UN Special Rapporteur on Torture

U.S. Discussions with UN Special Rapporteurs

Question: Has the UN Special Rapporteur on Torture been invited to visit the Guantanamo Bay detention facility?

Answer: Ambassador-at-Large for War Crimes Issues Pierre-Richard Prosper, acting Assistant Secretary for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor Michael Kozak and Ambassador Kevin Moley had good discussions with UN Special Rapporteurs Manfred Nowak, Leandro Despouy and Leila Zerrougui in Geneva on April 4 regarding persons detained at Guantanamo. No invitation was extended. We are examining the request by the Special Rapporteurs to visit Guantanamo. During the meeting, we asked for further information from the Special Rapporteurs so that we can get a better understanding of the scope of the activities they wish to engage in.

2005/387 Released on April 6, 2005 Taken Question Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC April 6, 2005 Question Taken at the April 5, 2005 Press Briefing

Attack on Kashmir Bus Route

United States Condemns Attack on Kashmir Bus Route

The United States condemns in the strongest possible terms the April 6 attack on the bus complex in Srinagar. This was a wanton act of terror on a powerful symbol of rapprochement between India and Pakistan.

Ordinary Kashmiris on both sides of the Line of Control strongly support this bus line that will restore linkages between them for the first time since 1947. We must not allow attempts to frustrate their hopes to succeed.

We applaud the leaders of India and Pakistan for their statesmanship and efforts to reduce tensions. They will continue to have our strong support as they resolve their differences peacefully through dialogue.

SOURCE: state.gov 2005/385 Released on April 6, 2005Press Statement Richard Boucher, Spokesman Washington, DC April 6, 2005

World Health Organization, World Health Day

United States Congratulates World Health Organization on Focus of World Health Day

The United States congratulates the World Health Organization on the focus of World Health Day, April 7, 2005. This year’s focus is on promoting the health of mothers and children.

The World Health Organization estimates that each year more than a half million women die from pregnancy-related causes. High rates of maternal and child death and disability are recognized as major contributors to economic distress, particularly in developing countries. Ensuring the survival and well-being of mothers and children worldwide will not only improve the health of societies, it will also decrease inequality and poverty.

The United States, with decades of experience in maternal and child health programs, encourages the international community, families, community-based groups, and national governments to support actions that aim to improve the survival, health and well-being of all mothers and children. The United States is fully committed to partnering with developing countries, international organizations, civil society, and the private sector to advance sustainable development. Our efforts to promote access to clean water and sanitation, access to energy services, and reduction of the spread of infectious diseases contribute significantly to improving health and advancing sustainable development.

For three decades, the United States government has played a role in improving the health of mothers and children in developing countries, often in conjunction with bilateral and multilateral partners such as Polio Eradication Initiative and the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. Over the years, the U.S. commitment to improving global health has included providing oral rehydration therapy to control the consequences of diarrhea in Egypt, preventing river blindness and guinea worm in Africa, providing health services in Iraq and Afghanistan, initiating the Maternal and Child Health program, and launching the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief.

In addition, the United States, in conjunction with local non-governmental partners, has successfully organized vaccination campaigns in a variety of countries that suffer a high-burden of childhood diseases. In Yemen, for example, in August 2004, U.S. Agency for International Development, through volunteers, vaccinated a total of 2,882 children against polio, diphtheria, and measles. This vaccination campaign was the first time that a vaccination team was able to successfully negotiate and work in the north of the country.

SOURCE: state.gov Additional information on World Health Day and associated activities is available from the World Health Organization at who.int/world-health-day/2005. 2005/386 Released on April 6, 2005 Media Note Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC April 6, 2005

President Congratulates Iraq's Transitional National Assembly

President Congratulates Iraq's Transitional National Assembly

Iraq's Transitional National Assembly took a momentous step forward in Iraq's transition to democracy today, voting by an overwhelming majority to elect the Presidency Council of the Iraqi Transitional Government.

I congratulate Iraq's next President, Jalal Talabani, and its next Deputy Presidents, Adil Abd al-Mahdi and Ghazi Ajil al-Yawer, on this historic occasion. These individuals will be formally sworn in tomorrow and will move quickly to name a Prime Minister who will work during the coming days to select a Council of Ministers. The new Iraqi government will then begin its important work of writing a new constitution, continuing to train Iraqi security forces, delivering basic services, and advancing Iraq's transformation from dictatorship to democracy.

The Iraqi people have shown their commitment to democracy and we, in turn, are committed to Iraq. We look forward to working with this new government and we congratulate all Iraqis on this historic day.

### For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary April 6, 2005

Cancer Control Month, 2005

Cancer Control Month, 2005, By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation

We are making great gains in the fight against cancer. Advances in prevention, early detection, and treatment are reducing cancer rates and increasing the likelihood of survival. Despite this progress, cancer remains the second leading cause of death in America. During Cancer Control Month, we continue to work to learn more about cancer prevention and detection, promote efforts to find better treatments and a cure, and support cancer patients, survivors, and their families.

