to hear you can give all kinds of money to corrupt a speech of mine when they were on vaca- societies, but it’s not going to help the peo- tion. [Laughter] But thank you for coming. ple; it will help the few. And I’m tired of I’m so honored to be here, and my wife that. I want to encourage reforms in society Laura and I really appreciate the hospitality that help people. that you’ve shown us. You know, I’m desperately concerned I’ve had the pleasure of welcoming your about AIDS. I know the Chancellor shares Chancellor to Washington three times, and my grief. And we’ve put a significant amount we have established a strong relationship. of money on the table. But eventually I hope Mr. Chancellor, I’m grateful. to see a strategy that will work. It’s one thing And now I am honored to visit this great to commit money; it’s another thing to insist city. The history of our time is written in the that the money actually work and start saving life of Berlin. In this building, fires of hatred people’s lives. And when that happens, we’ll were set that swept across the world. To this commit more money. city, Allied planes brought food and hope 882 May 23 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 during 323 days and nights of siege. Across The President. By remaining united, we an infamous divide, men and women jumped are meeting—we are meeting modern from tenement buildings and crossed threats with the greatest resources of wealth through razor wire to live in freedom or to and will ever assembled by free nations. To- die in the attempt. One American President gether, Europe and the United States have came here to proudly call himself a citizen the creative genius, the economic power, the of Berlin. Another President dared the Sovi- moral heritage, and the democratic vision to ets to tear down that wall. And on a night protect our liberty and to advance our cause in November, Berliners took history into of peace. their hands and made your city whole. Different as we are, we are building and In a single lifetime, the people of this cap- defending the same house of freedom—its ital and this country endured 12 years of dic- doors open to all of Europe’s people, its win- tatorial rule, suffered 40 years of bitter sepa- dows looking out to global challenges be- ration, and persevered through the chal- yond. We must lay the foundation with a Eu- lenging decade of unification. For all these rope that is whole and free and at peace for trials, Germany has emerged a responsible the first time in its history. This dream of and prosperous and peaceful nation. More than a decade ago, as the President pointed the centuries is close at hand. out, my dad spoke of Germany and America From the Argonne Forest to the Anzio as partners in leadership, and this has come beachhead, conflicts in Europe have drawn to pass. A new era has arrived. The strong the blood of millions, squandering and shat- Germany you have built is good for the tering lives across the Earth. There are thou- world. sands, thousands of monuments in parks and On both sides of the Atlantic, the genera- squares across my country to young men of tion of our fathers was called to shape great 18 and 19 and 20 whose lives ended in battle events, and they built the great transatlantic on this continent. Ours is the first generation alliance of democracies. They built the most in a hundred years that does not expect and successful alliance in history. After the cold does not fear the next European war. And war, during the relative quiet of the 1990s, that achievement—your achievement—is some questioned whether our transatlantic one of the greatest in modern times. partnership still had a purpose. History has When Europe grows in unity, Europe and given its answer. Our generation faces new America grow in security. When you inte- and grave threats to liberty, to the safety of grate your markets and share a currency in our people, and to civilization itself. We face the European Union, you are creating the an aggressive force that glorifies death, that conditions for security and common purpose. targets the innocent, and seeks the means In all these steps, Americans do not see the to matter—murder on a massive scale. We rise of a rival, we see the end of old hos- face the global tragedy of disease and poverty tilities. We see the success of our Allies, and that take uncounted lives and leave whole we applaud your progress. nations vulnerable to oppression and terror. The expansion of NATO will also extend We’ll face these challenges together. We the security on this continent, especially for must face them together. Those who despise nations that knew little peace or security in human freedom will attack it on every con- the last century. We have moved cautiously tinent. Those who seek missiles and terrible in this direction; now we must act decisively. weapons are also familiar with the map of Europe. Like the threats of another era, this As our summit in Prague approaches, threat cannot be appeased or cannot be ig- America is committed to NATO membership nored. By being patient, relentless, and reso- for all of Europe’s democracies that are ready lute, we will defeat the enemies of freedom. to share in the responsibilities that NATO By remaining united—— brings. Every part of Europe should share in the security and success of this continent. [At this point, there was a disturbance in the A broader alliance will strengthen NATO; it audience.] will fulfill NATO’s promise. Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 / May 23 883

Another mission we share is to encourage erations have looked at Russia with alarm. the Russian people to find their future in Eu- Our generation can finally lift this shadow rope and with America. Russia has its best from Europe by embracing the friendship of chance since 1917 to become a part of Eu- a new democratic Russia. rope’s family. Russia’s transformation is not As we expand our Alliance, as we reach finished; the outcome is not yet determined. out to Russia, we must also look beyond Eu- But for all the problems and challenges, Rus- rope to gathering dangers and important re- sia is moving toward freedom, more freedom sponsibilities. As we build the house of free- in its politics and its markets, freedom that dom, we must meet the challenges of a larger will help Russia to act as a great and just world. And we must meet them together. power. A Russia at peace with its neighbors, For the United States, September the respecting the legitimate rights of minorities, 11th, 2001, cut a deep dividing line in our is welcome in Europe. history, a change of eras as sharp and clear A new Russian-American partnership is as Pearl Harbor or the first day of the Berlin being forged. Russia is lending crucial sup- blockade. There can be no lasting security port in the war on global terror. A Russian in a world at the mercy of terrorists—for my colonel now works on the staff of U.S. Army Nation or for any nation. General Tommy Franks, commander of the Given this threat, NATO’s defining pur- war in Afghanistan. And in Afghanistan, pose, our collective defense, is as urgent as itself, Russia is helping to build hospitals and ever. America and Europe need each other a better future for the Afghan people. to fight and win the war against global terror. America and Europe must throw off old My Nation is so grateful for the sympathy suspicions and realize our common interests of the German people and for the strong sup- with Russia. Tomorrow in Moscow, President port of Germany and all of Europe. Putin and I will again act upon these inter- Troops from more than a dozen European ests. countries have deployed in and around Af- The United States and Russia are ridding ghanistan, including thousands from this ourselves of the last vestiges of cold war con- country, the first deployment of German frontation. We have moved beyond an ABM forces outside of Europe since 1945. German treaty that prevented us from defending our soldiers have died in this war, and we mourn people and our friends. Some warned that their loss as we do our own. German authori- moving beyond the ABM treaty would cause ties are on the trail of terrorist cells and fi- an arms race. Instead, President Putin and nances. And German police are helping Af- I are about to sign the most dramatic nuclear ghans build their own police force, and we’re arms reduction in history. Both the United so grateful for this support. States and Russia will reduce our nuclear ar- Together, we oppose an enemy that thrives senals by about two-thirds, to the lowest level on violence and the grief of the innocent. in decades. Old arms agreements sought to The terrorists are defined by their hatreds. manage hostility and maintain a balance of They hate democracy and tolerance and free terror. This new agreement recognizes that expression and women and Jews and Chris- Russia and the West are no longer enemies. tians and all Muslims who disagree with The entire transatlantic Alliance is forming them. Others killed in the name of racial pu- a new relationship with Russia. Next week rity or the class struggle; these enemies kill in Rome, Chancellor Schroeder, NATO Al- in the name of a false religious purity, lies, and I will meet as equal partners with perverting the faith they claim to hold. In President Putin at the creation of the NATO- this war we defend not just America or Eu- Russia Council. The Council gives us an op- rope; we are defending civilization itself. portunity to build common security against The evil that has formed against us has common threats. We will start with projects been termed the ‘‘new totalitarian threat.’’ on nonproliferation, counterterrorism, and The authors of terror are seeking nuclear, search-and-rescue operations. Over time, we chemical, and biological weapons. Regimes will expand this cooperation, even as we pre- that sponsor terror are developing these serve the core mission of NATO. Many gen- weapons and the missiles to deliver them. If 884 May 23 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 these regimes and their terrorist allies were generations of traded violence and humilia- to perfect these capabilities, no inner voice tion, we have seen enemies become partners of reason, no hint of conscience would pre- and allies in a new Europe. We pray the same vent their use. healing, the same shredding of hatred, might Wishful thinking might bring comfort but come to the Middle East. And we will be not security. Call this a strategic challenge; unrelenting in our quest for that peace. call it, as I do, ‘‘axis of evil’’; call it by any We must recognize that violence and re- name you choose; but let us speak the truth: sentment are defeated by the advance of If we ignore this threat, we invite certain health and learning and prosperity. Poverty blackmail and place millions of our citizens doesn’t create terror; yet, terror takes root in grave danger. in failing nations that do not police them- Our response will be reasoned and focused selves or provide for their people. Our con- and deliberate. We will use more than our science and our interests speak as one: To military might. We will cut off terrorist fi- achieve a safer world, we must create a better nances, apply diplomatic pressure, and con- world. tinue to share intelligence. America will con- sult closely with our friends and allies at The expansion of trade in our time is one every stage. But make no mistake about it, of the primary reasons for our progress we will and we must confront this conspiracy against poverty. At Doha, we committed to against our liberty and against our lives. build on this progress, and we must keep that As it faces new threats, NATO needs a new commitment. Transatlantic nations must re- strategy and new capabilities. Dangers origi- solve the small, disputed portion of our vast nating far from Europe can now strike at Eu- trading relationship within the rules and set- rope’s heart, so NATO must be able and will- tlement mechanisms of the World Trade Or- ing to act whenever threats emerge. This will ganization, whether those disputes concern require all the assets of modern defense: mo- tax law, steel, agriculture, or biotechnology. bile and deployable forces, sophisticated spe- For all nations—for all nations to gain the cial operations, the ability to fight under the benefit of global markets, they need popu- threat of chemical and biological weapons. lations that are healthy and literate. To help Each nation must focus on the military developing nations achieve these goals, lead- strengths it can bring to this alliance, with ers of wealthy nations have a duty of con- the hard choices and financial commitment science. We have a duty to share our wealth that requires. We do not know where the generously and wisely. Those who lead poor next threat might come from; we really don’t nations have a duty to their own people, but know what form it might take. But we must they have a duty as well, to pursue reforms be ready, as full military partners, to confront that turn temporary aid into lasting progress. these urgent threats to our common security. I’ve proposed that new American aid be One way to make ourselves more secure directed to nations on the path of reform. is to address the regional conflicts that en- The United States will increase our core de- flame violence. Our work in the Balkans and velopment assistance by 50 percent over the Afghanistan shows how much we can achieve when we stand together. We must continue next 3 budget years. It will be up to a level to stand for peace in the Middle East. That of 5 billion a year, above and beyond that peace must assure the permanent safety of which we already contribute to development. the Jewish people, and that peace must pro- When nations are governed justly, the peo- vide the Palestinian people with a state of ple benefit. When nations are governed un- their own. justly, for the benefit of a corrupt few, no In the midst of terrorist violence in the amount of aid will help the people in need. Middle East, the hope of a lasting accord may When nations are governed justly—when na- seem distant. That’s how many once viewed tions are governed justly, investing in edu- the prospect of peace between Poland and cation and health and encouraging economic Germany, Germany and France, France and freedom, they will have our help. And more England, Protestant and Catholic. Yet, after importantly, these rising nations will have Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 / May 23 885 their own ability and, eventually, the re- ships. Inside this Chamber, across this city, sources necessary to battle disease and im- throughout this nation and continent, Amer- prove their environment and build lives of ica has valued friends. And with our friends dignity for their people. we are building that house of freedom for Members of the Bundestag, we are joined our time and for all time. in serious purpose—very serious purposes— May God bless. on which the safety of our people and the fate of our freedom now rest. We build a NOTE: The President spoke at 2:13 p.m. in the world of justice, or we will live in a world Bundestag at the Reichstag. In his remarks, he of coercion. The magnitude of our shared re- referred to President Johannes Rau, Chancellor sponsibilities makes our disagreements look Gerhard Schroeder, and former Chancellor so small. And those who exaggerate our dif- Helmut Kohl of Germany. ferences play a shallow game and hold a sim- plistic view of our relationship. America and the nations in Europe are Statement on the Conference on more than military allies; we’re more than Improving Forest Health and trading partners; we are heirs to the same Reducing Risk of Wildfire civilization. The pledges of the Magna Carta, May 23, 2002 the learning of Athens, the creativity of Paris, the unbending conscience of Luther, the I commend Secretary Norton and Sec- gentle faith of St. Francis: All of these are retary Veneman for their strong leadership part of the American soul. The New World in addressing the widespread problems of de- has succeeded by holding to the values of clining forest health and the risk of destruc- the Old. tive wildfires, particularly in the West. To- Our histories have diverged, yet we seek day’s conference, highlighting the comple- to live by the same ideals. We believe in free tion of the Ten Year Comprehensive Strategy markets, tempered by compassion. We be- Implementation Plan, marks an important lieve in open societies that reflect unchang- new cooperative effort between the Federal ing truths. We believe in the value and dig- Government, States, local governments, Na- nity of every life. tive American tribes, and concerned citizens These convictions bind our civilization to- and organizations. Working together, we will gether and set our enemies against us. These promote sound forest management to restore convictions are universally true and right. forest health and make the recreational op- And they define our nations and our partner- portunities and resources of our forests more ship in a unique way. And these beliefs lead accessible. In many areas, this will require us to fight tyranny and evil, as others have active forest management efforts to thin our done before us. forests of excessive natural fuels and restore One of the greatest Germans of the 20th native vegetation to our forests and range- century was Pastor Dietrich Bonhoeffer, who lands. left the security of America to stand against Our goal is to reduce the threat that Nazi rule. In a dark hour, he gave witness wildfires pose to homes, communities, and to the Gospel of life and paid the cost of the environment. Severe drought conditions his discipleship, being put to death only days in many areas of the United States make it before his camp was liberated. ‘‘I believe,’’ essential that we cooperate in our efforts to said Bonhoeffer, ‘‘that God can and wants fight fires and reduce the fuel loads that to create good out of everything, even evil.’’ cause them. Cooperation will also enable us That belief is proven in the history of Eu- to move forward on other important endeav- rope since that day, in the reconciliation and ors, such as improving the performance of renewal that have transformed this continent. the Northwest Forest Plan. I thank Governor In America, very recently, we have also seen Kempthorne and Governor Kitzhaber for the horror of evil and the power of good. their help in crafting this bipartisan agree- In the tests of our time, we are affirming ment and for hosting this important con- our deepest values and our closest friend- ference. 886 May 23 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2002

