Dr. Mudawi Ibrahim Adam and Salah Mohamed Abdelrahman

U.S. Urges the Government of Sudan to Provide Due Process

On January 24, 2005, Dr. Mudawi Ibrahim Adam and Salah Mohamed Abdelrahman were arrested for their work highlighting the violence in Darfur. On March 1, the Government of Sudan formally charged Dr. Mudawi with crimes against the state. Dr. Mudawi has been on a hunger strike since February 19. He is now in the hospital, though still under arrest, receiving treatment for loss of weight and medical complications related to his hunger strike.

We call upon the Government of Sudan to release Dr. Mudawi immediately and to provide him with due process of law, including his right to legal representation. We hold the Government of Sudan responsible for his well-being while in custody.

There has been no news on the whereabouts of Mr. Salah Mohamed Abdelrahman since his arrest. We call on the Government of Sudan to verify his status immediately and to release him immediately if he is still in custody.

2005/271 Released on March 2, 2005 Press Statement Adam Ereli, Deputy Spokesman Washington, DC

Lt. Gen. Daham Alassal and Maj. Gen. Peter Chiarelli

Lt. Gen. Daham Alassal, Ministry of Defense, and Maj. Gen. Peter Chiarelli, 1st Cavalry Division commander, salute during the 40th transition of authority ceremony Feb. 21. (U.S. Army photo by Pfc. Matthew McLaughlin, 2/10th Mountain Division)

Generals

DHS Secretary Chertoff at Swearing-In Ceremony

President Thanks DHS Secretary Chertoff at Swearing-In Ceremony Ronald Reagan Building Washington, D.C. 9:25 A.M. EST

THE PRESIDENT: I'm pleased to be here at the Department of Homeland Security with our new Secretary, Michael Chertoff. (Applause.) And I'm honored to share this moment with Meryl and their children.

This is the third time -- not the first or second, but the third time that I've asked Mike to serve our nation. I keep asking him back for a reason: He is a talented public servant, with an outstanding record of achievement and a deep commitment to the cause of justice. As a federal court of appeals judge, assistant attorney general, U.S. attorney and federal prosecutor, Mike has worked tirelessly to make our people safer and our nation more secure. And now he will carry on that vital work as the Secretary of Homeland Security.

I appreciate Michael's in-laws for being here. Always a good thing, Mike -- (laughter) -- to listen to your mother-in-law. (Laughter.)

I thank Justice Sandra Day O'Connor, not only for being here to administer the oath of office, but for serving our nation with such class and such dignity. (Applause.) I want to thank the members of the United States Senate, Senator Lautenberg and Senator Corzine, from New Jersey, for being here, and thank you for helping shepherd this good man's nomination through the Senate. I want to thank all the members of the House of Representatives who are here -- and there is a lot from New Jersey that have joined us. I want to thank the members of my Cabinet who are here, and former members of my Cabinet. And I want to thank the employees of the Department of Homeland Security. You have got a great boss. (Applause.)

Since September the 11th, 2001, we have taken unprecedented steps to protect the American people. We have assembled a strong coalition of nations to secure our respective countries. We have closed down terrorists, networks, and chased down their leaders in mountains and deserts around the world. We've removed two dangerous regimes that harbored terrorists and threatened the peace; we convinced a third to voluntary abandon its nuclear and chemical weapons programs. We have broken up the world's most dangerous nuclear trading network, and busted up terrorist cells around the globe.

We have been relentless, and we will continue to be relentless in our mission to secure the people of this country. From Florida to California to Massachusetts we have arrested and prosecuted terrorist operatives and their supporters. By our actions, we are sending the world a clear message that terrorists will not be permitted sanctuary or safe haven, or the tools of mass murder. (Applause.)

As we have taken the battle to the enemy, we have also taken extraordinary measures to better protect the homeland. We've carried out the largest reorganization of government in a half century, merging 180,000 people from 22 government organizations into a single department with a single mission: protecting America from attack. The success of the men and women of the Department of Homeland Security do not always make the headlines. But I understand what you've done, and I appreciate your hard work. By your tireless efforts behind the scenes, you have helped protect our citizens and secure our nation. And this country is grateful for all you do. (Applause.)

In the last two years, this department has implemented a vigorous new strategy to guard our borders, posting Homeland Security personnel at foreign ports; strengthening airport and seaport security; and instituting better visa screening for those entering the United States. We've taken important steps to protect our nation's critical infrastructure -- our bridges and tunnels and nuclear power plants and water treatment facilities and the cyber networks that keep our government and our economy running.

This department has also taken action to strengthen the hand of our partners in state and local law enforcement. Local police and other authorities are those most likely to encounter terrorists. And we're giving them the tools and information they need to do their jobs. We've established secure connections to emergency operations centers in every state and every governor's office to ensure that they get threat information on a real-time basis. We've helped states establish mutual aid agreements and reasonable response plans, so that when first responders need help from their neighbors they can be sure the right assistance will get to the right people at the right time.

We've provided more than $14 billion over the last four years to train and equip state and local first responders across America: funds for mobile command centers, communications equipment, mobile decontamination equipment, HAZMAT trucks, mobile WMD detection equipment and other capabilities they need to protect our citizens and our communities. Since 2001, we've trained more than 600,000 first responders, and more than tripled spending on homeland security. And all of you in this department, and the members of the Congress can be proud of the accomplishments and the progress we have made. (Applause.)