A healthy lifestyle can lower the risk of developing certain types of cancer. This year, the Department of Health and Human Services released new Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2005, which emphasize reducing caloric intake, eating healthy foods, and increasing physical activity. I encourage all Americans to follow these guidelines, to use sunscreen and limit exposure to the sun, and to avoid tobacco and alcohol abuse. I also urge citizens to talk with their doctors about their cancer risk and to get regular check-ups and preventive screenings. Detecting cancer early increases survival rates and saves lives.

There are nearly 9.8 million cancer survivors in the United States today because of advances in health care. Aggressive funding will lead scientists to earlier diagnoses and improved treatments for lung, colorectal, and other cancers. My Administration proposed more than $5.6 billion for cancer prevention, treatment, and research through the National Institutes of Health in my fiscal year 2006 budget. These funds will help scientists learn more about this devastating disease and offer new hope for countless Americans and their families.

As we observe this month, we honor cancer survivors for their inspiring examples of courage, steadfast strength, and willingness to share their stories and experiences with others. We recognize the families, friends, and loved ones who support and encourage those living with cancer. And we remain grateful to our scientists and medical professionals, who make America's health care system the best in the world. Together, we can help all our citizens live healthier, longer lives.

In 1938, the Congress of the United States passed a joint resolution (52 Stat. 148; 36 U.S.C. 103) as amended, requesting the President to issue an annual proclamation declaring April as "Cancer Control Month."

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim April 2005 as Cancer Control Month. I encourage citizens, government agencies, private businesses, nonprofit organizations, and other interested groups to join in activities that raise awareness about how all Americans can prevent and control cancer.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fifth day of April, 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 April 6, 2005

THE PARDON OF JACK JOHNSON

SENATOR MCCAIN SENDS LETTER TO THE PRESIDENT URGING THE PARDON OF JACK JOHNSON, Bi-partisan Group Of Senators Joins In Effort

WASHINGTON, DC – Yesterday a bi-partisan group of Senators sent a letter to President Bush urging the posthumous pardon of legendary boxer Jack Johnson.

March 29, 2005 The President The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20500

Dear Mr. President:

Last November, the Senate approved by unanimous consent Senate Resolution 447. That resolution expressed the sense of the Senate that you should exercise your constitutional authority to pardon posthumously John Arthur “Jack” Johnson for his violation of the Mann Act. Mr. Johnson’s conviction was motivated by nothing more than the color of his skin. As such, it injured not only Mr. Johnson but also our nation as a whole.

The story of Jack Johnson was largely forgotten for decades by many. In recent months, however, Americans have focused rightly on the injustice done to Mr. Johnson some 90 years ago. In 1913, Johnson was sentenced to one year and a day in federal prison. His crime was transporting a white woman across state lines for an “immoral purpose.”

Race was the shameful motivation for the prosecution and conviction of Jack Johnson. Against heavy odds, Mr. Johnson became the first African American heavyweight boxing champion of the world, and his intimate relationships crossed the color line. Johnson’s rightful custody of the championship belt and his romantic relations were an affront to those who held the pernicious belief that Black Americans merit less than the full rights and freedoms of citizenship.

Mr. President, in your recent Inaugural Address, you stated that “our country must abandon all the habits of racism, because we cannot carry the message of freedom and the baggage of bigotry at the same time.” Such wise words are seldom spoken – and even more rarely given full meaning by just action.

We know, however, that your words are not empty, and so it is our sincere hope that you will help relieve our nation from the weight of racism and bigotry by granting a posthumous pardon to Jack Johnson. Your exculpation of Mr. Johnson would be a strong and necessary symbol to the world of America’s continuing resolve to live up to the noble ideals of freedom, opportunity, and equal justice for all.
Sincerely,

John McCain, Harry Reid, Orrin G. Hatch, Edward M. Kennedy, Ted Stevens, John Kerry ###

WHAT: Press Conference

WHO: Jim Hoffa, General President, Teamsters Union
Sen. John McCain (R-AZ)
Rep. Peter King, (R-NY)
Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr. (D-IL)
Eddie Mustafa Muhammad, President, Joint Association of Boxers
Iran Barkley, Former WBB Heavyweight, Light Heavyweight and Super Middleweight Champion
Richard Steele, Referee Member of the World Boxing Hall of Fame
Kelly Swanson, Committee to Pardon Jack Johnson

WHERE: The Rayburn House Office Building
Room 2255 Washington, DC

WHEN: Wednesday, April 6, 2005 1:00 p.m.

SOURCE: U.S. Senator John McCain

Discovery's launch on STS-114

Discovery

At 2:04 p.m. EDT today, Space Shuttle Discovery began moving out of the Vehicle Assembly Building, beginning its trek to Launch Pad 39B at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The rollout is one of the last major milestones before Discovery's launch on STS-114, currently targeted for the May 15 to June 3 time frame.

The Shuttle will travel the 4.2 miles to the pad at barely one mile an hour.