Statement on Congressional Action American people are deprived of the benefits on the Proposed ‘‘Public Health of trade. Therefore, I urge the House and Security and Bioterrorism Senate to convene a conference committee Preparedness and Response Act of immediately so they can resolve their dif- 2002’’ ferences and send me a trade promotion au- thority bill I can sign at the earliest oppor- May 23, 2002 tunity.

I applaud members of both parties, includ- NOTE: The statement referred to H.R. 3009, the ing Congressman Tauzin and Dingell and proposed ‘‘Andean Trade Preference Expansion Senators Kennedy, Gregg, and Frist, for act- Act.’’ ing on my proposals to protect Americans against bioterrorism. This legislation strengthens food safety and security, im- Remarks Prior to Discussions With proves the ability of Federal, State, and local President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia authorities to coordinate their response to in Moscow, Russia possible bioterrorist attacks, and enhances May 24, 2002 surveillance and security over dangerous bio- logical agents. President Putin. Distinguished Mr. Presi- I commend the House and Senate for their dent, distinguished colleagues and friends, hard work and look forward to signing this we are happy to welcome you in the capital important bipartisan legislation into law. of Russia and in the heart of it, in the Krem- lin of Moscow. NOTE: The statement referred to H.R. 3448, the This is the first visit of the President in proposed ‘‘Public Health Security and Bioter- office of the United States of America to the rorism Preparedness and Response Act of 2002.’’ Russian Federation, and I’m very pleased to note that this visit is of a different quality than all previous visits of the heads of the Statement on Senate Action on the U.S. state to our country. Proposed ‘‘Andean Trade Preference I’d like to underline that if prior to this Expansion Act’’ time virtually all meetings at this level were May 23, 2002 dedicated to overcoming contradictions or consequences of those contradictions, today Today’s passage by the Senate of a vital we have the right to state the creation of an package of trade legislation is a critical step absolutely new quality to our relationship. in advancing America’s trade agenda and This touches upon the issues of security, the strengthening the U.S. economy. As I begin issues of limitation of a strategical process, my trip here in Europe, the passage of this and our participation in the building of the bill sends an important signal to our trading new safe world. And this has a bearing to partners that we are committed to free and the quality of trust for the relationship. And open trade. all this happened over the past months, past Restoring trade promotion authority will 12 or 18 months, with active participation give me the flexibility I need to secure the and support of this process on behalf of the greatest possible trade opportunities for President of the United States, Mr. Bush, American workers, consumers, families, and and his team. farmers. The administration also supports ex- Therefore, we’re especially pleased, distin- panding the Andean Trade Preferences Act guished Mr. President, to receive you here in a way that reflects the economic realities in Moscow, in Russia. Myself and my col- of the region. ATPA will help the Andean leagues recall the warmth of the reception economies grow through legitimate trade, we were accorded in the United States, in- while also enhancing our counternarcotics cluding in your home, in your family, and strategy. we would like very much to respond with Every day the United States goes without a similar hospitality. And we hope and we’re trade promotion authority is another day the confident that your visit to our country will Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 / May 24 887 be very productive and will serve a powerful tries. Mr. President, I appreciate your leader- thrust to the development of our relation- ship. I appreciate your vision. I appreciate ship. the fact that we’ve now laid the foundation Welcome, Mr. President. for not only our governments but future gov- President Bush. Thank you very much, ernments to work in a spirit of cooperation Mr. President. I appreciate your hospitality. and a spirit of trust. That’s good. It’s good It’s a magnificent setting for our very impor- for the people of Russia; it’s good for the tant discussions and our signing of a treaty people of the United States. which says—it says that we’re friends, that President Putin and I have signed a treaty we’re going to cast aside old doubts and sus- that will substantially reduce our nuclear— picions and welcome a new era between the strategic nuclear warhead arsenals to the relations between your great country and our range of 1,700 to 2,200, the lowest level in country. decades. This treaty liquidates the cold war I’m really looking forward to coming to legacy of nuclear hostility between our coun- your home tonight to have dinner. We’ll work tries. all day long, and then I look forward to relax- We’ve also signed a joint declaration of ing with you in the setting of your home. new strategic relationship that charts a I think it’s—I think it’s an important signal course toward greater security, political, and for the world to see that we take our jobs economic cooperation between Russia and very seriously and we visit in formal settings, the United States. Our nations will continue we talk about important issues, and then after to cooperate closely in the war against global the working day is over, we will settle down terror. I understand full well that the people as friends and have dinner together. of Russia have suffered at the hands of ter- This is a day that has required your strong rorists, and so have we. And I want to thank leadership and your vision, and I want to con- President Putin for his understanding of the gratulate you and your team on working hard nature of the new war we face together and toward a vision of a world that is more peace- his willingness to be determined and stead- ful and a world that is more prosperous for fast and patient as we pursue this war to- all of us. gether. And so, thank you, sir, for your hospitality President Putin and I agree also that the and for your friendship. greatest danger in this war is the prospect of terrorists acquiring weapons of mass de- NOTE: The remarks began at 11:58 a.m. in St. struction. Our nations must spare no effort Catherine’s Room at the Kremlin. President Putin at preventing all forms of proliferation. And spoke in Russian, and his remarks were translated by an interpreter. The Presidents spoke following we discussed Iran in this context today. We’ll their one-on-one meeting and prior to an ex- work closely with each other on this very im- panded bilateral meeting. portant issue. Our nations also agree on the importance of a new NATO-Russia Council that will be The President’s News Conference launched in a few days in Rome. And Mr. With President Vladimir V. Putin of President, this council is also a tribute to your Russia in Moscow leadership and your vision. For decades, Rus- May 24, 2002 sia and NATO were adversaries. Those days are gone, and that’s good. And that’s good President Bush. President Putin, thank for the Russian people; it’s good for the peo- you very much. Laura and I are so grateful ple of my country; it’s good for the people for your hospitality and your friendship. It’s of Europe; and it’s good for the people of an historic and hopeful day for Russia and the world. America. It’s an historic day for the world Russia and the United States are also de- as well. termined to work closely on important re- President Putin and I today ended a long gional challenges. Together, we will work to chapter of confrontation and opened up an rebuild Afghanistan. Together, we will work entirely new relationship between our coun- to improve security in Georgia. We will work 888 May 24 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 to help end fighting and achieve a political of the 21st century, and that is the war cold- settlement in Chechnya. blooded killers—against coldblooded killers Russia and the United States are com- who want to harm nations such as America mitted to economic cooperation. We have and Russia. And I’m confident that, when we launched a major new energy partnership. work together in a spirit of cooperation on Private firms will take the lead in developing all fronts, both our peoples will benefit. and transforming the vast energy reserves of Mr. President, thank you for your hospi- Russia and the Caspian world to markets tality. through multiple pipelines such as the Cas- President Putin. Distinguished American pian Pipeline Consortium and Baku-Jihan. colleagues, distinguished Mr. President, la- And I want to thank you for the cooperation dies and gentlemen, we’ve just accomplished and the willingness to work together on en- the official part of our talks with U.S. Presi- ergy and energy security. dent George Bush. Before our distinguished Russia is building its market economy, colleagues are the visit in Moscow and in St. opening new opportunities for both our Petersburg. But now we can name the major countries. I’m impressed by the level of en- result of our talks—first of all, the logical de- trepreneurial growth here in Russia. It’s a velopment and practical implementation as significant achievement. Again, it’s a testi- seen by our agreements reached in Crawford mony to the leadership of Vladimir Putin. last year. I mean the signature of the treaty In a while, we’re going to meet with Rus- between Russia on strategic defensive reduc- sian and American business leaders to discuss tions and, first of all, this document. how we can continue fostering good relations It’s the statement of our countries to re- and fostering opportunity. We want Russia duce our nuclear arsenals and the joint work to be a part of the world economy. We look for nonproliferation of weapons of mass de- forward to one day welcoming Russia as a struction. It’s the decision of two states which member of the World Trade Organization. are particularly responsible for international President Putin and I also agree that we’ll security and strategic stability. We’re on the work to resolve disputed areas of trading, level of adopting the declaration on new stra- such as poultry or steel, in a spirit of mutual tegic relationship which determines the basic respect and trust. directions in the security and international America welcomes the dramatic improve- policy. It will have a positive impact for eco- ment in freedoms in Russia since Soviet days, nomic cooperation and development of our including the new freedoms of Russia’s Jew- relations between the institutions of general ish community. In recognition of these free- public. And together with Mr. President, we doms, I am determined to work with Con- discussed especially this aspect, the civil soci- gress to remove Russia from the Jackson- ety between the people of our countries. The Vanik amendment. It is time our Congress declaration formulates the principles of our responded to my request, President Putin’s dialog, anti-missile dialog; that is, the trans- desire, that the Jackson-Vanik amendment be parency and openness and exclusion of po- removed pertaining to Russia. tential threats. We confirmed the Genoa I also discussed with President Putin the agreement on offensive and defensive sys- important role of free press in building a tems in all their aspects. working democracy. And today we will meet A separate issue, the mechanism of with media entrepreneurs from both coun- NATO-Russia cooperation within the frame- tries. It’s an issue we discussed before. The work of 20, it presumes a new level of joint President said it makes sense to have a forum responsibility and confidence between all its where media entrepreneurs can meet and participants. I would like to stress, especially, visit. And it’s going to take place today. Mr. that is the international novelty. And it hap- President, I appreciate that. pened because of the strengthening of Rus- I am pleased with our relationship. I am sian-American relations, including in joint confident that, by working together, we make confrontation to international terrorists— the world more peaceful. I’m confident that, struggling with international terrorism. Rus- by working together, we can win the first war sians work together with American people in Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 / May 24 889