You have done all this, and more, under the skilled leadership of Tom Ridge. Tom is a longtime friend, and I thank him for his leadership and his dedicated service to our country. (Applause.)

And I have found an able successor in Mike Chertoff. As the 9/11 Commission said in its report, America is safer because of your efforts, but we are not yet safe. Mike Chertoff knows we cannot afford to become complacent. He understands that as we adapt our defenses, the terrorists will adapt their tactics in response. He understands they continue to pose a great threat to the American people.

Recently, we learned that Osama bin Laden has urged the terrorist Zarqawi to form a group to conduct attacks outside Iraq, including here in the United States. We're on a constant hunt for bin Laden. We're keeping the pressure on him, keeping him in hiding. And today, Zarqawi understands that coalition and Iraqi troops are on a constant hunt for him, as well. Coalition and Iraqi forces have caught and killed several of his key lieutenants. We're working every day and night to dismantle his network and to bring him to justice. (Applause.)

Bin Laden's message is a telling reminder that al Qaeda still hopes to attack us on our own soil. Stopping them is the greatest challenge of our day. And under Mike's leadership, we will do everything in our power to meet that challenge. Mike is wise and he is tough -- in a good way. (Laughter.) And he knows the nature of the enemy. As head of the criminal division at the Department of Justice, Mike helped trace the September 11th attacks to the al Qaeda network. And it didn't take him very long to do so. He understands that the terrorists are brutal and determined, and that to stop them all our agencies must work more closely together using every resource and technological advantage we have.

I have given Mike an ambitious agenda to carry out. We will continue to work to fully integrate the agencies within the Homeland Security Department. We will build on the progress that has been made. We will continue working to reduce our nation's vulnerabilities and prepare effective responses for any future attack. We will speed the development of new 21st century vaccines and treatments to protect Americans against biological, chemical, nuclear and radiological attacks. We will continue our historic investments in homeland security to match the threats facing our country. We will protect the American people from new dangers while protecting their civil liberties.

Mike understands that we need to work closely with state and local officials because he has shared their vantage point. Like men and women who wear our nation's uniform on distant battlefields, those who wear the uniform here at home risk their lives every day to protect our people. By their service and sacrifice, our police, our firefighters and emergency rescue personnel are making the homeland safer. And our nation must constantly thank them for their work.

Mike is the right person to lead this department in this vital work. He knows that to win the war on terror abroad, we always must remember where it began -- here in the homeland. He will be an outstanding Secretary of Homeland Security. Mike, thank you for willing -- for your willingness to serve our nation once again. God bless. (Applause.)

MR. CHERTOFF: Thank you. Mr. President, members of my family, friends and colleagues. Mr. President, I am grateful to you for affording me the privilege of working under your leadership to protect and safeguard our nation. As you have so powerfully described, since September 11th, the job of defending the homeland has become the challenge and the calling of our generation. Under your steadfast and determined guidance, our country has risen to meet the threat of the age of terror. We have responded in a unified, strategic and comprehensive manner, and as a result, America today is safer, stronger and more secure.

Thousands of men and women, including many here, now stand watch across this country and overseas guarding our families and our freedoms. In taking the oath as Homeland Security Secretary, I am honored to join these dedicated public servants. Ours is a Department in which the American public is deeply invested. Just in the past few weeks, I have encountered many citizens who have personally expressed to me their gratitude, their hopes and their prayers for the work of DHS. These citizens -- indeed, all Americans -- have placed their trust in the men and women who carry out the important work of homeland security. I look forward to carrying out this vital charge as we strengthen the protections already in place at our ports of entries, in our skies overhead, and in our cities and our communities.

My predecessor, Secretary Tom Ridge, his Deputy, Jim Loy, and other founding leaders of DHS did a superb job in launching this new Department. In building on their achievements, I am conscious that my new leadership team and I will be standing on their shoulders and building on what they accomplished.

Our task now is to advance the exceptional achievements of the first two years of this department, to meet and manage the threats of today, and to prepare to confront the risks of the future. Our mission is no less than this: protect America, while fostering the values of liberty, privacy and opportunity we all hold dear.

For their willingness to stand beside me in this endeavor, I thank Meryl and my children. Once again, you have given me your love, your sacrifices and your constant support. And as all members of this department know, the work we do is possible only because of the support and sacrifices of our families and friends. (Applause.)

I first embarked on public service over 20 years ago as an assistant United States attorney in Manhattan. Now as Secretary of Homeland Security, I have taken the oath of office for the fifth time. As with each prior time I have sworn the oath, I dedicate myself to serving America and the American people.

Mr. President, again, thank you for this opportunity and for your resolute commitment to the cause of freedom and the protection of our families and our way of life. I appreciate the trust you have placed in me, and stand ready to devote my full energy and strength to the duty we all share: the preservation of our nation and the liberties we cherish.

Thank you. (Applause.)

END 9:46 A.M. EST For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary March 3, 2005

RELATED: DHS Sec. Michael Chertoff Testimony on FY '06 Budget (03/02/2005), FULL STREAMING VIDEO

President Honors Jackie Robinson, video

President Honors Jackie Robinson FULL STREAMING VIDEO at Congressional Gold Medal Ceremony The U.S. Capitol Washington, D.C. President's Remarks 3:18 P.M. EST

THE PRESIDENT: Members of Congress. Mrs. Robinson, and Sharon and Dave, Laura and I are honored to be with you all as we honor your husband and your dad. Reverend Jackson. You know, I figure I'm the ninth speaker -- (laughter.) I spent a little time in baseball. Commissioner, it's good to see you and appreciate the McCourts being here of the great Los Angeles Dodgers family. But a lot of times, the ninth hitter was told by the manager, keep your swing short. (Laughter.) I kind of guess that's what Nancy Pelosi meant when I got up -- she said, you are the ninth speaker. (Laughter.) How about keeping it short?

Robinson 1

I'm honored to be here for the -- to present the Congressional Gold Medal to Mrs. Robinson. It's a great tradition of our Congress to honor fantastic and noble Americans, and we're doing just the thing with Jack Roosevelt Robinson.

You know, he was a great ball player. Anybody who follows baseball knows how great he was -- fantastic statistics: MVP, all the big honors you could get. But his electricity was unbelievable. Think about this. This is a guy who inspired little seven-year-olds to dream of wearing "42" and dashing for home in Brooklyn, and a seven-year-old like me hoping to get his Topps baseball card, even though I was an avid Giants fan. He was an amazing guy. And his story was powerful then, and it is powerful today.

His story is one that shows what one person can do to hold America account -- to account to its founding promise of freedom and equality. It's a lesson for people coming up to see. One person can make a big difference in setting the tone of this country.

Robinson 2

He always fought for what he called "first-class citizenship." That's an interesting phrase, isn't it -- "first-class citizenship." Not second-class, not third-class -- first-class citizenship for all. As John Kerry mentioned, it started in the Army. Obviously, it really manifested itself on the baseball field. After all, it was Branch Rickey who said he was looking for a man to cross the color line who could play baseball and had the character necessary to do so. Jackie Robinson had both. And that's why we're honoring him today.

I found Martin Luther King's quote about him interesting. I'm sure you will, too. He said, "He was a freedom rider before freedom rides." That's a pretty high compliment, when you think about it. To me, it just says, courage and decency and honor.

This son of Georgia sharecroppers was taught by his mother that the best weapon against racism was the use of his talent, his God-given talent, not to waste a minute, and he didn't. And that spirit, passed on from mother to son, and now son to family, still lives through the Jackie Robinson Foundation. The Jackie Robinson Foundation is a noble cause to help academically-gifted students of color go to college. I know the Dodgers will continue to support that foundation. I hope baseball continues to do so, as well.

It is my honor now to join Speaker Hastert and Senator Stevens in presenting the Congressional Gold Medal to Rachel Robinson, in the name of her husband, the great baseball star and great American, Jackie Robinson. (Applause.)

(The medal is presented.)

END 3:24 P.M. EST For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary March 2, 2005

Zimbabwe, National Emergencies Act

TO THE CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES:

Section 202(d) of the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)) provides for the automatic termination of a national emergency unless, prior to the anniversary date of its declaration, the President publishes in the Federal Register and transmits to the Congress a notice stating that the emergency is to continue in effect beyond the anniversary date. In accordance with this provision, I have sent to the Federal Register for publication the enclosed notice stating that the national emergency blocking the property of persons undermining democratic processes or institutions in Zimbabwe is to continue in effect beyond March 6, 2005. The most recent notice continuing this emergency was published in the Federal Register on March 5, 2004 (69 FR 10313).

The crisis constituted by the actions and policies of certain members of the Government of Zimbabwe and other persons to undermine Zimbabwe's democratic processes or institutions has not been resolved. These actions and policies pose a continuing unusual and extraordinary threat to the foreign policy of the United States. For these reasons, I have determined that it is necessary to continue the national emergency blocking the property of persons undermining democratic processes or institutions in Zimbabwe and to maintain in force the sanctions to respond to this threat.

GEORGE W. BUSH THE WHITE HOUSE, March 2, 2005. # # # For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary Message to the Congress of the United States

Women's History Month, 2005

Women's History Month, 2005 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation

During Women's History Month, we celebrate the achievements of our Nation's women. For generations, American women have helped build our great Nation through their leadership as writers, teachers, artists, politicians, doctors, and scientists, and in other professions. As mothers, daughters, and sisters, women have supported and strengthened American families and communities. Women are at the forefront of entrepreneurship in America, creating millions of new jobs and helping to build our Nation's economic prosperity.

We celebrate those who have broken down barriers for women, such as Jacqueline Cochran, who was the founder and director of the Women's Air Force Service Pilots during World War II and the first woman to break the sound barrier. Gerty Theresa Radnitz Cori was the first American woman to receive a Nobel Prize in the sciences, and her research significantly advanced the treatment of diabetes. In 1926, Olympic Gold Medalist Gertrude Ederle became the first woman to swim the English Channel. Marian Anderson, a Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient, opened doors in music as the first African American to perform with the New York Metropolitan Opera. Juliette Gordon Low encouraged community service and the physical, mental, and spiritual development of America's young women as founder of the Girl Scouts of the United States of America. As we work to advance freedom and peace and fight the war on terror, American women in uniform are serving at posts at home and across the world, taking great risks.

As we commemorate Women's History Month, I encourage all Americans to celebrate the extraordinary contributions and accomplishments of American women and to continue our progress in making our society more prosperous, just, and equal.

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 March 2005 as Women's History Month. I call upon the people of the United States to observe this month with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities that honor the history, accomplishments, and contributions of American women.

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

GEORGE W. BUSH # # # For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary March 2, 2005

Democratic Processes or Institutions in Zimbabwe

Notice Continuation of the National Emergency Blocking Property of Persons Undermining Democratic Processes or Institutions in Zimbabwe

On March 6, 2003, by Executive Order 13288, I declared a national emergency blocking the property of persons undermining democratic processes or institutions in Zimbabwe, pursuant to the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 17011706). I took this action to deal with the unusual and extraordinary threat to the foreign policy of the United States constituted by the actions and policies of certain members of the Government of Zimbabwe and other persons to undermine Zimbabwe's democratic processes or institutions, thus contributing to the deliberate breakdown in the rule of law in Zimbabwe, to politically motivated violence and intimidation in that country, and to political and economic instability in the southern African region.

Because the actions and policies of these persons continue to pose an unusual and extraordinary threat to the foreign policy of the United States, the national emergency declared on March 6, 2003, and the measures adopted on that date to deal with that emergency, must continue in effect beyond March 6, 2005. Therefore, in accordance with section 202(d) of the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)), I am continuing for 1 year the national emergency blocking the property of persons undermining democratic processes or institutions in Zimbabwe.

This notice shall be published in the Federal Register and transmitted to the Congress.

GEORGE W. BUSH THE WHITE HOUSE, March 2, 2005. # # # For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary

USDA's Minimal-Risk Rule

Statement By Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns Regarding The Temporary Injunction Issued By The U.S. District Court For The District Of Montana Regarding USDA's Minimal-Risk Rule

"I am very disappointed in today's ruling by the court to temporarily delay the implementation of USDA's minimal-risk rule, which would re-establish trade with Canada for live cattle under 30 months of age.

"USDA remains confident that the requirements of the minimal-risk rule, in combination with the animal and public health measures already in place in the United States and Canada, provide the utmost protection to both U.S. consumers and livestock. We also remain fully confident in the underlying risk assessment, developed in accordance with the OIE guidelines, which determined Canada to be a minimal risk region.

"Today's ruling is not a reflection on the substance of the minimal-risk rule, but rather a procedural delay while the judge considers the merits of the case. We continue to believe that international trade in beef, founded on science-based regulations, should be re-established in an expeditious manner."

March 2, 2005 Release No. 0072.05 Contact: USDA Press Office (202) 720-4623

Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) Recent Information

03-1500 VAN ORDEN V. PERRY

03-1500 VAN ORDEN V. PERRY Decision Below: 351 F.3d 173 (5th Cir. 2003)

QUESTION PRESENTED: Whether a large monument, 6 feet high and 3 feet wide, presenting the Ten Commandments, located on government property between the Texas State Capitol and the Texas Supreme Court, is an impermissible establishment of religion in violation of the First Amendment. Cert. Granted 10/12/04

Supreme Court Docket for 03-1500, The First Amendment Center, at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tenn., and in Arlington, Va. (see About the First Amendment Center), operates this Web site. Van Orden v. Perry (docket #: 03-1500)

S. J. RES. 4 bovine spongiform encephalopathy

Thursday, Mar 3, 2005 9:30 a.m.: Convene and proceed to consideration of S.J.Res.4, providing for congressional disapproval of a rule submitted by the Dept. of Agriculture.

Providing for congressional disapproval of the rule submitted by the Department of Agriculture under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, relating to risk zones for introduction of bovine spongiform encephalopathy.

Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That Congress disapproves the rule submitted by the Department of Agriculture relating to the establishment of minimal risk zones for introduction of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (published at 70 Fed. Reg. 460 (2005)), and such rule shall have no force or effect.

Bill Summary & Status for the 109th Congress

U.S. Urges the Government of Sudan to Provide Due Process

U.S. Urges the Government of Sudan to Provide Due Process

On January 24, 2005, Dr. Mudawi Ibrahim Adam and Salah Mohamed Abdelrahman were arrested for their work highlighting the violence in Darfur. On March 1, the Government of Sudan formally charged Dr. Mudawi with crimes against the state. Dr. Mudawi has been on a hunger strike since February 19. He is now in the hospital, though still under arrest, receiving treatment for loss of weight and medical complications related to his hunger strike.

We call upon the Government of Sudan to release Dr. Mudawi immediately and to provide him with due process of law, including his right to legal representation. We hold the Government of Sudan responsible for his well-being while in custody.

There has been no news on the whereabouts of Mr. Salah Mohamed Abdelrahman since his arrest. We call on the Government of Sudan to verify his status immediately and to release him immediately if he is still in custody.

2005/271 Released on March 2, 2005 Press Statement Adam Ereli, Deputy Spokesman Washington, DC March 2, 2005

Joint Statement by the Quartet

Joint Statement by the Quartet

The Quartet met in London today and strongly reaffirmed our commitment to help Israelis and Palestinians make progress toward the two-state solution which is so deeply in both their interests. The Quartet condemned in the strongest possible terms the terrorist attack that occurred in Tel Aviv on February 25, which killed and wounded dozens of innocent victims and undermines the recent positive steps taken by Israel and the Palestinians. The Quartet called for immediate action by the Palestinian Authority to apprehend and bring to justice the perpetrators. The Quartet welcomed President Abbas' condemnation of the attack and pledge to act against those responsible, noted the initial steps taken in this regard, and stressed the need for further and sustained action by the Palestinian Authority to prevent acts of terrorism. Noting the fragility of the current revived momentum in discussions the Quartet encourages the two parties to continue on the path of direct dialogue and negotiation.

The Quartet recognizes the importance of the Sharm el-Sheikh summit of February 8 at which President Abbas announced a halt to violence against all Israelis, and Prime Minister Sharon announced a halt to military activities against all Palestinians, and expresses its appreciation to Egypt and Jordan for their roles. The Quartet urges the full implementation of the mutual commitments made at the summit by both parties, and urges all countries to support their efforts. The Quartet commends the Israeli cabinet's recent approval of the initiative to withdraw from Gaza and parts of the West Bank, and reiterates that withdrawal from Gaza should be full and complete and should be undertaken in a manner consistent with the Roadmap, as an important step toward the realization of the vision of two democratic states, Israel and Palestine, living side by side in peace and security. The Quartet calls for the resumption of progress towards the implementation of both parties' obligations under the Roadmap. The Quartet reiterates its view that no party should undertake unilateral actions that could prejudge the resolution of final status issues. Quartet members agree on the need to ensure that a new Palestinian state is truly viable, including with contiguous territory in the West Bank. A state of scattered territories will not work.

The Quartet welcomes the recent vote of confidence by the PLC for a new Palestinian cabinet, as well as today's international meeting in London to support Palestinian institution building. The Quartet urges the international community to review and energize current donor coordination structures, with a view to streamlining them in order to increase their effectiveness. The Quartet emphasizes the need for the international community to play a vital role in providing additional financial support to the Palestinians, which is essential in order to support needed reforms, and to help prepare the Palestinian Authority prepare to assume control over areas from which Israel intends to withdraw. The Quartet members encourage an early meeting of the Ad Hoc Liaison Committee to prepare for a pledging conference shortly afterwards.

The Quartet members reiterated their commitment to the positions and principles outlined in their joint statements of 4 May and 22 September 2004. The Quartet remains ready to engage actively, reaffirms its encouragement and support for both sides for the progress they have made in recent weeks, and reiterates its commitment to the fulfillment of the vision of two states, a safe and secure Israel and a sovereign, contiguous, democratic Palestine, living side by side in peace and security. ###

2005/253 Released on March 1, 2005 Press Statement Office of the Spokesman London, England March 1, 2005

United States and France on Lebanon

Joint Statement by the United States and France on Lebanon

As President Chirac and President Bush made clear when they met on February 21, France and the United States stand with the people of Lebanon in their grief following the assassination of former Prime Minister Hariri. We fully support the Lebanese people in their pursuit of an independent, democratic and sovereign Lebanon, free of outside interference and intimidation. Our presidents have instructed us to work urgently together and with the international community to help realize that fundamental goal.

Today, we strongly reaffirm the international community’s call for a full, credible and transparent investigation into the terrorist murder of Prime Minister Hariri. We welcome the dispatch of the UN Secretary General’s team of inquiry and will continue to press for the complete cooperation of the government of Lebanon and all parties to ensure that those responsible are brought swiftly to justice.

The United States and France also reiterate our call for the full and immediate implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1559. That means that full and immediate withdrawal of all Syrian military and intelligence forces from Lebanon. And it means the consolidation of security responsibilities under the authority of a Lebanese government free from foreign domination.

We strongly believe that the people of Lebanon must have the opportunity to make their own political choices, without threats of violence and intimidation. They must have the opportunity to chart their own course through free and fair parliamentary elections this spring, bolstered by an international observer presence prior to and during the elections.

France and the United States will continue to coordinate our efforts closely, including in follow-up discussions later today at the political directors level. We also welcomed the opportunity today to consult with many of our regional and international partners, and look forward to building on what is already a strong foundation of international support for the people of Lebanon and the freedom that they deserve.
2005/254

Released on March 1, 2005 Press Statement Office of the Spokesman London, England

Sale of U.S. Military Equipment from Germany to Greece

Sale of U.S. Military Equipment from Germany to Greece (Taken Question)

Question: What is the status of the sale of U.S. military equipment from Germany to Greece?

Answer: The Government of Germany has made a request to the United States for approval to retransfer U.S.-origin artillery to Greece. U.S. law requires that a recipient of such defense articles must obtain prior consent from the United States before the retransfer of the articles to a third-party recipient. This request is under internal review. Once a decision has been made, we will respond to the Government of Germany.