Return to Flight Improvements: + Part I -- + Part II STS-114 Crew: + Commander Eileen Collins, Interviews: + 2005 -- + 2004 -- + Pilot James Kelly, Interviews: + 2005 -- + 2004 -- + Mission Specialist Charles Camarda, Interviews: + 2005 -- + 2004 -- + Mission Specialist Wendy Lawrence, Interviews: + 2005 -- + 2004 -- + Mission Specialist Soichi Noguchi , Interviews: + 2005 -- + 2004 -- + Mission Specialist Steve Robinson , Interviews: + 2005 -- + 2004 -- + Mission Specialist Andy Thomas, Interviews: + 2005 -- + 2004 -- + STS-114 Mission Patch

EXPORT-IMPORT BANKS OF THE UNITED STATES AND UKRAINE SIGN AGREEMENTS TO FACILITATE U.S. EXPORTS TO UKRAINE

EXPORT-IMPORT BANKS OF THE UNITED STATES AND UKRAINE SIGN AGREEMENTS TO FACILITATE U.S. EXPORTS TO UKRAINE

WASHINGTON, DC - With Ukrainian President Viktor Yushchenko looking on, the Export-Import Bank of the U.S. (Ex-Im Bank) and the State Export-Import Bank of Ukraine (Ukreximbank) last night signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that will help facilitate financing of U.S. exports to Ukraine.

Viktor V. Kapustin, Ukreximbank Chairman of the Board, and Peter Saba, Ex-Im Bank Chief Operating Officer and General Counsel, signed the agreement at historic Blair House, the official guesthouse of the President of the United States.

"We consider the United States as a strategic partner in all fields, including economics," Chairman Kapustin underlines, "and this Memorandum is the first step to facilitate the deepening of our cooperation for the benefit of businesses of both Nations."

"Ukraine is an important partner of the United States", said Saba, "and we believe that its future holds significant promise for growth and investment."

Under the agreement, Ex-Im Bank and Ukreximbank intend to work together to establish a Credit Guarantee Facility of up to US $ 50 million with Ukreximbank as obligor, under which Ukreximbank would make credits available to Ukrainian purchasers of U.S. goods and service exports.

As of the end of fiscal year 2004, Ex-Im Bank's outstanding loans, guarantees, and insurance commitments involving exports to Ukraine totaled just under US $180 million.

The MOU also encourages joint exchanges of information in an effort to facilitate transactions involving U.S. exports to Ukraine.

In a joint statement issued by Presidents George W. Bush and Yushchenko after their meeting on Monday, Mr. Bush said, "As Ukraine undertakes far-reaching reform at home, it can count on the United States for support. We applaud Ukraine's commitment to curb corruption, promote the rule of law and improve the business climate."

Ukreximbank, as State bank, promotes economic development of Ukraine, gives credit and financial support for development of foreign trade relations, restructuring and development of export-oriented and import substitution sectors of the economy. For more information on the Ukraine Export-Import bank, visit eximb.com.

Ex-Im Bank this year marks its 71st year of helping finance the sale of U.S. exports, primarily to emerging markets throughout the world, by providing loan guarantees, export credit insurance, and direct loans. In fiscal year 2004, Ex-Im Bank, an independent U.S. federal agency, authorized financing to support approximately $17.8 billion in U.S. exports worldwide, a 25% jump from a year earlier. For more information on Ex-Im Bank visit exim.gov. To receive news and information directly from Ex-Im Bank via e-mail, sign up at exim.gov/lists/subscribe.

April 6, 2005, Contact: Phil Cogan, Export-Import Bank of the United States, (202) 565-3200, Embassy of Ukraine, Press Office, (202) 333-0606 Issued jointly by the Export-Import Bank of the United States and State Export-Import Bank of Ukraine

Avian Influenza in Asia

Avian Influenza in Asia

The U.S. Government is concerned about the ongoing avian influenza, or bird flu, outbreak in Asia and its potential for becoming a human flu pandemic. From January 2004 until now, outbreaks of bird flu–formally known as Avian Influenza H5N1–have been confirmed among poultry in Vietnam, Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Japan, Laos, Malaysia, South Korea, and Thailand. North Korea recently reported incidents of avian influenza, but the influenza strain remains uncertain.

Avian influenza has killed nearly 50 people in Southeast Asia and resulted in the deaths of millions of poultry. Current influenza treatments for human cases are unproven and medical professionals warn of a global pandemic if the virus develops the capacity to be transmitted easily from person to person. However, the vast majority of the known human cases have resulted from direct contact with poultry and there is only limited evidence to suggest human-to-human transmission.

The United States is collaborating closely with the World Health Organization, the World Organization for Animal Health, and the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations to address the situation. These organizations, working with their members, are offering technical assistance to affected countries throughout the region. At the request of the World Health Organization, the United States provided three test kits to the organization for use in North Korea to determine what influenza viruses are causing outbreaks in poultry and to test if humans have been infected. The U.S. Government approved the release of the kits on a humanitarian basis to help the people of North Korea.

The United States is also offering bilateral technical and epidemiological help to select countries through the Departments of Agriculture and Health and Human Services and the U.S. Agency for International Development. Over the past year, the Department of Health and Human Services provided over $5.5 million in technical help and grants to the region and the World Health Organization for influenza pandemic preparedness, including emergency support in the form of experts and laboratory reagents from its Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The Department of Agriculture, with the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum, is organizing a symposium on avian influenza response, preparedness, and human health emergency in San Francisco in July. The U.S. Agency for International Development has sent stocks of personal protective equipment to the region to be used if an outbreak begins to spread rapidly.