September the 8th, and we’re grateful for we together counteract global threats and sincere feelings of compassion headed by challenges, and we’re going to form a stable President Bush on behalf of American people world order that is within the interests of our because of the recent events in Kaspiysk. The peoples and our countries. And I think it’s memory of terrorism victims and the respon- in the interest of all the civilized human soci- sibility for the security of our people means ety. joint struggle against this evil, as well as the Thank you. struggle against nazism. The spirit of our co- President Bush. Name your agency. operation will mean fruitful results even today. Nuclear Arms Reductions That’s why the agenda has very concrete Q. I have a question for both Presidents, issues of interaction against terrorism on the please. If we’ve truly entered a new era, why basis of unique standards against any mani- do you each need 1,700 nuclear weapons? festation of terrorism and extremism. We And President Putin, why does Russia need need close contacts through all agencies and to continue producing nuclear warheads? services, including special services. Here we And to President Bush, why does the United have very positive experience we’ve accrued States need to keep some 2,000 of these over the past years. And we see today—we weapons in storage, ready for deployment? feel it today during the negotiations. The bi- President Bush. Yes. First of all, remem- lateral working group on Afghanistan has ber where we’ve come from. We’ve come demonstrated its efficiency. And we, Mr. from 6,000 to 1,700 in a very quick—or to President, would like to transform it on a 1,700 to 2,200 in a very quick period of time. group to combat terrorism, especially chem- You know, friends really don’t need weapons ical, biological, nuclear terrorism. pointed at each other. We both understand Russia and the United States are oriented that. But it’s a realistic assessment of where to build new relations in economic activity. we’ve been. And who knows what will hap- Our businessman mentality is much alike, pen 10 years from now? Who knows what that their qualities and their joint work is future Presidents will say and how they based on free trade and supporting the initia- react? tives. That’s why our task is to open new op- If you have a nuclear arsenal, you want portunities for business community. to make sure they work. It’s—one reason that We need to avoid obstacles of the past. you keep weapons in storage apart from Here we mean not only the market status launchers is for quality control. And the thing of the Russian economy—and I’m grateful I think it’s important for you to know, Ron to Mr. President that he has given a very [Ron Fournier, Associated Press], is that positive signal during our talks. And it does we’ve made tremendous progress from the also mean such things as Jackson-Vanik past. And the treaty is setting a period of amendment. We have to remove administra- time in the rear-view mirror of both coun- tive obstacles, which encurls both countries, tries. And I am not only confident that this to cooperate, especially in the high-tech is good for world peace; I’m confident this sphere, which determined the economy of sets the stage for incredible cooperation that the 21st century; that is, the aeronautics, tele- we’ve never had before between our coun- communications, science and technologies, tries. new sources of energy. I would like to focus President Putin. I concur with the assess- on energy, especially nuclear energy. We ment given by my colleague, Mr. Bush. And paid much attention to it today. And the large naturally, our position is well known. We are format of our cooperation will be a great ele- guided by the facts that it’s more worthwhile, ment for the global economy on the whole. perhaps, to eliminate a certain part of nuclear I would like to stress, in conclusion, that, potentials. At the same time, I’d like to point of course, not all ideas, not all initiatives, are out another thing here. Any man who has on paper and in the form of official docu- at least once in his career dealt with arms, ments. But a serious move forward in all had arms in his hands, at least to hunt or these issues is quite evident for us. Today, a rifle or whatever, he knows that it’s much 890 May 24 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 better, much safer to have it in stock dis- President Bush. I couldn’t make myself armed, disassembled perhaps, rather than to clearer during my opening statement about have it in your arms and charged with bullets how I feel about Jackson-Vanik—not much in it and with your finger on the trigger at action by the Congress of the United States, the same time. This is a different state of and I hope they act. The market-based econ- affairs, as it were. omy is an issue that the President and I And the fact that we agreed with President talked about. It is a regulatory matter, the Bush regarding such de´tente, in such man- responsibility of which resides at the Com- ner, this is a serious move ahead to ensure merce Department. Secretary Evans and I international security, which is a very good have to talk about this subject, and we’ll have sign as regards the relationship between our an answer to the President soon. two countries. And in terms of success of Russia ascend- Now, as to why Russia should continue to ing into the WTO, it’s something that we produce nuclear arms, I’d like to say that this want. It’s in our Nation’s interest that Russia is not our priority. But in addition to Russia be a part of the WTO. And we look forward and U.S. out there, there are other states who to working with the President and respective possess nuclear arms. What is more con- ministers to see that that happens. It’s in our cerning, there are countries who want to ac- interest that that happen. So it’s hard for me quire weapons of mass destruction. Experts to predict the timetables on all the issues you in the area of international security are aware mentioned. Those over which I have got di- of the fact, and they have been talking a lot rect control will happen relatively quickly. about nuclear arms as deterrent. President Putin. Well, you know, while Moreover, many of them assert—and it is talking about the whole set of commercial difficult to dispute this fact—they say the ex- and trade ties between our two countries, istence of the nuclear arms was an impedi- today we’ve mentioned more than once that ment, an obstacle which contained the world we are facing somewhat an unusual situation from large-scale wars over the past decades, in this area today, which has to do with the let’s say. And I think we should take that into fact that while improving relations in disar- consideration while building a new quality of mament matters, building confidence and so relationship within the two main nuclear on and so forth, at the same time, we’re ex- states of the world. panding the whole set of relations in eco- We also should pay attention to the whole nomic area. And naturally, we’ll face new set of relations currently in the world out problems we never had to deal with before. there, and we should take into account the The position taken by the U.S. administra- prospects of development of the world in the tion and the President is known to us as re- realm of security, bearing in mind those po- gards Jackson-Vanik. It’s precisely the admin- tential threats I’ve mentioned here. istration who initiated its rescinding. And business communities of our two countries, American and Russian business commu- Jackson-Vanik Amendment/Russia-U.S. nities, and their interaction together with the Economic Relationship interaction of the parliamentary issues, will Q. Mr. Bush, when we can hope that Jack- be able to remove similar problems in auto- son-Vanik will be rescinded, which currently matic manner, I guess. is very out of place? That’s, you know, a rem- Now, as regards your specific question on nant of the cold war here. And will the U.S. purchase of Boeings, I must say that the best continue to use it as a leverage of applying lobbyist of the interests of U.S. companies pressure on Russia and when Russia will fi- will be American President standing here, nally be recognized as a marketplace coun- since both Boeings and poultry and other try? And what’s the prospect of Russia’s ac- matters very often have been told by my col- cession to WTO? leagues. People usually say, ‘‘Well, it’s not And now to Mr. Putin, Russian President. on our level, but I must say,’’ and then there What’s your idea of how U.S. Boeings can will be a lengthy monolog on specific mat- help Russian civil aviation? ters. Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 / May 24 891

Anyhow, you’ve posed a very acute and what you outlined in your speech to Congress very specific question. Why it’s acute? Be- when you said, in the war against terrorism, cause it’s on the agenda or practical inter- you’re either with the United States or action. And it’s very specific since it has a against the United States? bearing to very specific matters. And since And President Putin, the Bush team says it’s acute and specific, I’ll answer as one that your sales of nuclear technology and so- should in gentlemen’s society, in a very gen- phisticated military technology to Iran are eral manner. the world’s single biggest proliferation prob- First and foremost, our carriers, in my lem right now. Do you agree with that assess- opinion, should be primarily guided towards ment, and did you make any specific prom- Russian aircraft producers. Why? Because ises today in your meeting with President Russian manufacturers, you know, don’t have Bush? anywhere to sell their products, otherwise, President Bush. Well, first, we spent a because they are not let anywhere or with lot of time on this subject. And as I said yes- a lot of difficulty. They only can sell it domes- terday in Germany, I worry about Iran. And tically. That’s the first thing. And here we I’m confident Vladimir Putin worries about can talk about interaction on the market. Iran, and that was confirmed today. He un- Now, the second thing, primarily— derstands terrorist threats, just like we un- Aeroflot should be competitive on the market derstand terrorist threats. And he under- and should have advanced technology in stands that weapons of mass destruction are their hands. Therefore, they both have Amer- dangerous to Russia, just as they are to Amer- ican Boeings today; they also have European ica. And he’s explained that point himself, Airbus aircraft. And the question has been of course, now that he’s standing here. raised currently on additional purchase, on But we spoke very frankly and honestly replacement of old equipment with those about the need to make sure that a nontrans- foreign aircraft. parent government run by radical clerics Now, I should say, depending on the deci- doesn’t get their hands on weapons of mass sion to be taken by economic structures, this destruction. It could be harmful to us and is not a political question, mind you. The eco- harmful to Russia. And the President can nomic structure should decide on it. A lot speak for himself. And he gave me some as- will depend on it in regards of the state of surances that I think will be very comforting our political interaction, of course. And our for you to listen to. And I’m confident we American colleagues’ proposal today is a little can work together on this issue. This is in bit costlier than the Europeans’ proposal. both our countries’ mutual interest that we Had Americans bought our cheap aluminum solve this problem. and steel, then their aircraft would have been President Putin. I will confirm what Mr. cheaper and more competitive, including in Bush has just said, and I agree with your eval- our market. uation of threats in this regard. Generally So all of this jointly has been a subject of speaking, I believe that the problem of non- our discussions with the President here, and proliferation is one of the key problems as our good friend and partner, Secretary of regards ensuring international security. Commerce and economy. And I think that Incidentally, this happened to be one of in the course of normalization of trade and the main motivating and underpinning log- commerce relations, all these issues will be ical stimuluses to work in Russia-NATO addressed in a most mutually advantageous framework together on nonproliferation on manner. nuclear arms. At the same time, I’d like to point out that Iran/Nuclear Nonproliferation cooperation between Iran and Russia is not Q. [Inaudible]—state sponsor of ter- of a character which would undermine the rorism. I wonder because of that, if these process on nonproliferation. Our cooperation Russians sales that you object to continue, is exclusively, as regards energy sector, fo- does that—this new strategic relationship cused on the problems of economic nature. you’re discussing today bump up against I’d like to point out also that the U.S. has 892 May 24 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 taken a commitment upon themselves to to end the—forever end the cold war. And build similar nuclear powerplant in North that begins with the statement that Russia’s Korea, similar to Russia. our friend, not our enemy. And in addition to Iran, I think, we also And you say ‘‘targeting’’—I mean, the idea need to think about other countries here. For of our weaponry—our military has no aims example, we have some questions concerning at Russia. There may be old vestiges in place, development of missile programs in Taiwan, but Russia’s not an enemy. You don’t think in some other countries where we’ve been about how to deal with Russia the way they witnessing active work of producing mass de- used to. Russia is a friend, and that’s the new struction weapons and their carriers. All of thinking. That’s part of what’s being codified that should be a subject of our in-depth dis- today. cussion both bilaterally and in the frame- President Putin. As regards the parity, works of NATO-Russia agreement. That’s the parity relationship of sorts, the weight one of the key issues of the modern times, of military potentials and nuclear potential, I believe. and so on, so forth, each state would have It would seem to me that in order to be its own strategy of development of what you efficient, in this sense, like in other areas, refer to as nuclear deterrent process. But I’d we need to address the main task, to upgrade like to assure you that all the action under- confidence mutually. And today I mentioned taken by us in this area fully confirmed with to President Bush here that as regards Iran the interests of the Russian Federation. The and some other countries, according to our documents signed today are a result of joint data, the missile programs of those countries, effort of the Minister of Defense and Chiefs nuclear programs, are built largely on the of Staff and our Minister of Foreign Affairs, basis of the technologies and with the sup- of course, jointly with our American col- port of the Western companies. We do have leagues. And we proceed from the assump- such info, and we stand ready to share it with tion we have today, and we try to forecast our American partners. So if we pursued that the status of affairs in the world for a lengthy way, not dealing with generalities, then we’ll period of time—I would like to point out, get results with respect to this very com- again, for a lengthy perspective. plicated and very important for our two Now, as regards the question of countries track. verification and control, perhaps, I’d like to And the conclusive question—[inaudible]. point out that we’re very much satisfied with the U.S. administration approach to this Strategic Offensive Reductions Treaty question. Our American partners have Q. Mayak Radio Station. To both Presi- agreed that we need to retain START I, dents, to what extent the treaty ensures real which is provided for by the system of nuclear parity, and are there conditions that verification. We agreed we will continue this the treaty can be terminated by either side? work on the basis of the documents signed And how true is the fact that Russia still re- today as well. mains as one of the nuclear targets for nu- And what was the second part of the ques- clear forces? And how does that relate to the tion, incidentally? The mike was off at this announced new strategic relations between time. Regarding those targets, that was not our two countries? to me. I will also make a remark here, regard- President Bush. Well, it is a treaty. This ing aiming targets. And Mr. Baluyevskiy, our document is a treaty that will be confirmed military First Deputy Chief of Staff, is here by the United States Senate and the Duma, with us. He and his American counterpart hopefully. Secondly, treaties have always had are full aware of those things, targeting aims outs; there’s nothing new about that. There and other things involved, and what is the are conditions of which things may change, status today of those aimings and targeting. and people get out of treaties. That’s the way All in speculations in the press are nothing it’s been. The Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty but expression of domestic political infight had an out; there’s nothing new about that. either here or in the U.S., just on the verge And thirdly, you know, we are going to work of the visit. Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 / May 24 893

