Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents

Monday, March 24, 2003 Volume 39—Number 12 Pages 329–352 Contents

Addresses to the Nation Communications to Congress—Continued Iraq—338, 342 UNITA, message transmitting report on Addresses and Remarks national emergency—342 United Nations and its affiliated agencies, See also Addresses to the Nation; Meetings message transmitting report on U.S. With Foreign Leaders participation—342 Cabinet meeting—343 Congressional leaders, meeting—347 Communications to Federal Agencies Radio address—329 Determination Pursuant to Section 2(c)(1) of Communications to Congress the Migration and Refugee Assistance Act Federal ocean and coastal activities, message of 1962, as Amended, memorandum—346 transmitting report—342 Iraq Executive Orders Letter on commencement of military Confiscating and Vesting Certain Iraqi action—348 Property—344 Letter on conclusion of diplomatic efforts— 341 Interviews With the News Media Message reporting on confiscation and vesting of certain Iraqi property—345 Exchange with reporters in the Oval Office— Terrorism 347 Letter reporting on U.S. efforts in the News conference with Prime Minister Durao global war—346 Barroso of Portugal, President Aznar of Message transmitting report on national Spain, and Prime Minister Blair of the emergency with respect to persons who United Kingdom in the Azores, Portugal— commit, threaten to commit, or 330 support—349

(Continued on the inside of the back cover.)

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

WEEKLY COMPILATION OF 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

Joint Statements Proclamations Statement of the Atlantic Summit: A Vision Greek Independence Day: A National Day of for Iraq and the Iraqi People—336 Celebration of Greek and American Statement of the Atlantic Summit: Democracy—341 Commitment to Transatlantic Solidarity— 336 Statements by the President Letters and Messages House of Representatives passage of the budget resolution—348 Nowruz, message—344 Social Security Trustees, 2003 report—337 Saint Patrick’s Day, message—338 Meetings With Foreign Leaders Supplementary Materials Portugal, Prime Minister Durao Barroso— Acts approved by the President—352 330, 336 Checklist of White House press releases—351 Spain, President Aznar—330, 336 Digest of other White House United Kingdom, Prime Minister Blair—330, announcements—349 336 Nominations submitted to the Senate—351 Week Ending Friday, March 21, 2003

The President’s Radio Address history that Saddam Hussein is a reckless dic- March 15, 2003 tator who has twice invaded his neighbors without provocation, wars that led to death Good morning. This weekend marks a bit- and suffering on a massive scale. We know ter anniversary for the people of Iraq. Fifteen from human rights groups that dissidents in years ago, Saddam Hussein’s regime ordered Iraq are tortured, imprisoned, and some- a chemical weapons attack on a village in Iraq times just disappear; their hands, feet, and called Halabja. With that single order, the tongues are cut off; their eyes are gouged regime killed thousands of Iraq’s Kurdish out; and female relatives are raped in their citizens. Whole families died while trying to presence. flee clouds of nerve and mustard agents de- As the Nobel laureate and Holocaust sur- scending from the sky. Many who managed vivor Elie Wiesel said this week, ‘‘We have to survive still suffer from cancer, blindness, a moral obligation to intervene where evil respiratory diseases, miscarriages, and severe is in control. Today, that place is Iraq.’’ birth defects among their children. We know from prior weapons inspections The chemical attack on Halabja, just one that Saddam has failed to account for vast of 40 targeted at Iraq’s own people, provided quantities of biological and chemical agents, a glimpse of the crimes Saddam Hussein is including mustard agent, botulinum toxin, willing to commit and the kind of threat he and sarin, capable of killing millions of peo- now presents to the entire world. He is ple. We know the Iraqi regime finances and among history’s cruelest dictators, and he is sponsors terror. And we know the regime has arming himself with the world’s most terrible plans to place innocent people around mili- weapons. tary installations to act as human shields. Recognizing this threat, the United Na- There is little reason to hope that Saddam tions Security Council demanded that Sad- Hussein will disarm. If force is required to dam Hussein give up all his weapons of mass disarm him, the American people can know destruction as a condition for ending the Gulf that our Armed Forces have been given every war 12 years ago. The Security Council has tool and every resource to achieve victory. repeated this demand numerous times and The people of Iraq can know that every effort warned that Iraq faces serious consequences will be made to spare innocent life and to if it fails to comply. Iraq has responded with help Iraq recover from three decades of to- defiance, delay, and deception. talitarian rule. And plans are in place to pro- The United States, Great Britain, and vide Iraqis with massive amounts of food, as Spain continue to work with fellow members well as medicine and other essential supplies, of the U.N. Security Council to confront this in the event of hostilities. common danger. We have seen far too many Crucial days lie ahead for the free nations instances in the past decade, from Bosnia to of the world. Governments are now showing Rwanda to Kosovo, where the failure of the whether their stated commitments to liberty Security Council to act decisively has led to and security are words alone or convictions tragedy. And we must recognize that some they’re prepared to act upon. And for the threats are so grave and their potential con- Government of the United States and the co- sequences so terrible that they must be re- alition we lead, there is no doubt: We will moved, even if it requires military force. confront a growing danger, to protect our- As diplomatic efforts continue, we must selves, to remove a patron and protector of never lose sight of the basic facts about the terror, and to keep the peace of the world. regime of Baghdad. We know from recent Thank you for listening. 329

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NOTE: The address was recorded at 10:21 a.m. ical meaning, the political meaning of our on March 14 in the Cabinet Room at the White friendship and our commitment to our House for broadcast at 10:06 a.m. on March 15. shared values. The transcript was made available by the Office of the Press Secretary on March 14 but was em- So welcome to all of you. Welcome to you. bargoed for release until the broadcast. In his re- And I now give the floor to President George marks, the President referred to President Sad- Bush. dam Hussein of Iraq. The Office of the Press Sec- President Bush. Jose, thank you very retary also released a Spanish language transcript much for your hospitality. You’ve done a of this address. great job on such short notice. And I’m hon- ored to be standing here with you and two The President’s News Conference other friends as we work toward a great With Prime Minister Jose Manuel cause, and that is peace and security in this world. Durao Barroso of Portugal, We’ve had a really good discussion. We’ve President Jose Maria Aznar of Spain, been doing a lot of phone talking, and it was and Prime Minister Tony Blair of the good to get together and to visit and to talk. United Kingdom in the Azores, And we concluded that tomorrow is a mo- Portugal ment of truth for the world. Many nations March 16, 2003 have voiced a commitment to peace and se- curity. And now they must demonstrate that Prime Minister Durao Barroso. Good commitment to peace and security in the afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. I am very only effective way, by supporting the imme- pleased to welcome here in the Azores the diate and unconditional disarmament of Sad- leaders of three friends and allied countries, dam Hussein. the United States, Spain, and United King- The dictator of Iraq and his weapons of dom; President Bush, Prime Minister Aznar, mass destruction are a threat to the security and Prime Minister Tony Blair. of free nations. He is a danger to his neigh- This meeting in the Azores also shows the bors. He’s a sponsor of terrorism. He’s an importance of transatlantic relations and also shows the solidarity among our countries. Ac- obstacle to progress in the Middle East. For tually, these agreements have approved two decades, he has been the cruel, cruel oppres- statements, one statement on transatlantic sor of the Iraq people. relations and a statement on Iraq. On this very day 15 years ago, Saddam We have joined this initiative, and we orga- Hussein launched a chemical weapons attack nized it here in the Azores because we on the Iraqi village of Halabja. With a single thought this was the last opportunity for a order the Iraqi regime killed thousands of political solution. And this is how we see it: men and women and children, without mercy This is the last possibility for a political solu- or without shame. Saddam Hussein has prov- tion to the problem. Maybe it’s a small en he is capable of any crime. We must not chance, a small possibility, but even if it’s permit his crimes to reach across the world. one in one million, it’s always worthwhile Saddam Hussein has a history of mass fighting for a political solution. And I think murder. He possesses the weapons of mass this is the message that we can get from this murder. He agrees—he agreed to disarm Atlantic summit. Iraq of these weapons as a condition for end- As I was saying, for my English-speaking ing the Gulf war over a decade ago. The guests, I’ll speak English now. First of all, United Nations Security Council in Resolu- let me say, welcome, George Bush, to Eu- tion 1441 has declared Iraq in material rope. I think it’s important that we meet breach of its longstanding obligations, de- here, in a European country, in Portugal, but manded once again Iraq’s full and immediate in this territory of Azores that is halfway be- disarmament, and promised serious con- tween the continent of Europe and the con- sequences if the regime refused to comply. tinent of America. I think it’s not only That resolution was passed unanimously, and logistically convenient; it has a special polit- its logic is inescapable: The Iraqi regime will