To help protect Americans at home and abroad, the State Department has issued a Fact Sheet informing the public about avian influenza. For more information go to state.gov/avianflu 2005/377 Released on April 5, 2005 Press Statement Richard Boucher, Spokesman Washington, DC April 5, 2005

CENDRUSA Conference

Department of State Will Host the CENDRUSA Conference of Leading Businessmen and Community Leaders From Central America, the Dominican Republic, and the United States

The Department of State will host the CENDRUSA (Central America and the Dominican Republic in the U.S.A.) Conference in the Loy Henderson Auditorium, on April 6, 2005, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Deputy Secretary of State Robert Zoellick and Assistant Secretary of State Roger F. Noriega will address the group, made up of U.S. citizens and residents with ties to Central America and Dominican Republic. The Conference will focus on the expanding relationship between the United States and the countries of Central America and the Dominican Republic. Of special interest will be how the Central American-Dominican Republic Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR) will strengthen economic ties and improve the livelihoods of the people of our region.

Members of the press wishing to attend this briefing who do not have a Department of State building pass should arrive at the 23rd street entrance by 8:30 a.m. to clear security procedures.

Media representatives who plan to attend must present one of the following press credentials: (1) a U.S. Government-issued identification card (Department of State, White House, Congress, Department of Defense, or Foreign Press Center), (2) a media-issued photo identification card, or (3) a letter from their employer on letterhead verifying their employment as a journalist, accompanied by an official photo identification (driver’s license or passport). SOURCE: state.gov

2005/378 Released on April 5, 2005 Media Note Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC April 5, 2005

Delegation Accompanying the President and Mrs. Bush to the Funeral Mass of His Holiness Pope John Paul II

Delegation Accompanying the President and Mrs. Bush to the Funeral Mass of His Holiness Pope John Paul II

President George W. Bush today announced the delegation accompanying him and Mrs. Laura Bush to the Funeral Mass of His Holiness Pope John Paul II, on Friday, April 8, 2005, will include:

Former President George H.W. Bush

Former President William J. Clinton

The Honorable Condoleezza Rice, Secretary of State

# # # For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary April 5, 2005

DoD to Award $11.4 Million for Science and Engineering Research

DoD to Award $11.4 Million for Science and Engineering Research

The Department of Defense announced today plans to award $11.4 million to 20 academic institutions in 16 states to perform research in science and engineering fields important to national defense.

Twenty-seven projects were competitively selected under the fiscal 2005 Defense Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (DEPSCoR), which is designed to expand research opportunities in states that have traditionally received the least funding in federal support for university research. The average award will be approximately $422,000. All awards are subject to the successful completion of negotiations between DoD and the academic institutions.

Academic researchers in Alaska, Arkansas, Delaware, Hawaii, Idaho, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Montana, New Hampshire, Nebraska, Nevada, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Vermont, West Virginia and Wyoming were eligible to receive awards under this competition.

The Air Force Office of Scientific Research, the Army Research Office and the Office of Naval Research solicited proposals using a defense-wide broad agency announcement. The announcement was published on the Internet and accessed by the DEPSCoR state committees, which solicited and selected projects for each state’s proposal. In response, 22 state proposal packages consisting of 108 projects were submitted, requesting more than $56.4 million.

The list of projects selected for fiscal 2005 DEPSCoR funding can be found on the Web in PDF format at defenselink.mil/news/press

U.S. Department of DefenseOffice of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Public Affairs)News Release On the Web: defenselink.mil/releases Media contact: +1 (703) 697-5131 Public contact: dod.mil/faq/comment or +1 (703) 428-0711 No. 327-05 IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 5, 2005

Diplomatic Security Arrests Foreign Service Officer in Alleged Visa Fraud Conspiracy

Diplomatic Security Arrests Foreign Service Officer in Alleged Visa Fraud Conspiracy

A U.S. State Department employee who was stationed in Lithuania between 1999 and 2001 was arrested yesterday, April 4, on federal charges for allegedly conspiring to provide non-immigrant visas to nearly a dozen persons in exchange for cash bribes totaling more than $40,000 and a vintage motorcycle, officials of the Justice and State Departments announced today.

Matthew Christ, a State Department Foreign Service Officer, was among 10 defendants charged in a superseding indictment that was returned March 24 by a federal grand jury in Chicago and unsealed following his arrest. He was charged with two counts of conspiracy to commit fraud, eight counts of visa fraud, and one count of bribery in the 19-count indictment. Christ had his initial hearing at the Eastern District of Virginia Federal Courthouse today and was released on personal recognizance, ordered to relinquish all travel documents within 24 hours, and to report to the Northern District of Illinois in Chicago within 7 days. The indictment is the result of a 22-month investigation lead by the Bureau of Diplomatic Security and the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Chicago with cooperation from Lithuanian law enforcement authorities.

According to the indictment, between August 1999 and July 2001, Christ was assigned as a political-economics officer at the U.S. Embassy in Vilnius. Christ allegedly conspired to fraudulently provide nonimmigrant visas and to deprive the State Department of Christ’s honest services. Christ and others allegedly charged individuals amounts ranging from $3,000 to $14,000 to acquire nonimmigrant visas to the United States. The indictment also seeks forfeiture of $42,500 and a vintage BMW motorcycle.