We are not being emotional here. We’re Mindful of their obligations under the not talking to the press, but as experts, we’re Treaty Between the United States of Amer- full aware of that, and we have no concern ica and the Union of Soviet Socialist Repub- whatsoever in this regard. lics on the Reduction and Limitation of Stra- Thank you. Thank you for your kind atten- tegic Offensive Arms of July 31, 1991, here- tion and for your participation. inafter referred to as the START Treaty, Mindful of their obligations under Article NOTE: The President’s news conference began at VI of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of 12:55 p.m. in St. Andrew’s Hall at the Kremlin. Nuclear Weapons of July 1, 1968, and President Putin spoke in Russian, and his remarks Convinced that this Treaty will help to es- were translated by an interpreter. In his remarks, President Bush referred to the Jackson-Vanik tablish more favorable conditions for actively Amendment, which places restrictions on normal- promoting security and cooperation, and en- ized trade relations between the U.S. and Russia hancing international stability, and other countries of the former Soviet Union Have agreed as follows: based on their economic structure and emigration policies. President Putin referred to Gen.-Col. Article I Yuriy Nikolayevich Baluyevskiy, First Deputy Each Party shall reduce and limit strategic Chief of the General Staff, Russian Federation nuclear warheads, as stated by the President Armed Forces. Prior to their news conference, of the United States of America on Novem- President Bush and President Putin signed the ber 13, 2001 and as stated by the President Treaty Between the United States of America and of the Russian Federation on November 13, the Russian Federation on Strategic Offensive Re- 2001 and December 13, 2001 respectively, ductions. so that by December 31, 2012 the aggregate number of such warheads does not exceed Treaty Between the United States of 1700–2200 for each Party. Each Party shall America and the Russian Federation determine for itself the composition and structure of its strategic offensive arms, on Strategic Offensive Reductions based on the established aggregate limit for May 24, 2002 the number of such warheads. The United States of America and the Rus- Article II sian Federation, hereinafter referred to as The Parties agree that the START Treaty the Parties, remains in force in accordance with its terms. Embarking upon the path of new relations for a new century and committed to the goal Article III of strengthening their relationship through For purposes of implementing this Treaty, cooperation and friendship, the Parties shall hold meetings at least twice Believing that new global challenges and a year of a Bilateral Implementation Com- threats require the building of a qualitatively mission. new foundation for strategic relations be- tween the Parties, Article IV Desiring to establish a genuine partnership 1. This Treaty shall be subject to ratifica- based on the principles of mutual security, tion in accordance with the constitutional cooperation, trust, openness, and predict- procedures of each Party. This Treaty shall ability, enter into force on the date of the exchange Committed to implementing significant of instruments of ratification. reductions in strategic offensive arms, 2. This Treaty shall remain in force until Proceeding from the Joint Statements by December 31, 2012 and may be extended the President of the United States of America by agreement of the Parties or superseded and the President of the Russian Federation earlier by a subsequent agreement. on Strategic Issues of July 22, 2001 in Genoa 3. Each Party, in exercising its national and on a New Relationship between the sovereignty, may withdraw from this Treaty United States and Russia of November 13, upon three months written notice to the 2001 in Washington, other Party. 894 May 24 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2002

Article V rity, and economic integration, and to jointly This Treaty shall be registered pursuant counter global challenges and to help resolve to Article 102 of the Charter of the United regional conflicts. Nations. To advance these objectives the United Done at Moscow on May 24, 2002, in two States and Russia will continue an intensive copies, each in the English and Russian lan- dialogue on pressing international and re- guages, both texts being equally authentic. gional problems, both on a bilateral basis and For the For the in international fora, including in the UN Se- United States of America: Russian Federation: curity Council, the G–8, and the OSCE. George W. Bush Vladimir V. Putin Where we have differences, we will work to NOTE: An original was not available for resolve them in a spirit of mutual respect. verification of the content of this treaty. We will respect the essential values of de- mocracy, human rights, free speech and free media, tolerance, the rule of law, and eco- Joint Declaration by President nomic opportunity. George W. Bush and President We recognize that the security, prosperity, Vladimir V. Putin on the New and future hopes of our peoples rest on a Strategic Relationship Between the benign security environment, the advance- United States of America and the ment of political and economic freedoms, Russian Federation and international cooperation. May 24, 2002 The further development of U.S.-Russian relations and the strengthening of mutual un- The United States of America and the Rus- derstanding and trust will also rest on a grow- sian Federation, ing network of ties between our societies and Recalling the accomplishments at the peoples. We will support growing economic Ljubljana, Genoa, Shanghai, and Wash- interaction between the business commu- ington/Crawford Summits and the new spirit nities of our two countries and people-to- of cooperation already achieved; people and cultural contacts and exchanges. Building on the November 13, 2001 Joint Political Cooperation Statement on a New Relationship Between the United States and Russia, having em- The United States and Russia are already barked upon the path of new relations for acting as partners and friends in meeting the the twenty-first century, and committed to new challenges of the 21st century; affirming developing a relationship based on friend- our Joint Statement of October 21, 2001, our ship, cooperation, common values, trust, countries are already allied in the global openness, and predictability; struggle against international terrorism. Reaffirming our belief that new global The United States and Russia will continue challenges and threats require a qualitatively to cooperate to support the Afghan people’s new foundation for our relationship; efforts to transform Afghanistan into a stable, Determined to work together, with other viable nation at peace with itself and its nations and with international organizations, neighbors. Our cooperation, bilaterally and to respond to these new challenges and through the United Nations, the ‘‘Six-Plus- threats, and thus contribute to a peaceful, Two’’ diplomatic process, and in other multi- prosperous, and free world and to strength- lateral fora, has proved important to our suc- ening strategic security; cess so far in ridding Afghanistan of the Declare as follows: Taliban and al-Qaida. In Central Asia and the South Caucasus, A Foundation for Cooperation we recognize our common interest in pro- We are achieving a new strategic relation- moting the stability, sovereignty, and terri- ship. The era in which the United States and torial integrity of all the nations of this re- Russia saw each other as an enemy or stra- gion. The United States and Russia reject the tegic threat has ended. We are partners and failed model of ‘‘Great Power’’ rivalry that we will cooperate to advance stability, secu- can only increase the potential for conflict Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 / May 24 895 in those regions. We will support economic stability, based on respect for the sovereignty and political development and respect for and territorial integrity of the states in the human rights while we broaden our humani- region and United Nations Security Council tarian cooperation and cooperation on resolutions. The United States and Russia counterterrorism and counternarcotics. will continue their constructive dialogue on The United States and Russia will cooper- Iraq and welcome the continuation of special ate to resolve regional conflicts, including bilateral discussions that opened the way for those in Abkhazia and Nagorno-Karabakh, UN Security Council adoption of the Goods and the Transnistrian issue in Moldova. We Review List. strongly encourage the Presidents of Azer- Recalling our Joint Statement of Novem- baijan and Armenia to exhibit flexibility and ber 13, 2001 on counternarcotics coopera- a constructive approach to resolving the con- tion, we note that illegal drug trafficking flict concerning Nagorno-Karabakh. As two poses a threat to our peoples and to inter- of the Co-Chairmen of the OSCE’s Minsk national security, and represents a substantial Group, the United States and Russia stand source of financial support for international ready to assist in these efforts. terrorism. We are committed to intensifying On November 13, 2001, we pledged to cooperation against this threat, which will work together to develop a new relationship bolster both the security and health of the between NATO and Russia that reflects the citizens of our countries. new strategic reality in the Euro-Atlantic re- The United States and Russia remain com- gion. We stressed that the members of mitted to intensifying cooperation in the fight NATO and Russia are increasingly allied against transnational organized crime. In this against terrorism, regional instability, and regard, we welcome the entry into force of other contemporary threats. We therefore the Treaty on Mutual Legal Assistance in welcome the inauguration at the May 28, Criminal Matters on January 31, 2002. 2002 NATO-Russia summit in Rome of a new NATO-Russia Council, whose members, Economic Cooperation acting in their national capacities and in a The United States and Russia believe that manner consistent with their respective col- successful national development in the 21st lective commitments and obligations, will century demands respect for the discipline identify common approaches, take joint deci- and practices of the free market. As we stated sions, and bear equal responsibility, individ- on November 13, 2001, an open market ually and jointly, for their implementation. economy, the freedom of economic choice, In this context, they will observe in good faith and an open democratic society are the most their obligations under international law, in- effective means to provide for the welfare cluding the UN Charter, provisions and prin- of the citizens of our countries. ciples contained in the Helsinki Final Act The United States and Russia will endeav- and the OSCE Charter for European Secu- or to make use of the potential of world trade rity. In the framework of the NATO-Russia to expand the economic ties between the two Council, NATO member states and Russia countries, and to further integrate Russia into will work as equal partners in areas of com- the world economy as a leading participant, mon interest. They aim to stand together with full rights and responsibilities, con- against common threats and risks to their se- sistent with the rule of law, in the world eco- curity. nomic system. In this connection, the sides As co-sponsors of the Middle East peace give high priority to Russia’s accession to the process, the United States and Russia will World Trade Organization on standard continue to exert joint and parallel efforts, terms. including in the framework of the ‘‘Quartet,’’ Success in our bilateral economic and to overcome the current crisis in the Middle trade relations demands that we move be- East, to restart negotiations, and to encour- yond the limitations of the past. We stress age a negotiated settlement. In the Balkans, the importance and desirability of graduating we will promote democracy, ethnic toler- Russia from the emigration provisions of the ance, self-sustaining peace, and long-term U.S. Trade Act of 1974, also known as the 896 May 24 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2002

