black youth twice as likely to die from traumatic injury as white

BLACK CHILDREN MORE LIKELY TO DIE FROM TRAUMATIC INJURY THAN WHITE CHILDREN

COLUMBUS , Ohio – A new study of nearly 6,000 children suggests that black youth are more than twice as likely to die from a traumatic injury as are white children.

“Trauma has a far greater impact on minority children than it does on white children,” said Jonathan Groner, the study's lead author and a clinical associate professor of surgery at Ohio State University . “As a group, black children tend to have more serious injuries.”

Indeed, black children are also two to three times more likely to be admitted to the hospital because of a traumatic injury.

However, when black and white children are admitted to the hospital with equally severe injuries, they have an equal chance of survival, spend about the same amount of time in the hospital, and also have equal access to rehabilitation services.

“Trauma-induced injuries are mainly a problem of prevention, not a problem of treatment,” said Groner, who is also the trauma medical director at Columbus Children's Hospital. “Trauma is a disease – it can be prevented and it has recognizable risk factors.”

The findings are reported in a recent issue of the Journal of the National Medical Association. Groner conducted the study with John Hayes, a statistician with the trauma program at Columbus Children's Hospital.

The study sample included the medical records of 5,973 children who received emergency inpatient treatment at one of six pediatric trauma centers in Ohio . (Trauma centers were located in Columbus , Cleveland , Cincinnati , Dayton , Toledo and Akron .)

The researchers also gathered information from the 2000 U.S. census and from death certificate data from the Ohio Bureau of Vital Statistics. Data were collected for injuries that happened in 1999, 2000 and 2001. Information included the cause of the injury and, in most cases, the zip code where the injury occurred.

All of the children were younger than 16 at the time of their injuries. Information was included only for patients who came to an emergency department and were subsequently admitted to the hospital or died after treatment in the emergency room.

Although Groner and Hayes gathered data from Ohio 's four largest minority groups – African American, Native American, Hispanic and Asian – the latter three groups made up a very small portion of the trauma cases.

“This study principally compares black and white children, as the other populations were too small to give us reliable numbers,” Groner said.

At the time of the study, 12.3 percent of Ohio children 15 and younger were black. But these children accounted for 28 percent of the trauma cases.

Compared to white children, black children were:

• Nearly eight times more likely to sustain burns or gunshot wounds;
• Seven times more likely to be struck by a car;
• Six times more likely to be assaulted (the number includes cases of child abuse);
• Nearly five times as likely to drown; and
• Had a greater risk of dying from a traumatic injury, because their injuries tend to be more severe. (The overall risk of a black child dying was 2.2 times greater than that of a white child.)

The researchers also found that suicide rates begin to rise for both black and white children around age 10.

“Suicide isn't generally thought to be an issue until a child reaches his early teens,” Groner said. “Our findings demonstrate that parents, school officials and mental health professionals need to be aware of the potential for suicide in pre-teen children.”

Part of the reason why black children may be more susceptible to serious injury is due to their environment, Groner said.

“When we looked at the social and economic data, we saw that many traumatic injuries – particularly assaults and burns – corresponded with the severity of poverty,” he said. “Overall, black children tend to live in places where the potential for serious injury is higher.”
As with many illnesses, Groner said that prevention is the key to keeping children safe from traumatic injuries.

“If a child doesn't have a primary care physician and instead comes into the emergency room for care, his or her caregivers are probably less likely to receive injury prevention information than they would if the child made regular visits to an established doctor,” Groner said.

“And it's possible that prevention campaigns have targeted geographic and social centers where African Americans or other minorities are not broadly present.”

SOURCE: researchnews.osu.edu/ This study was funded by Ohio Emergency Medical Services, a division of the Ohio Department of Public Safety. #

Contact: Jonathan Groner, 614-722-3919; GronerJ@chi.osu.edu
Written by Holly Wagner, 614-292-8310; wagner.235@osu.edu

President Discusses CAFTA-DR

President Discusses CAFTA-DR, FULL STREAMING VIDEO, The Rose Garden President's Remarks 11:39 A.M. EDT

THE PRESIDENT: Good morning, thank you for coming. Welcome to the White House, and welcome to the Rose Garden. I want to thank the six Presidents who have joined me today. We've just had a constructive dialogue in the Cabinet Room about our mutual interests.

Our mutual interests are prosperity for our people and peace in the region. I am honored to be here with six really fine leaders, people who have stood strong for democracy and who care deeply about the people of their nations.

We're here today, as well, because the best way to achieve peace and prosperity for our hemisphere is by strengthening democracy and continuing the economic transformation of Central America and the Dominican Republic. And all of us agree that the Central American and Dominican Republic Free Trade Agreement presents us with an historic opportunity to advance our common goals in an important part of our neighborhood.

CAFTA brings benefits to all sides. For the newly emerging democracies of Central America, CAFTA would bring new investment that means good jobs and higher labor standards for their workers. Central American consumers would have better access to more U.S. goods at better prices. And by passing this agreement, we would signal that the world's leading trading nation was committed to a closer partnership with countries in our own backyard, countries which share our values.

For American farmers, businesses, and workers, CAFTA would create a more level playing field. Under existing rules, most of Central America's exports already enter the United States duty free. But our products still face hefty tariffs there. By passing CAFTA, we would open up a market of 44 million consumers who already import more of our goods and services than Australia or Brazil. And we would create incentives for factories to stay in Central America and use American materials rather than relocate to Asia where they are more likely to use Asian materials.

Finally, for the Western hemisphere, CAFTA would bring the stability and security that can only come from freedom. Today a part of the world that was once characterized by oppression and military dictatorship now sees its future in free elections and free trade. And we must not take these gains for granted. These are small nations, but they're making big and brave commitments, and America needs to continue to support them as they walk down the road of openness and accountability. By transforming our hemisphere into a powerful free trade area, we will promote democratic governance, human rights, and economic liberty for everyone.

The United States was built on freedom -- and the more of it we have in our backyard, the freer and safer and more prosperous all of the Americas will be. I applaud these leaders for their vision. I thank them for working with members of Congress from both political parties to persuade those members about the importance of this piece of legislation. I assured them I will join in the efforts to get this bill passed. This bill is good for Central American countries, it is good for America.

I want to thank you all for being here. Que dios les bendiga.

END 11:44 A.M. EDT For Immediate Release, Office of the Press Secretary, May 12, 2005

President Bush will welcome Nelson Mandela

President to Welcome Former President Nelson Mandela to the White House

President Bush will welcome former South African President Nelson Mandela to the White House on May 17. This meeting provides the two leaders an opportunity to discuss their common concern for fighting HIV/AIDS in Africa. President Bush looks forward to discussing the efforts being undertaken by the Nelson Mandela Foundation to promote universal education in Africa and enhance the social development of African youth and children.

# # # For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary May 12, 2005

President Bush will welcome President Hamid Karzai of Afghanistan

President to Welcome President Karzai of Afghanistan to the White House

President Bush will welcome President Hamid Karzai of Afghanistan to the White House on May 23. President Karzai was elected last October in the first presidential election in Afghan history. President Karzai and President Bush last met in September 2004 in New York during the opening of the U.N. General Assembly. The two Presidents will discuss progress in the global war on terror, the Afghan people's achievements in building democracy, and ongoing cooperation on a range of bilateral, regional and international issues.

# # # For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary May 12, 2005

President Bush will welcome Prime Minister Nazif of the Arab Republic of Egypt

Visit by Prime Minister of the Arab Republic of Egypt Ahmed Mohamed Nazif

President Bush will welcome Prime Minister Nazif of the Arab Republic of Egypt to Washington on May 18, 2005. The President looks forward to discussing with Prime Minister Nazif a wide range of key bilateral and regional issues, including the President's efforts to promote democratic reform, achieve peace in the Middle East, and advance the war on terrorism.

# # # For Immediate Release, Office of the Press Secretary, May 12, 2005 Statement by the Press Secretary

President Bush will welcome Prime Minister Anders Fogh Rasmussen of Denmark

President Bush will welcome Prime Minister Anders Fogh Rasmussen to the White House on May 20, 2005. Denmark is a close friend and ally of the United States, and Prime Minister Rasmussen is a strong proponent of effective transatlantic cooperation. Under his leadership, Denmark has been a key partner in advancing freedom and democracy around the world. President Bush looks forward to discussing with the Prime Minster how Denmark and the United States can continue to support freedom and democracy, particularly in Iraq, Afghanistan, the Broader Middle East North Africa Initiative, NATO and U.S.-EU issues, as well as the President's current trip to Europe.

# # # For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary May 12, 2005 Statement by the Press Secretary

World Trade Week, 2005

World Trade Week, 2005, A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America

Free and fair trade creates jobs, raises living standards, and lowers prices for families throughout America. It also strengthens our relationships with other countries, helping us to forge new partnerships based on a commitment to generate new prosperity and a better way of life for people in America and throughout the world. This year, as we mark the tenth anniversary of the World Trade Organization, World Trade Week provides an opportunity to recognize the many benefits of free and fair trade in strengthening economies and improving lives.

Because 95 percent of the world's population resides outside of our borders, trade creates opportunities for American farmers, small businesses, and manufacturers to sell their products to consumers across the world. Trade also raises up the world's poor, bringing hope to those in despair.

Millions of American jobs depend on exports, and my Administration is committed to opening markets around the world for American products. Since 2001, we have completed free trade agreements with 12 nations, representing a combined market of 124 million consumers for American products, goods, and services. These agreements will create millions of new consumers for America's farmers, manufacturers, and small business owners, and deepen our friendships with countries in other parts of the world.

As we open up new markets to trade, we must always ensure that American workers are treated fairly. Our workers can compete with anyone, anywhere, so long as the rules are fair. My Administration will continue to enforce trade agreements and insist upon a level playing field for America's workers.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 15 through May 21, 2005, as World Trade Week. I encourage all Americans to observe this week with events, trade shows, and educational programs that celebrate the benefits of trade to our Nation and the global economy.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twelfth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand five, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty ninth.

GEORGE W. BUSH # # # For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary May 12, 2005

Emergency Supplemental Appropriations Act

Statement on H.R. 1268, the "Emergency Supplemental Appropriations Act for Defense, the Global War on Terror, and Tsunami Relief, 2005" On Wednesday, May 11 2005, the President signed into law:

H.R. 1268, the "Emergency Supplemental Appropriations Act for Defense, the Global War on Terror, and Tsunami Relief, 2005" which provides emergency supplemental FY 2005 appropriations for military operations, relief and reconstruction, and related activities critical to building stable democracies in Iraq and Afghanistan. This Act also provides funds to assist those suffered in the aftermath of the tsunami in the Indian Ocean in December 2004.

# # # For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary May 11, 2005

RELATED:

• Statement on H.R. 1268 - Today, I have signed into law H.R. 1268, the "Emergency Supplemental Appropriations Act for Defense, the Global War on Terror, and Tsunami Relief Act, 2005" (the "Act").

Statement on H.R. 1268

President's Statement on H.R. 1268

Today, I have signed into law H.R. 1268, the "Emergency Supplemental Appropriations Act for Defense, the Global War on Terror, and Tsunami Relief Act, 2005" (the "Act"). The Act provides funds for ongoing military and intelligence operations in Iraq and Afghanistan and selected other international activities, including tsunami relief and reconstruction. The Act supports new benefits for service members who have suffered traumatic injury and for survivors of fallen service members. The Act also provides additional border enforcement resources, which will strengthen the Nation's ability to prevent foreign terrorists from operating in the United States.

The executive branch shall construe subsection 1025(d) of the Act, which purports to determine the command relationships among certain elements of the U.S. Navy forces, as advisory, as any other construction would conflict with the President's constitutional authority as Commander in Chief.

Provisions of the Act, such as sections 2104 and 6024, purport to require congressional committee approval prior to certain obligations or expenditures of funds appropriated by the Act. The executive branch shall construe such provisions to require only prior notification to congressional committees, as any other construction would be contrary to the constitutional principles set forth by the Supreme Court of the United States in 1983 in INS v. Chadha.

Section 6025 purports to regulate the content of the President's annual budget submission, which is a proposal for enactment of legislation to appropriate funds. In addition, section 301 calls for submission of legislative recommendations by an executive branch official to the Congress. The executive branch shall construe these and any other similar provisions in a manner consistent with the Constitution's commitment to the President of exclusive authority to supervise the unitary executive branch and to recommend for the consideration of the Congress such measures as the President shall judge necessary and expedient.

Several provisions of the Act, including sections 6041, 6042, 6043, 6052, 6053, 6069, 6070, 6071, and 6072 make specified changes in statements of managers of the House Senate conference committees that accompanied various bills reported from conference that ultimately became laws. As with other committee materials, statements of managers accompanying a conference report do not have the force of law. Accordingly, although changes to these statements are directed by the terms of the Act, the statements themselves are not legally binding.

GEORGE W. BUSH THE WHITE HOUSE, May 11, 2005. # # # For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary May 11, 2005

Vice President, A Nation Honors Nancy Reagan

Vice President's Remarks at "A Nation Honors Nancy Reagan" The Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center Washington, D.C. 8:08 P.M. EDT

THE VICE PRESIDENT: Thank you very much. Thank you, Diane. And I'd like to respond to Diane's introduction. (Laughter.) But Lynne is here tonight, and I'd better not. (Laughter.)

But I'm delighted to be with all of you this evening on a very special occasion for Lynne and me to pay tribute to a great and beloved American, Nancy Reagan.

We're pleased as well to be joined by the congressional leadership; by members of the Reagan administration; current and former members of the Cabinet; and President Reagan's first appointee to the Supreme Court of the United States, Justice Sandra Day O'Connor. (Applause.)

So many of you here this evening have worked at the White House, or have been guests there from time to time. And you'll recall that one of the first rooms that visitors see is called the Vermeil Room, just off the corridor on the Ground Floor. If you go into the room, you see Aaron Shikler's portrait of Jacqueline Kennedy -- a painting that calls to mind a period of elegance and renewal in the White House. And just a few steps away you see another portrait -- equally stunning, painted by the same artist -- of a lady in red. She is Nancy Davis Reagan, and she, also, defined the beauty and the style of an entire era. (Applause.)