The co-conspirators allegedly obtained visas from Christ without the applicants having to appear in person at the American Embassy in Vilnius. The recipients then used the visas they fraudulently obtained to enter the United States, with most arriving through O’Hare International Airport in Chicago, according to the indictment.

Employees who commit visa malfeasance are a very small percentage of our work force. The overwhelming majority of State Department employees are dedicated public servants who work tirelessly to protect the visa process and serve the U.S. public interest.
Moreover, an indictment contains only charges and is not evidence of guilt. The defendants are presumed innocent and are entitled to a fair trial at which the government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

The U.S. Department of State's Bureaus of Diplomatic Security and Consular Affairs work collaboratively to detect, combat, and prevent fraud or other criminal activities that threaten the integrity of U.S. visas and passports.

Diplomatic Security is the worldwide law enforcement and security arm of the U.S. Department of State with special agents assigned to U.S. diplomatic missions overseas and field offices throughout the United States. Diplomatic Security special agents conduct passport and visa fraud investigations worldwide and are responsible for security at 285 U.S. diplomatic facilities around the world. SOURCE: state.gov

Contact: Darlene Kirk (571) 345-2507Cell:(703) 608-2851Email: kirkd3@state.gov
Special Agent Pete Kramer (312) 353-6163Email: kramerpm@state.gov 2005/379 Released on April 5, 2005 Media Note Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC April 5, 2005

second Cabinet meeting of the second term

President Meets with Cabinet Cabinet Room 3:14 P.M. EDT

THE PRESIDENT: Just concluded the second Cabinet meeting of the second term. I want to thank my Cabinet officials for doing such a fine job. I appreciate your hard work, and thank you for your dedication to the country.

Tomorrow I will be leaving for Rome, leading a delegation to attend the services for His Holiness Pope John Paul, II. What a great man. It will be my honor to represent our country in a ceremony marking a remarkable life, a person who stood for freedom and human dignity.

I also urge the Congress to successfully conclude budget negotiations. The House passed the budget resolution; the Senate has passed the resolution. We look forward to working with the leadership to successfully conclude those negotiations. It's important we get a budget, a budget which will show the American people that we will spend their money wisely; a budget that shows that we know how to set priorities -- winning the war on terror, protecting our homeland; a budget that says we can cut the deficit in half in five years; and a budget that will encourage economic growth and vitality.

I appreciate the fact that it looks like that we're going to get a solid cap on discretionary spending, one that we agree with. It's also important for the senators and the members of the House of Representatives to understand that a good, solid budget that helps us meet objectives is one that deals with mandatory spending items. And we've presented some meaningful, realistic, common-sense reforms on the mandatory spending side.

And so, as Congress returns, I look forward to working with them to get a good, solid budget. It's important for the country.

Now I'll answer a few questions. Jennifer.

Q Yes, sir. Al Qaeda has claimed responsibility for the attack on Abu Graib prison. Is this a sign that they're becoming more sophisticated in Iraq?

THE PRESIDENT: No, I think it's a sign that they're still deadly, that these people will kill. They kill innocent life. Their strategy hasn't really changed. Their strategy has been one to kill as many innocent people as they possibly can, in the hopes that it shakes our confidence and shakes our will and, equally importantly, shakes the will and confidence of those brave souls who are helping lead this new country -- lead this new democracy.

And we are -- we're after them. And equally importantly, the Iraqi citizens are after them now. More and more citizens understand that these terrorists, like al Qaeda and Zarqawi, don't have their interests at heart. They don't believe in democracy, these killers. They believe in a society in which people aren't going to be free to practice their religion, or free to speak in the public square.

And so I think the American people ought to take heart to know that we have now more allies in defeating these few, and those allies are the Iraqi citizens. And perhaps the most notable step that the Iraqi citizens took toward complete defiance of the point of view of Zarqawi, who is an al Qaeda type, was when they went to the polls.

Adam.

Q Mr. President, Prime Minister Sharon has said he intends to expand the largest Jewish settlement in the West Bank. Other officials say no construction is imminent. Are you satisfied? And what will you tell Sharon when you see him about the settlements?

THE PRESIDENT: Our position is very clear that the road map is important, and the road map calls for no expansion of the settlements. I'm optimistic we can achieve a peace in the Holy Land. I'm optimistic because I firmly believe that Ariel Sharon wants to have a peaceful partner, wants there to be a democracy in the Palestinian Territories, and I believe President Abbas wants the same thing. And there's a lot of hard work to be done, but we're making progress. And I look forward to meeting the Prime Minister in Crawford to continue to work with the parties to advance peace.

Carl.

Q Thank you, Mr. President. You mentioned the deficit. Insofar as the deficit has been going up, can you talk about how that affects both the budget resolution talks on the Hill, and what it does to your pitch for Social Security reform in terms of complicating the message and the criticism you've gotten, particularly from Democrats?

THE PRESIDENT: Well, one of the things that people must understand on Social Security is there is a huge unfunded liability of trillions of dollars. In other words, because baby boomers like me are getting ready to retire and we're living longer and we're getting greater benefits, there is a significant obligation of the government. And the fundamental question is, will Congress have the will to take on this very important issue and solve this problem now, before that significant obligation becomes more significant.