Jackson-Vanik Amendment. We note that the Preventing the Spread of Weapons of Department of Commerce, based on its on- Mass Destruction: Non-Proliferation and going thorough and deliberative inquiry, ex- International Terrorism pects to make its final decision no later than The United States and Russia will intensify June 14, 2002 on whether Russia should be joint efforts to confront the new global chal- treated as a market economy under the pro- lenges of the twenty-first century, including visions of U.S. trade law. The sides will take combating the closely linked threats of inter- further practical steps to eliminate obstacles national terrorism and the proliferation of and barriers, including as appropriate in the weapons of mass destruction and their means legislative area, to strengthen economic co- of delivery. We believe that international ter- operation. rorism represents a particular danger to We have established a new dynamic in our international stability as shown once more by economic relations and between our business the tragic events of September 11, 2001. It communities, aimed at advancing trade and is imperative that all nations of the world co- investment opportunities while resolving dis- operate to combat this threat decisively. To- putes, where they occur, constructively and ward this end, the United States and Russia transparently. reaffirm our commitment to work together The United States and Russia acknowl- bilaterally and multilaterally. edge the great potential for expanding bilat- The United States and Russia recognize eral trade and investment, which would bring the profound importance of preventing the significant benefits to both of our economies. spread of weapons of mass destruction and Welcoming the recommendations of the missiles. The specter that such weapons Russian-American Business Dialogue, we are could fall into the hands of terrorists and committed to working with the private sec- those who support them illustrates the pri- tors of our countries to realize the full poten- ority all nations must give to combating pro- tial of our economic interaction. We also wel- liferation. come the opportunity to intensify coopera- To that end, we will work closely together, tion in energy exploration and development, including through cooperative programs, to especially in oil and gas, including in the Cas- ensure the security of weapons of mass de- pian region. struction and missile technologies, informa- tion, expertise, and material. We will also Strengthening People-to-People Contacts continue cooperative threat reduction pro- The greatest strength of our societies is grams and expand efforts to reduce weapons- the creative energy of our citizens. We wel- usable fissile material. In that regard, we will come the dramatic expansion of contacts be- establish joint experts groups to investigate tween Americans and Russians in the past means of increasing the amount of weapons- ten years in many areas, including joint ef- usable fissile material to be eliminated, and forts to resolve common problems in edu- to recommend collaborative research and de- cation, health, the sciences, and environ- velopment efforts on advanced, proliferation- ment, as well as through tourism, sister-city resistant nuclear reactor and fuel cycle tech- relationships, and other people-to-people nologies. We also intend to intensify our co- contacts. We pledge to continue supporting operation concerning destruction of chemical these efforts, which help broaden and deep- weapons. en good relations between our two countries. The United States and Russia will also seek Battling the scourge of HIV/AIDS and broad international support for a strategy of other deadly diseases, ending family violence, proactive non-proliferation, including by im- protecting the environment, and defending plementing and bolstering the Treaty on the the rights of women are areas where U.S. Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons and and Russian institutions, and especially non- the conventions on the prohibition of chem- governmental organizations, can successfully ical and biological weapons. The United expand their cooperation. States and Russia call on all countries to Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 / May 24 897 strengthen and strictly enforce export con- ductions to the lowest possible levels con- trols, interdict illegal transfers, prosecute vio- sistent with their national security require- lators, and tighten border controls to prevent ments and alliance obligations, and reflecting and protect against proliferation of weapons the new nature of their strategic relations. of mass destruction. A major step in this direction is the conclu- sion of the Treaty Between the United States Missile Defense, Further Strategic of America and the Russian Federation on Offensive Reductions, New Consultative Mechanism on Strategic Security Strategic Offensive Reductions. In this connection, both sides proceed on The United States and Russia proceed the basis that the Treaty Between the United from the Joint Statements by the President States of America and the Union of Soviet of the United States of America and the Socialist Republics on the Reduction and President of the Russian Federation on Stra- Limitation of Strategic Offensive Arms of tegic Issues of July 22, 2001 in Genoa and July 31, 1991, remains in force in accordance on a New Relationship Between the United with its terms and that its provisions will pro- States and Russia of November 13, 2001 in Washington. vide the foundation for providing confidence, The United States and Russia are taking transparency, and predictability in further steps to reflect, in the military field, the strategic offensive reductions, along with changed nature of the strategic relationship other supplementary measures, including between them.The United States and Russia transparency measures, to be agreed. acknowledge that today’s security environ- The United States and Russia agree that ment is fundamentally different than during a new strategic relationship between the two the Cold War. countries, based on the principles of mutual In this connection, the United States and security, trust, openness, cooperation, and Russia have agreed to implement a number predictability requires substantive consulta- of steps aimed at strengthening confidence tion across a broad range of international se- and increasing transparency in the area of curity issues. To that end we have decided missile defense, including the exchange of in- to: formation on missile defense programs and • establish a Consultative Group for Stra- tests in this area, reciprocal visits to observe tegic Security to be chaired by Foreign missile defense tests, and observation aimed Ministers and Defense Ministers with at familiarization with missile defense sys- the participation of other senior offi- tems. They also intend to take the steps nec- cials. This group will be the principal essary to bring a joint center for the exchange mechanism through which the sides of data from early warning systems into oper- strengthen mutual confidence, expand ation. transparency, share information and The United States and Russia have also plans, and discuss strategic issues of mu- agreed to study possible areas for missile de- tual interest; and fense cooperation, including the expansion of • seek ways to expand and regularize con- joint exercises related to missile defense, and tacts between our two countries’ De- the exploration of potential programs for the fense Ministries and Foreign Ministries, joint research and development of missile de- and our intelligence agencies. fense technologies, bearing in mind the im- The President of the The President of the portance of the mutual protection of classi- United States of America: Russian Federation: fied information and the safeguarding of in- George W. Bush Vladimir V. Putin tellectual property rights. Moscow The United States and Russia will, within the framework of the NATO-Russia Council, May 24, 2002. explore opportunities for intensified practical cooperation on missile defense for Europe. The United States and Russia declare their NOTE: An original was not available for intention to carry out strategic offensive re- verification of the content of this joint declaration. 898 May 24 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2002

Joint Statement by President George advanced by him in his April 4 statement on W. Bush and President Vladimir V. the Middle East. Putin on the Situation in the Middle The United States and Russia are encour- East aged by several recent signals that have cre- ated a window of opportunity: the peaceful May 24, 2002 resolution—with the cooperation of the Israeli government and the Palestinian Au- Mindful of the responsibility the United thority—of the standoffs in Ramallah and States of America and the Russian Federa- Bethlehem and the recent Israeli with- tion as co-sponsors of the Middle East peace drawals from Palestinian areas; the Arab process, we believe that there is an oppor- League’s endorsement of Saudi Crown tunity to move away from the current unac- Prince Abdullah’s initiative; and the May 12 ceptable situation of terror and violence to- joint call by the Saudi, Egyptian, and Syrian wards a resumption of meaningful negotia- leaders in Sharm el-Sheikh for a negotiated tions between Israelis and Palestinians. We solution and an end to all forms of violence. are agreed that we have to move aggressively The Arab states have an essential role to play to help the parties take advantage of this op- in the search for a just peace. portunity. In the Middle East, neither con- We believe that the parties themselves and flict nor peace is inevitable. Peace will not the international community should seize this come to the Middle East on its own. We opportunity by pursuing a comprehensive must do all we can for the attainment of strategy that includes the following parallel peace. steps: security and freedom from terror and In that spirit, the United States and Russia violence for both Israelis and Palestinians; se- pledge their maximum efforts to realize the rious and accelerated negotiations leading to vision of a negotiated settlement, including a just political settlement; and efforts to ad- two states, Israel and Palestine, living in dress urgent humanitarian needs and help peace and security within recognized bor- promote the rebuilding of strong, account- ders. This should become part of a com- able, democratic, and market-oriented insti- prehensive settlement of the Arab-Israeli dis- tutions as the basis for a vibrant Palestinian pute based on UN Security Council resolu- state. This will require vigorous efforts by the tions 242 and 338, the Madrid principles, and Palestinian leadership and action by all par- the principle of land for peace, and existing ties concerned to create an environment in agreements and understandings. We share which progress can be made in all the above these approaches, which were reflected in mentioned directions. UN Security Council resolution 1397. The United States and Russia reaffirm We reaffirm our unequivocal condemna- their commitment, expressed most recently tion of all terrorist acts, considering terrorism at the April 10 and May 2 meetings of the and any form of violence an absolutely unac- ‘‘Quartet,’’ composed of the United States, ceptable means for achieving political goals. Russia, European Union, and United Na- At the same time, recognizing the legitimate tions, to undertake all efforts to help Israel right of Israel to fight terrorism, we urge the and the Palestinian Authority in the achieve- Israelis and Palestinians to consider carefully ment of these goals. We are prepared to pro- the consequences of any actions they may vide humanitarian and economic assistance take and to work to create and sustain an to the Palestinians at this time of urgent environment in which the parties can return need. We are also prepared to assist in the to a serious political dialogue. We urge the reconstruction of Palestinian institutions, in- parties to move forward on a settlement be- cluding those of the Palestinian Authority, in tween Israel and the Palestinians along the order to lay the foundation of a future Pales- lines of the goals outlined by the President tinian state worthy of the Palestinian people of the Russian Federation in his March 26 and able to live as a good neighbor in peace message to the Arab Summit in Beirut and with Israel. by the President of the United States at the The United States and Russia are com- UN General Assembly last November and mitted to using an international meeting this Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 / May 24 899 summer to create serious momentum to plays a key coordinating role in the struggle move forward on our comprehensive strategy against international terrorism. In support of for peace in the Middle East. regional cooperation, the United States is sponsoring a counterterrorism conference in NOTE: An original was not available for June 2002 to include participation from the verification of the content of this joint statement. Central Asian and Caucasus states, Afghani- stan, Turkey, China, and Russia. We call upon all nations to implement fully Joint Statement by President George the provisions of UN Security Council reso- W. Bush and President Vladimir V. lutions, including resolutions 1368, 1373, Putin on Counterterrorism 1377 and 1390, directed against terrorism, Cooperation the Taliban, and al-Qaida, and to become May 24, 2002 parties at the earliest opportunity to the twelve international antiterrorism conven- Reaffirming our commitment expressed tions, including the Convention for the Sup- on October 21, 2001 to fight terrorism in all pression of the Financing of Terrorism. The its forms wherever it may occur, we com- United States supports conclusion of the mend the efforts of the worldwide coalition Russian-proposed nuclear terrorism conven- against terrorism since the tragic events of tion, and joins Russia in urging other nations September 11, 2001. The member nations to enlist in the efforts to resolve the out- of the coalition must continue their con- standing issues related to the text. We call certed action to deny safe haven to terrorists; upon all nations to take steps to comply with to destroy their financial, logistical, commu- the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) rec- nications, and other operational networks; ommendations on money laundering and ter- and to bring terrorists to justice. We note rorist financing. We shall work to block the with satisfaction that U.S.-Russia financial assets of named terrorists and their counterterrorism cooperation is making an organizations without delay. important contribution to the global coalition against terrorism. We underscore the need to bring to a log- A successful campaign against terrorism ical conclusion efforts to eliminate the ter- must be conducted by nations through bilat- rorist infrastructure in Afghanistan related to eral, regional, and multilateral cooperation, Usama Bin Laden, the al-Qaida organization, and requires a multifaceted approach that and the Taliban. Afghanistan should never employs law enforcement, intelligence, dip- again be a haven for terrorism. Reaffirming lomatic, political, and economic actions. We our support for the important role of the UN stress that initiatives against terrorism must in efforts to implement successfully the Bonn be conducted in an atmosphere of rule of Agreement, including the upcoming Loya law and with respect for universal human Jirga, we share a vision of a stable, inde- rights. pendent Afghanistan at peace with its neigh- Recognizing the importance of multilateral bors and the rest of the world and on the counterterrorism efforts, such as those under road to a more prosperous future. the auspices of the United Nations, the We recognize the links between illegal Group of Eight, the European Union, the drug trafficking and terrorism and stress the OSCE, the ‘‘Six Plus Two’’ group, and importance of U.S.-Russia cooperation on NATO-Russia, we encourage the further de- counternarcotics. Both our countries are velopment of regional counterterrorism ini- dedicated to continuing their support for re- tiatives, including within the framework of gional initiatives, such as those of the ‘‘Six the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and Plus Two’’ Working Group on Drugs, to en- its cooperation with the United States, that courage cooperation among member coun- improve information-sharing, law enforce- tries and to strengthen their counternarcotics ment cooperation, and border security. Of capabilities. We both strongly support the Af- these institutions, we note that the UN Secu- ghan Interim Authority’s plan to implement rity Council Counterterrorism Committee its poppy ban. 900 May 24 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2002