To this day our whole nation admires the wife of our 40th President for her graciousness and good taste, for the respect she held for the presidency and for the symbols of that office, for the causes she has served so generously and, above all, for the personal courage she has displayed in all the seasons of her life.

Nancy Reagan has never been one to speak of her own accomplishments, but her entire life is a story of great talent, of persevering character, and many successes. She is a graduate of Smith College who decided to become an actress, then made her own way in show business. The woman we honor this evening has appeared on Broadway, performed with touring companies, and starred in motion pictures with Gary Cooper, Ava Gardner, Barbara Stanwyck, Fredric March, Gene Kelly, and Ronald Reagan.

In fact, long before she ever met her husband, Nancy Davis had a contract with Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, and her beautiful face was familiar to millions of Americans.

Nancy had extraordinary, loving parents, and they both lived long enough to see their only daughter become a movie star, a devoted wife and mother, First Lady of California, and First Lady of the United States.

Her father, Loyal Davis, M.D., was chairman of the department of surgery at Northwestern University Medical School. For many decades, Dr. Davis was one of the most respected physicians in the United States, and he is remembered, professionally and personally, as the finest of men.

Nancy's mother was Edith Luckett Davis -- also a beautiful and kind-hearted woman, a former actress, and by all accounts a person of unlimited warmth and humor. A Catholic priest once told Nancy about the day he introduced Nancy's mother to the Bishop of Phoenix. He said he very cordially presented Mrs. Davis to the Bishop, and she curtsied in a very proper fashion. Then she turned to the priest and said, "Well, aren't you and I going to kiss? -- we always do that when the bishop isn't here." (Laughter.)

The Davis family included a devoted son-in-law. And every year on his wife's birthday, Ronald Reagan sent Edith Davis a bouquet of flowers, to thank her for giving birth to Nancy -- the woman who, in his words, "made my life complete."

The future President and First Lady of the United States were married at the Little Brown Church in Los Angeles. And ever after, both Nancy and Ronald Reagan would refer to the 4th of March, 1952 as the day their lives truly began.

For 52 years Nancy Reagan was at the side of this great man -- and she has shared with us so many wonderful stories of their life together. In her memoir Nancy explains that Ronald Reagan was not an early riser. She tells of the time in 1980 when her husband complained about campaign events being scheduled way too early in the day. A member of the staff said, "You'd better get used to it, Governor. If you become President, that fellow from the NSC is going to come in to brief you at 7:30 a.m. each morning." Reagan said, "Yeah, then he's going to have a hell of a long wait." (Laughter.)

As the Reagan presidency unfolded, our leader and his wife faced many challenges -- among them, of course, the shooting of the President and serious illnesses for both of them. Yet, perhaps because of the great strength they gained from each other, neither the President nor Nancy seemed to get older. Once somebody asked Ronald Reagan, "How come when I keep seeing new pictures of you on horseback, you always look younger?" The President replied, "That's easy, I just keep riding older horses." (Laughter.)

To think back on the Reagan years is to recall a time of rising prosperity in our country, and rising hopes for freedom in our world. In that era our national confidence was revived, our faith in the presidency was renewed, and the White House itself never looked better.

For eight years as First Lady of our land, Nancy Reagan was the very ideal of grace, and loyalty, and compassion. It wasn't just Ronald Reagan that she helped. She is the First Lady who gave new life to the Foster Grandparents Program, which has meant so much to older Americans and to children in need. She is the First Lady who enlisted herself in the fight against drugs and kept at it year after year, and without a doubt deserves a lot of the credit for a serious decline in drug use among teenagers. She now brings that same spirit to the cause of defeating Alzheimer's Disease -- not for any gain that could come to her, but because she is a woman of deep understanding and feeling.

I am very fortunate to know Mrs. Reagan, and to have known her husband. It has always seemed to me that no photograph could ever capture the true closeness of the Reagans. But if you spent any amount of time in their company, you could sense just how much Nancy meant to him, and how proud she made him every day. She once wrote, "I have never doubted for one single instant that Ronnie and I belong together." Our whole nation has always felt the same way. When we think of President Reagan, we always see Nancy beside him, and our respect for their service to America only grows with time.

Nearly a quarter century has passed since this remarkable woman stepped into American history as First Lady. Yet Nancy Reagan is still giving to our country, and still bringing happiness into the lives of others. She is a warm and familiar presence in American life. She remains one of the most admired women of our time. And we are joyful to be in her presence this evening.

Thank you very much. (Applause.)

END 8:18 P.M. EDT For Immediate Release Office of the Vice President May 11, 2005

Pamela E. Bridgewater, William Alan Eaton, Henrietta Holsman Fore, Mark AL Limbaugh

Nominations Sent to the Senate

Pamela E. Bridgewater, of Virginia, a Career Member of The Senior Foreign Service, Class of Minister-Counselor, to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America To the Republic of Ghana.

William Alan Eaton, of Virginia, a Career Member of the Senior Foreign Service, Class of Minister-Counselor, to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America To the Republic of Panama.

Henrietta Holsman Fore, of Nevada, to be An Under Secretary Of State , Vice Grant S. Green, Jr., Resigned.

Mark AL Limbaugh, of Idaho, to be An Assistant Secretary of The Interior, Vice Bennett William Raley, Resigned.

# # # For Immediate Release, Office of the Press Secretary, May 11, 2005

Pamela E. Bridgewater, Tamala Lynne Longaberger

President George W. Bush today announced his intention to nominate one individual and appoint one individual to serve in his Administration:

The President intends to nominate Pamela E. Bridgewater, of Virginia, to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Republic of Ghana. A career member of the Senior Foreign Service, Ambassador Bridgewater currently serves as Diplomat in Residence at Howard University. Most recently, she served as Deputy Assistant Secretary of State in the Bureau of African Affairs. She previously served as Chief of Mission in Cotonou, Benin. Earlier in her career, Ambassador Bridgewater served as Deputy Chief of Mission in Nassau, Principal Officer in Durban, and Political Officer in Pretoria. She earned her bachelor's degree from Virginia State University and her master's degree from the University of Cincinnati.

The President intends to appoint Tamala Lynne Longaberger, of Ohio, to be Chairperson of the National Women's Business Council. Ms. Longaberger currently serves as Chief Executive Officer of The Longaberger Company in Newark, Ohio. She began her career at The Longaberger Company over twenty years ago, and was President for ten years. Ms. Longaberger earned her bachelor's degree from the Ohio State University.

# # # Personnel Announcement For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary May 11, 2005

US-EU Joint Statement on Somalia

US-EU Joint Statement on Somalia

"The United States and the European Union welcome Somali efforts to conclude an agreement on the relocation of the Somali Transitional Federal Institutions to Somalia, including the efforts of the Somali parties to facilitate demilitarization in Mogadishu, which should be incorporated into a national plan as soon as possible.

"The Somali reconciliation process is at a critical stage. There is an urgent need for a viable agreement on relocation and security endorsed by the Transitional Federal Institutions. In order for this process to succeed, the Somali people, through the Transitional Federal Institutions, must make their own decisions regarding how best to relocate to Somalia and begin the gradual process of establishing governance.

"The European Union and United States urge all Somali parties to continue their efforts towards reconciliation and dialogue and quickly come to an agreement that will facilitate the relocation of the Transitional Federal Institutions to Somalia.

"The European Union and the United States also welcome the visit of Prime Minister Ali Mohamed Ghedi to Mogadishu. This visit represents a positive step forward in the reconciliation process. We deeply regret, however, the incident of May 3rd at Mogadishu Stadium during the Prime Minister’s visit and we extend our condolences to the families and relatives of the victims."

SOURCE: state.gov 2005/504 Press Statement Richard Boucher, Spokesman Washington, DC May 11, 2005

Venezuelan Oil Company Tax Proposal

Venezuelan Oil Company Tax Proposal (Taken Question)

Venezuelan Oil Company Tax Proposal Question: What does the United States think about the Venezuelan Government’s proposal to apply retroactive taxes to U.S. oil companies, for revenues they owed to that country, but allegedly failed to pay?

Answer: We have not seen the proposal, but as a general principle we would have serious concerns about any tax that is applied in a discriminatory manner against U.S. companies.

2005/504 Released on May 11, 2005 Taken Question Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC May 11, 2005 Question Taken at the May 11, 2005 Daily Press Briefing

Ethiopia: Human Rights Watch report on Oromia Region and Elections

Ethiopia: Human Rights Watch report on Oromia Region and Elections

Question: Does the United States have any reaction to the Human Rights Watch report on Ethiopia?

Answer: We have seen the Human Rights Watch report on the Oromia region of Ethiopia that was released today and are reviewing it. We regularly raise human rights concerns with the Ethiopian Government and discuss related issues with grass roots organizations, including the Ethiopian Human Right Council in Addis Ababa. We will continue to stress the importance of respect and promotion of human rights in our conversations with all Ethiopians. Our Embassy in Addis Ababa will be following the May 15 Ethiopian national and local elections carefully. The Carter Center will be observing the elections as well.

2005/500 Released on May 10, 2005 Taken Question Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC May 10, 2005 Question Taken from the May 10, 2005 Daily Press Briefing

Clearing Landmines and Aiding Disabled Orphans in Cambodia

Grapes for Humanity Raises Money for Clearing Landmines and Aiding Disabled Orphans in Cambodia

The U.S. Department of State salutes Grapes for Humanity U.S., Inc., a not-for-profit charitable foundation that works in partnership with the Department’s Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement, for raising $75,000 to help clear persistent landmines and assist disabled orphans, some injured by landmines, in Cambodia.

$50,000 will be directed to The HALO Trust, a non-governmental organization that specializes in landmine clearance, to help clear three minefields in Cambodia. $25,000 will be directed to the Lavalla School orphanage on the outskirts of Phnom Penh.

The money was raised at a charity dinner in New York City honoring Mr. Jean-Guillaume Prats, Chief Executive Officer of the Cos d’Estournel vineyards in France, featuring five of his best vintages generously contributed at no cost for this event. G.H. Mumm and Inniskillin also contributed some champagne and wine.

Grapes for Humanity U.S., Inc. is one of the Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement’s over fifty public-private partners that support humanitarian mine action (landmine and unexploded ordnance clearance, mine risk education, mine survivors assistance).

The Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement in the Bureau of Political-Military Affairs currently manages humanitarian mine action programs in 22 countries around the world including Cambodia, encourages public-private partnerships to support mine action, and oversees efforts to reduce illegal trafficking in and increase international safeguarding of small arms, light weapons and man-portable air defense systems (MANPADS). To learn more, visit state.gov/t/pm/wra.

Grapes for Humanity U.S., Inc., based in Toronto, Canada, seeks to improve the lives of survivors of landmines and other accidents and disasters. Through fundraising events centered on the tasting of fine wines, Grapes for Humanity has helped to support the rehabilitation of mine survivors in Angola, Cambodia, Ethiopia, Honduras and Nicaragua. To learn more, visit grapesforhumanity.com/. 2005/494 Released on May 10, 2005 Media Note Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC May 10, 2005

Pakistan Concerns About Guantanamo Allegations

Pakistan Concerns About Guantanamo Allegations

Question: Has the government of Pakistan protested to the United States about the report in this week’s Newsweek magazine alleging that U.S. interrogators in Guantanamo Bay desecrated the Quran during an interrogation?

Answer: The Government of Pakistan has expressed its serious concern to senior officials at our Embassy in Pakistan about these allegations.

All credible allegations of maltreatment or abuse of detainees at Guantanamo are reported and investigated. If these allegations prove to be substantiated, the perpetrators of abuses will be held accountable.

The alleged desecration, if it occurred, would be deplorable and completely out of keeping with our deeply-held values of religious freedom and tolerance. Desecration of the Holy Quran is a reprehensible act that would not be sanctioned by the United States for any purpose.

2005/499 Released on May 10, 2005 Taken Question Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC May 10, 2005 Question Taken at the May 10, 2005 Daily Press Briefing

Humanitarian Impact of Landmines

Public Access to Information about the Humanitarian Impact of Landmines

The Survey Action Center, a non-governmental organization, today unveiled a first-of-its kind web-based research tool, the “LIS Explorer,” funded by a $25,000 grant from the U.S. Department of State’s Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement, that enables decision makers and the general public to easily examine the results of Landmine Impact Surveys (LIS) in selected countries to better understand the scope of the problem and make more informed decisions.

The LIS Explorer contains extensive data on landmine and unexploded ordnance infestation and casualties in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Chad, northwestern Somalia (“Somaliland”), Thailand and Yemen. Data on Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Lebanon and northeastern Somalia will be added to it shortly.

Until the advent of the LIS Explorer, the locations of suspected mined areas, their relative impact on men, women, children and other demographic information, and degree to which the mines infested vital natural resources and infrastructure, were not accessible to the general public, nor readily available to government officials. Now, anyone with access to the Internet can use the LIS Explorer at sac-na.org/lisexplorer/ to review the findings of comprehensive nationwide landmine impact surveys. These surveys have already revealed that over 80 per cent of landmines’ social and economic harm is caused by less than 20 per cent of the world’s minefields. With the help of the LIS Explorer, officials in the surveyed countries and foreign donors will be able to more effectively prioritize landmine clearance, refine mine risk education campaigns, and better direct health care and psycho-social assistance to landmine survivors.

The Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement in the Bureau of Political-Military Affairs currently manages humanitarian mine action programs in 22 countries around the world, encourages public-private partnerships to support mine action, and oversees efforts to reduce illegal trafficking and increase international safeguarding of small arms, light weapons and man-portable air defense systems (MANPADS). To learn more, visit state.gov/t/pm/wra.

To learn more about the Survey Action Center, based in Takoma Park, Maryland, and its years of experience in conducting landmine and unexploded ordnance surveys worldwide, visit sac-na.org.
2005/496 Released on May 10, 2005

Media Note Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC May 10, 2005

U.S. Participation in the Arab-South American Summit in Brazil

U.S. Participation in the Arab-South American Summit in Brazil

Question: Did the United States ask the Brazilian government for permission to be an observer at the Summit of South America-Arab Countries?

Answer: During the early stages of planning for this summit, we asked the host, Brazil, if they intended to invite observers. We were informed that the organizers would not invite observers, since the summit was expected to be covered widely by the media. They also noted that the only Western Hemisphere countries being invited to participate in this summit were South American states.

2005/498 Released on May 10, 2005 Taken Question Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC May 10, 2005 Question Taken at the May 10, 2005 Daily Press Briefing

Doors to Diplomacy Award Winners Announced

Doors to Diplomacy Award Winners Announced

The Department of State is pleased to announce the selection of two winning websites for its 2005 Doors to Diplomacy Award. The awards recognize the websites that best teach about the importance of international affairs and diplomacy. A total of 293 student teams from 39 countries, ranging in age from 15-18, participated in the contest, which was co-sponsored by the Department of State and Global SchoolNet.

The winning sites are: All the World Is One: This site, built by a team of students from Gurgaon, Haryana, India, explores international security by considering global realities and threats while celebrating the mutual cooperation and celebration that support diplomacy.

Vaccinations for Nations: This site was built by a team of students from Toledo, Ohio, USA. Their site aims to educate young people about the diseases that ravage innocent children, and also provides ways students can help.

Each student member of the winning Doors to Diplomacy Award teams will receive a $2,000 scholarship and a trip to Washington, DC this spring, where they will receive a private tour of the State Department facilities, meet with key officials, and participate in a special award presentation ceremony. In addition, the winning coaches and schools will each receive a $500 cash award.

Judging was performed by peers and educational professionals, with the final selections made by a team of State Department judges from the Bureaus of Public Affairs and Educational and Cultural Affairs. The winning sites will be linked from the State Department's youth site at future.state.gov/ later this month.

Global SchoolNet is a non-profit, Internet-based education program. The Doors to Diplomacy Award was specially created for Cyberfair, a contest that encourages students and educators to join together to build high-quality, educational websites on a variety of topics. These website entries will be available on the web as learning tools to millions of people around the globe.

To learn more about Doors to Diplomacy projects visit: globalschoolhouse.org/doors/

For more information, contact: Yvonne Marie Andres Global SchoolNet Telephone: 760-635-0001 E-mail: diplomacy@globalschoolnet.org or Janice Clark U.S. Department of State Telephone: 703-875-5086E-mail: clarkje4@state.gov 2005/490 Released on May 9, 2005 Media Note, Office of the Spokesman, Washington, DC, May 9, 2005

Quartet Statement

Quartet Statement, Following is the text of the Quartet Statement: BEGIN TEXT:

The Quartet met today in Moscow. The Quartet emphasizes that this is a hopeful and promising moment for both Palestinians and Israelis, and that they deserve the full support of the international community in helping them with the hard work and difficult decisions required in order to make positive use of this opportunity. The Quartet welcomed the commitments of the parties at the Sharm el-Sheikh summit of February 8 and urged them to renew their efforts to fulfill the commitments they agreed to at that time, in order to maintain momentum at this fragile moment of opportunity. The Quartet, underscoring the urgency of the matter, affirms its commitment to fully support the efforts of both parties to ensure successful Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and parts of the northern West Bank.

The Quartet strongly reiterated its commitment to the two-state solution, and to Israeli withdrawal as a way to re-energize the Roadmap. The Quartet stresses the importance of full and complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza in a manner consistent with the Roadmap as an important step paving the way toward realizing the vision of two democratic states, Israel and Palestine, living side by side in peace and security. The Quartet affirms that a new Palestinian state must be truly viable, with contiguity in the West Bank; reminds all concerned that a state of scattered territories will not work; and emphasizes that no party should take unilateral actions that prejudge final status issues. The Quartet also affirms that the two-state vision and the Roadmap are the best means of achieving a settlement negotiated between the two parties, leading to a permanent peace and an end to the occupation that began in 1967. With respect to this, the Quartet observes that the Roadmap has been endorsed by Israel and the Palestinian Authority and remains the objective of the international community; and urges both parties to take steps to fulfill all their obligations under the Roadmap.

The Quartet expresses its full support for its Special Envoy for Gaza Disengagement, James Wolfensohn. His mandate is to focus on the non-security aspects of withdrawal, particularly disposition of assets; passages, access and trade; and revival of the Palestinian economy during and after Israeli withdrawal. This will require close coordination with both Israel and the Palestinians to identify and implement those actions and policies that will ensure a smooth and successful implementation of the Israeli initiative. On the Palestinian side, this includes above all a strong commitment to security reform and performance; and the building of transparent, accountable government institutions and an investor-friendly climate, with a view to restoring growth. On the Israeli side, this involves relieving the economic hardships faced by the Palestinian people and facilitating rehabilitation and reconstruction by easing the system of restrictions on the movement of Palestinian people and goods and taking further steps to respect the dignity of the Palestinian people and improve their quality of life -without endangering Israeli security -and taking into consideration the World Bank report of December 2004. At the London meeting on March 1, the international community underscored its readiness to play a vital role by providing financial support to the Palestinians at this critical moment. Creating the environment conducive for a long-term, sustainable and viable economic development of all the Palestinian territories would constitute a suitable basis for additional assistance efforts by the international community.

The Quartet emphasizes Mr. Wolfensohn's mandate to promote direct dialogue and cooperation between Palestinians and Israelis on these economic issues, to ensure a smooth transition in Gaza and parts of the northern West Bank. In this context, the Quartet stresses the urgent need for Israelis and Palestinians to coordinate directly and fully on withdrawal preparations.

The Quartet recognizes that economic development and progress on security go hand in hand as security reforms and the reestablishment of the rule of law are necessary to create an enabling environment for economic growth and political progress. The Quartet also recognizes the need for continued efforts by the international community to assist the PA in accomplishing these tasks, including rebuilding the capabilities of the Palestinian security services. Ongoing assistance by the international community, in particular members of the Quartet and countries of the region, constitutes a significant contribution to these efforts. The Quartet calls upon Israel and the Palestinian Authority to facilitate these efforts.

In that regard, the Quartet expresses its full support for General William Ward, U.S. Security Coordinator, to assist the Palestinians in reforming and restructuring their security forces, and to coordinate international assistance towards those efforts. The Quartet welcomes the recent concrete steps that President M. Abbas has taken towards reform of the Palestinian security services, and stresses the need to continue implementation of these reforms in order to permanently reinstate law and order in Gaza and the West Bank.

The Quartet commends the Palestinian people's and leadership's commitment to democracy and attaches great importance to a successful continuation of the democratic process. The latest round of municipal elections has just been conducted. The Quartet commends the Government of Israel for facilitating the operations. The holding of free, fair, and transparent multi-party legislative elections in the West Bank, Gaza and East Jerusalem, under the scrutiny of international observers, will be another vital step forward on the path towards building a reformed and accountable Palestinian Authority. As additional voter registration for these elections has just begun, the Quartet calls on both the PA and Israel to urgently take all necessary steps, including freedom of movement for candidates and voters, to achieve this goal and renews its offers of technical support and providing election observation services.

The Quartet deems it necessary to ensure continued efforts aimed at full implementation of the Roadmap following Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and parts of the northern West Bank.

The Quartet reiterates its commitment to the principles outlined in its previous statements, including those of March 1, 2005 and May 4, 2004; and reaffirms its commitment to a just, comprehensive, and lasting settlement to the Arab-Israeli conflict based upon resolutions 242 and 338, and will remain engaged with all parties to help ensure that progress towards this goal is achieved.

SOURCE: state.gov END TEXT. 2005/487 Released on May 9, 2005 Press Statement Tom Casey, Acting Spokesperson Moscow, Russia May 9, 2005

Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement

U.S. Department of State Awards Multiple Contracts to Clean Up Battlefields and Control Conventional Weapons

The Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement in the Bureau of Political-Military Affairs has competitively awarded performance-based service contracts to ArmorGroup North America, DynCorp International LLC, and RONCO Consulting Corporation. They are to provide a full range of peace-enhancing services around the world ranging from landmine clearance to the construction of facilities to secure a variety of small arms and light weapons.

The three indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity contracts have a total, maximum potential value of up to $500 million over a term of one base year and four option years. No funds are being obligated at this time. Funds will be obligated on task orders to be competed among the three awardees.

The Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement manages the State Department’s portion of the multi-agency U.S. Humanitarian Mine Action Program, the world’s largest such program and one of its oldest. The office also conducts humanitarian mine action (landmine clearance, mine risk education and mine survivors assistance) in 22 countries at present and operates the world’s only Quick Reaction Demining Force that can be deployed globally on short notice. It will also continue to help countries destroy or better secure their excess munitions and light conventional weapons.

The services provided by these three prime contractors will enable the Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement to continue to undertake these vital functions. To learn more about the Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement, visit state.gov/wra.

Visit the ArmorGroup North America (armorgroup.com/servicesMineAction), DynCorp International LLC (dyncorpinternational.com/dyncorp) and and RONCO Consulting Corporation (roncoconsulting.com/hmc) websites to learn about their expertise in removing explosive remnants of war, training local personnel to safely clear landmines, developing host-nation humanitarian mine action capacity building, providing logistics, supply, physical security, and other related services.

SOURCE: state.gov 2005/489 Released on May 9, 2005 Media Note Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC May 9, 2005

President Discusses Foreign Trip with Members of Congress

President Discusses Foreign Trip with Members of Congress, FULL STREAMING VIDEO The Cabinet Room President's Remarks, 3:05 P.M. EDT

THE PRESIDENT: I thank the members of Congress for coming down to give me and the Secretary of State a chance to talk about our recent trip to Europe. It was a great trip, and it's such an honor to represent the United States.

Sitting in Red Square honoring the veterans of World War II was an amazing event. I remember as a kid watching the missiles parade through Red Square -- and here I sat as the President of the United States in Red Square, paying homage to people who died to defeat Nazism. And I was sitting beside a friend. Russia is not an enemy; Russia is our friend. And it's important that we work together to achieve peace. Obviously, we have a difference of opinion on certain issues, but we don't have a difference of opinion on working together for peace.

I went to the Baltics, had a great trip to Latvia. It's such an inspiring experience to be in countries that are newly-minted democracies that love freedom. And I met with civil society advocates. I look forward to briefing you on the situation that this young democracy faces in making sure that all people are participating in the democracy.

Went to The Netherlands. Her Majesty kindly came and visited, paid a visit with us. I laid a wreath with Her Majesty, honoring the U.S. soldiers who died at the end of World War II. Interestingly enough, some of my father-in-law's unit were there, and it was neat for Laura to be able to hug them and to remember her dad, as she paid tribute to the veterans.

Then I went to Georgia. It was -- standing in front of 150,000 people that love freedom was a fantastic experience.

The lessons of World War II is to honor the sacrifice of those who helped us keep the peace, and to remember that the United States is always the beacon of freedom, and that when we find people living under tyranny we've got to work to free them in order to make the world more peaceful.

And so I want to thank you all for coming. I look forward to briefing you in specific on some of the conversations I had and I'm looking forward to your comments, as well.

END 3:08 P.M. EDT For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary May 11, 2005

NOAA and National Hurricane Preparedness Week

NOAA OFFICIALS TO ANNOUNCE 2005 ATLANTIC HURRICANE SEASON OUTLOOK, Event Kicks Off National Hurricane Preparedness Week

WHAT: Representatives from NOAA and hurricane preparedness partner organizations will kick off National Hurricane Preparedness Week with the release of the 2005 Atlantic Hurricane Season Outlook.

WHAT: News conference opens the 2005 Atlantic Hurricane Season by:

• Issuing NOAA's 2005 Atlantic Hurricane Season Outlook
• Announcing Presidential Proclamation for National Hurricane Preparedness Week

NOAA hurricane hunter aircraft—the WP-3 Orion and Gulfstream IV—will be on site.

WHEN: Monday, May 16, 2005, 11:30 a.m. CDT, Coordinates for live satellite broadcast will follow in a second advisory.

WHERE: Stennis International Airport, Bay St. Louis, Miss. The airport is one mile north of the Interstate 10 interchange with Mississippi highway 603.

WHO: Vice Admiral Conrad C. Lautenbacher, Jr., USN (Ret.), undersecretary of commerce for oceans and atmosphere and NOAA administratorMichael D. Brown, undersecretary of homeland security for emergency preparedness and response and director, FEMABrigadier General David L. Johnson, USAF (Ret.), assistant administrator for Weather Services and director, NOAA National Weather ServiceMax Mayfield, director, NOAA National Hurricane Center

Relevant Web Sites: NOAA Hurricane Center, NOAA Hurricanes Page

Media Contact: Frank Lepore, NOAA Hurricane Center, (305) 229-4404

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 10, 2005 MEDIA ADVISORY

National Hurricane Preparedness Week, 2005

National Hurricane Preparedness Week, 2005, A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America

Each year from June through November, Americans living on the Eastern seaboard and along the Gulf of Mexico face an increased threat of hurricanes. These powerful storms can create severe flooding, cause power outages, and damage homes and businesses with their high winds, tornadoes, storm surges, and heavy rainfall. The effects of these storms can be devastating to families and cause lasting economic distress. During National Hurricane Preparedness Week, we call attention to the importance of planning ahead and securing our homes and property in advance of storms.

Last year, six hurricanes and three tropical storms hit the United States, causing the loss of dozens of lives and billions of dollars in damage. Across the United States, Americans responded to these natural disasters with extraordinary strength, compassion, and generosity. Many volunteers donated their time and talents to help with the cleanup, recovery, and rebuilding of communities devastated by the hurricanes and tropical storms.

To prepare for the 2005 hurricane season, I urge all our citizens to become aware of the dangers of hurricanes and tropical storms and to learn how to minimize their destructive effects. Our Nation's weather researchers and forecasters continue to improve the accuracy of hurricane warnings, enabling residents and visitors to prepare for storms. By working together, Federal, State, and local agencies, first responders, the news media, and private citizens can help save lives and diminish the damage caused by these natural disasters.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 15 through May 21, 2005, as National Hurricane Preparedness Week. I call upon government agencies, private organizations, schools, and the news media to share information about hurricane preparedness and response to help save lives and prevent property damage. I also call upon Americans living in hurricane-prone areas of our Nation to use this opportunity to learn more about protecting themselves against the effects of hurricanes and tropical storms.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this tenth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand five, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty ninth.

GEORGE W. BUSH

# # # For Immediate Release, Office of the Press Secretary, May 10, 2005

Nominations Sent to the Senate 05/10/05

Nominations Sent to the Senate

James M. Derham, of Virginia, a Career Member of the Senior Foreign Service, Class of Minister-Counselor, to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Republic of Guatemala.

Robert Johann Dieter, of Colorado, to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to Belize.

Rodney E. Hood, of North Carolina, to be a Member of the National Credit Union Administration Board for a term expiring April 10, 2009, vice Dennis Dollar, resigned.

Zalmay Khalilzad, of Maryland, to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to Iraq.

Jill L. Sigal, of Wyoming, to be an Assistant Secretary of Energy (Congressional and Intergovernmental Affairs), vice Rick A. Dearborn.

John J. Sullivan, of Maryland, to be General Counsel of the Department of Commerce, vice Theodore William Kassinger, resigned.

James Philip Terry, of Virginia, to be Chairman of the Board of Veterans' Appeals for a term of six years, vice Eligah Dane Clark, term expired.

Rodolphe M. Vallee, of Vermont, to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Slovak Republic.

R. Thomas Weimer, of Colorado, to be an Assistant Secretary of the Interior, vice Patricia Lynn Scarlett.

# # # For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary May 10, 2005

50th Anniversary of the Austrian State Treaty

President George W. Bush today announced the designation of a Presidential Delegation to Austria to attend the 50th Anniversary of the Austrian State Treaty on May 15, 2005.

The Honorable Rudolph E. Boschwitz, Ambassador and Representative of the United States of America on the Human Rights Commission of the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations, will lead the delegation.

Members of the Presidential Delegation are:

The Honorable W.L. Lyons Brown, Ambassador of the United States to Austria

The Honorable Vincent Obsitnik, Member, U.S. Commission for the Preservation of America's Heritage Abroad

Mr. Alfred Hoffman, Chairman of the Board of Directors, WCI Communities, Inc.

Mr. Davis Phillips, Chairman and CEO, Phillips Industries, Inc.

# # # For Immediate Release, Office of the Press Secretary, May 10, 2005 Personnel Announcement

Mark A. Limbaugh, Henrietta Holsman Fore, William Alan Eaton

President George W. Bush today announced his intention to nominate three individuals to serve in his Administration:

The President intends to nominate Mark A. Limbaugh, of Idaho, to be Assistant Secretary of the Interior (Water and Science). Mr. Limbaugh currently serves as Deputy Commissioner of the Bureau of Reclamation at the Department of the Interior. He previously served as Payette River Watermaster for Water District 65 in Payette, Idaho. Earlier in his career, Mr. Limbaugh served as Executive Director for the Payette River Water Users Association. He earned his bachelor's degree from the University of Idaho.

The President intends to nominate Henrietta Holsman Fore, of Nevada, to be Under Secretary of State for Management. She currently serves as the 37th Director of the United States Mint. Director Fore previously served as Chairman and President of Stockton Products. Earlier in her career, she worked at the United States Agency for International Development as Assistant Administrator for Asia and as Assistant Administrator for Private Enterprise. Director Fore earned her bachelor's degree from Wellesley College and her master's degree from the University of Northern Colorado.

The President intends to nominate William Alan Eaton, of Virginia, to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Republic of Panama. A career member of the Senior Foreign Service, Mr. Eaton currently serves as Assistant Secretary for Administration at the Department of State. He previously served as Executive Director of the Bureau of European Affairs at the Department of State. Earlier in his career, Mr. Eaton worked in various offices in the State Department, including the Office of the Deputy Secretary, Under Secretary for Management and the Assistant Secretaries for Administration and Diplomatic Security. He has also served in various positions at U.S. Missions in Guyana, the Soviet Union, Italy, and Turkey. He earned his bachelor's degree from the University of Virginia.

# # # For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary May 10, 2005 Personnel Announcement

President's Statement on Judicial Nominations

President's Statement on Judicial Nominations

Four years ago today, I nominated Justice Priscilla Owen and Judge Terry Boyle to serve on the Federal courts of appeals. Four years later, neither has received an up-or-down vote in the Senate. Both have been rated well-qualified by the American Bar Association, the highest ABA rating a judicial nominee can receive. Both have been waiting to fill vacancies that have been designated judicial emergencies by the Judicial Conference of the United States. Much more than enough time has passed for the Senate to consider these nominations. The Senate should give these extraordinarily qualified nominees the up-or-down votes they deserve without further delay.

It is only fair that the Senate promptly consider judicial nominees on the floor, discuss and debate their qualifications, and then vote to confirm or not to confirm them. Nominees who have the support of a majority of the Senate should be confirmed. Unfortunately, a minority of Senators is blocking the will of the Senate.

Over the course of the past four years, the blocking of judicial nominees in the Senate has escalated to an unprecedented level. Last Congress, ten of my appeals court nominees were filibustered. Each of these highly qualified nominees enjoyed the bipartisan support of a majority of Senators. Each would have been confirmed if given a simple up-or-down vote. Each deserved a simple up-or-down vote by the entire Senate.

I urge the Senate to put aside the partisan practices of the past and work together to ensure that all nominees are treated fairly and that all Americans receive timely justice in our Federal courts.

### For Immediate Release, Office of the Press Secretary, May 9, 2005

President Addresses and Thanks Citizens in Tbilisi, Georgia

President Addresses and Thanks Citizens in Tbilisi, Georgia, FULL STREAMING VIDEO Freedom Square, Tbilisi, Georgia, 1:27 P.M. (Local)

PRESIDENT BUSH: Mr. President, thank you for that introduction. Citizens of a free Georgia, Laura and I were in the neighborhood -- we thought we'd swing by and say gamarjoba. (Applause.)

I am proud to stand beside a President who has shown such spirit, determination, and leadership in the cause of freedom. (Applause.) And Laura and I are proud to stand with the courageous people of Georgia, in this place that has earned a proud name -- Freedom Square. (Applause.)

When Georgians gathered here 16 years ago, this square had a different name. Under Lenin's steely gaze, thousands of Georgians prayed and sang, and demanded their independence. The Soviet army crushed that day of protest, but they could not crush the spirit of the Georgian people. (Applause.)

The following year, Georgians returned to this square and pulled down the statue of Lenin. And on April 9th, 1991, you declared to the world that Soviet Georgia was no more, and that the independent nation of Georgia was born. (Applause.) On that historic day, you reclaimed your sovereignty, but the hopeful start you made was not fulfilled. So 18 months ago, Georgians returned to this square to complete the task you began in 1989. You gathered here armed with nothing but roses and the power of your convictions, and you claimed your liberty. And because you acted, Georgia is today both sovereign and free, and a beacon of liberty for this region and the world. (Applause.)

The path of freedom you have chosen is not easy, but you will not travel it alone. Americans respect your courageous choice for liberty. And as you build a free and democratic Georgia, the American people will stand with you. (Applause.)

You are building a free future for your children and grandchildren, and you are helping other nations to do the same. When the Afghan people defied terrorists to vote in that nation's first free presidential elections, Georgian soldiers were there to provide security. (Applause.) And last year -- and last year, when terrorist violence in Iraq was escalating, Georgia showed her courage. You increased your troop commitment in Iraq fivefold. The Iraqi people are grateful, and so are your American and coalition allies. (Applause.)

You are making many important contributions to freedom's cause, but your most important contribution is your example. In recent months, the world has marveled at the hopeful changes taking place from Baghdad to Beirut to Bishkek. But before there was a Purple Revolution in Iraq, or an Orange Revolution in Ukraine, or a Cedar Revolution in Lebanon, there was the Rose Revolution in Georgia. (Applause.) Your courage is inspiring democratic reformers and sending a message that echos across the world: Freedom will be the future of every nation and every people on Earth. (Applause.)

Building a free society is the work of generations. It took nearly 15 years of struggle before liberty and justice fully took root in this country. Many of the students and workers who gathered here on this square 18 months ago were too young to remember the protests of 1989, but they took up freedom's cause and finished the work that their parents had begun. (Applause.)

Now, across the Caucasus, in Central Asia and the broader Middle East, we see the same desire for liberty burning in the hearts of young people. They are demanding their freedom -- and they will have it. (Applause.)

As free nations, the United States and Georgia have great responsibilities, and together, we will do our duty. Free societies are peaceful societies. And by extending liberty to millions who have not known it, we will advance the cause of freedom, and we will advance the cause of peace. (Applause.)

In this global struggle for liberty, our duties begin at home. While peaceful revolutions can bring down repressive regimes, the real changes and the real challenge is to build up free institutions in their place. This is difficult work, and you are undertaking it with dignity and determination. (Applause.) You have taken tough steps to reform your economy and to crack down on corruption. You are building a democratic society where the rights of minorities are respected, where a free press flourishes, a vigorous opposition is welcome, and unity is achieved through peace. In this new Georgia, the rule of law will prevail, and freedom will be the birthright of every citizen. (Applause.)

This was a dream of your late Prime Minister Zhvania who once said, "It is not by mere chance that we have adopted two very important ideas as our watch words: freedom and responsibility." Today, we pay tribute to this Georgian patriot who became a great leader of the global democratic revolution. In building a free and responsible society, you honor his memory and you carry on his legacy. (Applause.

As you build free institutions at home, the ties that bind our nations will grow deeper, as well. We respect Georgia's desire to join the institutions of Europe. We encourage your closer cooperation with NATO. Georgia's leaders know that the peaceful resolution of conflict is essential to your integration into the transatlantic community. At the same time, the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Georgia must be respected -- the territorial [sic] and sovereignty of Georgia must be respected by all nations. (Applause.)

We are living in historic times when freedom is advancing, from the Black Sea to the Caspian, and to the Persian Gulf and beyond. As you watch free people gathering in squares like this across the world, waving their nations' flags and demanding their God-given rights, you can take pride in this fact: They have been inspired by your example and they take hope in your success. (Applause.)

As you build freedom in this country, you must know that the seeds of liberty you are planting in Georgian soil are flowering across the globe. (Applause.) I have come here to thank you for your courage. The American people value your friendship, and admire your determination. On behalf of all Americans, thank you, God bless you. Sakartvelos gaumarjos. (Applause.)

END 1:45 P.M. (Local) For Immediate Release, Office of the Press Secretary, May 10, 2005

President and President Saakashvili Discuss NATO, Democracy

President and President Saakashvili Discuss NATO, Democracy Parliament Building Tbilisi, Georgia 10:27 A.M. (Local)

PRESIDENT SAAKASHVILI: I'll say a few words in English. I want to welcome you, Mr. President, for this historic occasion. You know, right now we have in the streets of Tbilisi, as they are telling me, more than 150,000 people assembled, and I can tell you, no event in the history of this country has ever assembled anything close to these numbers. It shows the importance of this visit.

I can tell you, and you were seeing, yesterday crowds -- unfortunately, I didn't see them on the networks -- I mean, there were CNN and the others -- but they were there and we could see them, the crowds along the airport. And of course, it was very genuine. This is not North Korea here; you cannot tell people to go out unless -- if they don't feel like it. (Laughter.) And it was a very -- I mean, for me, it was something very emotional. The posters they made were very emotional.

You know, outside this building, 18 months ago, also 100,000 Georgians came in defense of democracy with a dream of living free. And in the weeks and months after the Rose Revolution, no country stood closer to Georgia than the United States, whether it was diplomatic support, economic aid, security assistance, or --, the United States was there. For this support, the Georgian people will be eternally grateful.

So I once again, want to welcome Mr. President to Georgia. The partnership between the U.S. and Georgia is about more, and we should make it very clear the strategic interests -- more than oil pipelines, more than any kind of economic or military cooperation; it's about shared values and our shared belief in freedom and in democracy.

And President Bush is a man of vision who believes in the triumph of liberty over forces of tyranny. I know he was also inspired by our journey toward democracy. President Bush is in Georgia because we agree that free people cannot rest while tyranny exists. We know that our liberty must be defended from those who seek to extinguish it. And of course, when we are together, that's much more hopeful and much more efficient.

That's why over 800 troops are in Iraq -- Georgian troops side-by-side with the Americans, and Iraqis and many others, to defeat those who live only to kill, to enslave, to frighten people. That is why Georgians are in Afghanistan, and NATO-led missions, and that is why we appreciate the U.S. support for our NATO aspirations, just like the U.S. supported Ukraine on its NATO aspirations.

The United States supports the total integrity of Georgia within its internationally recognized borders. We appreciate this support and recognize our responsibilities. We will peacefully resolve our disputes with our long-suffering South Ossetian and Abkhaz citizens and the territories. We will widen and deepen our democratic reforms to better the lives of Georgians. And we seek friendly relations with all our neighbors. And we know we can count on the support of the United States in all these vital tasks.

Mr. President, you are a decisive and visionary leader. Georgia is humbled and honored that you have come to visit our small country, but great land. We Georgians have a belief that guests are a gift from God, and you are a most treasured guest. Mr. President, welcome.

PRESIDENT BUSH: Thank you, Mr. President. I'm -- first, I'm so grateful for your hospitality. Laura and I really enjoyed our time last night. I learned firsthand what it means to be fed by a Georgian. I'm really full. (Laughter.) And the food was great. I should have eaten my meal first, and then danced. (Laughter.)

The cultural dancing and singing was spectacular. It was really impressive. And I want to thank those who put on the performance last night.

I also appreciate our visit today. We had a very frank discussion. That's what I like about the President. He speaks his mind. If he's got something on his mind, he'll tell you. What I find on his mind is very refreshing; he loves democracy and loves freedom, and he loves the people of Georgia.

The Rose Revolution was a powerful moment in modern history. It not only inspired the people of Georgia, it inspired others around the world that want to live in a free society. I think people will look back at this moment in history and be -- and marvel at the courage of people who have said, I want generations to grow up in a hopeful world.

And so, Mr. President, thank you for setting such a good example, you and your people. I appreciate the reforms you have put in place here. Georgia has come a long way very quickly. The President recognizes there's a lot of work to be done to leave the foundations, institutional foundations in place, so that no one will ever be able to overturn democracy. That's an independent judiciary, rule of law, free media. He was complaining about the media, which is a good sign. (Laughter.) It means you're free. I sometimes complain about ours, but not too publicly, of course.

I'm looking forward to the meeting with members of the civil society. The President kindly set up a meeting where I will remind people that a truly democratic society is one that honors and respects minorities. This is a very diverse country. You've had a great tradition of honoring minorities in this country, and your democracy will continue to do so.

We talked about NATO. The President is very clear about his intentions to meet the obligations to join NATO. And, Mr. President, we look forward to working with you to meet those obligations. NATO is a very important alliance for the United States of America. It's a place where we have our strategic conversations with our transatlantic friends, and we want to help you achieve your objective there.

I thank the President again; I want to thank the people of Georgia for contributing troops to Iraq and Afghanistan. You've got a fine group of people that are helping serve the cause of freedom. We discussed the way forward in Iraq, discussed the importance of a democracy in the greater Middle East in order to leave behind a peaceful tomorrow. We talked about the peaceful resolution of regional issues. And I look forward to working with the President on his request, if he so chooses, to help deal with some of these issues, like stuff he says here --*. But one of the things that I was most appreciative of is his full understanding of the need and the desire to settle these issues peacefully. And I'm confident, with good work and cooperation, we can solve them peacefully. He can solve them peacefully, with our help.

This has been a visit I've really been looking forward to. I look forward to going into Freedom Square -- think about that -- Freedom Square -- to represent my country and to give our thanks to the Georgian people for the example they've set, and the pledge to the Georgian people that you've got a solid friend in America.

Thank you, Mr. President.

PRESIDENT SAAKASHVILI: Thank you, Mr. President. So we'll have, like, two questions each. First, I guess, Georgian journalists, and then whoever.

Q Shall I ask the question in Georgian?

PRESIDENT BUSH: You can ask anybody you want. You can ask me --

Q I have a question to President Bush. Did you have a conversation with Putin regarding the military bases, with old military bases from Georgia? Do you think this question and this issue will be the decision of the OSCE Summit?

PRESIDENT BUSH: This question was about the presence of military troops -- Russian troops in Georgia. We discussed this at the meeting with President Putin at his house. He knew that I was coming to Georgia, of course. I said I was looking forward to talking to my friend, President Saakashvili, and was confident that the issue of military bases would come up. After all, we discussed this -- (inaudible) -- and I've discussed this issue with the Russians before, as well. So this isn't the first time I've had this conversation with President Putin on this issue. -- (inaudible) -- an agreement in place -- (inaudible) -- said to the Russians, we want to work with the government to fulfill -- (inaudible) -- and I think that is a commitment, an important commitment for the people of Georgia to hear, and it's a -- it shows there's grounds for work to get this issue resolved.

Jennifer.

Q Sir, how important is it for the United States to step into issues like that troop issue, to ensure democratic progress? And also, does your commitment to democracy mean that separatist regions deserve independence -- deserve independence if they want it?

PRESIDENT BUSH: Two points to that question. One, my commitment to democracy means that democracies can solve their problems in peaceful ways. And in terms of separatist movements within a -- within Georgia, that, one, the issue can be resolved peacefully; secondly, it will be resolved in a transparent way. The President has put a way forward that encourages autonomy and self-government, but does not encourage dividing up this great country. It would seem like to me to be a very reasonable proposition. But his commitment, and an important commitment, is one that this issue will be resolved peacefully.

And secondly, it's always important for the United States to stand strongly for democracy and freedom. That's what we believe in. And so standing with the President of Georgia should send a message that we embrace freedom movements and we stand with young democracies and we want to help where we can help build the institutions that outlast the moment, so that future generations of Georgians can grow up in a free society. And we've got a great partner in President Saakashvili. He is a strong believer in democracy. And I appreciate his leadership on the issue.

PRESIDENT SAAKASHVILI: Well, just to add one thing, that certainly I believe that -- I believe in strong self-government. I myself came to this -- to my office from self-government. I know what self-government means. I know how people can feel strongly about their identities. Georgia's strength is its diversity. It's not its weakness, it's our strength.

Now, the problem with those regions are, especially with Abkhazia, that they're throughout almost whole populations.* So we are talking about democratic choice. First, those people should be able to regain their property, to regain their right to there, to regain their right to be safe, and rules for their self-government, rules for autonomy, rules for all kind of arrangement that would materialize their rights. It's not like this, that you throw out the people and then you hold elections with ten percent of the population to decide, and you call it democracy. It's not democracy, it's something else. And that's why it's so important to speak about peace, about peaceful settlements, about democratic choices within the framework of peace, because when guns speak, then people cannot materialize their rights. That's obvious for us. And we suffered a lot, and this region suffered enough from the conflicts and we don't want any more of them. And this is our very strong position.

Q Question to Mr. Bush. You discussed the settlement -- in Georgia, and United States will play an active role in this process. In specific, what kind of help United States can offer to Georgia for conflict resolution? Because Georgian government has a position to settle this resolution peacefully and this conflict peaceful. Do you think that the main problem is outside force?

PRESIDENT BUSH: -- (inaudible) -- disputes. And first, I'm confident that the government of Georgia has got a good society go move forward to resolve the disputes. And obviously, if the President were to call and want me to make a phone call or two, I'd be more than happy to do so. But this is a dispute that is going to be resolved by the Georgian government and by the folks in the separatist regions.

The United States cannot impose a solution, nor would you want us to. But what we can do is we can help. We can work with international bodies and work with the U.N., for example. We can work with other groups, all aimed at helping resolve this issue peacefully. But this is an issue that will be resolved by the duly-elected government of Georgia in a peaceful way. And the President has, as just mentioned, reached out in a constructive way, suggested autonomy and self-government, but he doesn't want to -- he wants the country to remain intact. And we're more than willing. And, listen, we talk quite often. When he calls, if he's got some suggestions where I can -- where he thinks I can help and I think it makes sense, I will be glad to do so.

Q Did you get President Putin to see the importance of democracies on his border? And you've also complimented a recent speech he gave on democracy. But has he taken any concrete steps to satisfy your concerns?

PRESIDENT BUSH: Well, he gave the speech, I think, three days ago, and it was -- or maybe four or five days ago -- it was a very constructive speech, I thought, where he did talk about the benefits of democracy for his people. And democracies are peaceful countries. And when you have peaceful countries on your border, it -- you benefit. And Georgia is a peaceful country. Georgia is a democracy. The people here are trying to right the wrongs of the past and move forward. The President spends a lot of time talking to me about economic improvements, entrepreneurship and small businesses, and vitality of the economy so people can make a living. And when you have countries focused on the needs of the people, it tends to make them peaceful neighbors.

And so, over time, any country will recognize the benefits of democracy on her border. And I'm confident Russia will recognize the benefits of having democracies on her border. And Georgia is a great example of a peaceful democracy, that wants to resolve whatever lingering disputes there may be in a peaceful fashion.

And so I want to, one, again thank the President for his hospitality and for setting such a vivid example of what is possible when the people speak. And it's this democratic movement that took place here in Georgia that is going to help transform the greater Middle East. And that's important for people in Georgia and around the world to understand, that democracies in the greater Middle East will make the world a more peaceful place. A democracy in Iraq will send such a strong and vivid example to others about what is possible. And democracies are peaceful societies. And one of the things that we all long for -- at least I long for, I'm confident the President does, as well -- is to leave behind a more peaceful world for our children and grandchildren.

So, thank you, Mr. President. Thank you all for the press conference.

PRESIDENT SAAKASHVILI: Thank you.

END 10:46 A.M. (Local) For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary May 10, 2005

Russian Victory Day Parade, Video, Photos

Russian Victory Day Parade FULL STREAMING VIDEO, more like this EuroNews, Russian soldiers march through Moscow's Red Square, Monday, May 9, 2005, during a parade commemorating the 60th Anniversary of the end of World War II. White House photo by Eric Draper

More Public Domain Photos like this Russian Victory Day Parade - Veterans of Russia's military hold up flowers as they ride through Moscow's Red Square in a parade held to commemorate the 60th Anniversary of the end of World War II Monday, May 9, 2005. White House photo by Eric Draper

President and Saakashvili Participate in Roundtable with Society Leaders

President and Saakashvili Participate in Roundtable with Society Leaders, Parliament Building, Tbilisi, Georgia 10:50 A.M. (Local)

PRESIDENT BUSH: Thank you for having me. I'm anxious to hear from you. There is -- one of the great things about, and one of the most important things about democracy is to honor minority rights, is to recognize the rights of minorities. In my own country, we have struggled with this issue throughout our history, and yet, we're constantly reminding ourselves of the need to respect minorities.

And I want to thank you for giving me the chance to come and visit with you. You've got a great country. It's a hopeful example, and to the extent that -- as you move forward, I know you will honor your country, but at the same time, the heritage of those who live in the country.

So thank you for giving me a chance to come by and visit with you. I look forward to hearing from you. I'm honored to be here. It's an exciting moment for me and my wife, Laura, to be in this -- in this beautiful country. Thank you.

PRESIDENT SAAKASHVILI: Well, I'll just say maybe one or two words. You know, we are -- I've always been impressed and excited to see how people of all different ethnic origins -- Hispanics and Russians and all the others, speaking to American system of democracy and rule of law, and how all of them are proud to be Americans by also preserving their identity.

And we strongly believe that Georgia is not weak because it's diverse. On the contrary; our diversities are our strength. So this is our firm belief. You see all different people here, Mr. President. In fact, you saw yesterday comprised elements of all different ethnic groups. You went to the area where all the different ethnic groups have lived for generations and for thousands of years.

And again, thank you very much for coming. And thank you for sharing this conversation with all of us.

PRESIDENT BUSH: Okay, thanks.

END 10:52 A.M. (Local) For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary May 10, 2005

President Welcomed to Russia by President Vladimir Putin

President Welcomed to Russia by President Vladimir Putin, Putin Residence, Moscow, Russia

1956 Volga

PRESIDENT PUTIN: Mr. President, allow me to cordially welcome you to Moscow. I'd like to thank you for having decided to visit Moscow to participate in the celebration of the 60th anniversary of the end of World War II,

giving confirmation by that fact to the immense role played by the United States, Soviet Union and Russian Federation in the victory over Nazism.

Tomorrow we'll be pleased to receive our guests of ours. But the visit by the President of the United States is of special importance. On top of that, even today, we've enjoyed a very large volume of cooperation between our countries. And I hope that this cooperation will be helpful to us in addressing our domestic problems in both countries.

And I'm aware of the fact that you currently are confronted with immense tasks with respect to social sphere. (Laughter.) So if we are very positive in addressing those energy-related and security-related questions, that will be very helpful in addressing the problems which are confronted by people in the street in our countries. Besides, I recently visited the Middle East. Therefore, I'd like in this conversation with you today, to compare the notes regarding the current state of the Middle East.

PRESIDENT BUSH: Vladimir, thank you for having me. It's such an honor to be here. This locale where we are is a place where the President welcomed me and Laura two years ago. And it's great to be back here. I am looking forward to the celebration tomorrow. It is a moment where the world will recognize the great bravery and sacrifice the Russian people made in the defeat of Nazism. The people of Russia suffered incredible hardship, and yet the Russian spirit never died out.

I'm equally grateful that you would take -- invite me and Laura for dinner tonight. And having had one of your meals before, I'm looking forward to this one a lot.

PRESIDENT PUTIN: Recently I took a look at the coverage of your meeting with the press corps. Well, I could see how Laura attacked you sometimes, so at today's dinner we will have a chance to protect you. (Laughter.)

PRESIDENT BUSH: She was quite the comedian. But I'm looking forward to -- Russia is a great nation, and I'm looking forward to working on -- together on big problems. And I want to thank you for your work on Iran and the Middle East. And there's a lot we can do together. And so thank you for having us.

END For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary May 8, 2005

Statement on United States and Russian Cooperation

Statement on United States and Russian Cooperation

During the past few days, American and Russian negotiators have made significant progress on a common approach to resolving soon the question of liability protections for important cooperative programs. This agreement will help put these programs on solid ground for the long haul and enable us to strengthen and extend our cooperation, including on reducing the risks of proliferation of weapons and materials of mass destruction.

### For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary May 9, 2005

Interview of the President by Rustavi 2, Georgia TV

Interview of the President by Rustavi 2, Georgia TV, The Map Room, 10:07 A.M. EDT

Q Mr. President, let me thank you very much for this opportunity to interview you. And on behalf of Georgian people, let me welcome you to Georgia.

Why have you decided to visit Georgia? None of the American Presidents have visited this country before.

THE PRESIDENT: You know, I got to know your President, and I can remember him urging me to come to Georgia. He's got such enthusiasm about life and about the future of Georgia. And I have been most impressed by the aftermath of the Rose Revolution, that I said I want to go, I want to see -- I want to feel the sense of a new democracy. I want to be there to thank the Georgian people for setting such a good example for other countries that have followed. And so I'm really looking forward to the trip.

Q Mr. President, Georgia faces a lot of problems; among them, two unresolved conflicts, quite difficult -- the economic situation, Russia military presence in the country. How do you see resolving all those problems?

THE PRESIDENT: Peacefully. And I think they will be resolved peacefully. But you're right, it's difficult to go from a country of -- a communist country to a free country. It's not easy. I think the President understands that and his government understands that.

On the economic front, there's a lot of work to be done, but by routing out corruption and insisting upon rule of law and transparency, that will help attract investment and capital.

Secondly, in terms of the regional disputes or the bases, I can help some. But the best way to do this -- deal with this issue is to do it peacefully between Russia and Georgia. And I think we've got a very good chance of seeing these issues resolved in a peaceful way. It just takes time sometimes to deal with old disputes.

Q The latest developments of Eastern Europe and the region, I mean, the Georgia's Rose Revolution and Orange Revolution in Ukraine, and elections in Moldova and revolution in Kyrgyzstan caused Russia's negative reaction. And relations between Moscow and these countries are getting worse. So how is U.S. going to support these transitional democracies in the future?

THE PRESIDENT: No, that's a great question, and the first thing is, is that when I see President Putin, I will remind him again that democracies on his border will make it easier for Russia to grow in a peaceful way. Democracies are peaceful. Democracies don't like war. And democracies are the best form of government to deal with animosities and concerns.

And so I will remind him that this is not a plot by anybody or any nation. This is just the inevitable course of humankind because all humans want to be free. And as Georgia's economy begins to grow and pick up, Russia will have a trading partner, Russia will realize that a prosperous democracy in her south is good for the people of Russia.

Q U.S. Department's annual report on terrorism raised some questions about the stability in Pankisi Gorge. But Georgian government, with support of U.S., was successful in clearing this gorge of military elements. So how will relations -- I mean, military cooperation between Georgia and the United States in the future?

THE PRESIDENT: Well, I appreciate that. No, it's going to be very close, obviously at the request of the Georgian government. And I -- the Georgian government asked for help in routing out the terrorists who had lodged themselves in the Pankisi Gore -- training help. We were more than happy to provide it. But remember, what was interesting about some of those operations is there was close cooperation with the Russians, and I thought that was very helpful and very instructive about what can happen, because it's in Russia's interest, it's in the United States' interest, and more importantly, it's in Georgia's interest to make sure the Pankisi Gorge is clear of terrorist traffic or terrorist safe haven. No country wants terrorists who are willing to cause harm living within their border. And so I found this to be a very instructive and interesting cooperative arrangement.

Q Georgia is seeking NATO membership.

THE PRESIDENT: Yes.

Q How big is chance?

THE PRESIDENT: It's good. But remember, this is a performance-based criterion. In other words, there's a way to get into NATO. And I will tell President Saakashvili that there's -- to look at the countries that have recently been admitted and see what decisions they made and how they -- what they did. And I would hope it's good. But just remember, it's a process. It just doesn't happen overnight. And that's not only what I have told your President, but I've told the President of Ukraine and other countries that are interested in joining NATO.

Q Thanks for your precious time, Mr. President.

THE PRESIDENT: Glad you're here. Looking forward to going to Georgia. It's going to be an exciting trip.

Q I wish you a successful and safest trip.

THE PRESIDENT: Thank you, sir.

Q Thank you so much.

END 10:12 A.M. EDT

For Immediate Release, Office of the Press Secretary, May 5, 2005

Interview of the President by NTV, Russian Television

Interview of the President by NTV, Russian Television, The Map Room, 9:58 A.M. EDT

Q Good morning, Mr. President, although it's good evening for Russian audience because of the time change. (Laughter.) Your father is a World War II hero, the youngest Navy pilot. So how important the D-Day is for you, personally, and for your family?

THE PRESIDENT: Well, thank you for asking about my dad. He is -- he was a, like many in America and in Russia,that were called upon to defend the world against Nazism. And, fortunately, he came home.

And today, the celebration in Russia will remind us all about the sacrifices of, in my case, an individual I love, but also a generation -- a generation of men and women who made extraordinary efforts, in Russia's case, to defend the homeland; in America's case, to work with allies to defeat Adolf Hitler, as well as the Japanese.

And so it's a special day for me, personally, because it reminds me of the willingness of a young kid to go fight. But it also reminds me of the duty of my generation to work together to make the world a better place.

Q The after-war Europe has been reshaped according to the Yalta Conference of 1943, by the decision of three very important personalities of this time, Mr. Roosevelt, Mr. Churchill, and Mr. Stalin. How fair is it to hold only Russia responsible for all the misfortunes of Eastern Europe and Baltic states over the last --

THE PRESIDENT: That's a very fair question. Obviously, it was a decision made at the end of the war. I think that the main complaint would be that the form of government that the Baltics had to live under was not of their choosing. But, no, there's no question three leaders made the decision.

Q So not only Russia the bad guy of history?

THE PRESIDENT: Well, I think everybody ought to bear the -- as historians look back at Yalta -- got to recognize that it was -- you're rightly so in pointing it out -- it was not only the Russian leader, but the British and American leader were at the table and agreed on the agreement.

Q In Russia, we're very concerned on the rise of neo-Nazism in Baltic states, when Russian war veterans are humiliated publicly, when monuments to Russian soldiers are vandalized, and at the same time, where, on May 8th, there is a plan to open the monument to Nazi Brigade, that is well-known only for fighting -- not only for fighting against Russians, but also for quite ugly things that were common for SS troops.

THE PRESIDENT: Yes. Well, look, there is -- I've got a message when I go to the Baltics, and that is, it's important to respect democracy, but also the respect of democracy is respect for minority rights. In other words, a true democracy is one that says, minorities are important and that the will of the majority can't trample the minority.

And as to whether or not nations are honoring Nazism, of course that should be rejected. Nazism was defeated. We're celebrating the defeat of Nazism. We don't want to see Nazism return. It's an extremist point of view that believes that you should be able to trample the rights of minorities. It was the Nazis who annihilated millions of Jews, for example and there's a classic example of the rights of minorities being trampled. And we must never forget the lessons of why we fought together in World War II. And so I'm looking forward to delivering that message of tolerance.

Q There is a question that has nothing to do with your visit to Russia, but is very important to our country as an oil-producing country. Once you mentioned that you'll be happy to find a magic wand and to cut the price on oil. So what oil price will be acceptable for the United States, and what do you think is the chance of finding this magic wand?

THE PRESIDENT: Well, I appreciate -- no, there is no magic wand. A soldier asked me, he said, why don't you lower gasoline prices, as if the government controlled price. And in our country, the government doesn't control price. And I told him, I said, if I had a magic wand, I would wave it and lower your price, but I -- that's not the way it works. This is a world based -- the price based upon supply and demand. And demand has been going up relative to supply, which has been beneficial for oil-producing countries, like Russia.

And I don't know what the right price is. Obviously, the lower the better, for our economy, because every time the money -- the dollars go up on the gasoline price, money leaves the pocketbooks of the working people. But that's the way the economy works. Hopefully, higher price will stimulate more production. More production will then help the price reach an equilibrium.

And the market is what it is. That's -- the markets decide, not governments. I would hope that Russia would encourage a lot of investment, to open up the vast reserves she has. We need to do more exploration here. I spoke to the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia who assured me that he is trying to put more -- to find more oil. And that's what high prices do. But people who have got oil have got to understand if the price gets too high, it could wreck economies, which will mean there's less purchasing power for the product.

Q Thank you, Mr. President, and welcome to Moscow.

THE PRESIDENT: Looking forward to it. Thank you, sir.

END 10:04 A.M. EDT

For Immediate Release, Office of the Press Secretary, May 5, 2005

Interview of the President by Dutch TV Nos

Interview of the President by Dutch TV Nos The Map Room 9:48 A.M. EDT

Q Mr. President, thank you very much for giving us the opportunity to talk to you. You're going to Europe, commemorating 60 years of liberation in Europe. You could have gone to many countries, why did you choose to go to Holland?

THE PRESIDENT: First of all, Holland was a stalwart, and the people of Holland were brave and courageous when it came to resisting tyranny. And a lot of people paid a heavy price for standing for freedom in the face of fascism. As well, many Americans lost their lives on Dutch soil. And it's an opportunity to praise those who fought, honor those who died, and remind people that there's more work to be done to make the world more free.

Q About that, more work to be done, do you see any similarities about what happened 60 years ago, the Americans, among others, liberating Europe, and what you are doing now, in the Middle East, for example?

THE PRESIDENT: Well, it's a different situation, but there is evil in the world. There's always been evil. I believe that those who kill in the name of a great religion are evil people; people who are willing to destroy innocent life or bury people in mass graves, or starve people to death are evil. And I think the free world must confront evil. The last choice is to use the military. On the other hand, sometimes you have to.

And as you know, I made a difficult decision. Some in Europe didn't agree, some in Holland didn't agree, and I can understand that. But now we have an obligation, and a duty, it seems like to me, to work together to help others become free. Freedom is universal -- freedom shouldn't be just -- people shouldn't view freedom as only the purview of Americans or the Dutch or Europeans. Everybody deserves to be free.

Q But the interesting thing is, Mr. President, that we all agree, also in Europe, about your goals -- democracy, freedom, safety in the world.

THE PRESIDENT: Sure.

Q Does it frustrate you sometimes that -- for example, in The Netherlands they did a poll before you are coming now that vast part of the population does not agree with the way you're handling world affairs, for example.

THE PRESIDENT: Well, you know --

Q Is it frustrating?

THE PRESIDENT: No, it doesn't. I mean, I --

Q It must be a little, though.

THE PRESIDENT: No, it doesn't; it doesn't frustrate me. I make decisions on what I think is right. That's what leaders do. The other day in a press conference I was asked about polls here in America. I said, a leader who tries to lead based upon polls is like a dog chasing his tail. That's not how you lead. No, I feel comfortable with the decisions I've made.

Q Is it maybe, then, a communication problem?

THE PRESIDENT: I don't know, I don't follow the Dutch media, don't know what's being said in Holland.

Q Well, when people are being asked about you, or America, they admire, again, your goals, but when you talk about -- for example -- about the war on terror, and you see freedom and democracy, the Dutch see that, as well, but they also see, for example, prisoner abuse in Abu Ghraib prison; or Guantanamo Bay, where prisoners are being held without charge; or the Americans who do not want their soldiers in The Hague for the tribunal, to be accountable.

THE PRESIDENT: Well, we have different --

Q So they see that problem.

THE PRESIDENT: Well, first of all, all Americans, including me, reject Abu Ghraib. That was an aberration. That's not what America stands for. And if people are concerned about the tactics, I understand that. But the goal is peace. And now is the time to work together to achieve peace.

Q How do you want to do that? What do you want to tell the Dutch people?

THE PRESIDENT: Let me finish. But you asked me, do I worry about polls -- I don't, that's not what leaders do. Leaders who sit around and read polls all the time are leaders that don't lead.

Q But the Dutch people are interested in --

THE PRESIDENT: Let me finish, please. And I have an obligation to lead. And we're making progress. You saw eight-and-a-half million people voted in Iraq. They defied the terrorists, they defied the suicide bombers, because they desire to be free. And now we have an obligation to work to help that country develop into a democracy, because the lesson of Europe, of working together as democracies, has yielded peace.

You know, 60 years ago, people would sit around and wonder whether or not peace was possible. And as a result of the good work of many in Holland and around Europe, and the United States working collaborative, the world is a peaceful place. And that's what we have a chance to do today. And that's why I thank the Dutch government, for helping train Iraqis, for example, helping Iraq become stable. And it's in our long-term interest that that happen.

Q One last question about something completely different.

THE PRESIDENT: Sure.

Q You're the President in the United States known for coming up for moral values, moral issues, also; Terri Schiavo, for example. The Dutch government is completely on the other side of the spectrum when it comes to abortion or euthanasia, gay marriages, drugs even. Politicians from your party weren't even -- Americans don't go -- don't want to go to the direction of Holland. Do you share that concern?

THE PRESIDENT: No, I -- first of all, Holland is a free country. It's a country where the people get to decide the policy. The government just reflects the will of the people. That's what democracies are all about. And that's what -- that's why we should continue to work for common interest to support government of the people, not government that dictates to people. And so if that's what the people of Holland want, that's what the government should reflect.

Q No special message from the President of America?

THE PRESIDENT: No. I mean, people are allowed to make -- I have a different view, and many Americans have a different view. I've always worked to promote a culture of life. I think that a civil society is one that protects the most vulnerable among us. But you asked me whether or not I have a message for the people of Holland. The message is: keep free, be free, support democracy and liberty, not only within your country, but continue to work with free nations to help people be free around the world, and the world will be a more peaceful place.

Q One final question if I may, please.

THE PRESIDENT: Sure, sure.

Q I think maybe Europeans feel that you're also their President, but they do not get to vote for you. How do you feel that responsibility?

THE PRESIDENT: I really -- I appreciate that. I'm perplexed by that attitude, because Europeans have got very good leaders.

Q But your decisions influence our lives.

THE PRESIDENT: Well, sometimes they do, and sometimes European decisions influence American lives. But the best way to influence the world is to work together in a collaborative spirit. And I appreciate the leadership in The Netherlands. I get along very well with the leadership. And I am -- my pledge is to continue to work as closely as we possibly can.

Listen, there's going to be differences of opinion. You mentioned the International Criminal Court -- we're not going to join it. And there's a reason why we're not going to join it: We don't want our soldiers being brought up in front of unelected judges. But that doesn't mean that we're not going to hold people to account, which we're doing now in America. And nor does it mean that even though we may disagree on the court, that we can't work for other big goals in the world.

Again, on my second trip to Europe since I've been the President, I'm going to continue to emphasize my desire to work with others to achieve peace.

Q Okay, Mr. President.

THE PRESIDENT: Welcome.

Q Thank you again.

THE PRESIDENT: Thanks for coming.

Q And enjoy your stay in The Netherlands.

THE PRESIDENT: I'm looking forward to it.

END 9:56 A.M. EDT

For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary May 5, 2005

Interview of the President by Lithuanian State Television

Interview of the President by Lithuanian State Television, The Map Room, 2:14 P.M. EDT

Q Mr. President, you thanked President Valdas Adamkus for his efforts spreading the freedom in neighboring countries. What else could Lithuania do spreading the freedom in this region?

THE PRESIDENT: Well, first, I did thank the President for his good work in the Ukraine. I thought it was a really great moment when the head of Lithuania got involved and encouraged the whole world to take notice of the freedom movement in the Ukraine. And by the way, that's a -- the second election was a really important moment in the liberty movement. And I thanked him for that, genuinely so. And I want to say it again: I thank him for that.

Lithuania serves as a great example of what is possible. After years of being subjugated to harsh rule, the Lithuanians are now free, and they're showing they can grow the economy, and that people have a chance to express themselves, and there's a vibrant society when you're free. And it has been hard. The transition from communism to a free democracy is a hard transition. And it's very important for the Lithuanians and the government to share that experience with others who will be going through the same thing. And so I am very proud of Lithuania, and I'm proud to call her "friend."

Q Mr. President, you showed a strong support for democracy cause in Belarus. And what is your administration planning to do, given the fact that Belarus presidential election is planned next year?

THE PRESIDENT: Well, first of all, we'll work with you, countries in the neighborhood, countries around -- the free countries of the world, to insist there be free elections, and make sure there's free elections. This is the last remaining dictatorship in Europe. And Condi Rice was in the neighborhood recently, as you know, Secretary of State Rice, and she brought up the subject. She met with people who are embracing the freedom movement in Belarus. I did, as well, when I was in Slovakia.

And so one of the roles that the United States can play is to speak clearly about the need for Belarus to be free, and to work with people to insist that Belarus be free. And when the elections come, make sure the elections are free, and have monitors and international observers. As you know, that made a big difference in the Ukraine, for example. No, it's -- and I think -- listen, I believe everybody wants to be free, and I believe if the world works together to achieve that, many people will be free.

Q Lithuania is taking a concrete role in the reconstructing of Afghanistan.

THE PRESIDENT: Yes.

Q What kind of specific support do you ask -- offer Lithuania?

THE PRESIDENT: Well, as you know, we've got for our partners in Iraq and -- we've got some solidarity funds. We want to work through the foreign aid money to help Lithuania in her efforts to help build a better world. Again, I applaud the President. I thank the people of Lithuania for the support in Afghanistan.

It's important that Afghanistan be free and peaceful; it will serve as an example for others. Again, I keep saying this to people, but you've just got to -- the people of Lithuania have got to know how I feel. I believe everybody desires to be free, and I believe everybody deserves to be free. Societies will grow up around different customs and habits. I don't expect people to look like American form of government, but I do believe the world ought to work together to enable people to live free lives, and then help countries, once they've become liberated from a tyrant, in the case of Afghanistan.

And that's what Lithuania is doing. And I'm confident the President is doing so because -- for the same reason I am, because he understands that free societies, in the long-run, will make the world peaceful. And that's what we want for our children and our grandchildren; we want there to be peace.

Q You're going to meet Mr. Putin. Will you repeat your words to him that the Second World War has brought the Soviet occupation to the Baltic states?

THE PRESIDENT: Yes, of course I'll remind him of that. I told him in Slovakia that I felt it was important for him to understand that my friends, the leaders of the Baltics, are upset; in other words, they don't view the end of World War II as a great moment of celebration. And there's a reason why. He took it in. Your President has decided not to go to Moscow. I respect him for that decision. Each leader in the Baltics has to make the decision they're comfortable with. And it was a very difficult period, and so this is a hard decision. And I respect the decisions of the three leaders.

But I did make it clear to President Putin that there is great angst, and people don't view this as a liberating moment, and hopefully that he will work with the Baltics in a cooperative way, because it really is in Russia's interests to have free countries and democracies on her border. The more democracies on the border of a country, the more peaceful a country will be.

And so this is a bittersweet moment for a lot of people in America who are from the Baltics. A lot of Lithuanian Americans here, by the way, who, on the one hand, are really happy the United States defeated Nazism, on the other hand saw their homeland taken over by a repressive, communist regime.

Q Mr. President, thank you. It was a pleasure.

THE PRESIDENT: Great. And listen, I want to say one other thing: I want to thank the people of Lithuania for the warm reception Laura and I received the last time we were there. It was one of the great visits of my presidency. I remember sitting in the town -- standing in the town square, and it was very interesting, seeing a lot of older Lithuanians with tears in their eyes. I guess they never thought they'd see the day where the American President came. It touched my heart a lot. And then I saw a lot of young Lithuanians wondering what the heck the American President was all about -- you know, they kind of -- so it was a very touching visit.

Thank you.

Q Thank you.

END 2:21 P.M. EDT

For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary May 4, 2005

Interview of the President by Estonian TV

Interview of the President by Estonian TV The Map Room 2:23 P.M. EDT

Q Thank you very much, Mr. President, for joining our viewers. Mr. President, do you understand and accept the reasons and explanations that two Baltic presidents are not attending the celebrations in Moscow, 9th May?

THE PRESIDENT: Yes, absolutely. First of all, I can understand the decision by your President and the President of Lithuania, as well as the President of Latvia. These are difficult decisions because -- and they reflect the difficult times. And I honor those decisions. But I understand.

There's a lot of Americans who came -- whose families were in the Baltics. And this is a bittersweet moment for them when you think about it. On the one hand, our country helped defeat fascism, and upon the defeat of fascism, they saw their homelands be taken over by a repressive ideology. And so I fully understand, and matter of fact, understood it to the point where I brought it up to President Putin when I saw him in Slovakia, and just said, you got to understand this is going to create some sensitivities among our friends, among America's friends -- Estonia and Lithuania and Latvia.

Q It's quite strange situation now. The war is over for 60 years, and it's not still over. Whose fault is it --

THE PRESIDENT: No, I appreciate that. Look, it's -- I think it's time to move beyond fault and focus on the future. Now, that's easy for me to say because I didn't have any family members that were repressed or families divided. I didn't have to live under the yoke of communism. But I do believe that time will help heal the wounds.

And, listen, the Baltics are doing great. Their economies are growing. They're getting stronger. Freedom is working. People are able to express themselves in the public square. Independent media can come and interview the President in the White House. I mean, it is a -- these are exciting times. But I readily understand why it takes time to heal the wounds of the past.

Q Democracy and the human rights situation in Russia is quite worrying. Are you going to discuss this item during your visit to Moscow?

THE PRESIDENT: Oh, of course. I have -- first of all, I've got a relationship with President Putin that enables me to be able to have a frank discussion. He gave an interesting speech the other day -- the press tend to focus on the comment about the Soviet times, and of course, that obviously riled emotions in the Baltics. I understand that. But he also went on to talk about democracy. I thought it was interesting that he spent a lot of time on his big speech to the nation on democracy. I believe Russia's interests lie to her west. I believe that Russia, by embracing the values that we share, will be able to deal with the many problems that she has. Russia has got enormous problems.

And so, yes, of course, I'll talk to President Putin about that. And I will do so in a cooperative way, in a cooperative spirit. This is not an antagonistic relationship. And I don't think you want the relationship to be antagonistic. After all, Russia is your neighbor. I think you would want your friend, the United States, to be in a position where I can go in and have a constructive, direct dialogue. And I think one people -- one thing people have learned about me is I'm a pretty direct person; I say what's on my mind -- I try to do so diplomatically. But, yes, I will. And I do so for the interests of the United States, and for our friends, and for the world.

Q Mr. President, I can't let you go from here without a question of terrorism.

THE PRESIDENT: Sure.

Q Latest surveys show that the numbers of terrorism are increasing, not decreasing.

THE PRESIDENT: Yes.

Q Why is that?

THE PRESIDENT: Well --

Q You have made a lot of efforts.

THE PRESIDENT: Yes, that's why. If we weren't trying to find the enemy and bring him to justice, the world would look relatively peaceful. But we're on the offense. And so when you engage the enemy, when you try to bring them to justice, they don't like to be brought to justice.

I've always told the American people here, it's best to find them where they try to hide so that we don't have to deal with them here at home. And so part of the reasons why activity is up is because we're chasing them down. As a matter of fact, today, a big news report came out that I would say one of the top al Qaeda leaders, a person very close to Osama bin Laden, was brought to justice in Pakistan by the Pak government, with our help -- but, nevertheless, the Pak government did the hard work

-- Abu Faraj Al-Libbi. That's a very important part of defeating the al Qaeda.

But, no, we'll stay on the offense. And we'll be relentless and tireless in doing so. The best way to defeat terrorism in the long run, though, is by spreading freedom, is by giving people a chance to live in a free society.

Q How long it takes to curb, finally?

THE PRESIDENT: Yes, that's a good question. However long -- it takes as long as necessary. I just don't know. I don't have a -- I can't give you a timetable. But whatever it takes, so long as I'm the President and there's a threat to the United States of America and to our people -- you see, a lot of people in Europe, for them, September the 11th was a date, a passing moment. No question they expressed deep sympathy, for which the United States is grateful. But for us, it was a change of attitude. It was a change of foreign policy. And I told the people when I ran for office the second time, I said, if you put me in office every day I'm in office, I'll be relentless in chasing down the enemy. And so -- for however long it takes.

It takes a while for freedom to take hold. I know that. Look at Iraq. Iraq is going from a tyranny to a free society. And it's not easy. But they're getting there. This country is beginning to -- it's getting on its feet. The security forces are beginning to work better. The terrorists are more desperate. But that free society will be an important part of sending a message to others. And free societies are peaceful societies. And that's the great example of Estonia, for which the United States is grateful, and we're proud to call you friend.

Q Thank you very much, Mr. President.

THE PRESIDENT: My honor.

Q Very much, indeed.

THE PRESIDENT: Thanks for coming.

END 2:30 P.M. EDT For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary May 4, 2005

Interview of the President by Latvian National Television

Interview of the President by Latvian National Television, The Map Room, 2:06 P.M. EDT

Q So that is no secret that you were a jet pilot, so how would you describe, in a couple of sentences, where is Latvia on your radar?

THE PRESIDENT: Very interesting. Latvia is a country that has made a big difference in important alliances to the United States, like NATO. I remember when the moment came when the countries -- the new countries admitted to NATO came into the room that I was sitting in and I turned to the person I was sitting next to and said, it's going to be so important for NATO to have these fresh -- these new countries, because they bring a fresh outlook to freedom; these are people that have recently lived under, in this case, communism, and realized what it means to be free and it's going to be very important.

And so Latvia is very high on my radar screen. Plus, I'm very close to the President.

Q How come you've become such good friends?

THE PRESIDENT: Well, first of all, she's a straightforward person. I like straightforward people. You know, sometimes in politics you get people who say one thing and don't mean it. When she tells me something, she means it. She's a very engaging and very intelligent woman. And I admire her courage. And so I'm fond of her.

Q You're good friends with President Putin of Russia. Do you think you could encourage him to admit historical justice and admit the fact that Baltic states were occupied in 1940?

THE PRESIDENT: Well, yes, I've talked to him about this issue when I was in Slovakia. I said, do you understand, friend, that you've got problems in the Baltics? You've got problems with Latvia because people don't like -- the remembrances of the time of communism are unpleasant remembrances and you need to work with these young democracies. I explained to him that it's best that there be democracies on his border -- free countries, because free countries don't attack people; free countries listen to the hopes and aspirations of people.

I don't know if I made any progress with him or not, but I have made my position clear. I understand there's a lot of people in the Baltics who are -- you know, don't view the celebration in Russia as a day of liberation. Frankly, it's the beginning of a difficult period, and I can understand why some leaders of countries aren't going and some others are. That's a decision each leader must make, and I respect the decision of each leader.

But I'm going to continue to speak very forcefully on freedom and liberty and the Baltics are a great example of free countries.

Q But you are pretty certain that Russia is at least on the right path of development and it does not pose any threat to its smaller neighbors?

THE PRESIDENT: Well, I certainly hope not. And one of the reasons a relationship with the United States and Latvia is important is, is that we will stand with Latvia if a larger country tries to intimidate the people. That's the great thing about Latvia joining NATO, is that the security is now guaranteed by not only the United States, but all members of NATO.

Listen, the President and I speak about relations between Russia and Latvia quite frequently. And my job at times is to send a message that says, look, treat your neighbors with respect; free nations, democracies on your border are good for you -- whether that be, by the way, in the Baltics or in Ukraine, I've sent that same message -- or Georgia. In other words, countries that are free countries are countries that will be good neighbors.

Q What can we do about Belarus, because a couple of hundred miles from where you're going to be visiting there sits the last dictator of Europe. What can we do about it?

THE PRESIDENT: The "last dictator of Europe" is right, and we'll continue to pressure Belarus and call upon the world, the rest of the world, the free world -- not the whole world, but the free world -- to work to give the people of Belarus a chance to live in a free society.

When I was in Slovakia I met with people of the Freedom Movement. I know when Condoleezza Rice, Secretary of State, was in your part of the world, she met leaders of the Freedom Movement, too. And we'll continue to press forward. President Putin must understand that a free Belarus is in his country's interest.

Q The sentiment of anti-Americanism, as I'm sure you know, is quite widespread in Europe, and in my country, as well. Do you think there is any degree of your own fault in the fact that this sentiment is on the rise or --

THE PRESIDENT: I made some hard decisions. You know, going into Iraq was a hard decision and I can understand people not liking that. But I would hope people in Europe would understand that freedom is not owned only by Europeans, that people around the world deserve to be free. And as we act in our self-interest to fight terrorists, as we work to make sure terrorists can't get weapons of mass destruction to cause great harm, that we will also work to free people. After all, the people of Latvia, of all people, ought to understand what it means to live under the subjugation of a doctrine that doesn't allow for freedom -- communism. And here people are living in the Middle East, for example, under the brutal reign of tyrants: huge mass graves, massive death, people tortured. And now they're living free. And when 8.5 million people went to vote in Iraq, that sent a clear message that said: We will not let the terrorists intimidate us; we want to be free -- just like people in the Balkans [sic] used to speak, we want to be free.

You know, our country had a great history with the Baltics, that we said, your embassies will remain little havens for freedom. We never recognized the lack of independence in the Baltics. We always believed that you should be free. And I hope over time the young people of Latvia understand that that's what we stand for in America. We stand for freedom. We don't believe freedom is America's gift. We believe there's universal desire to be free. And the world will be more peaceful.

The hard decisions I've made I am confident will make this world a more peaceful place.

Q Thanks very much, Mr. Bush.

THE PRESIDENT: Welcome.

Q I hope it's a good visit.

THE PRESIDENT: I'm confident it will be. I'm looking forward to it.

END 2:13 P.M. EDT

For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary May 4, 2005

President Participates in Youth Roundtable in the Netherlands

President Participates in Youth Roundtable in the Netherlands, Selys de Fanson Zaal-Schatkaner Building, Maastricht, The Netherlands 9:15 A.M. (Local)

PRIME MINISTER BALKENENDE: Well, ladies and gentlemen, good morning. It's very good that you're here. But in the first place, I would like to say to the President of the United States, be welcome in The Netherlands. We really enjoy that you're here. It's an important day that you're in The Netherlands today, because on the 6th of May -- that's what we call our Liberation Day -- and we always think about our freedom. And at your last event, you said a lot about importance of freedom and democracy, and you realize what Americans meant for the European countries after the second world war. During the second world war, your people were here, but after, you helped us.

And it's very important that you're here today and that you'll have the meeting in Margraten. It's so important to be there, and also for us to show our respect and to say thanks for what all the Americans have done for The Netherlands.

We already had a breakfast meeting. We talked about some very important issues. We talked about the Middle East peace process. We talked about the struggle against terrorism because we are -- we have the same position. It's a threat to world society. We have to work together. We talked about the situation in Iraq and Afghanistan. We talked about China and some other issues. We talked about political situation in The Netherlands and the United States. It was a very fruitful and interesting meeting.

Mr. President, it's great that you're in The Netherlands. We appreciate very much that you're here today and that we have the meeting in Margraten. But also today, we have a meeting with students and we thank you for being here and be willing to have a discussion with these young people. It's very important, always challenging and encouraging if you have the meeting with the students.

And now, Mr. President, I give you the floor.

PRESIDENT BUSH: Thank you, Mr. Prime Minister. It's an honor to be in The Netherlands. Laura and I have been really looking forward to coming to your beautiful country. I want to thank you for the meeting we just had. It was a fruitful discussion. I appreciate your leadership, appreciate your friendship.

You know, I will be honoring a generation that made enormous sacrifices so that my generation could grow up in a free world. I'm really looking forward to going to the cemetery and paying homage to those who fought for freedom. It will be a solemn occasion, but an important moment to reflect upon. And I look forward to talking to the next generation about the responsibilities that you'll have to make sure the communities in which you grow up are hopeful communities and this country in which you love is a free country.

I want to thank you all for coming. I'm honored that you took time out of your life to come and have a visit with me. There's nothing like a young generation of Americans to keep an old guy -- I mean, young generation of citizens to keep an old guy like me feeling young.

But, Mr. Prime Minister, again, thanks for your hospitality. I want to thank Her Majesty, as well, for joining Laura and me today. It's awfully -- awfully kind of her to do so. Thank you.

PRIME MINISTER BALKENENDE: Thank you, Mr. President. Now the time is for the students. Looking to the relationship between the United States and The Netherlands, it's good to say that many things are uniting us, but also sometimes you have some decisions that's also possible and that's also good for the debate. And maybe it's good now to give the floor to you, and maybe it's good to start with Miss Madeline Hoffmeister (phonetic).

Q Thank you, very much. Mr. President, I have a question relating of concerning the terrorism. And you made many laws after 9/11, many -- many laws and many measures. And I'm wondering, will there be a time when you drop those laws and when you decrease the measures?

PRESIDENT BUSH: No, I appreciate that question. Look, a free society such as ours, obviously, must balance the government's most important duty, which is to protect the American people from harm with the civil liberties of our citizens. And every law we passed that was aimed to protect us in this new era of threats from abroad and the willingness for people to kill without mercy has been scrutinized and, of course, balanced by our Constitution. But the question really is, can a transparent society openly deal with a debate about civil liberty versus the tension of protecting ourselves. And I believe we have done so in good balance in America. But we're constantly reevaluating law.

The Patriot Act was passed. It was a very important measure to enable our law enforcement officials to share information which they weren't able to do at times, to be able to protect ourselves. And yet, Congress is now evaluating certain aspects of that law. That's what happens in democracies, and stands in stark contrast, by the way, to societies that are closed and non-transparent, where people don't get to determine the course of action.

And so, to answer your question, it depends upon what Congress says and whether or not I agree with it, because I have the right to veto any law, as well. Of course, they have the right to override my veto. But I feel comfortable in telling you that we've been able to successfully balance the civil liberties of our citizens with the necessary -- the necessity to protect ourselves.

Listen, one of the interesting things about September the 11th that I want you to understand as we have this discussion is that I fully understand that for some, September the 11th was an important moment and a terrible moment -- and we appreciate the condolences of the people of The Netherlands -- but for us it was a change of attitude. I mean, it changed a lot about how I looked at the world, and a lot of Americans, it changed how they looked at the world. I mean, it was more than just an attack; it was a whole mind-set. And that's why your question is really relevant -- did that mind-set, did that change of attitude cause us to then begin to take away certain civil liberties, and I would argue, it did not.

PRIME MINISTER BALKENENDE: You're convinced by the President? (Laughter.)

PRESIDENT BUSH: Don't put her on the spot. (Laughter.) That's a little rough question, Mr. Prime Minister.

Q I've a question about the reason you are here. We are honoring the soldiers who died in the second world war. In the years later, America was involved in a lot of conflicts, in a lot of wars. What's the benefit when you can ask to your people -- you are, in the first place, President of America, you're responsible for your own people --

PRESIDENT BUSH: Right --

Q -- what can you ask from your people, not only the dead and the wounded, but also economic consequences? Last week I received a brochure about raise funding for U.S. aid for poor people. So what --

PRESIDENT BUSH: You received -- I beg your pardon -- received a brochure for?

Q -- raise funding for poor people --

PRESIDENT BUSH: Oh, to raise funding, yes.

Q -- the economic consequences of all this involvement in conflicts, what's the balance between the responsibility to the world and the responsibility to your own people?

PRESIDENT BUSH: I think we have a responsibility to both. And at home, of course, economic vitality is really important, and to make sure the entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well. Seventy percent of new jobs in America are created by small business owners, which is -- it speaks to our -- the environment of encouraging entrepreneurship, which means less lawsuits and good tax policy and less regulations. A vibrant, growing economy is one which we collect more revenues, and therefore, we're more capable of helping and doing our duty to those who can't help themselves.

And that's the interesting balance of a free society, by the way, is the extent to which the welfare state is prevalent. And I believe we -- government has a role to help those who cannot help themselves, and then encourage people who can help themselves to realize dreams to good education and good policy.

Abroad, we have a responsibility, as well. First, let me just tell you, the hardest decision a President makes is war. Nobody wants to be at war. Nobody. Now the question is, how do we spread peace. And one way you spread peace is spread democracy. That's the lesson of World War II. If that thought troubles you we can discuss this a little more. But the lesson of World War II, at least, was that by spreading democracy throughout Europe, that Europe at last became whole, peace -- free, whole and at peace. That's the lesson that people at least ought to take away from the experience of the last 60 years. I believe it applies to the next 60, as well.

But we have other duties, as well -- HIV/AIDS, for example, in the continent of Africa is a pandemic that has got to be appalling to the free world. And my government is spending $15 billion as part of a global effort to help -- help defeat HIV/AIDS. We feed more of the hungry than any nation, and it's an obligation we readily accept. But, as well, as we work to help those who hurt, we also have got to put practical policies in place.

And that's why I'm such a believer in free trade, because trade ultimately -- the benefits of trade, the benefits of economy, the benefits of growing businesses far exceed the capacity of governments to hand out aid to people. And so, in Africa, for example, we've got a policy of feeding the hungry and providing money for help, but we've also got a free trade policy with Africa, which is helping these economies grow, which provides opportunity and hope for people that are living in those countries. So we have a balanced obligation at home and abroad.

Thank you, sir.

PRIME MINISTER BALKENENDE: We'll give the press a minute to do other things, and we can go on with our discussion.

END 9:25 A.M. (Local) For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary May 8, 2005

President Honors and Commemorates Veterans in the Netherlands

President Honors and Commemorates Veterans in the Netherlands, Margraten, The Netherlands 11:09 A.M. (Local)

PRESIDENT BUSH: Your Majesty; Mr. Prime Minister; Mr. Mayor; distinguished officials of The Netherlands; veterans and their families, including the 104th Infantry Division, known as the Timberwolves; the unit of Harold B. Welch -- my father-in-law, the father of First Lady Laura Bush -- Congressman Hoekstra; General Jones, General Franks; Superintendent Schwind; fellow Americans and friends:

On this peaceful May morning we commemorate a great victory for liberty, and the thousands of white marble crosses and Stars of David underscore the terrible price we pay for that victory. For the Americans who rest here, Dutch soil provides a fitting home. It was from a Dutch port that many of our pilgrim fathers first sailed for America. It was a Dutch port that gave the American flag its first gun salute. It was the Dutch who became one of the first foreign nations to recognize the independence of the new United States of America. And when American soldiers returned to this continent to fight for freedom, they were led by a President who owed his family name to this great land -- Roosevelt.

Some of those brave troops are here with us today, and we welcome you and we honor you. And they're here with their Dutch comrades. They share a love of liberty. In the war that came to an end 60 years ago this day, all those who fought for freedom made sacrifice, and many gave their lives.

In the Voice of America's radio broadcast from London on the first V-E Day, the announcer asked Europe to "think of these Americans as your dead, too." In Dutch hearts, they already were. The Americans saw the Dutch spirit in action within weeks of liberation, when this new cemetery marked its first Memorial Day. It was still a time of hardship and want and depravation; yet Dutch citizens from 60 local villages collected 20 truckloads of flowers so that every American grave here would be decorated when the sun came up on Memorial Day.

And in the six decades since, the Dutch have continued this wonderful tradition by adopting and attending to the graves of the people they never met. Your kindness has brought comfort to thousands of American families separated from their loved ones here by an ocean. And on behalf of a grateful America, I thank you for treating our men and women as your sons and daughters.

Today we join them at this hallowed ground. We come first to remember the young Americans who did not live to comb gray hair. Each man or woman buried here is more than a headstone and a serial number; each person here has a name that is precious to some family. And in faded black and white photographs, each one here looks back at us in the full glow of youth: the fresh-faced American in uniform; the newly minted officer with a smiling sweetheart on his or her arm; or the young dad traveling, holding a baby son or daughter on his knee. Every one of these Americans added his own unique contribution to the story of freedom.

In this cemetery lies Willy F. James, Jr., one of seven African American soldiers from the second world war to win the Medal of Honor. On this memorial wall is inscribed the name, Raymond Kelly, a young man studying to be a priest in Detroit, who could have sat out the war, but gave up his exemption to serve his country. And in this ground rests Maurice Rose, the brilliant division commander who led the first Allied troops into Germany. Here they rest in honored glory with thousands of their comrades in arms, and here we come to affirm the great debt we owe them.

We come to this ground to recall the evil these Americans fought against. For Holland, the war began with the bombing of Rotterdam. The destruction of Rotterdam would be a signpost to the terror and humanity that the Nazi lie would impose on this continent. Like so much of Europe, over the next years of occupation, Holland would come to know curfews, and oppression, and armed bands with yellow stars, and deportation for its Jewish citizens.

The winter just before liberation was the worst. When Dutch railway workers went on strike to make it harder for the German army to reinforce their troops, the Nazis responded with a blockade that made fuel and food even more scarce. Amsterdam would wait for liberation longer than almost any other city in Europe. Before it came, more than 20,000 Dutch men and women and children would perish in what was called the "hongerwinter," and many others were reduced to eating tulip bulbs to stay alive.

For some, V-E Day brought hope for normalcy, after almost five long years of occupation. For many others, including a Jewish girl named Anne Frank, hiding in an attic, V-E Day would come too late, two months after the institutionalized evil of Bergen-Belsen took her young life. And for still others, V-E Day would bring a lasting sense of solidarity with those who fought. One resistance leader put it well: "We are one because, together, we believed in something."

And so we come to this ground to remember the cause for which these soldiers fought and triumphed. At the outset of the war, there were those who believed that democracy was too soft to survive, especially against a Nazi Germany, that boasted the most professional, well-equipped and highly-trained military forces in the world. Yet, this military would be brought down by a coalition of armies from our democratic allies and freedom fighters from occupied lands and underground resistance leaders. They fought side-by-side with American GIs, who, only months before, had been farmers and bank clerks and factory hands. And the world's tyrants learned a lesson: There is no power like the power of freedom, and no soldier as strong as a soldier who fights for that freedom.

Private Robert Lee Rutledge was one of those soldiers. He gave his life fighting against a brutal attack by two Nazi divisions. Weeks before he died, he wrote a letter to his daughter on her fifth birthday. The letter was addressed to little Ginger Rutledge in Lumpkin, Georgia. Private Rutledge told his daughter, "You're too young to understand it now, but you will later. It's all for your benefit. You came into a free world, and I want you to finish in one."

Sixty years later, Ginger is still free, and she does understand. And so do her three children and eight grandchildren. Private Rutledge did his job well, and the men who fought and bled and died here with him accomplished what they came for. The free America that Ginger grew up in was saved by their courage. The free Europe where many of them lie buried was built on their sacrifice. And the free and peaceful world that we hope to leave to our own children is inspired by their example.

On this day, we celebrate the victory they won, and we recommit ourselves to the great truth that they defended, that freedom is the birthright of all mankind. Because of their sacrifice and the help of brave allies, that truth prevailed at the close of the 20th century.

As the 21st century unfolds before us, Americans and Europeans are continuing to work together and are bringing freedom and hope to places where it has long been denied: in Afghanistan, in Iraq, in Lebanon, and across the broader Middle East. Freedom is a permanent hope of mankind; and when that hope is made real for all people, it will be because of the sacrifices of a new generation of men and women as selfless and dedicated to liberty as those we honor today.

May God bless you all. (Applause.)

END 11:22 A.M. (Local) For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary May 8, 2005

Center for Nanoscale Materials

Energy Secretary Bodman's Remarks at Nanoscale Materials Center Dedication

ARGONNE, ILL., -- Today Energy Secretary Samuel Bodman and Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich participated in a dedication ceremony for the new Center for Nanoscale Materials, under construction at the U.S Department of Energy’s Argonne National Laboratory.

Bodman Nanoscale Center Dedication Number: R-05-112 May 6, 2005