Supplemental Budget appropriations of $81.9 billion

President's Statement on Supplemental Budget

With the help of the United States and coalition partners, the Iraqi and Afghan people have set their countries on the path of democracy and freedom. As both nations work to cement this great progress, our troops and assistance will continue to play a critical role.

The majority of this request will ensure that our troops continue to get what they need to protect themselves and complete their mission. It also provides for the continued pursuit of al-Qaida and other terrorist elements in Afghanistan and elsewhere. And it reflects our core mission in Iraq and Afghanistan by providing funding to accelerate efforts to train and equip Iraqi and Afghan forces, so they can assume greater responsibility for their own security and our troops can return home with the honor they have earned.

Other important funding in this emergency request includes resources to seize the opportunity to build peace and democracy in the Middle East, to continue helping nations affected by the tsunamis, and to address other unforeseen needs.

I urge the Congress to move quickly so our troops and diplomats have the tools they need to succeed. # # #

For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary February 14, 2005

Related:

• Request for Additional Fy 2005 Funding for the War on Terror - When President Bush made the decision to respond to the attacks of 9/11 by dealing with al-Qaida and its Taliban sponsors, and protect America from a gathering threat by removing Saddam Hussein from power, he committed: to provide our troops with whatever they need to protect themselves and successfully complete their mission; and to stand with the Afghan and Iraqi people against the terrorists trying desperately to derail democracy and the advance of freedom.
• Text of a Letter from the President to the Speaker of the House of Representatives - Today, I am submitting a request for fiscal year 2005 supplemental appropriations of $81.9 billion for ongoing military and intelligence operations in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom, and selected other international activities, including tsunami relief and reconstruction. This request reflects urgent and essential requirements. I ask the Congress to appropriate the funds as requested and promptly send the bill to me for signature.