Believing that the sovereignty, long-term nology to detect nuclear material that can be stability, prosperity, and further democratic used to manufacture weapons for purposes development of the states of Central Asia of terrorism. serve the strategic interests of the United The U.S.-Russia Working Group on Af- States and Russia, we pledge transparency ghanistan has proven a successful vehicle for and cooperation in our relations with the joint efforts between the United States and states of Central Asia. An important step for Russia to counter terrorism emanating from ensuring their security is to eradicate ter- Afghanistan. Recognizing the increased rorist activities in Afghanistan once and for threat of terrorism originating in other re- all and to assist in the prevention of their gions of the world, we have directed that the reoccurrence. Working Group’s agenda be broadened, and We reaffirm our commitment to working that it be renamed the U.S.-Russia Working with the Government of Georgia on Group on Counterterrorism. Among other counterterrorism issues, while upholding issues, this Working Group will address the Georgian sovereignty, and hope that the threats posed by nuclear, biological, and presence of terrorists in this country will be chemical terrorism. The next meeting of the eliminated. As members of the Friends of Working Group will take place in the Wash- the UN Secretary-General on Georgia, the ington area in July 2002. United States and Russia remain committed to advancing a peaceful, political resolution of the conflicts in Abkhazia and South NOTE: An original was not available for Ossetia. We pledge to work closely with all verification of the content of this joint statement. relevant parties to these conflicts to reduce military tensions, address civilians’ security Joint Statement by President George concerns, and foster a lasting political settle- W. Bush and President Vladimir V. ment that preserves Georgia’s territorial in- Putin on Developments in the U.S.- tegrity and protects the rights of all of those involved in the conflicts. We highly appre- Russian Economic Relationship ciate the contribution of the UN Security May 24, 2002 Council, concerned states, and international mechanisms which participate in peaceful ef- At our first meeting in Ljubljana, we ex- forts toward resolution of these conflicts. pressed our commitment to foster a dynamic, We note with satisfaction the entry into forward-leaning economic relationship. We force of the Treaty on Mutual Legal Assist- applaud the tremendous efforts made over ance in Criminal Matters between the the past twelve months to realize this goal. United States of America and the Russian We are encouraged by the close contacts that Federation, which will facilitate joint efforts are forming between our business commu- on criminal and terrorist cases. nities and our governments, and the invest- We will work to strengthen the exchange ment and trade opportunities that are grow- of professional know-how and experience in ing out of these relationships. such areas as transportation security, hostage Success in our bilateral economic and takeover, and airplane hijacking, among oth- trade relations demands that we move be- ers. yond the limitations of the past. We stress We will work to strengthen national, bilat- the importance and desirability of graduating eral, and multilateral measures to prevent the Russia from the emigration provisions of the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, U.S. Trade Act of 1974, also known as the related technologies, and delivery means as Jackson-Vanik Amendment. We note that the an essential element of the fight against inter- Department of Commerce, based on its on- national terrorism and all those who support going thorough and deliberative inquiry, ex- it. pects to make its final decision no later than An important step in our joint cooperation June 14, 2002 on whether Russia should be will be a meeting of our scientists in June. treated as a market economy under the pro- We will seek to develop jointly new tech- visions of U.S. trade law. Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 / May 24 901

We note our emerging energy relationship, to implementation of programs enhancing which is aimed at enhancing global energy cooperation in combating legalization of security and stability of supplies. In view of criminal incomes. the successful advancement of the Sakhalin- We note the importance of establishing a I project and the opening of the Caspian supportive tax, legal and regulatory environ- Pipeline Consortium’s Tengiz-Novorossiysk ment for the development of small business, pipeline, we welcome implementation of as well as the need to provide access to fi- more projects in the fuel and energy sector, nancing, and welcome the $100 million ex- including in the area of oil-refining and gas- pansion of the Russia Small Business Fund processing and transportation as well as de- of the European Bank for Reconstruction velopment of ports and production tech- and Development. We encourage other do- nology. We call for continued cooperation nors to join the United States in supporting both on the basis of Production Sharing the further expansion of this effort. Agreements and other frameworks so that We also welcome the announcement by other multi-billion dollar joint projects can the United States Overseas Private Invest- move forward. We also encourage our busi- ment Corporation to back a new $100 million nesses to participate in the Commercial En- ‘‘Russia Private Equity Fund.’’ ergy Summit scheduled for later this year in We note with satisfaction opportunities for the United States. the further development of successful and We continue to place high priority on Rus- mutually beneficial cooperation in such areas sia’s accession to the World Trade Organiza- as civil aviation, commercial space explo- tion (WTO), and we reaffirm our commit- ration, the International Space Station, com- ment to working together to accelerate Rus- mercial satellite launches, and joint design sia’s entry on standard terms. We recognize the recent release of the first draft of the and production of aircraft machinery. Working Party report as an important mile- We hail growing aviation cooperation be- stone in Russia’s accession process. tween our two countries under the Russian- We welcome the efforts of the Russian- American civil aviation agreement. Since American Business Dialogue, established at 2001, we have achieved agreement on the the time of our meeting in Genoa. The joint opening of new economically viable routes, recommendations of this private-sector dia- including cross-polar flights. logue have been helpful in advancing mutual We are confident that the creation of the efforts to normalize Russian-American busi- Russian-American Working Group on Trade ness ties, strengthening corporate govern- and Aerospace Cooperation will foster ex- ance, and promoting cooperation in informa- panded direct contacts between aerospace tion technology. corporations and airlines of our countries. We welcome as well the development of We welcome the positive trends in our co- the private sector-led U.S.-Russia Banking operation in the area of information tech- Dialogue and its report to governments. We nologies, which is emerging as one of the pri- hope the Dialogue will foster non-discrimi- ority areas of our bilateral relationship. The natory cooperation between private-sector fi- introduction of U.S. companies’ advanced nancial institutions of Russia and the United technologies in the Russian market, including States. Among the important areas of co- through licensed modern software applica- operation, we emphasize small business and tions, contributes to economic growth in mortgage lending, consumer credit, imple- Russia. We support growing cooperation mentation of cutting-edge technologies, and through services provided by Russian compa- training of qualified banking personnel. nies in designing software and high-tech We welcome the progress made in Russia products on the basis of Russia’s existing sci- to establish laws and institutions to combat entific capabilities. We welcome the Infor- money laundering. We support the efforts to mation Technology Roundtable, which is jointly counter financial criminal activities, providing for a comprehensive exchange of including within the framework of the opinion between government agencies and Egmont Group. We attach high importance businesses on removing barriers to business 902 May 24 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 and protecting intellectual property rights in to streamlining visa practices and taking addi- this area. tional steps to facilitate travel. To this end, We note growing trade cooperation be- we have agreed to reduce substantially visa tween our countries. As our trade and eco- fees for participants in student and school nomic cooperation gains momentum, we exchanges. might face certain contentious issues that We note that government-supported part- must be addressed in a swift, transparent and nerships between American and Russian in- constructive manner by taking account of the stitutions are flourishing: they include 94 interests of both sides. Russian-American sister cities, 8 hospital Already existing positive examples of co- partnerships, and 37 university partnerships. operation between U.S. and Russian compa- In addition, more than 100 U.S.-Russian nies give us confidence that many new sig- community and institutional partnerships nificant and mutually beneficial projects will have been forged between local govern- be implemented in the course of our expand- ments, judges, businesses, professional asso- ing economic cooperation. ciations, and other non-governmental groups. We also recognize the strong ties between NOTE: An original was not available for American and Russian regions and cities, es- verification of the content of this joint statement. pecially the Russian Far East and the U.S. West Coast. Thanks to existing intergovern- mental agreements, Native American and Joint Statement by President George Russian citizens can visit their relatives in W. Bush and President Vladimir V. Alaska and Chukotka visa-free. In an effort Putin on U.S.-Russian People-to- to stimulate more of these regional ties, we People Contacts have just begun a new program which will May 24, 2002 use U.S.-Russian partnerships to facilitate co- operation, strengthen civil society and media, In keeping with the spirit of cooperation and improve the business climate in the Rus- between our two countries, we affirm the im- sian Far East and the Volga Federal District. portance of strengthening contacts between Government-supported exchange pro- our societies and citizens. We are confident grams that send Russians to the United that direct links between our cities, states and States and Americans to Russia have also regions, businesses, educational, research, grown exponentially over the past decade. and medical institutions, and non-govern- Under these programs, more than 50,000 mental organizations increase communica- Russian students, scientists, legislators and tion and promote understanding and trust others have been hosted by families and com- between the United States and Russia. munities in all 50 American states. Last year Over the past decade, direct ties between alone, about 1,000 Russian entrepreneurs Americans and Russians have grown rapidly, visited the United States to exchange experi- and they continue to broaden and deepen, ences and develop mutually profitable ties including through joint business ventures with their American hosts; these business ex- and trade and economic relationships, aca- changes are set to increase significantly this demic and cultural exchanges, and coopera- year. Meanwhile, thousands of American tive efforts aimed at protecting the environ- scholars, scientists, business people, health ment and developing new medical tech- care professionals, language teachers, and nologies and cures for the most deadly dis- other experts from many walks of life have eases. Such cooperation now goes beyond spent time in virtually every region of Russia, programs, projects, and agreements financed working side-by-side with their Russian col- by our governments; our primary role in the leagues. future should be to support this trend by re- We will also continue to support our part- moving legal, bureaucratic, and other im- nership in the critically important area of pediments. Recognizing the mutual benefits health care. Our priorities are fighting such of travel for our private and official visitors, infectious diseases as tuberculosis, improving the United States and Russia are committed maternal and child health in order to reduce Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 / May 24 903 maternal and child mortality, and combating climate of mutual tolerance and respect be- cardiovascular disease. The United States tween different creeds and beliefs. To ad- and Russia are committed to preventing the vance these goals, new initiatives are being spread of HIV/AIDS. In three regions in developed to support Russian and American Russia, we are currently carrying out health non-governmental organizations. education programs aimed at high-risk popu- Our governments intend to promote fur- lations. We are pleased to note that funding ther cultural interchange between our two will now be provided for an HIV/AIDS pre- countries, including the organization of ex- vention program in a fourth site—St. Peters- changes between national museums, thea- burg and Leningrad Oblast. In addition, joint ters, operas, ballets, orchestras, and indi- programs for the treatment of tuberculosis vidual artists. In addition, we will seek to pro- within the framework of the World Health mote activities that will enable American and Organization are now underway in a number Russian scholars, artists, and ordinary citi- of Russian regions. zens to learn more about one another’s his- We will promote further expansion of con- tory, language, and culture. We encourage tacts in such areas of cooperation as informa- the establishment of new contacts between tion technology, the natural and social American and Russian organizations such as sciences, and areas of fundamental research, the agreement between the State Hermitage such as fusion energy and high-energy phys- Museum and the S. Guggenheim Founda- ics. tion. A viable and independent media sector is Through the centuries, Russia’s great an integral component of democracy in both poets, novelists, painters, composers, and sci- our countries. Accordingly, we initiated the entists have made brilliant contributions to Media Entrepreneurship Dialogue in No- world civilization, and Americans find their vember. This dialogue has brought together own lives enriched by learning more about American and Russian media professionals in this cultural legacy. Similarly, Russians have a business-to-business partnership to ex- shown a great interest in learning more about change experience in resolving problems fac- American contributions to the arts and ing the media, including those of ensuring sciences. Increased appreciation of each oth- the development of commercially viable er’s cultures will help advance relations be- independent media. We welcome the suc- tween our two nations into the future. cessful development of this dialogue. We also welcome a new partnership starting this year that will bring together Moscow State Uni- NOTE: An original was not available for versity’s journalism school with an American verification of the content of this joint statement. school of journalism to develop curricula and materials used for training media managers Joint Statement by President George and journalists. W. Bush and President Vladimir V. The availability and use of the Internet in Putin on the New U.S.-Russian both the United States and Russia has in- creased dramatically in recent years, greatly Energy Dialogue facilitating communication between our two May 24, 2002 peoples. Both governments will do all in their power to create the conditions for informa- Successful development of the global tion to flow freely within and between our economy depends on timely and reliable en- two countries. ergy delivery. In this context, we welcome Both of our countries are rich in the vast the fact that the Russian Federation has con- territories they cover and in the diversity of firmed its role as a major world energy pro- their populations. Respecting the spiritual, vider. In order to strengthen our overall rela- cultural, and ethnic legacies of our nations, tionship and enhance global energy security we affirm our commitment to universal val- and international strategic stability, we have ues in the sphere of human rights and reli- agreed to launch a bilateral energy dialogue. gious freedoms. We will seek to promote a Through this Dialogue we seek to: 904 May 24 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2002