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disarm itself, or the Iraqi regime will be dis- of peace, security, and international freedom. armed by force. And the regime has not dis- And I honestly believe that there is no other armed itself. alternative to the expression of the Atlantic Action to remove the threat from Iraq commitment in terms of security. We are would also allow the Iraqi people to build committed on a day-to-day fight against new a better future for their society. And Iraq’s threats, such as terrorism, weapons of mass liberation would be the beginning, not the destruction, and tyrannic regimes that do not end, of our commitment to its people. We comply with international law. They threaten will supply humanitarian relief, bring eco- all of us, and we must all act, consequently. nomic sanctions to a swift close, and work This transatlantic link, this transatlantic for the long-term recovery of Iraq’s economy. solidarity, has always been, is, and should We’ll make sure that Iraq’s natural resources continue to be, in my opinion, a great Euro- are used for the benefit of their owners, the pean commitment, and as such, amongst Iraqi people. other things, we express it this way: Without Iraq has the potential to be a great nation. this commitment, today’s Europe could not Iraq’s people are skilled and educated. We’ll be understood; and without that commit- push as quickly as possible for an Iraqi in- ment, it would be very difficult to picture terim authority to draw upon the talents of the Europe of tomorrow. Iraq’s people to rebuild their nation. We’re So I would like to invite our friends, our committed to the goal of a unified Iraq, with allies, to leave aside any circumstantial dif- democratic institutions of which members of ferences and to work together seriously for all ethnic and religious groups are treated that commitment of democracy, freedom, with dignity and respect. and peace, so that this becomes a commit- To achieve this vision, we will work closely ment of us all. with the international community, including the United Nations and our coalition part- We’ve agreed on launching, on boosting ners. If military force is required, we’ll quick- the Middle East peace process, and on our ly seek new Security Council resolutions to vision that that peace process has to accom- encourage broad participation in the process modate with all necessary security guarantees of helping the Iraqi people to build a free and putting an end to terrorism. And this Iraq. should end with the peaceful coexistence of Crucial days lie ahead for the world. I want two states, an independent Palestinian state to thank the leaders here today and many and the Israeli state. others for stepping forward and taking lead- In view of the situation created by Iraq, ership and showing their resolve in the cause with their continued noncompliance of inter- of peace and the cause of security. national law, I would like to remind you that Jose Maria. we all said before we came here that we were President Aznar. Good evening, every- not coming to the Azores to make a declara- one. I would firstly like to thank the Prime tion of war, that we were coming after having Minister, Jose Manuel Durao, for his hospi- made every possible effort, after having made tality and welcome, which I particularly am this effort, continuing to make this effort, to grateful for. And I’m very pleased to be in working to achieve the greatest possible the Azores once again. agreement, and for international law to be I have short remarks on our debates on respected and for U.N. resolutions to be re- this situation and on the documents we’ve spected. agreed on during today’s meeting. I’d first And we would like to say that we are aware like to refer to our document on Atlantic soli- of the fact that this is the last opportunity— darity. We have renewed Atlantic commit- the last opportunity expressed in Resolution ment on our common values and principles, 1441, adopted unanimously by the Security in favor of democracy, freedom, and the rule Council, and that, being aware that this is of law. the last opportunity, we are also making the We understand that the expression of this last effort. And we are ready to make this commitment is essential, by way of guarantee last effort of the very many efforts we’ve been

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making throughout these last weeks and fully cooperating today. Nobody, even those months. who disagree with the position that we have We are well aware of the international outlined, is prepared to say there is full co- world public opinion, of its concern. And we operation as 1441 demanded. are also very well aware of our responsibil- Not a single interview has taken place out- ities and obligations. If Saddam Hussein side of Iraq, even though 1441 provided for wants to disarm and avoid the serious con- it. Still, no proper production or evidence of sequences which he has been warned about the destruction, or for example—just to take by the United Nations, he can do so. And one example, the 10,000 liters of anthrax that nothing in our document nor in our state- the inspectors just a week ago said was unac- ment can prevent him from doing so if he counted for. And that is why it is so important wants to. So his is the sole responsibility. that the international community at this time Tony. gives a strong and unified message. Prime Minister Blair. Thank you, Jose And I have to say that I really believe that Maria. Thank you, Jose, for hosting us today. And I think it’s worth just returning to the hadn’t we given that strong message some- key point, which is our responsibility to up- time ago, Saddam might have realized that hold the will of the United Nations set out the games had to stop. So now we have in Resolution 1441 last November. And for reached the point of decision, and we make 41⁄2 months now, we’ve worked hard to get a final appeal for there to be that strong, uni- Saddam to cooperate fully, unconditionally, fied message on behalf of the international as that resolution demanded. community that lays down a clear ultimatum Even some days ago we were prepared to to Saddam that authorizes force if he con- set out clear tests that allowed us to conclude tinues to defy the will of the whole of the whether he was cooperating fully or not, with international community set out in 1441. a clear ultimatum to him if he refused to We will do all we can in the short time do so. And the reason we approached it in that remains to make a final round of con- that way is that that is what we agreed in tacts, to see whether there is a way through Resolution 1441. This was his final oppor- this impasse. But we are in the final stages, tunity. He had to disarm unconditionally. Se- because after 12 years of failing to disarm rious consequences would follow if he failed him, now is the time when we have to decide. to do so. Two other points, briefly, on the docu- And this is really the impasse that we have, ments that we’ve put before you. The first because some say there should be no ulti- is the—President Aznar was just saying to matum, no authorization of force in any new you a moment or two ago on the transatlantic U.N. resolution; instead, more discussion in alliance is, I think, very important. Some of the event of noncompliance. But the truth you will have heard me say this before, but is that without a credible ultimatum author- let me just repeat it. I believe that Europe izing force in the event of noncompliance, and America should stand together on the then more discussion is just more delay, with big issues of the day. I think it is a tragedy Saddam remaining armed with weapons of mass destruction and continuing a brutal, when we don’t. And that transatlantic alliance murderous regime in Iraq. is strong, and we need to strengthen it still And this game that he is playing is, frankly, further. a game that he has played over the last 12 And secondly, we’ve set out for you that years. Disarmament never happens. But in- should it come to conflict, we make a pledge stead, the international community is drawn to the people of Iraq. As President Bush was into some perpetual negotiation, gestures de- just saying to you a moment or two ago, it signed to divide the international community is the people of Iraq who are the primary but never real and concrete cooperation victims of Saddam: the thousands of children leading to disarmament. that die needlessly every year; the people And there’s not a single person on the Se- locked up in his prisons or executed simply curity Council that doubts the fact he is not for showing disagreement with the regime;

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a country that is potentially prosperous re- as all the other heads of state and govern- duced to poverty; 60 percent of the popu- ment said it, too, this summit is—this is the lation reliant on food aid. last opportunity for a political solution to this And what we say is that we will protect very serious problem for the international Iraq’s territorial integrity; we will support community. This has been said here. It’s representative government that unites Iraq been said here that tomorrow we’ll start with on the democratic basis of human rights and these last initiatives towards a political solu- the rule of law; that we will help Iraq re- tion. And for that reason I am very, very build—and not rebuild because of the prob- happy with the results of this summit. lems of conflict, where if it comes to that, Now, coming to our responsibility in case we will do everything we can to minimize there is a conflict, I must say that the respon- the suffering of the Iraqi people, but rebuild sibility falls entirely on the dictator Saddam Iraq because of the appalling legacy that the Hussein. He bears the entire responsibility rule of Saddam has left the Iraqi people— because he has not respected for all of these and in particular, Iraq’s natural resources re- years international law and consistently vio- main the property of the people of Iraq. And lated the U.N. resolutions. And in that case, that wealth should be used for the Iraqi peo- if there is a conflict, I want to repeat it once ple. It is theirs and will remain so, adminis- more, Portugal will be next—side by side tered by the U.N. in the way we set out. with his allies. And the fact that we are here Finally, on the Middle East peace process, today in the Azores with the United States, I welcome very much the statement that with Spain, and with the UK, this is very sig- President Bush made the other day. I think nificant. it’s important now. He said he wanted a part- As it’s been said here before, the trans- ner on the Palestinian side. I think the com- atlantic relationship is very, very important, ing appointment of Abu Mazen is so impor- not only for Europe and for the U.S., but tant there. It allows us to take this process it’s very important for the whole world. I re- forward. The roadmap give us the way for- member a few days ago, Kofi Annan in the ward. The appointment of Abu Mazen gives European conference in Brussels, said the us the right partner to take this forward. And same thing. He said this is very important. I believe that that will demonstrate—and it’s It’s very important for Europe and the U.S. important to demonstrate in particular at this to remain united and not separate, because time—that our approach to people in the the world needs the U.S. and Europe work- Middle East, in that troubled region, is in- ing together towards the same direction, in deed evenhanded. And all of us will work the same sense—not only about the security to make sure that that vision of a Middle but also fighting underdevelopment and all East, two states, Israel confident of its secu- the other tasks that fall to the international rity, a Palestinian state that is viable, comes community. about and is made reality. President Bush. Ron Fournier [Associ- Thank you. ated Press]. Summit Results/Portugal’s Role in the Last Effort at Diplomacy Coalition Q. Thank you, Mr. President. Before I ask Q. [Inaudible]. my question I just want to nail down one President Bush. They couldn’t hear the thing so there’s no confusion. When you talk question. about tomorrow being the moment of truth, Q. I was asking the Portuguese Prime are you saying that is the—— Minister, how does he see the result of this President Bush. Just a question, or are summit? Does the Prime Minister think that you trying to work in two questions? starting now, Portugal has more responsibil- Q. Yes, sir. [Laughter] Because there’s one ities with this war that seems to be inevi- thing we need to make clear. When you say table? tomorrow is the moment of truth, does that Prime Minister Durao Barroso. The re- mean tomorrow is the last day that the reso- sults of this summit, as I described them and lution can be voted up or down, and at the