Now, we're dealing with the deficit by presenting a good, lean budget that sets priorities. I want to thank Josh Bolten of the OMB, and I want to thank all my Cabinet Secretaries for having worked with the OMB to deliver to Congress a budget that will work on behalf of the American people. And now it's up to Congress. It's up to Congress to show the American people that we have the capacity to de-fund programs which don't work, and fund programs which do work.

And I'm looking forward to working with members of both the House and the Senate. It's going to be an interesting set of negotiations. But we're firm in our belief that we can cut this deficit in half over a five-year period of time, grow this economy, and meet our primary objective, which is defending America.

Listen, thank you all very much.

END 3:20 P.M. EDT For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary April 5, 2005

"Oversight of the USA PATRIOT Act"

"Oversight of the USA PATRIOT Act"
Senate Judiciary Committee Full Committee

DATE: April 5, 2005
TIME: 09:30 AM
ROOM: Senate Hart 216
OFFICIAL HEARING NOTICE / WITNESS LIST: NOTICE OF COMMITTEE HEARING

The Senate Committee on the Judiciary has scheduled a hearing for Tuesday, April 5, 2005 at 9:30 a.m. in Room 216 of the Senate Hart Office Building on “Oversight of the USA PATRIOT Act”.

Senator Specter will preside.

Witness List Hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee on "Oversight of the USA PATRIOT Act"

Tuesday, April 5, 2005 9:30 a.m. Senate Hart Building, Room 216

PANEL I

The Honorable Alberto Gonzales, United States Attorney General, Department of Justice, Washington, DC

The Honorable Robert S. Mueller, III, Director Federal Bureau of Investigation, Department of Justice, Washington, DC

By order of the Chairman

TESTIMONY
THE HONORABLE ROBERT S. MUELLER, III
THE HONORABLE ALBERTO GONZALEZ
MEMBER STATEMENTS
THE HONORABLE CHARLES GRASSLEY
THE HONORABLE PATRICK LEAHY

2005, National Alcohol Screening Day (NASD)

DoD to Participate in National Alcohol Screening Day

The Department of Defense announced today that military facilities will participate in the April 7, 2005, National Alcohol Screening Day (NASD). This annual outreach is funded by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration of the Department of Health and Human Services, which provides free alcohol screening and education materials to participating organizations and individuals.

“Alcoholism knows no boundary,” said Dr. William Winkenwerder Jr., assistant secretary of defense for health affairs. “The early identification of alcohol problems coupled with effective education and treatment saves lives and improves our force readiness.” The department had more than 100 military facilities participate in this important program last year and encourages even greater participation this year.

Elimination of alcohol abuse is one of three key health issues identified by the department, along with weight management and tobacco cessation. Organizers point out that this screening program is designed to include military personnel, government civilians and family members as well. All military facilities are encouraged to register and participate in this helpful program and to use the materials when appropriate for local circumstances. The NASD kit of materials contains screening forms, educational flyers and brochures, posters and a video, and a procedure guide to help personnel plan an alcohol-screening event. The screening program is relevant for anyone who drinks alcohol.

One facility that had a successful program last year, for example, was Tinker Air Force Base, Okla. “The thing that amazes me,” said Mildred Fitch, of Tinker’s ADAPT program, “is that we found our people sharing the information with their families.” In another successful program, held by Fort Benning’s, Ga., substance abuse program, Yvonne Wilbanks explained that, “We involved troop medical clinics to help target the high-risk population. It was a good program for our soldiers, because a lot of them are young, college-age people, so it was a chance to get them information explaining what is considered normal and what is not. Soldiers told us they don’t often get a chance to find out [about the dangers of alcohol] until they have a problem and get in trouble.”

Facilities, units or individuals interested in receiving the materials and implementing a local alcohol screening program can contact the NASD office at 1 (800) 253-7658, or by registering online at nationalalcoholscreeningday.org , by contacting or their local military drug and alcohol coordinating office.

U.S. Department of DefenseOffice of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Public Affairs)News Release On the Web: defenselink.mil/releases Media contact: +1 (703) 697-5131
Public contact: dod.mil/faq/comment or +1 (703) 428-0711 No. 326-05 IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 5, 2005

New Passport Initiative Announced

New Passport Initiative Announced To Better Secure America’s Borders

Initiative Designed To Expedite Travel in the Western Hemisphere While Enhancing Security

The Departments of State and Homeland Security announced today the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative to secure and expedite travel. The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative will require all U.S. citizens, Canadians, citizens of the British Overseas Territory of Bermuda, and citizens of Mexico to have a passport or other accepted secure document to enter or re-enter the U.S. by January 1, 2008.

Currently, U.S. citizens, and some citizens of other countries in the Western Hemisphere are not required to present a passport to enter or re-enter the U. S. when traveling within the Western Hemisphere. The Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004 (IRTPA, also known as the 9/11 Intelligence Bill), signed into law on December 17, 2004, mandated that the Secretary of Homeland Security, in consultation with the Secretary of State, develop and implement a plan to require U.S. citizens and foreign nationals to present a passport, or other secure document when entering the United States.