### 2005/268

Taken Question Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC March 1, 2005 Question Taken At March 1, 2005 Daily Press Briefing

Richard Jones, Senior Advisor to the Secretary, Coordinator for Iraq

Selection of Ambassador Richard Jones as Senior Advisor to the Secretary and Coordinator for Iraq

Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice has appointed Ambassador Richard Jones as Senior Advisor to the Secretary and Coordinator for Iraq.

Ambassador Jones, in collaboration with the Assistant Secretary for Near Eastern Affairs, will report directly to the Secretary and will develop, coordinate and lead implementation of policy on Iraq. He will represent the Secretary and the Department in interagency meetings and chair an Under Secretary-level interagency steering group on Iraq policy. He will work with foreign government officials on issues related to Iraq.

A career member of the U.S. Foreign Service, Richard Jones served as Ambassador to Kuwait from September 2001 to July 2004. From November 2003, until June 2004, he served concurrently as the Chief Policy Officer and Deputy Administrator of the Coalition Provisional Authority in Baghdad, Iraq. Ambassador Jones also served as the U.S. Ambassador to Kazakhstan (1998-2001) and as the U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon (1996-1998). Previous assignments include Director of the State Department’s Office of Egyptian Affairs (1993-1995) and Counselor for Political Affairs in the American Embassy in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (1989-1992).

Ambassador Jones earned a B.S. in Mathematics from Harvey Mudd College, and M.S. in Business from the University of Wisconsin at Madison, and a Ph.D in Business/Statistics from the University of Wisconsin at Madison. ###

2005/269 Press Statement Adam Ereli, Deputy Spokesman Washington, DC March 1, 2005

Burundi Constitutional Referendum

United States Congratulates Burundi on Constitutional Referendum

The United States congratulates the people of Burundi for holding a peaceful constitutional referendum on February 28. The United States views the referendum as an important milestone on the path to peace in Burundi. Moreover, we believe the referendum’s reported approval of the new constitution reflects the views of most Burundians. The reported high turnout demonstrates that the Burundian people believe strongly in the right to vote.

The United States remains committed to fully supporting the Burundi peace process and the Burundian people as they move forward with free and fair elections.

2005/263 Released on March 1, 2005 Press Statement Adam Ereli, Deputy Spokesman Washington, DC March 1, 2005

"Burundi's first democratically elected president was assassinated in October 1993 after only one hundred days in office. Since then, some 200,000 Burundians have perished in widespread, often intense ethnic violence between Hutu and Tutsi factions. Hundreds of thousands have been internally displaced or have become refugees in neighboring countries. Burundi troops, seeking to secure their borders, briefly intervened in the conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in 1998. A new transitional government, inaugurated on 1 November 2001, signed a power-sharing agreement with the largest rebel faction in December 2003 and set in place a provisional constitution in October 2004. Implementation of the agreement has been problematic, however, as one remaining rebel group refuses to sign on and elections have been repeatedly delayed, clouding prospects for a sustainable peace." SOURCE: CIA FactBook

International Travel Safety Information for Students

International Travel Safety Information for Students

As the time approaches for spring or summer breaks, many college students are getting ready for that much anticipated trip abroad. Most will have a safe and enjoyable adventure, but for some the trip will become a nightmare. A number of vacations are ruined by one or more of the following: drugs, alcohol, disorderly behavior, and preventable accidents.

Each year, more than 2,500 American citizens are arrested abroad -- about half on narcotics charges, including possession of very small amounts of illegal substances. A drug that is legal in one country may not be legal in a neighboring nation. Some young people are victimized because they are unaware of the laws, customs, or standards of the country they are visiting.

Besides drugs, alcohol can also cause trouble for U.S. citizens traveling abroad. Students have been arrested for being intoxicated in public areas, for underage drinking, and for drunk driving. Disorderly or reckless behavior is to be avoided. In many countries, conduct that would not result in an arrest in the United States may constitute a violation of local law. Some young Americans go abroad assuming that local authorities will overlook such conduct, believing that they are immune from prosecution in foreign countries because they are American citizens. The truth is that Americans are expected to obey all of the laws of the countries they visit, and those who break these laws could face severe penalties, including prison sentences.

Being arrested is not the only misfortune that can occur on a foreign vacation. Young Americans have suffered injury or even death from automobile accidents, drowning, and falls, in addition to other mishaps. While these accidents are sometimes chance occurrences, many are caused by alcohol or drug abuse. Sadly, other Americans have been sexually assaulted or robbed because they have found themselves in unfamiliar locales or are incapable of exercising prudent judgment while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Other hidden safety issues are of major concern as well. Because standards of security, safety and supervision are not the same in many countries as they are in the U.S., many young persons have died after automobile accidents, after falls from balconies or into open ditches, by drowning in the ocean as well as in hotel pools, and in water-sports mishaps, among others. In some countries, the water sports industry is not carefully regulated. Unlicensed operators have been linked to assaults, and a number of Americans have been killed or injured by the improper use of jet-skis and other personal watercraft. Although it is crucial that young Americans be aware of these safety risks as they are enjoying their time abroad, it is also important to remember that prudent behavior may help minimize these risks.

Young Americans traveling abroad should remember that the use of drugs or alcohol or engaging in reckless behavior while in another country can do more than ruin their vacation; it can land them in a foreign jail, cause them to suffer physical harm, or worse. Common sense should prevail in any activities young Americans engage in so that safety hazards may be minimized. It is possible to have a safe and fun trip if risky behavior is avoided and familiarity is attained with the basic laws and customs of the country that is planned on being visited

In addition, even if a passport is not required to visit a foreign country, U.S. Immigration requires that U.S. citizenship and identity must be proved to reenter the United States. A U.S. passport is the best proof of U.S. citizenship. More information about traveling abroad is available at the Department of State's web site: travel.state.gov/studentinfo.

For further information contact: Bureau of Consular AffairsOffice of Public AffairsPress Inquiries: (202) 647-1488Internet address: travel.state.gov Public Inquiries: toll free (888) 407-4747 ###

2005/256 Media Note Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC February 28, 2005

Secretary Condoleezza Rice, French Foreign Minister Michel Barnier

Remarks With French Foreign Minister Michel Barnier Secretary Condoleezza Rice London, United Kingdom March 1, 2005

FOREIGN MINISTER BARNIER: (In French) Well, thank you for being here this morning. I shall say a few words about the meeting that Dr. Rice and I have had. Of course, we shall have an opportunity of other meetings during this very important occasion which is the first stage following the dynamics that were started after Sharm el-Sheikh. The Sharm el-Sheikh meeting between Ariel Sharon and Mahmoud Abbas, this is something for which we should all consider ourselves as co-sponsors and should all give our support to the efforts made by the Palestinians and the Israelis. We should also consider that after this first stage there will be a second stage during the second half of this year, an international conference to which the Palestinians and the Israelis, but also, the international community, shall come together so as to watch the continuation of this process.

But I would also like to say that with Dr. Rice, we have been discussing the question of Lebanon. It is a very important event, as the Lebanese people have very courageously expressed their aspirations, their aspiration to freedom, their aspiration to a sovereign Lebanon. The Lebanese want to be masters of their own fate, and we, in France, we encouraged this because in France nothing, we can never be indifferent to what is happening in Lebanon, and our way of encouraging this is to repeat what is included in the document which we co-sponsored with the United States. We want the complete implementation of Resolution 1559. We also want the truth, we want the truth to know who is responsible for the death of Rafik Hariri, and we also want all the foreign military troops to be withdrawn from Lebanon, and also the organization of true, genuine elections in this country.

SECRETARY RICE: Thank you very much. It was a pleasure to meet again with my counterpart, French Foreign Minister Barnier. We had very good discussions.

I want to just first say, a thank you to Prime Minister Blair for the opportunity to be here. This is a very important conference which looks to helping the Palestinians prepare themselves for the events that will come over the next several months, to help them prepare for the parliamentary elections, to help them prepare the institutions that can be the basis of statehood, institutions that are transparent, institutions that are accountable, institutions that are democratic. We have had discussions of governance. There will be discussions of economic reform, and there will, of course, be discussions of security and how to help the Palestinians have security forces that can indeed fight terrorism, because without a sustained effort against terrorism it will be very difficult, indeed impossible, to sustain the momentum for peace.

We have a lot of work ahead of us over the next several months and I think we will see how the international community can best continue to support this, but the work before us today and over the next several months is to help the Palestinians in their reform efforts and also to help with the peaceful withdrawal of the Israelis from the Gaza.

We had a very good discussion of Lebanon and that is why we wanted to appear here together. Obviously events in Lebanon are moving in a very important direction. It is also the case that the Lebanese people are beginning to express their aspirations for democracy, their aspirations that they be able to carry out their political aspirations without foreign interference. This is something that we support very much. Resolution 1559, which was co-sponsored by France and the United States within the UN Security Council, calls very firmly for free elections, free and fair elections to take place in Lebanon, for foreign forces, both troops and intelligence forces, to withdraw and for the Lebanese people to be able to conduct their affairs, Lebanese for Lebanon, and not with foreign interference, and this is something on which we agreed very much.

We also want to make certain that we intensify our dialogue about Lebanon and have asked our political directors to meet later today, here in London, to talk about how we can further support the process of elections in Lebanon, how we can further support the removal of foreign elements of interference in Lebanese affairs and how we can move forward to the full implementation of Resolution 1559 within the UN framework. So, that was the bulk of our discussion today and we will gladly take just a couple of questions because we need to get back to this very important conference.

QUESTION: Secretary Rice, you aren’t simply exhorting Syria to withdraw its troops from Lebanon. What specific actions did you discuss, if any, to try to force Syria to do so? If the Syrians do withdraw their troops, do you believe there is any need for any kind of other force, say UN forces perhaps, to deploy to try to prevent a security vacuum?

SECRETARY RICE: Well, we are going to have our political directors meet. I think we will also want to meet with Mr. Larsen from the UN, who is Secretary General Annan’s representative on this issue, to examine what more needs to be done. But the Syrians have a very clear view of what needs to be done. They know what is required in Resolution 1559, it should be recognized. But at this point in time, we have a circumstance in which on several fronts, whether it is Iraqi insurgents who are being supported on Syrian territory and causing the kind of hideous attacks that we had yesterday against the Iraqi people; or support for terrorists who are trying to frustrate the Palestinian/Israeli peace; or, keeping foreign interference in Lebanese affairs that the Syrians are out of step with where the region is going and out of step with the aspirations of the people of the Middle East.

The important thing is that Resolution 1559 is very clear that foreign interference should not be carried out. We will focus very much, I think also, on what we can help the Lebanese to do. That means support for free and fair elections, that means election observers if necessary, monitoring if necessary, and as we see how the Lebanese will move forward, I think we have to look at what can be done in terms of helping them to stabilize the situation should that become necessary. But we have not yet had detailed discussions on that.

FOREIGN MINISTER BARNIER: (in French) Yes I wanted to add to this, that first of all that things must be put quite in order. This is a resolution of the international community as a whole. It is a very clear resolution and it stands alone, and there can be absolutely no excuse to postpone this implementation or not implement it at all. This resolution demands the withdrawal of all military forces in [Lebanon]. This is something which is supported by the international community at large and is to be done under the framework, in the framework of the United Nations under Mr. Larsen, and this particularly at a time when the Lebanese people are expressing their intention, to once again become the masters of their own fate.

QUESTION: (In French, no translation)

FOREIGN MINISTER BARNIER: (In French) Well, the question was concerning Iraq. There has been a cassette recorded by Florence Aubenas in which she’s asking for the help of Mr. Julia.. Are you intending to rely upon his help? And the answer was, well, as from the moment in which we heard of the disappearance of Florence Aubenas and her interpreter Mr. Anud, we immediately committed ourselves to spare no effort to try and help them, and in Baghdad -- it is very difficult and dangerous situation, as you know -- we have been multiplying contacts and in fact as we did concerning the situation of Christian Chesnot and Georges Malbrunot, which turned out well.

We have taken note of this call for help of Florence Aubenas. We shall check this cassette very carefully, we will check the chronology, but what is important to note first of all, is that she is alive. A few days ago we had another evidence of the fact that she was alive, and I informed her family of this. But now, as I was saying, we need to check this cassette very carefully, we need to check the chronology, and as concerns this Member of Parliament whose name you gave, he has expressed his availability and now we shall take all of the measures which we consider useful.

We, the French Government, the Prime Minister, myself, we shall spare no effort, because for us the main thing is to ensure the safety of Florence Aubenas.

Thank you. 2005/257 Released on March 1, 2005

Secretary of State Condi Rice, Secretary General Kofi Annan

Remarks With United Nations Secretary General Kofi Annan

SECRETARY GENERAL ANNAN: Morning, ladies and gentlemen…actually it is afternoon. Secretary of State Condi Rice and myself have had a very good discussion. We have covered lots of territory, from UN Reform to Iraq, Iran, Syria, Lebanon, and we touched on North Korea, Cote d’Ivoire, Sudan and Nepal. I think the meeting on the Palestinian issue has also gone extremely well. I’m very pleased that the Prime Minister convened this meeting which gave everybody an opportunity to sit with the new Palestinian leadership to discuss their needs - how they can be assisted with their reform, economic and social development as well as security. And I think when we look back, the Palestinians have handled the transition extremely well and competently, not only going through the elections but putting together a government that is going to move the process forward. And we hope this meeting will add to the momentum that has been gathering and of course in this afternoon the Quartet would also meet to see how the Quartet can help the process and move the issue forward. Thank you.

SECRETARY RICE: Thank you very much. The Secretary General and I did have a very good talk. We obviously talked about what is going on here at the conference and we will have a Quartet meeting later on today to continue to talk about how the international community can support the process that is underway in this moment of hope. We talked about a wide variety of issues, the events in Lebanon, the need to make certain that Resolution 1559 is adhered to. We had an opportunity to discuss Sudan and the importance of the Sudanese Government taking seriously the concerns and demands of the international community to bring relief to that long suffering population. We also talked a good bit about UN Reform, about the fact that the United States as a founding member of the United Nations wants this to be a strong organization, an organization that is fit and ready for the challenges of the 21st century and we very much appreciate the Secretary General’s commitment to United Nations reform in all of its aspects, in all of its manifestations and we will look forward to working with you, Mr. Secretary General, to make that a reality. Thank you very much. Thank you.

SECRETARY GENERAL ANNAN: Thank you.

Released on March 1, 2005 Secretary Condoleezza Rice London, United Kingdom March 1, 2005

Secretary Bodman Promotes Energy Bill to Western Governors

Secretary Bodman Promotes Energy Bill to Western Governors

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Secretary of Energy Samuel W. Bodman in a speech before the Western Governors Association today expressed the need for Congress to pass comprehensive energy legislation and highlighted the benefits of the proposal for the western United States. Secretary Bodman also discussed a number of important energy initiatives including: nuclear defense; scientific research; oil and gas exploration in Alaska; hydropower; the strengthening of our power grid; further development of renewable energy; hydrogen powered fuel-cell vehicles; and clean-coal power generation.

“The energy challenges facing our country today are greater than they have ever been. We face rapid growth in the demand for oil and natural gas at a time when domestic production is hard-pressed to keep up, and world energy markets are increasingly characterized by price volatility and political uncertainty. Passing the energy bill is among the most important matters to come before this Congress, and I intend to be an enthusiastic advocate for the passage of energy legislation this year,” Bodman said to the governors.

Full text of the speech Media contact: Jason Van Buren, 202/586-4940 Number: R-04-025 March 1, 2005