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end of the day tomorrow, one way or another And for Mr. Aznar, what is Spain’s partici- the diplomatic window has closed? pation in that military offensive, in addition President Bush. That’s what I’m saying. to your political support? Q. Thank you, sir. And now for the ques- President Bush. [Inaudible]—Resolution tion—— 1441, which was unanimously approved, that President Bush. And now for your ques- says Saddam Hussein would unconditionally tion? disarm, and if he didn’t, there would be seri- Q. That being the case, regardless—— ous consequences. The United Nations Secu- President Bush. That being my an- rity Council looked at the issue 41⁄2 months swer—— ago and voted unanimously to say: Disarm Q. Regardless of whether the resolution immediately and unconditionally, and if you goes up or down or gets withdrawn, it seems don’t, there are going to be serious con- to me you’re going to be facing a moment sequences. The world has spoken. And it did of truth. And given that you’ve already said in a unified voice. you don’t think there’s very much chance Sorry. Saddam Hussein is going to disarm, and Prime Minister Blair. The issue is very given that you say you don’t think there’s very simply this, that we cannot have a situation much chance he’s going to go into exile, where what happens through the United Na- aren’t we going to war here? tions, having agreed 1441, having said there President Bush. Tomorrow is the day that would be serious consequences if he doesn’t we will determine whether or not diplomacy cooperate fully and unconditionally, what we can work. And we sat and visited about this cannot have is a situation where we simply issue, about how best to spend our time be- tween now and tomorrow. And as Prime go back for endless discussion. Minister Blair said, we’ll be working the Now, we have provided the right diplo- phones and talking to our partners and talk- matic way through this, which is to lay down ing to those who may not clearly understand a clear ultimatum to Saddam: Cooperate or the objective, and we’ll see how it goes to- face disarmament by force. And that is en- morrow. tirely within the logic, the letter, the spirit Saddam Hussein can leave the country, if of 1441. And that is why—you know, all the he’s interested in peace. You see, the deci- way through we have tried to provide a diplo- sion is his to make. And it’s been his to make matic solution. After over 41⁄2 months since all along as to whether or not there’s the use we passed Resolution 1441, we’re now, what, of the military. He got to decide whether he 3 months on from the declaration that Sad- was going to disarm, and he didn’t. He can dam made on the 8th of December that not decide whether he wants to leave the coun- a single person in the international commu- try. These are his decisions to make, and thus nity—not one—believes was an honest dec- far he has made bad decisions. laration of what he had. And yet, 1441 said the first step of cooperation was to make an Further Discussion at the United Nations honest declaration. Q. I understand that if tomorrow is the So when people say haven’t we exhausted day for taking the final decision, that means all the diplomatic avenues, we’ve tried ex- that you consider that there’s no possible way hausting them. But understand from our per- out through the United Nations because a spective and from the perspective of the se- majority does not support a war action. I curity of the world, we cannot simply go back would like to know, Mr. Blair, Mr. Bush, to the Security Council for this discussion to whether in that military offensive you count be superseded by that discussion, to be su- on many countries, whether it’s going to be perseded by another discussion. That’s what’s the UK and the U.S. carrying out the military happened for 12 years. That’s why he’s still offensive? I understand from what Mr. Blair got the weapons of mass destruction. We has said that you’re counting on the U.N. for have to come to the point of decision. And the reconstruction. Are you going to look for that really is what the next period of time other countries through the United Nations? is going to be about.

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President Aznar. Well, I would like to say of resolving this, because the threat is there that this statement we’re making today, as and everyone accepts it, the threat of weap- we’ve all said, it’s a last chance, one last at- ons of mass destruction, the threat of weap- tempt to reach the greatest possible con- ons of mass destruction in the hands of ter- sensus amongst ourselves. And I can assure rorists who will cause maximum damage to all of you that we’ve made—we have all our people. Everybody accepts the disar- made—enormous efforts, and we’re going to mament of Saddam has to happen. Every- continue making these efforts in order to try body accepts that he was supposed to cooper- to reach an agreement, to reach a solution. ate fully with the inspectors. Everybody ac- We have our own worry, our own responsi- cepts that he is not doing so. bility to make U.N. resolutions be abided by. So, whatever the tactics within the U.N.— If the Security Council unanimously adopts and that’s something we can decide—what- a resolution—Resolution 1441—giving one ever those tactics, the key point of principle last opportunity to disarm to someone who is this, that when we came together last No- has weapons of mass destruction, and we vember and laid down Resolution 1441, now know he has used them, the Security Council is the moment when we decide whether we cannot, one year after the other, wait for its meant it and it was his final opportunity to resolutions to be implemented. That would disarm or face serious consequences, or be the best way to do away with it altogether. whether, alternatively, we’re simply going to And it could do away with all the United Na- drag out the diplomatic process forever. And tions’ credibility, and we honestly don’t want that’s why I say it’s the point of decision. that to happen. Q. Vote or not? To me, there is no—you cannot have the President Bush. I was the guy that said same distance between illegality and impu- they ought to vote. And one country voted. nity. And neither Saddam Hussein nor any They showed their cards, I believe. It’s an other tyrant with weapons of mass destruc- old Texas expression, ‘‘Show your cards, tion can set the rules for international law when you’re playing poker.’’ France showed and the international community. their cards. After I said what I said, they said they were going to veto anything that held Role of the United Nations Saddam to account. So cards have been Q. Andrew Marr, from the BBC. Can I played, and we’ll just have to take an assess- ask, first of all, Prime Minister Blair—you ment after tomorrow to determine what that said that you want a second resolution to be card meant. put down and voted on. Could we be clear? Let me say something about the U.N. It’s Is that what’s going to happen tomorrow, a very important organization. That’s why I under all circumstances? went there on September the 12th, 2002, to And either way—also, if I may, for Presi- give the speech, the speech that called the dent Bush—if you don’t get that second reso- U.N. into account, that said if you’re going lution, what is the future for the United Na- to pass resolutions, let’s make sure your tions? You’ve talked about Saddam Hussein words mean something. Because I under- dividing world community. Surely, he suc- stand the wars of the 21st century are going ceeded. to require incredible international coopera- Prime Minister Blair. Well, on your last tion. We’re going to have to cooperate to cut point, I think this is one of the things that off the money of the terrorists and the ability is tragic about this situation, that Saddam for nations, dictators who have weapons of plays these games, and we carry on allowing mass destruction, to provide training and him to play them. Now, we will do, in the perhaps weapons to terrorist organizations. next period of time, in respect to the resolu- We need to cooperate, and we are. Our coun- tion, what we believe to be in the interest tries up here are cooperating incredibly well. of the U.N. And the U.N. must mean something. Re- But I want to say why I think it is so impor- member Rwanda, or Kosovo. The U.N. tant that even now, at this late stage, we try didn’t do its job. And we hope tomorrow the to get the United Nations to be the route U.N. will do its job. If not, all of us need

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to step back and try to figure out how to At this difficult moment, we reaffirm our make the U.N. work better as we head into commitment to our core values and the the 21st century. Perhaps one way will be, Transatlantic Alliance that has embodied if we use military force, in the post-Saddam them for two generations. Our alliance rests Iraq the U.N. will definitely need to have on a common commitment to democracy, a role. And that way it can begin to get its freedom, and the rule of law. We are bound legs, legs of responsibility back. by solemn commitment to defend one an- But it’s important for the U.N. to be able other. We will face and overcome together to function well if we’re going to keep the the twin threats of the 21st century: terrorism peace. And I will work hard to see to it that, and the spread of weapons of mass destruc- at least from our perspective, that the U.N. tion. All nations must unite to defeat these is able to be a responsible body, and when dangers. We will not allow differences of the it says something, it means it, for the sake moment to be exploited in ways that bring of peace and for the sake of the security, for no solutions. the capacity to win the war of—the first war Our security is tied to peace and security of the 21st century, which is the war against throughout the world. Together, we are terrorism and weapons of mass destruction working to bring security to Afghanistan, and in the hands of dictators. to root out the terrorists who remain there. Thank you all. We affirm a vision of a Middle East peace Prime Minister Durao Barroso. Thank in which two states, Israel and Palestine, will you very much, ladies and gentlemen. This live side by side in peace, security, and free- is the end of the conference. Have a good dom. We welcome the fact that the roadmap trip. designed to implement this vision will soon be delivered to Palestinians and Israelis, NOTE: The President’s news conference began at upon the confirmation of an empowered Pal- 5:30 p.m. in the community activity center ball- estinian Prime Minister. We would welcome room at Lajes Field Air Force Base, Terceira Is- the appointment of a Palestinian Prime Min- land. Prime Minister Durao Barroso spoke in Por- ister with sufficient authority to put an end tuguese, and President Aznar spoke in Spanish, to terrorism and consolidate necessary re- and their remarks were translated by interpreters. forms. We shall look to the parties to work Some questions were also asked in Portuguese or Spanish and then translated by interpreters. In constructively together. We have today his remarks, President Bush referred to President issued a statement outlining the challenge Saddam Hussein of Iraq. Prime Minister Blair re- that Saddam Hussein poses for the world, ferred to Mahmoud Abbas (Abu Mazen), who ac- and our vision of a better future for the Iraqi cepted the post of Prime Minister of the Pales- people. tinian Authority on March 19. Prime Minister We urge our friends and allies to put aside Durao Barroso referred to Secretary-General Kofi differences, and work together for peace, Annan of the United Nations. freedom and security. The friendship and solidarity between Europe and the United Statement of the Atlantic Summit: States is strong and will continue to grow in Commitment to Transatlantic years to come. Solidarity March 16, 2003 NOTE: An original was not available for verification of the content of this joint statement. We, the leaders of four democracies with strong Transatlantic affiliation, meet at a time of great challenge. We face painful choices. Statement of the Atlantic Summit: A We uphold a vision of international secu- Vision for Iraq and the Iraqi People rity we share with other nations. Our nations March 16, 2003 and people know the horror of war, whether visited upon us, or whether we are called to Iraq’s talented people, rich culture, and confront a great danger. tremendous potential have been hijacked by

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Saddam Hussein. His brutal regime has re- tutions, including the United Nations; our Al- duced a country with a long and proud his- lies and partners; and bilateral donors. If con- tory to an international pariah that oppresses flict occurs, we plan to seek the adoption, its citizens, started two wars of aggression on an urgent basis, of new United Nations against its neighbors, and still poses a grave Security Council resolutions that would af- threat to the security of its region and the firm Iraq’s territorial integrity, ensure rapid world. delivery of humanitarian relief, and endorse Saddam’s defiance of United Nations Se- an appropriate post-conflict administration curity Council resolutions demanding the for Iraq. We will also propose that the Sec- disarmament of his nuclear, chemical, bio- retary General be given authority, on an in- logical, and long-range missile capacity has terim basis, to ensure that the humanitarian led to sanctions on Iraq and has undermined needs of the Iraqi people continue to be met the authority of the U.N. For 12 years, the through the Oil for Food program. international community has tried to per- Any military presence, should it be nec- suade him to disarm and thereby avoid mili- essary, will be temporary and intended to tary conflict, most recently through the unan- promote security and elimination of weapons imous adoption of UNSCR 1441. The re- of mass destruction; the delivery of humani- sponsibility is his. If Saddam refuses even tarian aid; and the conditions for the recon- now to cooperate fully with the United Na- struction of Iraq. Our commitment to sup- tions, he brings on himself the serious con- port the people of Iraq will be for the long sequences foreseen in UNSCR 1441 and pre- term. vious resolutions. We call upon the international community In these circumstances, we would under- to join with us in helping to realize a better take a solemn obligation to help the Iraqi future for the Iraqi people. people build a new Iraq at peace with itself and its neighbors. The Iraqi people deserve NOTE: The Office of the Press Secretary also re- leased a Spanish language version of this joint to be lifted from insecurity and tyranny, and statement. An original was not available for freed to determine for themselves the future verification of the content of this joint statement. of their country. We envisage a unified Iraq with its territorial integrity respected. All the Iraqi people—its rich mix of Sunni and Shiite Statement on the 2003 Report of the Arabs, Kurds, Turkomen, Assyrians, Social Security Trustees Chaldeans, and all others—should enjoy March 17, 2003 freedom, prosperity, and equality in a united country. We will support the Iraqi people’s I commend the Social Security Board of aspirations for a representative government Trustees for their hard work on their annual that upholds human rights and the rule of report. law as cornerstones of democracy. As in last year’s report, the Trustees con- We will work to prevent and repair dam- firmed that benefits for today’s seniors are age by Saddam Hussein’s regime to the nat- safe and secure. Promises made can and will ural resources of Iraq and pledge to protect be kept. The Trustees also once again have them as a national asset of and for the Iraqi delivered a sobering message—Social Secu- people. All Iraqis should share the wealth rity, in its present form, is unsustainable for generated by their national economy. We will the long term. I share the Trustees’ view that seek a swift end to international sanctions, we need to explore new ways to ensure that and support an international reconstruction Social Security remains strong and financially program to help Iraq achieve real prosperity secure for America’s children and grand- and reintegrate into the global community. children. We will fight terrorism in all its forms. Iraq I am encouraged by the unprecedented must never again be a haven for terrorists level of bipartisan interest in Social Security of any kind. modernization. Many comprehensive pro- In achieving this vision, we plan to work posals have been put forward to strengthen in close partnership with international insti- Social Security for the long term. Although

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these proposals differ in details, they are con- Today, approximately one in four Ameri- sistent in showing that if we give workers the cans can trace their ancestry in part to Ire- opportunity to invest a portion of their wages land’s green shores. We are proud of our in personal accounts, Social Security will be deep and lasting ties to Ireland and are grate- able to offer higher benefits than would oth- ful for the many Irish Americans who con- erwise be the case. tinue to enrich our Nation. To repeat what I told Congress in the State Laura joins me in sending our best wishes of the Union Address this year: ‘‘As we con- for a happy St. Patrick’s Day. tinue to work together to keep Social Secu- George W. Bush rity strong and reliable, we must offer young- er workers a chance to invest in retirement NOTE: An original was not available for accounts that they will control and they will verification of the content of this message. own.’’ Social Security protects beneficiaries with disabilities, retirees, widows, and widowers. Address to the Nation on Iraq It also affects the lives of millions of tax- March 17, 2003 paying workers, the beneficiaries of tomor- row. As the report makes clear, Social Secu- My fellow citizens, events in Iraq have now rity faces long-term problems that demand reached the final days of decision. For more bipartisan solutions. than a decade, the United States and other I hope that Members of Congress will join nations have pursued patient and honorable with the Social Security Administration and efforts to disarm the Iraqi regime without other interested parties in a national dialog war. That regime pledged to reveal and de- about how best to strengthen and protect So- stroy all its weapons of mass destruction as cial Security. I look forward to working with a condition for ending the Persian Gulf war Congress to see that Social Security remains in 1991. sound and strong for today’s and tomorrow’s Since then, the world has engaged in 12 retirees. years of diplomacy. We have passed more than a dozen resolutions in the United Na- tions Security Council. We have sent hun- Message on the Observance of dreds of weapons inspectors to oversee the Saint Patrick’s Day, 2003 disarmament of Iraq. Our good faith has not March 17, 2003 been returned. The Iraqi regime has used diplomacy as I send greetings to those celebrating St. a ploy to gain time and advantage. It has uni- Patrick’s Day. formly defied Security Council resolutions On this day, we honor the life of Patrick, demanding full disarmament. Over the years, patron saint of Ireland, and celebrate the rich U.N. weapon inspectors have been threat- history of the Emerald Isle. St. Patrick es- ened by Iraqi officials, electronically bugged, caped from slavery and dedicated his life to and systematically deceived. Peaceful efforts helping others through his words and actions. to disarm the Iraqi regime have failed again His example of courage, determination, and and again because we are not dealing with faith captured the hearts of the Irish and con- peaceful men. tinues to inspire countless people around the Intelligence gathered by this and other world. governments leaves no doubt that the Iraq In the United States, this day gives us an regime continues to possess and conceal opportunity to recognize the vital contribu- some of the most lethal weapons ever de- tions of Irish Americans. Throughout our his- vised. This regime has already used weapons tory, America has welcomed millions of Irish of mass destruction against Iraq’s neighbors immigrants to our country. These individuals and against Iraq’s people. have transformed our national identity and The regime has a history of reckless ag- strengthened our families, our communities, gression in the Middle East. It has a deep and our national character. hatred of America and our friends. And it

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has aided, trained, and harbored terrorists, standing demands. Yet, some permanent including operatives of Al Qaida. members of the Security Council have pub- The danger is clear: Using chemical, bio- licly announced they will veto any resolution logical or, one day, nuclear weapons obtained that compels the disarmament of Iraq. These with the help of Iraq, the terrorists could ful- governments share our assessment of the fill their stated ambitions and kill thousands danger but not our resolve to meet it. or hundreds of thousands of innocent people Many nations, however, do have the re- in our country or any other. solve and fortitude to act against this threat The United States and other nations did to peace, and a broad coalition is now gath- nothing to deserve or invite this threat. But ering to enforce the just demands of the we will do everything to defeat it. Instead world. The United Nations Security Council of drifting along toward tragedy, we will set has not lived up to its responsibilities, so we a course toward safety. Before the day of hor- will rise to ours. ror can come, before it is too late to act, this In recent days, some governments in the danger will be removed. Middle East have been doing their part. They The United States of America has the sov- have delivered public and private messages ereign authority to use force in assuring its urging the dictator to leave Iraq, so that dis- own national security. That duty falls to me armament can proceed peacefully. He has as Commander in Chief, by the oath I have thus far refused. sworn, by the oath I will keep. All the decades of deceit and cruelty have Recognizing the threat to our country, the now reached an end. Saddam Hussein and United States Congress voted overwhelm- his sons must leave Iraq within 48 hours. ingly last year to support the use of force Their refusal to do so will result in military against Iraq. America tried to work with the conflict, commenced at a time of our choos- United Nations to address this threat because ing. For their own safety, all foreign nation- we wanted to resolve the issue peacefully. als, including journalists and inspectors, We believe in the mission of the United Na- should leave Iraq immediately. tions. One reason the U.N. was founded after Many Iraqis can hear me tonight in a trans- the Second World War was to confront ag- lated radio broadcast, and I have a message gressive dictators actively and early, before for them: If we must begin a military cam- they can attack the innocent and destroy the paign, it will be directed against the lawless peace. men who rule your country and not against In the case of Iraq, the Security Council you. As our coalition takes away their power, did act in the early 1990s. Under Resolutions we will deliver the food and medicine you 678 and 687, both still in effect, the United need. We will tear down the apparatus of States and our allies are authorized to use terror, and we will help you to build a new force in ridding Iraq of weapons of mass de- Iraq that is prosperous and free. In a free struction. This is not a question of authority. Iraq, there will be no more wars of aggression It is a question of will. against your neighbors, no more poison fac- Last September, I went to the U.N. Gen- tories, no more executions of dissidents, no eral Assembly and urged the nations of the more torture chambers and rape rooms. The world to unite and bring an end to this dan- tyrant will soon be gone. The day of your ger. On November 8th, the Security Council liberation is near. unanimously passed Resolution 1441, finding It is too late for Saddam Hussein to remain Iraq in material breach of its obligations and in power. It is not too late for the Iraqi mili- vowing serious consequences if Iraq did not tary to act with honor and protect your coun- fully and immediately disarm. try by permitting the peaceful entry of coali- Today, no nation can possibly claim that tion forces to eliminate weapons of mass de- Iraq has disarmed, and it will not disarm so struction. Our forces will give Iraqi military long as Saddam Hussein holds power. For units clear instructions on actions they can the last 41⁄2 months, the United States and take to avoid being attacked and destroyed. our allies have worked within the Security I urge every member of the Iraqi military Council to enforce that Council’s long- and intelligence services: If war comes, do