To provide vital information to the general public, the Departments of Homeland Security (DHS) and State (DOS) are issuing an Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM) on the plan to the public and requesting input and/or comment on the suggested documents and possible alternative documents that can meet the statutory requirements. A more formal rulemaking will be issued later this year following review of those comments to implement the first phase of the initiative. This rulemaking will take into account comments received from the advanced notice as well as soliciting further comments on the rulemaking itself.

"Our goal is to strengthen border security and expedite entry into the United States for U.S. citizens and legitimate foreign visitors," Homeland Security Acting Under Secretary for Border and Transportation Security, Randy Beardsworth stated. "By ensuring that travelers possess secure documents, such as the passport, Homeland Security will be able to conduct more effective and efficient interviews at our borders."

"We recognize the implications this might have for industry, business and the general public, as well as our neighboring countries, and they are important partners in this initiative. The advanced notice of proposed rule making will allow these affected publics to voice concern and provide ideas for alternate documents acceptable under the law," explained Assistant Secretary of State for Consular Affairs, Maura Harty. "The overarching need is to implement this legal requirement in a way that strengthens security while facilitating the movement of persons and goods."

DHS and DOS propose to roll out the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative in phases, providing as much advance notice as possible to the affected public to enable them to acquire the necessary documents before the deadline.

As previously noted, the passport (U.S. or Foreign) will be the document of choice for entry or re-entry into the U.S. However, another document that we anticipate will be acceptable under the travel initiative is the Border Crossing Card, (BCC – or "laser visa"). Currently, the BCC serves in lieu of a passport and a visa for citizens of Mexico traveling to the U.S. from contiguous territory. Other documents that we anticipate will be acceptable under this Initiative are the Customs and Border Protection Secure Electronic Network for Travelers Rapid Inspection (SENTRI), NEXUS and Free and Secure Trade (FAST) program cards.

Additional documents are also being examined to determine their acceptability for travel. The public will be notified of additional travel document options as those determinations are made. The government would expect that acceptable documents must establish the citizenship and identity of the bearer, enable electronic data verification and checking, and include significant security features. Ultimately, all documents used for travel to the U.S. are expected to include biometrics that can be used to authenticate the document and verify identity.

For more information, visit: travel.state.gov, or dhs.gov . 2005/380 Released on April 5, 2005 Media Note Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC April 5, 2005

Pan American Day and Pan American Week, 2005

Pan American Day and Pan American Week, 2005 by the President of the United States of America a Proclamation

Leaders across the Americas understand that the hope for peace in our world depends on the unity of free nations. Each year, the people of the United States observe Pan American Day and Pan American Week to honor our shared commitment to freedom, prosperity, and security. We are working with our partners in the Western Hemisphere to advance our common interests and values so that we can build a brighter future for our citizens.

The idea of regional solidarity and inter American cooperation, first envisioned in 1826 by Simon Bolivar, became a reality in 1890 when the First International Conference of American States concluded its meetings in Washington, D.C. There, President Benjamin Harrison praised the efforts of the countries in attendance for their desire to work together as American States. Through the years, these efforts, shared values, and mutual respect have strengthened this partnership.

Across our hemisphere, social, economic, military, and political cooperation are widespread. Last year, trade officials of five Central American nations and the Dominican Republic signed the Central American Dominican Republic Free Trade Agreement with the United States. I urge the Congress to ratify this agreement, which will eliminate tariffs and trade barriers and expand regional opportunities.

My Administration remains committed to the Inter American Democratic Charter to advance democracy and defend freedom across our region. Our Nation's continued support of democratic institutions, constitutional processes, and basic liberties gives hope and strength to those struggling in our hemisphere and around the world to preserve the rule of law and their God given rights.

The democratic nations of the Western Hemisphere believe in the rights and dignity of every person, and we believe that liberty is worth defending. In the spirit of Pan American cooperation, we will continue to work to strengthen ties among our nations and further democracy, peace, and prosperity.

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 April 14, 2005, as Pan American Day and April 10 through April 16, 2005, as Pan American Week. I urge the Governors of the 50 States, the Governor of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and the officials of other areas under the flag of the United States of America to honor these observances with appropriate ceremonies and activities.

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fifth day of April, 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 April 5, 2005

gadolinium-nickel alloy, spent nuclear energy fuel

New alloy verified for safer disposal of spent nuclear energy fuel, Scientists verify critical fabrication properties of gadolinium-nickel alloy

A new alloy developed and patented by researchers at Lehigh University, Sandia National Laboratory and Idaho National Laboratory could help the U.S. dispose more safely of 50,000 tons of spent nuclear energy fuel that are now stored at 125 sites in 39 states.

John DuPont, professor of materials science and engineering at Lehigh and principal investigator on the project, said that a nickel-based alloy with added gadolinium showed far greater ability than any other alloy to absorb the deadly radioactive neutrons emitted by nuclear waste.

The researchers found that the gadolinium-nickel alloy passed an important test - it can be fabricated in large quantities using conventional ingot metallurgy and fusion welding techniques.

The researchers' discovery, which was announced in an article in the December 2004 issue of the American Welding Society's Welding Journal, caps a four-year study funded by the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Spent Nuclear Fuel Program.