• Develop bilateral cooperation in the en- rience, technology, and capital can be joined ergy sphere on a mutually beneficial to provide the commercially reliable energy basis in accordance with our respective supplies which are essential to fostering pros- national energy policies. perity and global stability. • Reduce volatility and enhance predict- ability of global energy markets and reli- NOTE: An original was not available for ability of global energy supply. verification of the content of this joint statement. • Facilitate commercial cooperation in the energy sector enhancing interaction between our companies in exploration, Remarks to Community and production, refining, transportation and Religious Leaders in Moscow marketing of energy, as well as in imple- May 24, 2002 mentation of joint projects including those in third countries. Thank you all very much. Mr. Ambassador, • Encourage investment aimed at the fur- thank you and Lisa for opening up your mod- ther development and modernization of est home. [Laughter] I bet every Ambassador the fuel and energy sector of Russia, in- that represents the United States wishes they cluding expansion of oil and gas produc- lived this way. But we appreciate your taking tion in Eastern Siberia, the Far East, on this very important assignment, and that and offshore areas. is to represent our country here in Russia. • Promote access to world markets for I’m honored that Laura was traveling with Russian energy, including through the me today. Trips always seem to go so much commercial development and mod- better when she is by my side, so I’m really ernization of Russia’s port and transpor- glad you got to meet Laura. I like to tell the tation infrastructures, the electric power story in America that when I married her, and gas sectors, and oil refining capa- she was a public school librarian who didn’t bilities. like politics and didn’t particularly care for • Foster science, technological, and busi- politicians. [Laughter] And then she got ness cooperation in the use of uncon- stuck marrying one. [Laughter] But she’s ventional energy sources, and energy- doing a great job for our country, and I’m efficient and environmentally clean real proud of her. technologies. And I’m proud of the team I put together • Cooperate in elaboration and develop- as well. I’ve got a great national security ment of new ecologically safer nuclear team, headed by Colin Powell and by Condi power technologies. Rice and Andy Card. And I’m honored We intend to discuss energy issues at our they’re traveling with me, and I’m honored future bilateral meetings, and direct that you have a chance to meet them as well. these issues be integrated into our bilateral And thank you all for coming. For those agenda, at all levels of our governments. In of us, the Spaso House—at least those of us this context, we welcome the creation of the who’ve paid attention to international poli- Russian-American Working-level Group on tics—the Spaso House was always viewed as Energy Cooperation. a refuge for freedom. And I’m so privileged We are encouraged that our commercial to give you a few comments here in this his- cooperation occurs not only in Russia and toric setting, where so much history was writ- neighboring areas such as the Caspian re- ten. gion, where multiple pipelines and joint up- You know, I’m aware that during World stream investments in the energy sector War II, Russian, American diplomats and sol- strengthen the sovereignty, prosperity, co- diers met here as allies. It’s kind of an inter- operation, and global economic integration esting part of the history of this house. And of all participating states. We also welcome during the cold war, this is where many of our commercial cooperation in the United you came, refuseniks and human rights activ- States and in other countries where our com- ists. You’re always welcome here, and we’re panies’ and their international partners’ expe- glad you’re here. Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 / May 24 905

Our Nation stands for freedom. That’s Russia’s on the road to democracy, but it’s what we’re fighting off the terrorists about. important, as she does so, that she embrace We believe so strongly in freedom, we’re the values inherent in democracy. In the willing to defend it at all costs. The Soviet past, I know you know that we have been era is gone. The cold war, I hope, is past committed to helping institutions which pro- us. And today President Putin and I signed mote those values through direct Govern- an historic document. It was more than just ment assistance, and we will continue to do a document that reduces nuclear weaponry, so. We believe it’s for the good of Russia. although that in itself is good. It’s a document We believe it will help Russia develop in a that says there’s a new era ahead of us, that way that will be—enable Russia to become instead of being stuck in the past, these two a lasting friend. And that’s what I’m inter- leaders are willing to take two great countries ested in. I’m interested in friendship and forward in a new relationship built on com- peace and mutual development. mon interests and cooperation, and coopera- Most Russians want and expect what most tion on all fronts—the idea of working to- Americans want and expect, and that’s im- gether to make the Russian economy strong portant for the Russian people and the Amer- and vibrant so people can make a living, so ican people to understand, a Government— people have hope about putting bread on the starting with a Government that works for table for their families; the cooperation of citizens, that represents everyday citizens, fighting terror; the cooperation of promoting not a corrupt elite. And that’s important. peace. But the best cooperation also must People want a society ruled by law, not be based on common values, as well as com- by special privilege, special circumstance; a mon interests. law where people are treated equally, regard- And I want you to know that we hold the less of their religion, ethnicity, income level. values in America dear, and you know that. In a multiethnic society, people must work We hold dear what our Declaration of Inde- pendence says, that all have got uninalienable toward tolerance and reject extremism. It’s rights, endowed by a Creator—not endowed important in America, just like it’s important by the ones who wrote the Declaration of here in Russia. And this is a multiethnic soci- Independence but by a Creator, a universal ety, to the credit of Russia, just like America Creator. I want you to know that I believe is a multiethnic society, which makes our all governments have a duty and responsi- country strong. We’re bound together by bility to protect those rights, those common values. And so can Russia be bound unalienable rights. by the same values. In Soviet times, people heroically de- To reach these goals, societies need fair fended those rights with incredible courage, laws and, as importantly, fair enforcement of and you earned the respect of a lot of peo- law. They need independent media that is ple—a lot of people—by doing so. Many of respected by the Government. I remind you now are active in a modern Russia, and those who sometimes get frustrated with the I want to thank you for staying active and media that even in America, elected officials involved in this important society, starting sometimes don’t agree what’s written about with making sure that freedom is protected them—maybe especially America, for all I by rule of law. And we agree completely, and know. [Laughter] But it’s important for those we hope we can help, because rule of law of us who value democracy to promote an is essential for a modern society to thrive and independent media. to succeed. Opposition parties must be free to asso- I applaud your commitment and your pa- ciate and must be free to speak their minds. triotism. I love the fact that you love your In order for a democracy to be strong, there country. I love mine, and you love yours, and has to be competition of ideas, a free discus- that’s incredibly healthy and important. You sion of ideas, and an airing of philosophy in understand that free nations and a free Rus- an open way. Freedom of religion and sepa- sia require strong civic and religious institu- ration of church and state are so important, tions, committed to democratic values. so important so that people can worship as 906 May 24 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 they choose, Jews, Muslims, and all Chris- how to protect one’s homeland and, at the tians, and all religions. same time, be respectful of the—on the bat- Free societies have all got to meet the tlefield. And that lesson applies to Chechnya. great challenges we face in ways consistent The war on terror can be won, and at the with values. That’s what I’m here to tell you same time, we have proven it’s possible to that’s in my heart. That’s what I want you respect the rights of the people in the terri- to know about this administration, that we’re tories, to respect the rights of the minorities. not only committed to fighting terrorism— We are—I represent a great nation, and and we will. We are. We were under attack Russia is a great nation. Both of us share a in America. lot. We’ve got a big resource base. We’ve got In Germany yesterday I said, September people who are very smart. I remind Vladi- the 11th was just a fine—just as clear a divid- mir Putin that the great resource of Russia ing line in our history, in our Nation’s history, is the people of Russia. The resource of this as Pearl Harbor. It was. America at one time country is the brainpower of this country. was protected by two oceans—we seemed to- And when they get the system right, that en- tally invulnerable to, for example, the wars courages individual growth and entrepre- that took place here in Russia or on the Euro- neurship; that brainpower is going to flour- pean Continent—and all of a sudden found ish, and so will commerce, and so will oppor- ourselves attacked, because we love freedom, tunity. And while that happens, both nations because we respect religion, because we must respect the multiethnic character of our honor discourse. And you need to know that lands. That, too, makes us great. And how we’re going to defend ourselves and defend we promote that multiethnicity, and how we that which we hold dear and, at the same respect human rights is another way we’ll be time, protect civilization itself. judged by history. But in Afghanistan, we’ve shown, I believe, We’ll be judged by history on how we de- how to do it in a way that’s commiserate with fend our freedoms. We’ll be judged in history our values—that, on the one hand, we’re by how we help our people prosper and plenty tough, and we will be. We’ve got a grow. And we’ll be judged by history as to military we’re going to use, if we need to, whether or not we defend the universal val- to defend freedom. But on the other hand, ues that are right and just and true. we delivered a lot of medicine and a lot of I want to thank you for that commitment food. We hurt thinking not only that the chil- to those values. I appreciate your stance for dren in Afghanistan could not go to school; freedom. I appreciate your love of your coun- we cried for the fact that people were starv- try. I appreciate your understanding there is ing in the country. We have rebuilt schools. a universal and gracious God. We have also provided medicine and food. May God bless you all. May God bless Russia is building hospitals in Afghanistan. Russia. And may God bless the United That’s incredibly positive, we think. Nations States. Thank you very much. are not only contributing military forces, but NOTE: The President spoke at 4:40 p.m. at Spaso we’re working to build a state that can func- House. In his remarks, he referred to Ambassador tion on her own, a state at peace in the neigh- Alexander Vershbow and his wife, Lisa; and Presi- borhood, and a state where people have got dent Vladimir Putin of Russia. hope and a chance to survive, where moms and dads can raise their children in peace. And that’s important for you to know as Statement on House of well. You know, a lot of the time, people talk Representatives Action on about the tough talk. But you’ve got to under- Appropriations Legislation stand, we also have got a soft heart when May 24, 2002 it comes to the human condition. Each indi- vidual matters to me. Each individual has got The House did a great service today for worth and dignity. our men and women in uniform fighting the The experience in Afghanistan has taught war against terror, for homeland security, us all that there’s lessons to be learned about and for fiscal discipline. The House also Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 907 showed our enemies that America is united Through their hard work on the ‘‘Citizen and determined to fight and win this war on Service Act of 2002,’’ Chairman Hoekstra our terms. and Congressman Roemer are helping to A combination of recession and the need strengthen and improve these programs to spend what it takes to win the war have based on the principles and reforms I out- put the Federal budget into deficit. As we lined earlier this year. I also look forward to do what is necessary to prevail in the war working with the Senate and to signing the and protect our homeland, the Congress ‘‘Citizen Service Act of 2002’’ this legislative must restrain other Government spending so session. we can return to a balanced budget soon. The House has shown that a responsible budget can be enacted, and the Senate should follow suit. I expect the Senate to only spend on what is necessary to fight the war Digest of Other and for our immediate emergency needs. White House Announcements With our Nation now at war, now is not the time for unnecessary spending on lower pri- The following list includes the President’s public ority items. schedule and other items of general interest an- The House bill is a successful model for nounced by the Office of the Press Secretary and budget and spending bills: Fund our most not included elsewhere in this issue. basic priorities without increasing the deficit or undermining our efforts to return to a bal- anced budget. I am especially grateful to May 19 Speaker Hastert and Chairman Young for In the afternoon, the President returned their leadership, and to all the Members of from Camp David, MD, to Washington, DC. Congress who voted for this package. May 20 In the afternoon, the President traveled to Statement on the Proposed ‘‘Citizen Miami, FL. In the evening, he returned to Service Act of 2002’’ Washington, DC. May 24, 2002 The White House announced that the President will welcome International Demo- I commend House Select Education Sub- crat Union leaders to Washington, DC, on committee Chairman Peter Hoekstra and June 10. Ranking Member Tim Roemer for their bi- The President announced his appointment partisan leadership in introducing H.R. 4854, of Marilyn Carlson Nelson as Chairperson of the ‘‘Citizen Service Act of 2002.’’ In January, the National Women’s Business Council. I called upon all Americans to dedicate at least 2 years—the equivalent of 4,000 May 21 hours—over the course of their lives in serv- In the morning, the President had CIA and ice to others, and I laid out policies for fos- FBI briefings. tering service all across the country and The President announced his intention to around the world. Increasing opportunities nominate Seth Cropsey to be Director of the for all Americans to participate in meaningful International Broadcasting Bureau. service activities is a priority of this adminis- The President declared a major disaster in tration, and the bipartisan sponsors and co- Illinois and ordered Federal aid to supple- sponsors of the ‘‘Citizen Service Act of 2002’’ ment State and local recovery efforts in the are leading that effort in the House of Rep- area struck by severe storms, tornadoes, and resentatives. flooding on April 21 and continuing. Programs such as Learn and Serve Amer- ica, Senior Corps, and AmeriCorps offer May 22 Americans a variety of ways to help meet im- In the morning, the President traveled to portant community needs through service. Berlin, Germany. While en route aboard Air 908 Administration of George W. Bush, 2002

Force One, he had a CIA briefing. After ar- Secretary of State for International Organiza- riving in the evening he had dessert at a Ber- tions. lin restaurant with Chancellor Gerhard The President announced his intention to Schroeder of Germany and Mayor Klaus nominate Diana E. Furchtgott-Roth to be a Wowereit of Berlin. Later, he met Mrs. Director of the Federal Housing Finance Bush, who arrived from Prague, the Czech Board. Republic. The President announced his intention to nominate Armando J. Bucelo to be a member May 23 of the Board of Directors of the Securities Investor Protection Corporation. In the morning, the President and Mrs. The President announced his intention to Bush were welcomed by President Johannes appoint Peter McPherson as a member of Rau of Germany and his wife, Christina Rau, the Board for International Food and Agri- at Bellevue Palace. culture Development. In the evening, the President and Mrs. The President announced his intention to Bush traveled to Moscow, Russia. appoint the following individuals as members The President announced his intention to of the Advisory Committee on the Arts, John appoint Charles H. Williams to be Director F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts: of the Office of Multifamily Housing Assist- Rosemary Ramirez Barbour, Joan Stevens ance Restructuring, Department of Housing Eller, Thomas Miller Ferguson, Donna S. and Urban Development. Hall, Shenikwa D. Nowlin, James Henderson The President announced his intention to Shacklett III, and Joseph P. Watkins. appoint the following individuals as members The President announced his intention to of the Panel of Arbitrators of the Inter- appoint the following individuals as members national Centre for the Settlement of Invest- of the Commission on Presidential Scholars: ment Disputes: Fred Fisher Fielding; O. Scott Allen Bundgaard, Jeanne Rolfe Ferst, Thomas Johnson, Jr.; Daniel M. Price; and Michael Anthony Galiazzo, Robert Earl Davis R. Robinson. Moss, John Frederick Mueller, Laura The President announced his intention to Emberton Owens, and Dorothy Jean Potter. appoint the following individuals as members of the Panel of Conciliators of the Inter- national Centre for the Settlement of Invest- ment Disputes: H. Douglas Barclay; Oscar M. Garibaldi; Steven M. Lucas; and Charles Nominations E. Roh, Jr. Submitted to the Senate

May 24 The following list does not include promotions of In the morning, the President met with members of the Uniformed Services, nominations personnel at the U.S. Embassy. He then par- to the Service Academies, or nominations of For- ticipated in a wreath-laying ceremony at Rus- eign Service officers. sia’s Tomb of the Unknown Soldier by the Kremlin wall. Submitted May 21 In the afternoon, the President and Mrs. Bush attended a lunch at the Kremlin hosted David Scott Carpenter, by President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia and of North Dakota, to be U.S. Marshal for the his wife, Lyudmila. Later, they took a walking District of North Dakota for the term of 4 tour of the Kremlin and Cathedral Square. years, vice Brian C. Berg, term expired. In the evening, the President and Mrs. Bush attended a dinner hosted by President James Robert Dougan, Putin and Mrs. Putin at Novo Ogarevo, the of Michigan, to be U.S. Marshal for the Putins’ residence in Moscow. Western District of Michigan for the term The President announced his intention to of 4 years, vice Barbara C. Jurkas, term ex- nominate Kim R. Holmes to be Assistant pired. Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 909

James Thomas Roberts, Jr., Transcript of a press briefing by National Se- of Georgia, to be U.S. Marshal for the South- curity Adviser Condoleezza Rice on the ern District of Georgia for the term of 4 President’s trip to Europe and Russia years, vice John W. Caldwell, term expired. Statement by the Press Secretary: President James Michael Wahlrab, Bush Hosts the International Democrat of Ohio, to be U.S. Marshal for the Southern Union District of Ohio for the term of 4 years, vice Announcement: Homeland Security Direc- Roy Allen Smith, term expired. tor Tom Ridge To Speak at the World Eco- nomic Forum Tuesday Submitted May 22 Released May 21 Jay S. Bybee, of Nevada, to be U.S. Circuit Judge for the Transcript of a press briefing by Press Sec- Ninth Circuit, vice Procter R. Hug, Jr., re- retary Ari Fleischer tired. Statement by the Press Secretary on disaster assistance to Illinois Timothy J. Corrigan, of Florida, to be U.S. District Judge for the Announcement of nominations of U.S. Mar- Middle District of Florida (new position). shals for the Southern District of Georgia, the Southern District of Ohio, the Western James C. Dever III, District of Michigan, and the District of of North Carolina, to be U.S. District Judge North Dakota for the Eastern District of North Carolina, vice W. Earl Britt, retired. Released May 22 Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Sec- Tony P. Hall, retary Ari Fleischer of Ohio, for the rank of Ambassador during his tenure of service as U.S. Representative Transcript of remarks by Secretary of State to the United Nations Agencies for Food and Colin L. Powell on arrival in Berlin, Germany Agriculture. Announcement of nominations for U.S. At- torney for the Southern District of Illinois, U.S. Circuit Judge for the Ninth Circuit, and U.S. District Judges for the Middle District Checklist of Florida and the Eastern District of North Carolina of White House Press Releases Released May 24 The following list contains releases of the Office Fact sheet: U.S.-Russian People-to-People of the Press Secretary that are neither printed as Cooperation items nor covered by entries in the Digest of Other White House Announcements. Fact sheet: Russian-American Business Dia- logue Released May 19 Fact sheet: Russian-American Media Entre- preneurship Dialogue Statement by the Press Secretary on the Sen- ate vote approving the ‘‘Freedom Consolida- Fact sheet: United States Overseas Private tion Act’’ Investment Corporation’s Investment Fund for Russia and Eurasia Fact sheet: President Bush Announces Initia- tive for a New Cuba Fact sheet: United States Government Non- proliferation/Threat Reduction Assistance to Released May 20 Russia Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Sec- Fact sheet: U.S.-Russia Air Transport Agree- retary Ari Fleischer ment 910 Administration of George W. Bush, 2002

Fact sheet: U.S.-Russia Banking Dialogue H.R. 2305 / Public Law 107–180 Fact sheet: United States-Russia Commercial Criminal Justice Coordinating Council Re- Energy Relations structuring Act of 2002 Announcement of nomination of U.S. Mar- shal for the District of Utah H.R. 4156 / Public Law 107–181 Clergy Housing Allowance Clarification Act of 2002

Acts Approved Approved May 21 by the President S. 378 / Public Law 107–182 Approved May 20 To redesignate the Federal building located at 3348 South Kedzie Avenue, in Chicago, H.R. 2048 / Public Law 107–179 Illinois, as the ‘‘Paul Simon Chicago Job To require a report on the operations of the Corps Center’’ State Justice Institute