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not fight for a dying regime that is not worth In this, they would fail. No act of theirs can your own life. alter the course or shake the resolve of this And all Iraqi military and civilian per- country. We are a peaceful people. Yet we’re sonnel should listen carefully to this warning: not a fragile people, and we will not be in- In any conflict, your fate will depend on your timidated by thugs and killers. If our enemies actions. Do not destroy oil wells, a source dare to strike us, they and all who have aided of wealth that belongs to the Iraqi people. them will face fearful consequences. Do not obey any command to use weapons We are now acting because the risks of of mass destruction against anyone, including inaction would be far greater. In 1 year, or the Iraqi people. War crimes will be pros- 5 years, the power of Iraq to inflict harm ecuted. War criminals will be punished. And on all free nations would be multiplied many it will be no defense to say, ‘‘I was just fol- times over. With these capabilities, Saddam lowing orders.’’ Hussein and his terrorist allies could choose Should Saddam Hussein choose confronta- the moment of deadly conflict when they are tion, the American people can know that strongest. We choose to meet that threat every measure has been taken to avoid war now, where it arises, before it can appear and every measure will be taken to win it. suddenly in our skies and cities. Americans understand the costs of conflict The cause of peace requires all free na- because we have paid them in the past. War tions to recognize new and undeniable reali- has no certainty, except the certainty of sac- ties. In the 20th century, some chose to ap- rifice. Yet, the only way to reduce the harm pease murderous dictators, whose threats and duration of war is to apply the full force were allowed to grow into genocide and glob- and might of our military, and we are pre- al war. In this century, when evil men plot pared to do so. chemical, biological, and nuclear terror, a If Saddam Hussein attempts to cling to policy of appeasement could bring destruc- power, he will remain a deadly foe until the tion of a kind never before seen on this end. In desperation, he and terrorists groups Earth. might try to conduct terrorist operations Terrorists and terror states do not reveal against the American people and our friends. these threats with fair notice, in formal dec- These attacks are not inevitable. They are, larations, and responding to such enemies however, possible. And this very fact under- only after they have struck first is not self- scores the reason we cannot live under the defense; it is suicide. The security of the threat of blackmail. The terrorist threat to world requires disarming Saddam Hussein America and the world will be diminished now. the moment that Saddam Hussein is dis- As we enforce the just demands of the armed. world, we will also honor the deepest com- Our Government is on heightened watch mitments of our country. Unlike Saddam against these dangers. Just as we are pre- Hussein, we believe the Iraqi people are de- paring to ensure victory in Iraq, we are taking serving and capable of human liberty. And further actions to protect our homeland. In when the dictator has departed, they can set recent days, American authorities have ex- an example to all the Middle East of a vital pelled from the country certain individuals and peaceful and self-governing nation. with ties to Iraqi intelligence services. Among The United States, with other countries, other measures, I have directed additional will work to advance liberty and peace in that security of our airports and increased Coast region. Our goal will not be achieved over- Guard patrols of major seaports. The Depart- night, but it can come over time. The power ment of Homeland Security is working close- and appeal of human liberty is felt in every ly with the Nation’s Governors to increase life and every land. And the greatest power armed security at critical facilities across of freedom is to overcome hatred and vio- America. lence and turn the creative gifts of men and Should enemies strike our country, they women to the pursuits of peace. would be attempting to shift our attention That is the future we choose. Free nations with panic and weaken our morale with fear. have a duty to defend our people by uniting

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against the violent. And tonight, as we have courage all Americans to recognize the done before, America and our allies accept countless contributions Greek Americans that responsibility. have made to our country. Embodying the Good night, and may God continue to independence and creativity that have made bless America. our country strong, their proud history is a source of inspiration for our Nation and our NOTE: The President spoke at 8:01 p.m. in the world. Cross Hall at the White House. In his remarks, Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, he referred to President Saddam Hussein of Iraq. The Office of the Press Secretary also released President of the United States of America, a Spanish language transcript of this address. by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim March 25, 2003, Proclamation 7654—Greek as Greek Independence Day: A National Day Independence Day: A National Day of Celebration of Greek and American De- of Celebration of Greek and mocracy. I call upon all the people of the American Democracy, 2003 United States to observe this day with appro- priate ceremonies and activities. March 18, 2003 In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set By the President of the United States my hand this eighteenth day of March, in of America the year of our Lord two thousand three, and of the Independence of the United States of A Proclamation America the two hundred and twenty-sev- After nearly 400 years of rule by the Otto- enth. mans, Greece declared its independence on March 25, 1821. Long before that, ancient George W. Bush Athenians created a Greek culture that val- [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, ued human liberty and dignity, and modern 8:45 a.m., March 20, 2003] Greeks have demonstrated that preserving freedom is a powerful motivating force. NOTE: This proclamation was published in the Today, on Greek Independence Day, we rec- Federal Register on March 21. ognize the ancient Greek influence in fram- ing our own Constitution and celebrate the Greek-American heritage that continues to Letter to Congressional Leaders on strengthen our communities and enrich our the Conclusion of Diplomatic Efforts society. With Regard to Iraq Bound by history, mutual respect, and March 18, 2003 common ideals, America and Greece have been firm allies in the great struggles for lib- Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. President:) erty. Our countries fought together in every Consistent with section 3(b) of the Author- major twentieth-century war, and today, we ization for Use of Military Force Against Iraq remain united in the war against terror that Resolution of 2002 (Public Law 107–243), threatens the future of every nation. We are and based on information available to me, working together to achieve peace and pros- including that in the enclosed document, I perity in the Balkans and southeastern Medi- determine that: terranean. As the current president of the (1) reliance by the United States on fur- European Union, Greece is also playing a ther diplomatic and other peaceful critical role in our efforts to confront many means alone will neither (A) ade- other global problems that affect our nations quately protect the national security and our world. of the United States against the con- Our commitment to the friendship be- tinuing threat posed by Iraq nor (B) tween our two nations has grown from strong likely lead to enforcement of all rel- bonds of tradition and shared fundamental evant United Nations Security Coun- values. On Greek Independence Day, I en- cil resolutions regarding Iraq; and

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(2) acting pursuant to the Constitution by the United Nations Participation Act and Public Law 107–243 is consistent (Public Law 264, 79th Congress). with the United States and other George W. Bush countries continuing to take the nec- essary actions against international The White House, terrorists and terrorist organizations, March 19, 2003. including those nations, organiza- tions, or persons who planned, au- Message to the Congress thorized, committed, or aided the ter- Transmitting a Report on the rorist attacks that occurred on Sep- tember 11, 2001. National Emergency With Respect to Sincerely, UNITA March 19, 2003 George W. Bush To the Congress of the United States: As required by section 401(c) of the Na- NOTE: Identical letters were sent to J. Dennis tional Emergencies Act, 50 U.S.C. 1641(c), Hastert, Speaker of the House of Representatives, and section 204(c) of the International Emer- and Ted Stevens, President pro tempore of the gency Economic Powers Act, 50 U.S.C. Senate. This letter was released by the Office of 1703(c), I am providing a 6-month report the Press Secretary on March 19. prepared by my Administration on the na- tional emergency with respect to the Na- Message to the Congress tional Union for the Total Independence of Transmitting the Federal Ocean and Angola (UNITA) that was declared in Execu- Coastal Activities Report tive Order 12865 of September 26, 1993. George W. Bush March 19, 2003 The White House, To the Congress of the United States: March 19, 2003. In accordance with section 5 of the Oceans Act of 2000 (33 U.S.C. 857–19), I transmit herewith the first biennial Federal Ocean Address to the Nation on Iraq and Coastal Activities Report as prepared by March 19, 2003 my Administration. My fellow citizens, at this hour, American and coalition forces are in the early stages George W. Bush of military operations to disarm Iraq, to free The White House, its people, and to defend the world from grave danger. March 19, 2003. On my orders, coalition forces have begun striking selected targets of military impor- Message to the Congress tance to undermine Saddam Hussein’s ability Transmitting a Report on United to wage war. These are opening stages of States Participation in the United what will be a broad and concerted cam- Nations and Its Affiliated Agencies paign. More than 35 countries are giving cru- cial support, from the use of naval and air March 19, 2003 bases, to help with intelligence and logistics, to the deployment of combat units. Every na- To the Congress of the United States: tion in this coalition has chosen to bear the I am pleased to transmit herewith a report duty and share the honor of serving in our prepared by my Administration on the par- common defense. ticipation of the United States in the United To all the men and women of the United Nations and its affiliated agencies during the States Armed Forces now in the Middle East, calendar year 2001. The report is required the peace of a troubled world and the hopes

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of an oppressed people now depend on you. My fellow citizens, the dangers to our That trust is well-placed. The enemies you country and the world will be overcome. We confront will come to know your skill and will pass through this time of peril and carry bravery. The people you liberate will witness on the work of peace. We will defend our the honorable and decent spirit of the Amer- freedom. We will bring freedom to others, ican military. and we will prevail. In this conflict, America faces an enemy May God bless our country and all who who has no regard for conventions of war defend her. or rules of morality. Saddam Hussein has placed Iraqi troops and equipment in civilian NOTE: The President spoke at 10:16 p.m. from areas, attempting to use innocent men, the Oval Office at the White House. In his re- women, and children as shields for his own marks, he referred to President Saddam Hussein military, a final atrocity against his people. of Iraq. The Office of the Press Secretary also I want Americans and all the world to released a Spanish language transcript of this ad- know that coalition forces will make every dress. effort to spare innocent civilians from harm. A campaign on the harsh terrain of a nation Remarks Following a Cabinet as large as California could be longer and Meeting more difficult than some predict. And help- ing Iraqis achieve a united, stable, and free March 20, 2003 country will require our sustained commit- I called my Cabinet together to review our ment. strategies to make the world more peaceful, We come to Iraq with respect for its citi- to make our country more secure, to make zens, for their great civilization, and for the the lives of our citizens as healthy and as religious faiths they practice. We have no am- prosperous as possible. bition in Iraq, except to remove a threat and We heard from Secretary Rumsfeld, who restore control of that country to its own peo- briefed us on the early stages of the war. ple. There’s no question we’ve sent the finest of I know that the families of our military are our citizens into harm’s way. They perform praying that all those who serve will return with great skill and great bravery. We thank safely and soon. Millions of Americans are them. We thank their loved ones. We appre- praying with you for the safety of your loved ciate their sacrifice. ones and for the protection of the innocent. We heard from Secretary Powell, who For your sacrifice, you have the gratitude and briefed us on the ever-growing coalition of respect of the American people. And you can the willing, nations who support our deep de- know that our forces will be coming home sire for peace and freedom. Over 40 nations as soon as their work is done. now support our efforts. We are grateful for Our Nation enters this conflict reluctantly. their determination. We appreciate their vi- Yet our purpose is sure. The people of the sion, and we welcome their support. United States and our friends and allies will As well, we discussed the need to make not live at the mercy of an outlaw regime sure we have plans in place to encourage eco- that threatens the peace with weapons of nomic vitality and growth. We will continue mass murder. We will meet that threat now, to push for a Medicare system that is compas- with our Army, Air Force, Navy, Coast Guard sionate for our seniors. We care deeply about and Marines, so that we do not have to meet the fact that some children in our society it later with armies of firefighters and police can’t read. We want the best of education and doctors on the streets of our cities. for every citizen in America. Now that conflict has come, the only way This Cabinet is confident about the future to limit its duration is to apply decisive force. of our country. We’re confident we can And I assure you, this will not be a campaign achieve our objectives. I’m grateful for their of half measures, and we will accept no out- service to their country. come but victory. Thank you all.

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NOTE: The President spoke at 2:53 p.m. in the that the United States and Iraq are engaged Cabinet Room at the White House. in armed hostilities, that it is in the interest of the United States to confiscate certain property of the Government of Iraq and its Message on the Observance of agencies, instrumentalities, or controlled en- Nowruz tities, and that all right, title, and interest in March 20, 2003 any property so confiscated should vest in the Department of the Treasury. I intend I send greetings to Iranian Americans ob- that such vested property should be used to serving Nowruz. assist the Iraqi people and to assist in the During Nowruz, people of Iranian descent reconstruction of Iraq, and determine that celebrate the arrival of spring, a season of such use would be in the interest of and for rebirth. This joyous occasion provides an op- the benefit of the United States. portunity for Persians to cherish their rich I hereby order: heritage and enjoy the company of family and Section 1. All blocked funds held in the friends in anticipation of happiness and bless- United States in accounts in the name of the ings in the year ahead. This year’s observance comes during a Government of Iraq, the Central Bank of challenging time for our Nation and the Iraq, Rafidain Bank, Rasheed Bank, or the world. As the international community works State Organization for Marketing Oil are to face great challenges and embrace impor- hereby confiscated and vested in the Depart- tant opportunities, America remains com- ment of the Treasury, except for the fol- mitted to peace, justice, and opportunity for lowing: all people. Throughout this time of renewal, (a) any such funds that are subject to the we remain dedicated to bringing hope and Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations freedom to troubled regions around the or the Vienna Convention on Consular Rela- world. tions, or that enjoy equivalent privileges and Laura joins me in sending our best wishes immunities under the laws of the United for a joyous celebration to you, your families, States, and are or have been used for diplo- and your relatives and friends in Iran. matic or consular purposes, and (b) any such amounts that as of the date George W. Bush of this order are subject to post-judgment NOTE: An original was not available for writs of execution or attachment in aid of exe- verification of the content of this message. cution of judgments pursuant to section 201 of the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act of 2002 (Public Law 107–297), provided that, upon Executive Order 13290— satisfaction of the judgments on which such Confiscating and Vesting Certain writs are based, any remainder of such ex- Iraqi Property cepted amounts shall, by virtue of this order March 20, 2003 and without further action, be confiscated and vested. By the authority vested in me as President Sec. 2. The Secretary of the Treasury is by the Constitution and the laws of the authorized to perform, without further ap- United States of America, including the proval, ratification, or other action of the International Emergency Economic Powers President, all functions of the President set Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.) (IEEPA), the forth in section 203(a)(1)(C) of IEEPA with National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1601 respect to any and all property of the Govern- et seq.), and section 301 of title 3, United ment of Iraq, including its agencies, instru- States Code, and in order to take additional mentalities, or controlled entities, and to take steps with respect to the national emergency additional steps, including the promulgation declared in Executive Order 12722 of August of rules and regulations as may be necessary, 2, 1990, to carry out the purposes of this order. The I, George W. Bush, President of the Secretary of the Treasury may redelegate United States of America, hereby determine such functions in accordance with applicable

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law. The Secretary of the Treasury shall con- of the date of the order, are subject to post- sult the Attorney General as appropriate in judgment writs of execution or attachment the implementation of this order. in aid of execution of judgments pursuant to Sec. 3. This order shall be transmitted to section 201 of the Terrorism Risk Insurance the Congress and published in the Federal Act of 2002 (Public Law 107–297) are not Register. being vested, provided that, upon satisfaction George W. Bush of the judgments on which such writs are based, any remainder of such excepted The White House, amounts shall, without further action, be March 20, 2003. confiscated and vested. I have delegated to the Secretary of the [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, Treasury authority to undertake all other ac- 10:06 a.m., March 21, 2003] tion of the President and all functions of the NOTE: This Executive order was published in the President set forth in section 203(a)(1)(C) of Federal Register on March 24. IEEPA with respect to any and all property of the Government of Iraq, including its agencies, instrumentalities, or controlled en- Message to the Congress Reporting tities, and to take additional steps, including on Confiscation and Vesting of the promulgation of rules and regulations as Certain Iraqi Property may be necessary to carry out the purposes March 20, 2003 of this order. I am enclosing a copy of the Executive To the Congress of the United States: Order I have issued, which is effective imme- Pursuant to section 204(b) of the Inter- diately. national Emergency Economic Powers Act, I have exercised these authorities in fur- 50 U.S.C. 1703(b) (IEEPA), and section 301 therance of Executive Orders 12722 and of the National Emergencies Act, 50 U.S.C. 12724 with respect to the unusual and ex- 1631, I hereby report that I have taken addi- traordinary threat to our national security tional steps with respect to the national and foreign policy posed by the policies and emergency declared in Executive Order actions of the Government of Iraq. I intend 12722 of August 2, 1990, by exercising my that such vested property should be used to statutory authority to confiscate and vest cer- assist the Iraqi people and to assist in the tain property of the Government of Iraq and reconstruction of Iraq, and have determined its agencies, instrumentalities, or controlled that such use would be in the interest of and entities. for the benefit of the United States. Consistent with section 203(a)(1)(C) of The power to vest assets of a foreign gov- IEEPA, 50 U.S.C. 1702(a)(1)(C), as added ernment with which the United States is en- by section 106 of the USA PATRIOT ACT, gaged in armed hostilities is one that has Public Law 107–56, I have ordered that cer- been recognized for many decades. This tain blocked funds held in the United States power is being used here because it is clearly in accounts in the name of the Government in the interests of the United States to have of Iraq, the Central Bank of Iraq, Rafidain these funds available for use in rebuilding Bank, Rasheed Bank, or the State Organiza- Iraq and launching that country on the path tion for Marketing Oil are hereby confiscated to speedy economic recovery. In addition, and vested in the Department of the Treas- this authority is being invoked in a limited ury. I have made exceptions for any such way, designed to minimize harm to third par- funds that are subject to the Vienna Conven- ties and to respect existing court orders as tion on Diplomatic Relations or the Vienna much as possible. Convention on Consular Relations, or that enjoy equivalent privileges and immunities George W. Bush under the laws of the United States, and are or have been used for diplomatic or consular The White House, purposes. In addition, such amounts that, as March 20, 2003.

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Memorandum on Determination areas of operation. On October 9, 2001, I Pursuant to Section 2(c)(1) of the reported the beginning of combat action in Migration and Refugee Assistance Afghanistan against terrorists and their Act of 1962, as Amended Taliban supporters. In my reports to the Congress of March 20 and September 20, March 20, 2003 2002, I provided supplemental information Presidential Determination No. 2003–17 on the deployment of combat-equipped and combat support forces to a number of foreign Memorandum for the Secretary of State nations in the Central and Pacific Command areas of operations and other areas. As a part Subject: Determination Pursuant to Section of my efforts to keep the Congress informed, 2(c)(1) of the Migration and Refugee I am reporting further on United States ef- Assistance Act of 1962, as Amended forts in the global war on terrorism. Pursuant to section 2(c)(1) of the Migra- Our efforts in Afghanistan have met with tion and Refugee Assistance Act of 1962, as success, but as I have stated in my previous amended, 22 U.S.C. 2601(c)(1), I hereby de- reports, the U.S. campaign against terrorism termine that it is important to the national will be lengthy. To date, U.S. Armed Forces, interest that up to $22 million be made avail- with the assistance of numerous coalition able from the U.S. Emergency Refugee and partners, have executed a superb campaign Migration Assistance Fund to meet unex- to eliminate the primary source of support pected urgent refugee and migration needs to the terrorists who viciously attacked our that are anticipated in the event of a future Nation on September 11, 2001. The heart humanitarian emergency in the Middle East, of al-Qaida’s training capability has been seri- to include contingency planning for such ously degraded. The Taliban’s ability to bru- needs. Such an emergency may arise if it be- talize the Afghan people and to harbor and comes necessary for the United States and support terrorists has been virtually elimi- other nations to use military force to disarm nated. Pockets of al-Qaida and Taliban forces the Iraqi regime of its weapons of mass de- remain a threat to U.S. and coalition forces struction. These funds may be used, as ap- and to the Afghan government. What is left propriate, to provide contributions to inter- of both the Taliban and the al-Qaida fighters national, governmental, and nongovern- is being pursued actively and engaged by mental organizations, as well as for adminis- U.S. and coalition forces. Additionally, train- trative expenses to manage this response by ing missions and combat operations with the Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Mi- Pakistani special forces are ongoing near the gration. Afghan/Pakistan border. You are authorized and directed to inform Due to our success in Afghanistan, we the appropriate committees of the Congress have detained hundreds of al-Qaida and of this determination and the obligation of Taliban fighters who are believed to pose a funds under this authority, and to publish this continuing threat to the United States and memorandum in the Federal Register. its interests. The combat-equipped and com- George W. Bush bat support forces deployed to Naval Base, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, in the Southern Command area of operations since January Letter to Congressional Leaders 2002, continue to conduct secure detention Reporting on United States Efforts in operations. We currently hold more than 600 the Global War on Terrorism enemy combatants at Guantanamo Bay. All March 20, 2003 are being treated humanely and, to the extent appropriate and consistent with military ne- Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. President:) cessity, in a manner consistent with the prin- On September 24, 2001, I reported the ciples of the Geneva Conventions of 1949. deployment of various combat-equipped and In furtherance of our worldwide efforts combat support forces to a number of loca- against terrorists who pose a continuing and tions in the Central and Pacific Command imminent threat to the United States, our

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friends and allies, and our forces abroad, we As I stated in my previous reports, it is not continue operations in other areas around possible to know at this time either the dura- the globe. Our relationship with the Govern- tion of combat operations or the scope and ment and Armed Forces of the Philippines duration of the deployment of U.S. Armed (AFP) developed and matured throughout Forces necessary to counter the terrorist 2002. Last year’s actions from February to threat to the United States. I will direct addi- July 2002 on Basilan Island, with AFP in tional measures as necessary to exercise our command and with U.S. forces in a support right to self-defense and to protect U.S. citi- role, helped to drive hundreds of Abu Sayyaf zens and interests. Such measures may in- Group terrorists from the island, restoring clude short notice deployments of special op- order and reestablishing government serv- erations and other forces for sensitive oper- ices. To ensure that the AFP has the skills ations in various locations throughout the to fight terrorism over the long term, we have world. a robust security assistance training program I am providing this report as part of my and a variety of exercises that will provide efforts to keep the Congress informed, con- the AFP much needed counter-terrorism sistent with the War Powers Resolution and training and equipment. There are approxi- Public Law 107–40. Officials of my Adminis- mately 300 combat-equipped and combat tration and I have been communicating regu- support U.S. military personnel working with larly with the leadership and other Members the AFP and U.S. forces continue to plan of Congress, and we will continue to do so. with the AFP for possible future activities. I appreciate the continuing support of the Continued U.S. support is warranted as the Congress in our efforts to protect the security Government of the Philippines has provided of the United States of America and its citi- unwavering support in the global war on ter- zens, civilian and military, here and abroad. rorism. Sincerely, Additionally, we continue to conduct mari- George W. Bush time interception operations on the high seas in the Central and European Command NOTE: Identical letters were sent to J. Dennis areas of responsibility to prevent the move- Hastert, Speaker of the House of Representatives, ment, arming, or financing of international and Ted Stevens, President pro tempore of the terrorists who pose a continuing threat to the Senate. An original was not available for United States. verification of the content of this letter. Combat-equipped and combat support forces also have been deployed to Georgia and Yemen to assist the armed forces of those Remarks Following a Meeting With countries in enhancing their counter-ter- Congressional Leaders and an rorism capabilities, including by training and Exchange With Reporters equipping their armed forces. Similar U.S. March 21, 2003 forces have deployed to Djibouti to com- mand and control operations and other ac- The President. I’ve asked the Members tivities as necessary against al-Qaida and of Congress to come up so that members of other international terrorists in the Horn of my administration can keep the leadership Africa region. These activities include pro- up to date as the war to liberate Iraq and viding oversight for urban and maritime to remove weapons of mass destruction out counter-terrorism training with the Yemen of Iraq proceeds. The military briefings, of special operations forces. We continue to as- course, will continue to be given out of the sess options for working with other nations Pentagon. Secretary Rumsfeld will be brief- to assist them in this respect. ing this afternoon. I have taken these actions pursuant to my I also really want to thank Members of constitutional authority to conduct U.S. for- Congress, both House Members, Senate eign relations and as Commander in Chief Members, members of both political parties, and Chief Executive. In addition, these ac- for the strong resolutions that came off the tions are consistent with Public Law 107–40. floor of their respective bodies, resolutions

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which said loud and clear: Our country sup- priorities, enact policies to spur growth, and ports the men and women in uniform; not restrain spending. only do we support those brave souls who are sacrificing on our behalf, but we want to thank their parents and their families for Letter to Congressional Leaders their dedication as well. Reporting on the Commencement of As Secretary Rumsfeld said, we’re making Military Operations Against Iraq progress. We will stay on task until we’ve achieved our objective, which is to rid Iraq March 21, 2003 of weapons of mass destruction and free the Iraqi people so they can live in a society that Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. President:) is hopeful and democratic and at peace in On March 18, 2003, I made available to its neighborhood. you, consistent with section 3(b) of the Au- All of us involved here in Washington are thorization for Use of Military Force Against extremely proud of the skill and bravery of Iraq Resolution of 2002 (Public Law 107– our young Americans who are willing to sac- 243), my determination that further diplo- rifice for something greater than themselves. matic and other peaceful means alone will So it’s my honor to welcome the Members neither adequately protect the national secu- here. We will continue to keep them briefed rity of the United States against the con- as this war progresses. And I want to thank tinuing threat posed by Iraq, nor lead to en- them for the unity, the message of unity. forcement of all relevant United Nations Se- Thank you all for coming. curity Council resolutions regarding Iraq. Secretary Rumsfeld’s Briefing I have reluctantly concluded, along with other coalition leaders, that only the use of Q. Is Saddam dead or alive, sir? armed force will accomplish these objectives The President. Secretary Rumsfeld will and restore international peace and security be briefing today. in the area. I have also determined that the Q. Do you want to give us any details, as use of armed force against Iraq is consistent the Commander in Chief, of how things are with the United States and other countries going? The President. Secretary Rumsfeld will continuing to take the necessary actions be briefing today. against international terrorists and terrorist organizations, including those nations, orga- NOTE: The President spoke at 10:17 a.m. in the nizations, or persons who planned, author- Oval Office at the White House. A reporter re- ized, committed, or aided the terrorist at- ferred to President Saddam Hussein of Iraq. tacks that occurred on September 11, 2001. United States objectives also support a transi- Statement on House of tion to democracy in Iraq, as contemplated Representatives Passage of the by the Iraq Liberation Act of 1998 (Public Budget Resolution Law 105–338). Consistent with the War Powers Resolu- March 21, 2003 tion (Public Law 93–148), I now inform you As we engage in action to ensure freedom that pursuant to my authority as Commander and security, it is imperative that we stay fo- in Chief and consistent with the Authoriza- cused on important domestic priorities, in- tion for Use of Military Force Against Iraq cluding creating jobs and strengthening eco- Resolution (Public Law 102–1) and the Au- nomic growth at home. With passage of the thorization for Use of Military Force Against budget resolution, the House has spoken Iraq Resolution of 2002 (Public Law 107– clearly that future economic growth and job 243), I directed U.S. Armed Forces, oper- creation requires passing the bold plan that ating with other coalition forces, to com- I proposed. I commend the House for its mence combat operations on March 19, timely action and look forward to working 2003, against Iraq. with Congress to ensure that we fund our

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These military operations have been care- Digest of Other fully planned to accomplish our goals with White House Announcements the minimum loss of life among coalition military forces and to innocent civilians. It is not possible to know at this time either The following list includes the President’s public the duration of active combat operations or schedule and other items of general interest an- the scope or duration of the deployment of nounced by the Office of the Press Secretary and U.S. Armed Forces necessary to accomplish not included elsewhere in this issue. our goals fully. As we continue our united efforts to dis- March 15 arm Iraq in pursuit of peace, stability, and In the morning, at Camp David, MD, the security both in the Gulf region and in the President had separate telephone conversa- United States, I look forward to our contin- tions with Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi ued consultation and cooperation. of Italy and Prime Minister Tony Blair of the Sincerely, United Kingdom to discuss the situation in Iraq. George W. Bush Also in the morning, the President had an intelligence briefing. NOTE: Identical letters were sent to J. Dennis Hastert, Speaker of the House of Representatives, March 16 and Ted Stevens, President pro tempore of the In the morning, the President traveled to Senate. An original was not available for Lajes Field Air Force Base in the Azores, verification of the content of this letter. Portugal, where, in the evening, he had din- ner with Prime Minister Jose Manuel Durao Message to the Congress Barroso of Portugal, President Jose Maria Aznar of Spain, and Prime Minister Tony Transmitting a Report on the Blair of the United Kingdom. National Emergency With Respect to In the evening, the President returned to Persons Who Commit, Threaten To Washington, DC. While en route aboard Air Commit, or Support Terrorism Force One, he had separate telephone con- March 21, 2003 versations with Prime Minister John Howard of Australia and Secretary of State Colin To the Congress of the United States: Powell. As required by section 401(c) of the Na- March 17 tional Emergencies Act, 50 U.S.C. 1641(c), and section 204(c) of the International Emer- In the morning, the President had separate telephone conversations with Prime Minister gency Economic Powers Act, 50 U.S.C. Tony Blair of the United Kingdom, President 1703(c), I transmit herewith the 6-month Jose Maria Aznar of Spain, and King Juan periodic report prepared by my Administra- Carlos of Spain to discuss the situation in tion on the national emergency with respect Iraq. to persons who commit, threaten to commit, Also in the morning, the President had in- or support terrorism that was declared in Ex- telligence and FBI briefings and met with ecutive Order 13224 of September 23, 2001. the National Security Council and Secretary of State Colin Powell. George W. Bush In the afternoon, the President had a tele- The White House, phone conversation with Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld to discuss possible military March 21, 2003. action against Iraq. In the evening, in the Roosevelt Room, NOTE: An original was not available for the President met with members of Congress verification of the content of this message. to discuss the situation in Iraq.

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March 18 The White House announced that the In the morning, the President had a tele- President will welcome President Paul Biya phone conversation with President Vladimir of Cameroon to the White House on March Putin of Russia to discuss the situation in 20 to discuss bilateral relations, regional Iraq, Russia-U.S. relations, and President issues, trade and development efforts, and Putin’s invitation to President Bush to visit combating HIV/AIDS. St. Petersburg, Russia, in May. Also in the morning, the President had a telephone con- March 20 versation with President Hu Jintao of China In the morning, the President had a tele- to congratulate him on taking office on phone conversation with National Security March 15 and to discuss China-U.S. rela- Adviser Condoleezza Rice to discuss military tions, the situations in Iraq and North Korea, action against Iraq, which commenced the and the President’s commitment to a one- previous evening. Then, in the Oval Office, China policy. he had intelligence and FBI briefings. He Later in the morning, the President had also met with Defense Secretary Donald intelligence and FBI briefings and met with Rumsfeld. Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld. Later in the morning, the President met March 19 in the Oval Office with Vice President Dick In the morning, the President had a tele- Cheney, CIA Director George Tenet, and phone conversation with Prime Minister White House Chief of Staff Andrew Card to Tony Blair of the United Kingdom to discuss discuss military action against Iraq. possible military action against Iraq and In the afternoon, the President had lunch peace efforts in the Middle East. He then with Vice President Dick Cheney. had intelligence and FBI briefings. Later, he During the day, the President had separate met with the National Security Council in telephone conversations with President the Situation Room and then met with De- Hosni Mubarak of Egypt, Amir Hamad bin fense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld. Khalifa Al Thani of Qatar, and King Hamad Later in the morning, in the Oval Office, bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain to discuss mili- the President met with Homeland Security tary action against Iraq. Secretary Tom Ridge and Mayor Michael In the evening, in the Oval Office, the Bloomberg of New York City to discuss President had a meeting and dinner with antiterrorism measures in New York City. President Paul Biya of Cameroon. In the afternoon, the President met with The President announced his intention to Central Intelligence Agency Director George nominate Frank Libutti to be Under Sec- Tenet to discuss possible military action retary for Information Analysis and Infra- against Iraq. Later, in the Oval Office, he structure Protection at the Department of met with Vice President Dick Cheney, Sec- Homeland Security. retary of State Colin Powell, Defense Sec- The President announced his intention to retary Donald Rumsfeld, National Security nominate John E. Buchanan to be a member Adviser Condoleezza Rice, White House of the National Museum Services Board. Chief of Staff Andrew Card, and Chairman The President announced his intention to of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Richard B. appoint William Batoff as a member of the Myers, USAF, to discuss possible military ac- Advisory Committee to the Pension Benefit tion against Iraq. Guaranty Corporation (Public). In the evening, the President met with The President declared an emergency in speechwriter Michael Gerson to discuss his Delaware and ordered Federal aid to supple- address to the nation later that evening. ment State and local recovery efforts in the Later, he had dinner with Mrs. Bush in the area struck by record/near record snow on Residence. He then had a telephone con- February 14–19. versation with White House Chief of Staff The President declared a major disaster in Andrew Card to discuss possible military ac- Tennessee and ordered Federal aid to sup- tion against Iraq. plement State and local recovery efforts in

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the area struck by severe storms and flooding Submitted March 19 on February 14–26. The President declared an emergency in Eric M. Javits, New Jersey and ordered Federal aid to sup- of New York, for the rank of Ambassador plement State and local recovery efforts in during his tenure of service as U.S. Rep- the area struck by record/near record snow resentative to the Organization for the Prohi- on February 16–17. bition of Chemical Weapons. March 21 Pamela J. H. Slutz, of Texas, a career member of the Senior For- In the morning, the President had intel- eign Service, class of Counselor, to be Am- ligence and FBI briefings and met with the bassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary National Security Council. He also met with of the United States of America to Mongolia. Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld. Later, in the Oval Office, he met with Speaker of the House of Representatives J. Dennis Hastert, House Majority Leader Tom DeLay, House Minority Leader Nancy Checklist Pelosi, Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist, and of White House Press Releases Senate Minority Leader Tom Daschle. In the afternoon, the President went to The following list contains releases of the Office Camp David, MD. of the Press Secretary that are neither printed as The President announced his intention to items nor covered by entries in the Digest of nominate Karen P. Tandy to be Adminis- Other White House Announcements. trator of Drug Enforcement at the Depart- ment of Justice. Released March 16 The President announced his intention to appoint Robert Bruce Korver as a member Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Sec- of the Cultural Property Advisory Committee retary Ari Fleischer (international sales expert). Released March 18 The President announced his intention to appoint the following individuals as members Transcript of a press briefing by Press Sec- of the Advisory Commission on Drug-Free retary Ari Fleischer Communities: Judith A. Cushing (State orga- Released March 19 nization); Arthur Dean (national organiza- tion); Dennis Griffith (national organization); Transcript of a press briefing by Press Sec- Patricia J. Kempthorne (public); Charles W. retary Ari Fleischer Larson, Jr. (State organization); Ronald Luce Transcript of a statement in the James S. (public); Flor Santalo-Sherbahn (State orga- Brady Briefing Room by Press Secretary Ari nization); Peggy Sapp (national organization); Fleischer and Loretta M. Wenger (national organiza- tion). Statement by the Press Secretary: Meeting With Cameroonian President Paul Biya Released March 20 Transcript of a press briefing by Press Sec- Nominations retary Ari Fleischer Submitted to the Senate Statement by the Press Secretary on disaster assistance to Delaware The following list does not include promotions of Statement by the Press Secretary on disaster members of the Uniformed Services, nominations assistance to New Jersey to the Service Academies, or nominations of For- eign Service officers. Statement by the Press Secretary on disaster assistance to Tennessee

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Released March 21 Acts Approved Transcript of a press briefing by Press Sec- by the President retary Ari Fleischer NOTE: No acts approved by the President were received by the Office of the Federal Register during the period covered by this issue.

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