The article, titled "Physical and Welding Metallurgy of Gadolinium-enriched Austenitic Alloys for Spent Nuclear Fuel Applications - Part II," won the society's Warren F. Savage Award for advancing the understanding of welding metallurgy.

The article comes amidst a controversy over plans by the Bush Administration and Congress to transport the nation's spent nuclear fuel to Nevada and deposit it inside Yucca Mountain about 90 miles northwest of Las Vegas.

In 2002, over the objections of Nevada Governor Kenny Guinn, Congress passed, and President Bush signed into law a resolution approving Yucca Mountain as the storage site for the nation's spent nuclear fuel.

DOE's application for a license to build the project is pending before the federal Nuclear Regulatory Commission. The state of Nevada, contending that the Yucca Mountain project is environmentally and geologically unsafe, has filed lawsuits against DOE, NRC, Bush and former DOE Secretary Spencer Abraham.

Gadolinium, a silvery-white metal. occurs naturally in several different minerals. The collaborative research conducted by Lehigh and the two national labs demonstrated that gadolinium can be added to specific nickel alloys and retain its malleability and ductility, as well as its ability to be heat-treated, shaped and fabricated readily into a desired shape.

More importantly, says DuPont, gadolinium has a neutron-absorption cross- section of 48,800 barn units, more than 60 times greater than the 765-barn cross-section for boron. (Cross-section, the measure of the probability of an interaction between a particle and a target nucleus, is expressed in barn units, with one barn equal to 10-24 cm2.) Borated stainless steel is the material commonly used in conventional nuclear-waste containers. However, borated stainless steel is not capable of housing some of the nations highly radioactive spent fuel.

The higher neutron-absorption capacity of gadolinium, says DuPont, means that highly radioactive fuel can now be safely transported to and stored at a permanent facility.

The research group, which includes DuPont at Lehigh and scientists from Sandia National Laboratories in New Mexico and the Idaho National Laboratory (formerly the Idaho National Engineering and Environmental Laboratory), conducted laboratory tests to determine the optimum amount of gadolinium to add to the nickel-based alloy.

The tests involved mixing the constituent elements of the alloy, heating and melting the mixture, and allowing it to cool and solidify. The alloy was then heated and rolled into half-inch-thick sheets, and subjected to strength and ductility tests.

"We designed and developed various alloys to determine the quantity of gadolinium that could be added while still maintaining the desired properties," says DuPont. "We needed to be able to heat-treat the final material, weld it and fabricate it."

A specification has been approved for the alloy by ASTM (the American Society of Testing Materials), which sets technical standards for materials, products, systems and services. The alloy is being reviewed by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, which also sets standards for the use of new products. Neutronics (neutron-absorption) tests on the alloy were performed at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in California.

The research team was awarded a U.S. patent for the alloy last year.

Prior to its work with the gadolinium-nickel alloy, the researchers spent a year investigating gadolinium-enriched stainless-steel alloys for spent nuclear fuel storage applications before coming up against major obstacles to the production of those alloys using conventional hot working techniques.

### SOURCE: U.S. Department of Energy Research News Public release date: 4-Apr-2005 Contact: Kurt Pfitzer mailto:kap4@lehigh.edu 610-758-3017 Lehigh University

TERRORIST ATTACK ON CAMP ABU GHRAIB

UPDATE: U.S. FORCES REPEL TERRORIST ATTACK ON CAMP ABU GHRAIB

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Soldiers and Marines successfully repelled a well-coordinated attack by 40-60 terrorists on Forward Operating Base Abu Ghraib April 2 at about 7 p.m. Abu Ghraib is a detention facility for 3,400 detainees as well as an Iraqi-run prison.

In an attempt to gain access to the prison, terrorists launched a simultaneous attack in multiple locations using indirect fires, rocket-propelled grenade fire, small arms fire and a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device. Just as the sun was setting, indirect fire from 81 mm and 120 mm mortars began impacting the operating base. This was followed by multiple RPG attacks and a large volume of small arms fire focused on two guard towers, one on the northwestern and the other on the southeastern corner on the operating base. Using the cover of the mortar fire and the intense fire on the guard towers, the terrorists launched a VBIED to penetrate the perimeter wall near the southeastern guard tower. Marines defending the base returned fire and the VBIED exploded before it reached the perimeter. Marines in the tower were forced to evacuate but were quickly reinforced by a quick reaction force.

The terrorists, using residential areas for cover and concealment, then conducted a ground assault towards the southeastern tower. With reinforcements from the quick reaction force, Marines and Soldiers halted the advance of the terrorists. Additionally, Apache helicopters and artillery fire began to engage the remnants of the attackers. The terrorists were forced to withdraw after suffering an estimated 50 casualties. The attack was over by 9 p.m.

US forces sustained seven wounded who were evacuated to a combat support hospital and sixteen minor injuries from shrapnel who have been returned to duty.

Additionally, thirteen detainees were also wounded from indirect fire, and all detainees remained accounted for.

-30- SOURCE: United States Central Command NEWS RELEASE HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES CENTRAL COMMAND 7115 South Boundary Boulevard MacDill AFB, Fla. 33621-5101 Phone: (813) 827-5894; FAX: (813) 827-2211; DSN 651-5894 April 4, 2005 Release Number: 05-04-05 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE