Class Action Fairness Act of 2005 S.5

Class Action Fairness Act of 2005 S.5

(This measure has not been amended since it was introduced. The summary has been expanded because action occurred on the measure.)

Class Action Fairness Act of 2005 - (Sec. 3) Amends the Federal judicial code to specify the calculation of contingent and other attorney's fees in proposed class action settlements that provide for the award of coupons to class members.

Prohibits a Federal district court from approving: (1) a proposed coupon settlement absent a finding that the settlement is fair, reasonable, and adequate; (2) a proposed settlement involving payments to class counsel that would result in a net monetary loss to class members, absent a finding that the loss is substantially outweighed by nonmonetary benefits; or (3) a proposed settlement that provides greater sums to some class members solely because they are closer geographically to the court.

Specifies requirements for serving notices of proposed settlements on appropriate State and Federal officials. Prohibits issuance of an order giving final approval to a proposed settlement earlier than 90 days after such service. Allows class members to refuse compliance with settlement agreements or consent decrees absent notice.

(Sec. 4) Grants district courts original jurisdiction of any civil action in which the matter in controversy exceeds $5 million, exclusive of interest and costs, and that is between citizens of different States, or citizens of a State and a foreign State or its citizens or subjects.

Lists those factors pursuant to which a district court may, in the interests of justice and based on the totality of the circumstances, decline to exercise jurisdiction over a class action in which more than one-third but less than two-thirds of the members of the proposed plaintiff classes in the aggregate and the primary defendants are citizens of the State in which the action was originally filed, based on consideration of whether: (1) the claims involve matters of national or interstate interest; (2) the claims will be governed by laws of the State where the action was originally filed or by the laws of other States; (3) the class action has been pleaded in a manner that seeks to avoid Federal jurisdiction; (4) the action was brought in a forum with a distinct nexus with the class members, the alleged harm, or the defendants; (5) the number of citizens of the State of original filing in all proposed plaintiff classes in the aggregate is substantially larger than the number of citizens from any other State and the citizenship of other proposed class members is dispersed; and (6) during the three-year period preceding filing, one or more other class actions asserting the same or similar claims on behalf of the same persons have been filed.

Specifies those circumstances in which a district court must decline jurisdiction, including those class actions in which: (1) more than two-thirds of the members of the proposed plaintiff classes in the aggregate are citizens of the State where the action was originally filed, at least one defendant is a defendant from whom significant relief is sought, whose alleged conduct forms a significant basis for the claims asserted, and who is a citizen of the State where the action was originally filed, and principal injuries resulting from the alleged or related conduct were incurred in such State; and (2) during the three-year period preceding filing, no other class action has been filed asserting the same or similar factual allegations against any of the defendants on behalf of the same or other persons; or (3) two-thirds or more of the members of all proposed plaintiff classes in the aggregate, and the primary defendants, are citizens of the State where the action was originally filed.

Makes provisions of this Act concerning the application of Federal diversity jurisdiction applicable to any class action before or after entry of a class certification order.

(Sec. 5) Sets forth provisions governing the removal of interstate class actions to Federal district court and the review on appeal of remand orders.

(Sec. 6) Directs the Judicial Conference of the United States to report on class action settlements, incorporating recommendations for best court practices to ensure fairness for class members and appropriate fees for counsel.

(Sec. 7) States that amendments to Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 23 (governing class actions) set forth in the Supreme Court order entered on March 27, 2003, shall take effect on the date of enactment of this Act or on December 1, 2003, whichever occurs first.

(Sec. 8) Retains the authority of the Supreme Court and Judicial Conference to propose and prescribe general rules of practice and procedure.

Inter-American Committee Against Terrorism

U.S. Delegation to the Fifth Regular Session of the Inter-American Committee Against Terrorism

The Fifth Regular Session of the Organization of American States (OAS) Inter-American Committee Against Terrorism (CICTE), will take place in Port-of-Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, on February 16-18, 2005. Asa Hutchinson, Under Secretary for Border and Transportation Security at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), will lead the U.S. delegation. Ambassador John F. Maisto, U.S. Permanent Representative to the OAS, and William P. Pope, the State Department's Acting Coordinator for Counterterrorism are also scheduled to join him.

The conference will build on the momentum created by the Inter-American Convention Against Terrorism, which was signed in the wake of the attacks of September 11, 2001. The member states of the committee expect to approve a political declaration that strengthens the hemisphere's commitment to counterterrorism cooperation. The participants will focus on a broad range of issues, including strengthening border and financial controls and addressing threats to cybersecurity, transportation infrastructure and document security.

2005/169 Released on February 9, 2005 Media Note Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC February 9, 2005

Medicare Drug Benefit Estimates Unchanged

Fact Sheet: Setting the Record Straight: Medicare Drug Benefit Estimates Unchanged

Myth: Today's Washington Post story (p A1), headlined "Medicare Drug Benefit May Cost $1.2 Trillion," is simply wrong. The article says "the White House released budget figures yesterday indicating that the new Medicare prescription drug benefit will cost more than $1.2 trillion in the coming decade, a much higher price tag than President Bush suggested when he narrowly won passage of the law in late 2003." This statement in the first paragraph of the story is flat wrong. The White House is seeking a correction from The Washington Post.

Here are the Facts:

In 2003, President Bush committed to spending $400 billion over the next 10 years (2004 to 2013) to modernize Medicare and add an Rx benefit to the program. In December 2003, President Bush signed into law the Medicare Modernization Act, which the Congressional Budget Office scored as costing $395 billion over the 10 year period the President discussed (2004 to 2013). The Medicare Actuaries later estimated that the Act's 10 year cost for the period 2004-2013 would be $534 billion. The Congressional Budget Office continued to estimate $395 billion for the same time frame. The 2004-2013 CMS net estimate of Federal spending on the Medicare prescription drug benefit is virtually unchanged from previous estimates. Last year, CMS estimated the cost of the first 10 years of the program (2004-2013) at $511 billion, and this year, they believe that cost to be $518 billion. This cost estimate includes two years (2004 and 2005) before the Medicare drug benefit is scheduled to begin. The FY 2006 budget includes a cost estimate for the Rx drug benefit for a different 10-year time frame, 2006-2015, when the drug benefit is fully phased in. The 2006-2015 CMS net estimate of Federal spending on the Medicare prescription drug benefit is $723 billion. The $1.2 trillion figure from today's Washington Post is flat wrong, because it does not take into account savings to the government from premium payments, state payments, and savings from the Medicaid system.

Remember:

Beginning next January, all Medicare beneficiaries will be eligible for prescription drug coverage, regardless of their income, or whether they're enrolled in traditional fee-for-service or a Medicare Advantage plan. Seniors already are benefiting from better preventive coverage under Medicare that took effect last month. These new benefits include screenings for diabetes, heart disease and breast cancer. In addition, beneficiaries entering the Medicare program are eligible for a "Welcome to Medicare" physical. Through the Medicare-approved drug discount program, the purchasing power of seniors is finally being pooled to provide real savings on prescription medicines. Prior to the discount program, seniors often have had to pay full price for drugs. And the drug card program also gives seniors unprecedented information on drug prices to comparison shop. More than 6.2 million of these seniors are now saving on their prescriptions through Medicare drug discount cards. Seniors can use the card to save 15 to 30 percent off the usual retail price of most brand name drugs and more on generics at neighborhood pharmacies. Savings from the cards are even greater when seniors choose generics. A new CMS study shows that savings on generic drugs range from 28 to 75 percent below the average generic prices paid by all Americans. Generic drugs are just as safe and effective as brand-name drugs in the United States, saving consumers billions of dollars annually. Low-income seniors can get these savings and an additional $600 a year - a total of $1,200 for 2004 and 2005. An estimated 1.7 million seniors are receiving this credit through cards with the Medicare-approved seal. There is no enrollment fee on any card for people who qualify for the $600 low-income credit. Beneficiaries who exhaust the $600 subsidy may get additional savings. A growing list of drug manufacturers has agreed to make many of their products available at a nominal price to beneficiaries who have used up their $600 subsidy on prescription medicines. These seniors are benefiting in three important ways from the cards: 1) lower prices on their medicines; 2) a $600 subsidy to help them buy these medicines at the discounted prices; and 3) availability of drugs at a nominal price through manufacturers once they've spent the subsidy. # # #

For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary February 9, 2005

William McGurn Assistant to the President for Speechwriting

President George W. Bush announced that he has named William McGurn Assistant to the President for Speechwriting.

"Bill McGurn is an accomplished writer, with extensive experience in foreign affairs and economic policy. He will make an excellent addition to my speechwriting team," stated President Bush.

Mr. McGurn previously served as an executive in the Office of the Chairman at News Corporation. Prior to that, he was the chief editorial writer for the Wall Street Journal and a member of its editorial board. From 1992 to 1998, Mr. McGurn was a senior editor for the Dow Jones-owned Far Eastern Economic Review in Hong Kong. Earlier in his career, he served as the Washington bureau chief for National Review. Mr. McGurn is a graduate of the University of Notre Dame and Boston University. # # #

For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary February 9, 2005 Personnel Announcement

Solidarity Initiative Partners in Freedom $400 million

President Bush Announces Solidarity Initiative to Support our Partners in Freedom

The President intends to ask Congress to support $400 million in additional funding to strengthen the capabilities of our partners to advance democracy and stability around the world. These funds, which the Administration will seek in the supplemental budget request, reflect the principle that an investment in a partner in freedom today will help ensure that America will stand united with stronger partners in the future. This assistance will support nations that have deployed troops in Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as other partners promoting freedom around the world.

As President Bush has said, "the best hope for peace in our world is the expansion of freedom in all the world." Our closest partners agree. For many of these partners, now vibrant democracies and staunch allies, the tragedy of tyranny is a painful chapter in their own recent histories. They understand the value of freedom, and are delivering on their strong commitment to fostering democracy at home by helping to advance freedom and stability abroad.

Today, the President met with one of our strongest partners in freedom, President Aleksander Kwasniewski of Poland. The Solidarity Initiative will assist nations such as Poland, which have taken political and economic risks in order to act on their convictions, to develop and sustain the capabilities needed to do so.

Congress has consistently supported our partners in freedom in the past. We urge continued Congressional support for these partners in the future. # # #

For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary February 9, 2005 Statement by the Press Secretary

National Defense Authorization Act

Message to the Congress of the United States

TO THE CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES:

Consistent with section 1205 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2003 (Public Law 107314), I am providing a report prepared by my Administration on implementation during 2003 of the plan for securing nuclear weapons, material, and expertise of the states of the former Soviet Union.

GEORGE W. BUSH THE WHITE HOUSE, February 8, 2005. # # #

For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary February 9, 2005

Stryker Brigade Combat Team MOSUL, Iraq

Iraqi citizens taking back their city

MOSUL, Iraq -- Iraqi citizens informed Multi-National Forces from 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team,) in three separate instances of potential attacks in northern Iraq.

A citizen approached Soldiers from 3rd Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, who were on patrol in southeastern Mosul, Feb. 5 and informed them of a location of a roadside bomb. The Explosive Ordinance Disposal team defused the bomb. No Iraqi citizen or Multi-National Forces injuries were reported during the operation.

An Iraqi child informed Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment, who were on patrol south of Mosul Feb. 6, of a mine and other explosives placed along a roadway. EOD defused the explosives. No Iraqi citizen or Multi-National Forces injuries were reported.

Another Iraqi citizen’s information led to the capture of a suspected terrorist following a mortar attack on Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 24th Infantry Regiment Feb. 6. The information given by the citizen helped 1-24th Soldiers find the origin of the attack, which led to the detention of two people. Suspects are in custody with no citizen or Multi-National Forces injuries reported.

These types of courageous acts demonstrate the commitment of Iraqi citizens to ensuring a safe and peaceful Iraq. Iraqi Security Forces and Multi-National Forces encourage citizens of Iraq to continue to cooperate with security forces and turn in military weapons and equipment.

TEXT PROVIDED BY THE TASK FORCE FREEDOM, MULTINATIONAL BRIGADE-NORTHWEST PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICE. FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT LT. COL. ANDRE HANCE AT ANDRE.HANCE@TFO.C1.ARMY.MIL

Dr. James A. Tegnelia, Defense Threat Reduction Agency

NEW DTRA DIRECTOR Dr. James A. Tegnelia named third Director, Defense Threat Reduction Agency.

Dr. James A. Tegnelia, vice president, Department of Defense Programs, Sandia National Laboratories, Albuquerque, N.M., has been named the third Director, Defense Threat Reduction Agency. Assistant to the Secretary of Defense for Nuclear and Chemical and Biological Defense Programs, Dr. Dale Klein, said, “The appointment of Jim Tegnelia as the director of DTRA is another significant step in transforming how we defend against the threat of weapons of mass destruction (WMD). He brings exceptional talent, skills and management experience to this new role and responsibility.”

Dr. Tegnelia has been at Sandia since August 1998. Prior to that, he was president of Lockheed Martin Advanced Environmental Systems, Inc. He also served as vice president, Business Development, for the Energy and Environment Sector of Lockheed Martin Corporation. Tegnelia was executive vice president and deputy director of Sandia National Laboratories. He was vice president of Business Development, of the Electronics Group of Martin Marietta Corporation, and vice president of Engineering, also for Martin Marietta Corporation.

Prior to joining Martin Marietta, Dr. Tegnelia served as deputy director and acting director of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). He also served as assistant undersecretary of defense and as acting deputy undersecretary of defense in the Office of the Undersecretary of Defense for Research and Engineering where he oversaw program manager activity on the JSTARS radar and ATACMS missile. Dr. Tegnelia was a program manager and office director at DARPA where he was responsible for programs in smart weapons, radar sensors and stealth technology. He worked for the U.S. Army Night Vision Laboratory, Fort Belvoir, Va., in various positions progressing from supervisory research physicist to manager. His organization laid the engineering foundation for night vision devices deployed in Operation Desert Storm/Desert Shield. He served in the U.S. Army from 1968 to 1971 and was awarded the Bronze Star during a one-year tour of duty in Vietnam.

Dr. Tegnelia earned his B.S. in Physics from Georgetown University, a M.S. in Engineering from George Washington University, and a Ph.D. in Physics from The Catholic University of America.

Dr. Tegnelia has received the Civilian Meritorious Service Medal, and the Senior Executive Service Meritorious Service Award. He has been a member of the Los Alamos National Laboratory National Security Advisory Board and the Army Science Board. Dr. Tegnelia served as chair of the Army Science Board, a member of the Sandia National Laboratories National Security Advisory Panel and a member of the Society of Sigma Xi. He is also on the Board of Advisors of George Washington University – School of Engineering.

SOURCE: Defense Threat Reduction Agency

SENATE RESOLUTION CELEBRATING IRAQI ELECTIONS S.RES.38

FRIST APPLAUDS PASSAGE OF SENATE RESOLUTION CELEBRATING IRAQI ELECTIONS S.RES.38
Senator Bill Frist, M.D.

February 7th, 2005 - WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist, M.D. (R-TN) made the following statement on today’s passage of a Senate resolution commending the Iraqi people on the January 30, 2005 national elections:

“On January 30th the Iraqi people again proved an eternal human truth: that freedom always triumphs over fear. Defying the threats of terrorists, millions of Iraqis cast their vote as free citizens for the first time in decades. These elections were an inspiring victory not just for the Iraqi people but for all who have the courage to stand up in the fight against tyranny and oppression. The elections were a significant landmark along the path towards establishing an effective and sustainable democracy in Iraq. I’m awed by what the Iraqi people accomplished, and look forward to working to ensure that this newly elected government thrives. Iraq’s success serves as a beacon of hope to all who remain forced to live in fear. I look forward to seeing how Iraq’s successes continue to inspire change and a greater expression of freedom throughout the region and world.”

Senator Frist was the principal author of this Senate resolution. Last month he visited Iraq along with Senate colleagues. During his visit Senator Frist met with Iraqi government officials, including both Sunni and Shiite leaders, to discuss the elections, security and the future of Iraq.
SOURCE: Bill Frist, M.D.

President Celebrates African American History Month

President Celebrates African American History Month FULL STREAMING VIDEO
The East Room 3:19 P.M. EST

THE PRESIDENT: Good afternoon and welcome to the White House -- the people's house. Laura and I are pleased you're here, so we can celebrate together the 79th Celebration of African American History Month. We're here today because of the dedication and persistence of a man named Dr. Carter G. Woodson.

In the 1920s, Dr. Woodson argued that if African Americans were to take their rightful place in society, young Americans of all races needed to learn about the black contribution to our history and culture. So in 1926, he launched the first black history week. Today, a movement that began in black churches and schoolrooms is observed all across America -- including the White House. Welcome. (Applause.)

The Civil Rights pioneers of Dr. Woodson's era also had another dream: a national museum to celebrate the history and achievements of African Americans. On December 16, 2003, I was proud to sign legislation that will create the National Museum of African American History and Culture within the Smithsonian Institution. (Applause.) Laura and I are pleased to welcome to the White House so many who were instrumental in the passage of that legislation, and those who will help us make the museum a reality.

I welcome members of the Congress: Senator Chris Dodd, thank you for coming; Rick Santorum; Sam Brownback; and Barack Obama. Welcome. (Applause.) Congressman Mel Watt, the Chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus is with us. Thank you for coming, Mr. Chairman. (Applause.) Eleanor Holmes Norton, delegate from the District of Columbia. (Applause.) Jack Kingston from the state of Georgia. Welcome, Congressman, thank you for coming. (Applause.) And, finally, Congresswoman Carolyn Kilpatrick. Now, I've got a report for you: today I was with her son, the Mayor of Detroit, who looked mighty special. (Laughter and applause.) Welcome.

It's such an honor to be with Dr. Dorothy Height -- you look great. Thanks for coming, Dorothy. (Applause.) Members of the Council of the National Museum of African American History and Culture, thank you for serving.

Today is the first day in which folks are able to contribute to the building of the museum. Laura and I want to be one of your first contributors, and so I -- (applause.) You know where to find me. (Laughter.)

I'm honored that members of the original Tuskegee Airmen have joined us; we're proud of your service. (Applause.) I told the members of the Tuskegee Airmen how important the example they set for those who wear our uniform today and it is a shining example. And you've just got to know that you've made a huge difference in the lives of a lot of people.

I also want to welcome Mary Moore, or "Rosie the Riveter." Thank you for coming; we're proud you're here. (Applause.) Frederick Douglas IV, and his wife, B.J., are with us. Thank you for coming. And Cicely Tyson -- the ever-beautiful Cicely Tyson (Applause.)

As we celebrate this month, we must remember a great actor, Ossie Davis, who passed away on Friday. Laura and I, and many in this room, were honored to salute Ossie and his remarkable wife, Ruby Dee, at the Kennedy Center Honors last December. The entire Davis family are in our prayers, may God comfort them in their sorrow.

I appreciate so very much the chance to have gone to Goree Island in Senegal. Laura and I traveled there during my presidency. It was an amazing experience for us. It was gut-wrenching to see the cramped cells where Africans were held right before they began their journey to America in chains. We stood in the "door of no return." I'll never forget that feeling. It's a door through which so many innocent men, women and children passed through. They would be loaded as cargo on the ships for the long voyage across the Atlantic to a future of slavery and servitude.

You know, it reminded me, standing in that door, as I think back of standing in that door, it reminds me how important the museum is going to be, because young Americans study this shameful period in history in their schools and they read their textbooks, but most young Americans will never go to Goree Island or get the same sense that we felt.

And so when the National Museum of American History and Culture opens -- and it will open -- visitors will be able to have a much more vivid sense of what slavery meant for real men and real women. It is important to know -- and this museum is going to be a really important museum, because it's important that our children know that there was a time in their nation's history when one in every seven human beings was the property of another. They need to know how families were separated, denied even the comfort of suffering together. It's an important lesson of a shameful period that the young must never forget.

And they need to know that bigotry and discrimination did not end with slavery; that within the lifetimes of their own parents and grandparents, Americans were still barred by law from hotels and restaurants; made to drink from separate water fountains; forced to sit in the back of a bus -- all because of the color of their skin. We need to teach them about the heroes of the civil rights movement, who by their courage and dignity forced America to confront the central defect of our founding.

And we all need to learn more about the men and women whose determination and persistent eloquence forced Americans of all races to examine our hearts, revise our Constitution and laws, and make America into the nation it was always supposed to be.

The theme of this year's African American History Month is the 100th anniversary of "the Niagara Movement." Led by W.E.B. DuBois and John Hope and William Monroe Trotter, the Niagara Movement rejected any accommodation with discrimination, and challenged our nation to grant its African American citizens the same rights enjoyed by other Americans. In so doing, it helped lay a foundation for the civil rights movement that would change America in the decades that followed.

Like Dr. Woodson, W.E.B. DuBois placed his hopes in our youngest citizens -- those who had not yet been taught to hate. So he directed his call to them. He said, "We appeal to the young men and women of this nation ... Stand up for the right, prove yourselves worthy of your heritage and ... dare to treat men as men." His appeal echoes across a century, doesn't it? It made sense then; it makes sense now. And serves to remind us that while slavery has been abolished and segregation outlawed, the struggle for justice and equality has not yet ended.

At the start of this new century, we will continue to teach habits of respect to each generation. We will continue to enforce laws against racial discrimination in education and housing and public accommodations. We'll continue working to spread hope and opportunity to African Americans with no inheritance but their character -- by giving them greater access to capital and education, and the chance to own and build and dream for the future. In this way, African Americans can pass on a better life and a better nation to their children and their grandchildren, and that's what we want in America. (Applause.)

We're making progress, but there's more work to be done. Today, American schools are no longer separate, but they're not yet equal. Too many of our children still face what I have called the soft bigotry of low expectations. With the No Child Left Behind Act we've raised expectations. We believe every child can learn and we expect every school to teach. And we measure. And guess what's happening? Test scores are going up. There's an achievement gap for minority children that is closing in America.

Today, the minority home ownership rate in America is at an all-time high. That's incredibly good news. I love it when more and more people open the door to their house and say, welcome to my home -- not just, welcome to where I live, but, welcome to my home. And we'll continue to expand opportunity for home ownership in America.

We'll work to strengthen families. Children from two-parent homes are less likely to end up in poverty or drop out of school. It's important that families be strong in America. HIV/AIDS brings suffering and fear into so many lives, and so we need to focus on fighting this disease among those with the highest rates of new cases -- African American men and women. We need to give our young people, especially young men in inner cities, better options than apathy or gangs and jail. And I want to thank Laura for taking on this incredibly important initiative to help young men realize a great future in America. (Applause.)

You know, in the last half-century, the cause of liberty has made great strides in this country, and around the world. At each stage, and on every front, African Americans have helped to lead this advance. African Americans struggled peacefully for their own freedom on the streets of Birmingham and on the Mall here at Washington, D.C. Some of you were probably there. They have fought for America's freedom on distant battlefields -- and at this moment many are serving bravely in Afghanistan and Iraq, And we respect their courage and we honor their sacrifice.

They know, as we do, that success of freedom on the home front is critical to its success in foreign lands. As I said in my inaugural address, we cannot carry the message of freedom and the baggage of bigotry at the same time. (Applause.)

We've made progress, and our work is not yet done. But we can proceed with faith in our country and confidence in our cause. See, history moves toward freedom because the desire of freedom is written in every human heart. As W.E.B. DuBois declared nearly a century ago, "The battle for humanity is not lost or losing ... The morning breaks over blood-stained hills. We must not falter, we must not shrink. Above are the everlasting stars."

I want to thank you all for coming. Thank you for helping us celebrate this month, as well as to make it clear to our fellow citizens we have a chance to build a fantastic museum, right here in the heart of Washington, D.C., on the Mall -- (applause) -- to stand proud -- and I'm confident there will be an appropriate web page -- (laughter) -- for people to be able to tap in. Perhaps you should start, if you're interested, in going to the Smithsonian web page, and I suspect there may be an avenue that will direct you toward this important museum and cultural center, that will enable our fellow citizens to participate in helping to build it.

There will be a reception at the end of the hall here. We're really thrilled you're here. And may God continue to bless our great country. (Applause.) END 3:34 P.M. EST

For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary February 8, 2005

FY 2006 International Affairs Budget for the Department of State

International Affairs – FY 2006 Budget

The President’s FY 2006 International Affairs Budget for the Department of State, the U.S. Agency for International Development, and other foreign affairs agencies totals $33.6 billion:

• Foreign Operations – $22.8 billion
• State Operations – $9.1 billion
• Food Aid and Famine Assistance – $1.3 billion
• International Broadcasting – $651 million
• Other Programs – $88 million

The President’s budget proposal:

• Continues funding for a broad coalition of nations committed to winning the war on terror.
• Affirms our commitment to the citizens of Afghanistan by providing funding for economic reconstruction and democracy building.
• Maintains strong U.S. leadership globally in funding international HIV/AIDS care, treatment, and prevention.
• Meets the nation’s commitments for both the global war on terror and the mission to expand freedom and democracy by increasing security staff and providing new staffing for operational readiness.
• Strengthens protection of America’s borders by effectively screening visa applicants and expanding the use of biometrics to improve security of U.S. visas and passports.

Highlights of the Budget

Foreign Operations and Related Agencies:

• $5.8 billion in assistance to our partners in the global war on terror.
• $3.2 billion in total U.S. funding to prevent and treat the HIV/AIDS global epidemic.
• $1 billion for reconstruction activities in Afghanistan.
• $3 billion for the third year of the Millennium Challenge Corporation.
• $2.4 billion in development and child survival and health assistance.
• $2 billion in disaster, transition, famine, refugee, and conflict victim assistance.
• $1 billion in food assistance.
• $735 million in counter-narcotics funding for the Andean Counterdrug Initiative, including $463 million for Colombia.
• $214 million to address global peacekeeping capabilities and establish the Office of the Coordinator for Reconstruction and Stabilization to coordinate U.S. Government civilian response to conditions in failed, failing, and post-conflict states.

State Operations and Related Programs:

• $1.526 billion for security-related construction and major physical security and rehabilitation requirements of U.S. embassies and consulates.
• $690 million to increase security for diplomatic personnel and facilities in the face of terrorism.
• $931 million to improve protection of U.S. borders through the Border Security Program.
• $815 million from all funding sources to exploit information technology.
• $328 million for public diplomacy to influence foreign opinion and win support for U.S. foreign policy goals.
• $430 million for strategic educational and cultural exchanges to develop mutual understanding.
• $1.297 billion for U.S. obligations to 47 international organizations, including the United Nations.
• $1.036 billion to pay projected U.S. assessments for UN peacekeeping missions.

2005/146 Released on February 7, 2005

Romanian President Basescu

President to Welcome Romanian President Basescu to the White House

STATEMENT BY THE PRESS SECRETARY

President Bush to Welcome President Basescu of Romania

President Bush will host Romanian President Traian Basescu at the White House on March 9, 2005. The two Presidents share a strong commitment to freedom, and Romania is making significant contributions to democracy and stability in Iraq, Afghanistan, the Balkans, and the Black Sea region. President Bush looks forward to discussing how the United States and Romania will continue to work closely together on the common challenges we face. The President also looks forward to hearing President Basescu's thoughts on regional issues and his reform agenda. # # #

For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary February 8, 2005

National African American History Month, 2005

National African American History Month, 2005
A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America

Throughout our Nation's history, the contributions of African Americans have stirred our Nation's conscience and helped shape our character. During National African American History Month, we honor the determination and commitment of generations of African Americans in pursuing the promises of America.

The theme of National African American History Month this year, "The Niagara Movement: Black Protest Reborn, 1905-2005," honors the grassroots movement of 1905 to 1910 that was organized to fight racial discrimination in America. Led by W.E.B. DuBois, the movement called for voting rights for African Americans, opposed school segregation, and worked to elect officials committed to fighting racial prejudice. Americans today carry on this movement as our Nation strives to live up to our founding principle that all of God's children are created equal.

It is important to teach our children about the heroes of the civil rights movement who, with courage and dignity, forced America to confront the central defect of our founding. Every American should know about the men and women whose determination and persistent eloquence forced people of all races to examine their hearts and revise our Nation's Constitution and laws. As we celebrate African American History Month, we remember how great the struggle for racial justice has been. And we renew our efforts to fight for equal rights for all Americans. We have made great progress, but our work is not done.

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 February 2005 as National African American History Month. I call upon public officials, educators, librarians, and all the people of the United States to observe this month with appropriate programs and activities that honor the history, accomplishments, and contributions of African Americans.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this seventh day of February, 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 # # #

U.S. Assistance to the Palestinians

Fact Sheet Office of the Spokesman Jerusalem February 7, 2005

• The President announced in the State of the Union on February 3 that he will ask Congress for $350 million for the Palestinians to support political, economic and security reforms. We will be consulting with Congress about modalities for disbursing this assistance.
• Separately from the $350 million mentioned by the President, we notified Congress of our intent to reprogram over $40 million in previously authorized assistance for quick disbursing projects designed to make an immediate, visible impact on the lives of Palestinians.
• As the President has said, the goal of two states living side by side in peace and security is within reach; we are at a moment of opportunity and we must seize it.
• We are committed to building democratic Palestinian institutions dedicated to reform and to helping the Palestinian people, particularly as they prepare for Israeli disengagement from Gaza and parts of the West Bank.
• This package of aid is designed to make an impact, both immediately and in the long-term, on the lives of Palestinians, and to support the Palestinian Authority as it continues its reform efforts.

Planned breakdown of assistance and programs

• Quick impact program: The over $40 million of previously authorized assistance is being reprogrammed from funds currently reserved for a Gaza seawater desalination facility. Assistance will not be provided directly to the Palestinian Authority but will be channeled through NGOs using existing mechanisms. Breakdown:
  • $7.3 million for higher education and training programs
  • $8.9 million for community services – including youth programs and job creation
  • $7.9 million for private sector development
  • $3 million for support for primary health care
  • $13.9 million for water infrastructure - construction of wells, pipelines and water distribution systems
• Supplemental:The Administration will seek $200 million in program assistance via the supplemental appropriation. This will include program assistance targeted at the following areas:

• Financing home construction in Gaza
• Expanding education opportunities
• Developing the economic infrastructure for a Palestinian state
• Helping to improve the Palestinian social safety net to provide social services to the poor
• "Building bridges" to help improve the flow of people and goods between Israel and the West Bank and Gaza
• FY 2006 budget: The Administration’s FY 2006 budget will seek $150 million in economic assistance for the West Bank and Gaza, an increase of $75 million over the FY 2005 budget. U.S. assistance supports significant programs in six areas: private sector development, water resources, democracy and governance, health, community services, and higher education. The FY 2006 increase will allow a focus on longer-term development -- including reconstruction of Gaza and revitalization of the Palestinian economy in the wake of Israel’s withdrawal; necessary foundations for emerging democracy such as institution-building and civil society strengthening; and infrastructure development, especially water.

2005/145

Togo: Death of President Eyadema

Togo: Death of President Eyadema

The United States of America wishes to extend the condolences of the people of the United States to the people of Togo and to the family of President Eyadema during this time of national mourning.

The United States has long encouraged Togo to move towards a full participatory democracy and continues to believe that this must be the goal for the Togolese Government, the opposition parties and the people of Togo.

The United States urges all Togolese to respect strictly the constitutional process of Togo, which will lead to elections for a new President. 2005/144

Press Statement Adam Ereli, Deputy Spokesman Washington, DC February 6, 2005

Strengthening Social Security Permanently

Strengthening Social Security Permanently

“We must pass reforms that solve the financial problems of Social Security once and for all.”

President George W. Bush State of the Union Address February 2, 2005

􀂾 In the State of the Union Address, President Bush called for an open, candid review of the options to strengthen Social Security permanently for our children and grandchildren.
􀂾 The President pledged to work with Members of Congress to find the most effective combination of reforms. Former and current Members of Congress and a former President have suggested a variety of solutions to fix Social Security permanently, including limiting benefits for wealthy retirees, indexing benefits to prices rather than wages, increasing the retirement age, discouraging early collection of retirement benefits, and changing the way benefits are calculated. All of these ideas are on the table. The President recognizes that none of these reforms would be easy and has said he will listen to anyone with a good idea to offer.
􀂾 The President believes that we must move ahead with reform, because our children’s retirement security is more important than partisan politics.
􀂾 In the State of the Union, the President laid out basic principles to guide reform:

• We must make Social Security permanently sound, not leave it for another day.
• We must not jeopardize our economic strength by raising payroll taxes – higher taxes would slow economic growth.

􀂃 Increasing payroll taxes is a band-aid, not a permanent solution. Payroll taxes have been increased more than 20 times since 1935, and we still have not fixed the problem. The Social Security payroll tax, which was once 2%, is now 12.4%. To meet the needs of the 21st century, payroll taxes would have to be raised over and over and over again on American workers, stifling
economic growth and job creation. Economists calculate that under the current system, the payroll tax would have to rise to more than 18% if our children and grandchildren are to receive their scheduled benefits. (2004 Report of the Social Security Trustees, p. 165).

• We must ensure that lower income Americans get the help they need to have dignity and peace of mind in their retirement. Any reform should maintain the system’s progressivity.
• We must guarantee that there is no change for those now retired or nearing retirement. For those Americans 55 and older (born before 1950), nothing will change, and nobody is going to take away or change their check.
• We must take care that any changes in the system are gradual, so that younger workers have years to prepare and plan for their future.
• And, we should make Social Security a better deal for younger workers through voluntary personal retirement accounts.

View entire document in PDF format: Strengthening Social Security for the 21st Century SOURCE: whitehouse.gov

President, Cabinet OMB Director Josh Bolten

President Meets with Cabinet, Discusses Budget, OMB Director Josh Bolten will be presenting the budget at noon FULL STREAMING VIDEO

BUDGET Charts: (in PDF format)

• Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief Reaching the 2008 2-7-10 Goal
• A Declining Budget Deficit
• FBI Funding Increases
• Completing the President's Health Centers Initiative - New and Expanded Sites Since 2001
• Increases in Pell Grant Recipients Since 2001
• Spending Restraint Non-Security Discretionary Spending
• New Affordable Housing Goals

The Cabinet Room 11:15 A.M. EST

THE PRESIDENT: This is my first Cabinet meeting of the year 2005. I welcomed new members of our Cabinet to the table and congratulated them on their confirmations. Today we discussed a lot of issues. I reminded them that the war on terror goes on, but mainly discussed the issue of the budget.

We're submitting our budget today. OMB Director Josh Bolten will be presenting the budget at noon (FULL STREAMING VIDEO). It is a budget that sets priorities. Our priorities are winning the war on terror, protecting our homeland, growing our economy. It's a budget that focuses on results. Taxpayers in America don't want us spending their money on something that's not achieving results.

It's a budget that reduces and eliminates redundancy. It's a budget that is a lean budget. People on both sides of the aisle have called upon the administration to submit a budget that helps meet our obligations of -- our goal of reducing the deficit in half over a five-year period, and this budget does just that. Discretionary spending is -- will increase at a rate less than inflation. Plus, we've begun some reforms on the mandatory side. Congress needs to look at this budget and Congress needs to act on this budget in a fiscally responsible way.

I'll be glad to answer some questions. Terry.

Q Mr. President, what do you hope to accomplish by inviting Prime Minister Sharon and President Abbas to Washington separately? And why do you think there's a better chance of success now, than early effort -- earlier efforts, like the Red Sea summit?

THE PRESIDENT: First of all, Prime Minister Abbas comes to the table with a mandate from a lot of Palestinians. He has been through an election; he was endorsed by the Palestinian people.

Secondly, any meeting is part of a process, because in order to achieve the objective of two states living side-by-side in peace, there needs to be a -- there needs to be a level of trust between all parties -- "all parties" being, obviously, Israel and the Palestinians, but trust with the United States, trust with the United Nations, trust with Europe, trust with the parties who are going to be investing in a Palestinian state, for example. And so what you're watching is a process unfolding, where people are becoming more trustworthy.

I have been impressed by Prime Minister Abbas's commitment to fighting off terror. I've been impressed by what he is -- his public statements. I've also been impressed by the fact that Israel helped the Palestinians have an election, went out of their way to make sure that people were allowed to go to the polls. And the meetings just indicate that there's more work to be done, and I look forward to meeting with them.

Steve.

Q Thank you, sir. How hard is it going to be to get Congress to go along with your budget when it cuts some popular programs that Congress has refused to go along with in the past?

THE PRESIDENT: Well, that's a great question. I look forward to explaining to the American people why we made some of the requests that we made in our budget. I fully understand that sometimes it's hard to eliminate a program that sounds good. But by getting people to focus on results -- I was saying to members of Congress, show us the results as to whether or not this program is working. I think we'll get a pretty good response.

I will tell you, we go into this process upbeat because we've worked closely with the Congress the last four budget cycles. And the Congress appropriators -- Congress and the appropriators met our budget requests. I mean, there's a collaborative effort. We've had a history of being successful in terms of passing good, strong budgets. And so I'm very optimistic that we can do so again this year. Josh Bolten will be up, outlining the budget, our Cabinet Secretaries will be talking about certain aspects of their respective budgets, and I think people will see that it's a common sense approach to the budgets.

April.

Q Yes, Mr. President. I'm ready, too. (Laughter.)

THE PRESIDENT: Did somebody tip you off that I might call upon you, or is it just -- Q -- I've been watching you lately. (Laughter.)

THE PRESIDENT: All right. (Laughter.)

Q First of all, you're talking about equality and keeping everything on a level playing field for everyone. Many people are saying that this budget proposal is not even. You're cutting out many programs for the disadvantaged. And, also, what was one of the main programs that you cut that you really had a hard time in cutting as you looked at things that were copies of another?

THE PRESIDENT: I'm going to let Josh answer the degree of difficulty question because we've -- we're asking for Congress to cut and/or reduce 150 different programs. The important question that needs to be asked for all constituencies is whether or not the programs achieve a certain result. Have you set goals, and are those goals being met? And the poor and disadvantaged absolutely ought to be asking that question, too. In other words, what is the goal of a particular program? And if that goal isn't being met, the question ought to be asked, why isn't the goal being met?

And that's the questions we've been asking. And after a while, we get tired of asking that question. So, finally, it is to take resources and direct them to programs that are working. And that's what you'll find in the education budgets and the health budgets, for example. And those are very legitimate questions, and the people deserve -- deserve to have them answered, which this administration will answer in a forthright fashion.

Thank you all for coming. END 11:22 A.M. EST

For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary February 7, 2005

The Problems Facing Social Security

inaction

demographics

The Problems Facing Social Security

“One of America’s most important institutions – a symbol of the trust between generations – is also in need of wise and effective reform. Social Security was a great moral success of the 20th Century, and we must honor its great purposes in this new century. The system, however, on its current path, is headed toward bankruptcy. And so we must join together to strengthen and save Social Security.”

President George W. Bush State of the Union Address February 2, 2005

􀂾 A Social Security System designed for a 1935 world does not fit the needs of the 21st Century. Social Security was designed in 1935 for a world that is very different from today. In 1935, most women did not work outside the home. Today, about 60% of women work outside the home. In 1935, the average American did not live long enough to collect retirement benefits. Today, life expectancy is 77 years. (2004 Report of the Social Security Trustees, p. 81).

􀂾 Social Security will not be changed for those 55 or older (born before 1950).Today, more than 45 million Americans receive Social Security benefits and millions more are nearing retirement. For these Americans, Social Security benefits are secure and will not change in any way.
􀂾 Social Security is making empty promises to our children and grandchildren. For our younger workers, Social Security has serious problems that will grow worse over time. Social Security cannot afford to pay promised benefits to future generations because it was designed for a 1935 world in which benefits were much lower, life-spans were shorter, there were more workers per retiree, and fewer retirees were drawing from the system.
􀂾 With each passing year, there are fewer workers paying ever-higher benefits to an ever-larger number of retirees. Social Security is a pay-as-you-go system, which means taxes on today’s workers pay the benefits for today’s retirees. A worker’s payroll taxes are not saved in an account with his or her name on it for the worker’s retirement.

• There are fewer workers to support our retirees. When Social Security was first created, there were 40 workers to support every one retiree, and most workers did not live long enough to collect retirement benefits from the system. Since then, the demographics of our society have changed
dramatically. People are living longer and having fewer children. As a result we have seen a dramatic change in the number of workers supporting each retiree’s benefits. According to the 2004 Report of the Social Security Trustees (page 47):

􀂃 In 1950, there were 16 workers to support every one beneficiary of Social Security.
􀂃 Today, there are only 3.3 workers supporting every Social Security beneficiary.
􀂃 And, by the time our youngest workers turn 65, there will be only 2 workers supporting each beneficiary.

• Benefits are scheduled to rise dramatically over the next few decades. Because benefits are tied to wage growth rather than inflation, benefits are growing faster than the rest of the economy. This benefit formula was established in 1977. As a result, today’s 20-year old is promised benefits that are 40% higher, in real terms, than are paid to seniors who retire this year. But the current system does not have the money to pay these promised benefits.
• The retirement of the Baby Boomers will accelerate the problem. In just 3 years, the first of the Baby Boom generation will begin to retire, putting added strain on a system that was not designed to meet the needs of the 21 century. By 2031, there will be almost twice as many older Americans as today – from 37 million today to 71 million. (ssa.gov/pressoffice/basicfact).

􀂾 Social Security is heading toward bankruptcy. According to the Social Security Trustees, thirteen years from now, in 2018, Social Security will be paying out more than it takes in and every year afterward will bring a new shortfall, bigger than the year before. And, when today’s young workers begin to retire in 2042, the system will be exhausted and bankrupt. (Summary of the 2004 Annual Report of the Social Security Trustees, p. 1). If we do not act now to save it, the only solution will be drastically higher taxes, massive new borrowing, or sudden and severe cuts in Social Security benefits or other government programs.
􀂾 As of 2004, the cost of doing nothing to fix our Social Security system had hit an estimated $10.4 trillion, according to the Social Security Trustees. (2004 Report of the Social Security Trustees, p. 58). The longer we wait to take action, the more difficult and expensive the changes will be.

• $10.4 trillion is almost twice the combined wages and salaries of every working American in 2004.
• Every year we wait costs an additional $600 billion. (2004 Report of the Social Security Trustees, p. 58).
• Today’s 30-year-old worker can expect a 27% benefit cut from the current system when he or she reaches normal retirement age. (2004 Report of the Social Security Trustees, p. 8). And, without action, these benefit cuts will only get worse.

View entire document in PDF format: Strengthening Social Security for the 21st Century SOURCE: whitehouse.gov

I zzat Ibrahim al-Duri

Al Duri, New Regional Command leader, Has $10 Million Reward

The Iraqi government recently issued an arrest warrant for ‘I zzat Ibrahim al-Duri, former Vice Chairman of the Revolutionary Command Council and believed to be the current leader of the New Regional Command and New Ba’ath Party. Al-Duri is one the most-wanted men in Iraq , with a r eward of $10 million for information leading his capture .

“Al-Duri was part of Saddam Hussein’s inner circle and had very close ties to Saddam,” said Thair al-Nakib, spokesman for the Iraqi Prime Minister.

As the leader of the New Regional Command and New Ba’ath Party, Al-Duri provides guidance, financial support and coordination for terrorists and criminals from the former regime, al-Nakib said.

Anyone who has information on al-Duri is asked to call the tip line at the following numbers: in Baghdad : 7784076, in Iraq : 17784076, Outside of Iraq : 96417784076.

Al-Duri’s financial support for the terrorist groups comes from money from the Iraqi people, denying them money for reconstruction projects they deserve.

As a member of the former Saddam regime, ‘Izzat Ibrahim al-Duri has been named under United Nations Security Counsel Resolution 1483 for stealing assets from the Iraqi people. Under this United Nations Security Counsel resolution all member nations must freeze any funds, other financial assets or economic resources associated with ‘Izzat Ibrahim al-Duri and immediately return them to the Iraqi people.

“Any of these assets recovered from al Duri will be immediately dedicated to the reconstruction of Iraq,” al-Nakib said.

Al-Duri has been charged by the Iraqi government under Article 194 of the Iraqi Penal Code. Under this article, any person who leads terrorist group is punishable by death.

SOURCE: Iraqi Interim Government

Secretary Condoleezza Rice, Polish Prime Minister Marek Belka

Remarks With Polish Prime Minister Marek Belka After Meeting

Secretary Condoleezza Rice Prime Minister’s Chancellery Warsaw, Poland February 5, 2005

Rice de-planes in London

PRIME MINISTER BELKA: (in Polish) Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. I would like to tell you that during her short visit to Warsaw, Secretary of State of the United States, Dr. Rice, met both our foreign minister, and now, as you can see, she has just finished a meeting with myself.

We have talked about a whole range of issues of both international and bilateral character. As far as the international issues are concerned, the most important thing is the state of the transatlantic relationships, Euro-Atlantic relationships: how to develop them and how to strengthen them further. We talked about the situation in Ukraine. We talked about how to support the process of democratization in that country and development of Ukraine. We talked about Iraq, about the expected positive consequences of the elections in Iraq. And we also talked about the prospects of the peace process in the Middle East.

As far as the bilateral issues are concerned I would like to mention here two things. First of all we talked about military cooperation. We talked about the United States’ assistance in order to help to modernize the Polish Armed Forces. The second issue was raised during the first meeting Dr. Rice had in Warsaw and it was the issue connected with the visa regime for Poles traveling to the United States. We talked also about some further actions to be conducted in the months and years to come.

And in the last sentence I would like also to mention that Poland is one of the countries with which the United States has run strategic dialogues since last year. This dialogue will be continued and the person to be responsible for the strategic dialogue with Poland on the United States side is going to be Mr. Robert Zoellick, who is the United States Deputy Secretary of State. He used to be a representative for trade affairs, so I want to say that this dialogue will take a new face, more abundant in the economic issues.

SECRETARY RICE: Thank you very much, Prime Minister, for your hospitality and for the excellent discussions that we have just had. We have, of course,had an opportunity to talk about the tremendous ties between Poland and the United States, which are ties of history, for many Americans ties of kinship, and of course, ties most importantly of values. The Polish role in recent years in helping to sustain the momentum toward democratic development and liberty around the world is one that we appreciate so greatly and appreciate your friendship.

We did have an opportunity to talk about a number of issues. I have also talked with the Foreign Minister about them. I would just highlight that Poland’s role in continuing to promote democracy has helped with the Ukrainians, is helping the Iraqis, is helping the Afghans, is enormously important. It is also clear that as the Palestinian-Israeli process moves forward that we are hopeful that Poland, as a country that has good relations with both parties, will be able to play a constructive role in helping in the capacity building of the new Palestinian state in that area. And we talked about some possibilities there.

We also talked about the importance that America attaches to the vibrancy of modernization of the Polish Military Forces, because Poland is of course a key member of the NATO alliance, which is transforming its military forces and making them available, as has been the case in Afghanistan and was the case in the Balkans and is now in the case of training in Iraq, making them available for sustainment of stability operations and provide the basis for peace. So, Prime Minister, you can be certain that we are concerned about and want to contribute to the modernization of the Polish Armed Forces.

Finally, we did talk about a number of bilateral issues and I especially want to say that we are pleased that we believe that we are making some progress on what is a very difficult issue, the visa issue, but one that we have engaged in a spirit of friendship and cooperation and one that we will continue to engage in that way to overcome difficulties in that area. Thank you very much.

If I may just add one final note, I had an opportunity when I was with the foreign minister to say this, but I want to say it in the presence of the Prime Minister, as well. The tremendous contribution that Poland made to the Iraq that we see emerging. The tremendous gratitude that we have for the Iraqi people with what they did on Sunday in facing down terror. But it, in fact, could not have been possible without the contributions of not just the American Armed Forces, but the Polish Armed Forces. I know, Prime Minister, that Poland has suffered losses in that cause and I would just like to say particularly to the families of the fallen but also to the Polish people that that action and that effort on behalf of democracy and freedom is greatly appreciated.

2005/126 Released on February 5, 2005

RELATED:

• Remarks With Polish Foreign Minister Adam Rotfeld After Meeting - FOREIGN MINISTER ROTFELD: (in Polish) Ladies and gentlemen, as you know, today we have held talks, which form part of the series of talks that the Secretary of State, Ms. Condoleezza Rice, has been undertaking for the last few days in London and Berlin, as well. Today, she came to Warsaw to hold these talks. We discussed both world and global topics, regional aspects and bilateral relations. In terms of global issues, we discussed the development of the situation in Iraq and the forecasts about how it will change after the elections, which, in our opinion, were a very important event in that country. And that does totally change our optics on Iraq.
• Remarks to the Press En Route to Ankara - SECRETARY RICE: Okay. I just wanted to come back and make just a couple of remarks. We’ve had good meetings obviously in Britain and in Germany and in Poland. We’ve talked a lot about the future and what we can achieve together in the alliance in the future--a lot of discussion in all three places about the prospects for peace in the Israeli-Palestinian issue. We talked a good deal about the importance of the road ahead in helping the parties prepare. In particular, I thought the Polish discussion of what they might be able to do in terms of the building of new institutions, even in the Palestinian territories was…it was important, and something I’d not heard before, that they were interested in doing that.

International Coffee Agreement

Accession to the 2001 International Coffee Agreement

Secretary Condoleezza Rice Ankara, Turkey February 5, 2005

I am pleased to announce that the United States has acceded to the 2001 International Coffee Agreement, and has become a member of the International Coffee Organization effective February 3, 2005. We announced our intention to rejoin in September 2004 and completed the process when we deposited our instrument of accession with the Secretary General of the United Nations.

The International Coffee Organization has undertaken impressive reforms in recent years to strengthen its market orientation, build programs to help coffee farmers improve quality, efficiency and access to markets, and streamline the global coffee trade. It is a valuable forum in which to address the full range of issues affecting coffee production, trade and consumption. We look forward to working closely with our trading partners in the Organization to enhance development efforts and open markets.

2005/124 Released on February 5, 2005

Secretary Rice Europe and the Middle East

Rice, Straw

Between February 3rd and February 10th, Secretary Rice is visiting eight European countries, as well as Israel and the West Bank. The trip comes in advance of the President's visit to Europe between February 22nd and 25, so she'll take this opportunity to advance the President's agenda and the United States agenda in cooperation with our European friends and allies.

She will visit the United Kingdom, Germany, Poland, Turkey, Israel, Italy, France, Belgium and Luxembourg.

During the course of her visit, she intends to promote President Bush's vision of democracy and freedom as the keys to peace and prosperity. She will work to identify a common agenda for 2005 with our European partners and our partners in the Middle East -- an agenda of fighting terrorism, proliferation, disease and poverty, as we support democracy in Afghanistan, Iraq, and elsewhere. She will coordinate with European partners and institutions to support reform in the broader Middle East and North Africa. She looks forward to working with European allies to advance the Middle East peace process, and she expects to support development of European institutions while in Europe. [photos]

State Funeral Zurab Zhvania, Prime Minister Georgia

President George W. Bush today announced the designation of a Presidential Delegation to represent the United States at the State Funeral of His Excellency Zurab Zhvania, Prime Minister of the Republic of Georgia, on Sunday, February 6, 2005.

The Honorable Richard G. Lugar, Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, will lead the delegation.

Members of the Presidential Delegation are:

The Honorable Richard J. Miles, U.S. Ambassador to Georgia

The Honorable Paul V. Applegarth, CEO of the Millennium Challenge Corporation

Mr. Lorne W. Craner, President of the International Republican Institute # # #

For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary February 4, 2005 Personnel Announcement

Presidential Delegation tsunami affected countries

President George W. Bush today announced the designation of a Presidential Delegation to visit tsunami-affected countries of South and Southeast Asia, including Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and The Maldives from February 19-21, 2005.

Members of the Presidential Delegation are:

Former President George Bush Former President William J. Clinton # # #

For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary February 4, 2005 Personnel Announcement

RELATED:

• What Happens Next - FULL STREAMING VIDEO. In response to this tragedy, former Presidents George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton have joined with the Ad Council to encourage Americans to support humanitarian organizations that are conducting relief operations.
• usafreedomcorps.gov - To contribute, Americans are directed to visit where they can find a comprehensive listing of organizations accepting donations to aid

Freedom Calendar 02/05/05 - 02/12/05

February 5, 1866, U.S. Rep. Thaddeus Stevens (R-PA) introduces legislation, successfully opposed by Democrat President Andrew Johnson, to implement “40 acres and a mule” relief by distributing land to former slaves.

February 6, 1981, President Ronald Reagan designates 1981 as the International Year of Disabled Persons.

February 7, 1983, Republican Elizabeth Dole appointed by President Ronald Reagan as first woman to be U.S. Secretary of Transportation; she would later become first woman to represent North Carolina in U.S. Senate.

February 8, 1894, Democrat Congress and Democrat President Grover Cleveland join to repeal Republicans’ Enforcement Act, which had enabled African-Americans to vote.

February 9, 1864, Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton deliver over 100,000 signatures to U.S. Senate supporting Republicans’ plans for constitutional amendment to ban slavery.

February 10, 1995, Death of Judge Masaji Marumoto, Japanese-American Republican who served with distinction on Hawaii Supreme Court.

February 11, 1856, Republican Montgomery Blair argues before U.S. Supreme Court on behalf of his client, the slave Dred Scott; later served in President Lincoln’s Cabinet.

February 12, 1909, Abraham Lincoln’s Birthday. On 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth, African-American Republicans and women’s suffragists Ida Wells and Mary Terrell co-found the NAACP.

SOURCE: 2005 Republican Freedom Calendar

bush radio address 02/05/05 full audio, text transcript

bush radio address 02/05/05 full audio, text transcript

President's Radio Address

THE PRESIDENT: Good morning.

This week, in my address to Congress and the American people, I was pleased to report that the state of our union is confident and strong. Many challenges still lie before us, and I will work with Congress to do what Americans have always done -- leave a better world for our children and grandchildren.

Meeting this responsibility to the future starts with being good stewards of the American economy. I welcome the bipartisan calls to control the spending appetite of the federal government. On Monday, my administration will submit a budget that holds the growth of discretionary spending below inflation, makes tax relief permanent, and stays on track to cut the deficit in half by 2009. In the long run, the best way to reduce the deficit is to grow the economy. And we will take steps to make the American economy stronger, more innovative, and more competitive.

We must also strengthen and save Social Security for our children and grandchildren. For those of you born before 1950, I have a message: The Social Security system will not change in any way for you. For younger workers, the system has serious problems that will grow worse with time. With every year that passes, we have fewer workers paying ever-larger benefits to ever-increasing numbers of retirees. In 2018, Social Security will be paying out more than it takes in. By the time today's younger workers retire in 2042, the system will be bankrupt -- unless we act now.

Fixing Social Security will require an open, candid review of the options. I will listen to anyone who has a good idea to offer, and I will work with members of Congress to find the most effective combination of reforms. As we proceed, we will adhere to a few basic principles. We will make Social Security's finances permanently sound, not leave the task for another day. We will not increase payroll taxes. We will make the system a better deal for younger workers by allowing them to save some of their payroll taxes in voluntary personal retirement accounts -- a nest egg they can call their own, which government can never take away.

Our second broad responsibility to the future is to preserve and pass on the values that sustain a free society. We must continue to build a culture of life that respects human dignity while advancing science. To promote the compassionate character of America, we will pursue initiatives to fight the scourge of HIV/AIDS, help our at-risk youth reject gangs and violence, and help prevent wrongful convictions in our courts. I will continue to nominate well-qualified judges who understand the proper role of courts in our democracy -- and the Senate must fulfill its constitutional responsibility, and give every nominee an up or down vote.

Finally, our commitment to human dignity and freedom at home also leads us to spread freedom and peace around the world. We remain at war against the forces of terror, and we will not rest until the fight is won. We will continue to hunt down terrorists abroad, so we do not have to face them here at home. Our budget will give our military all the tools they need for victory, and we will also honor the sacrifices of the fallen by increasing substantially the payments made to the families of our servicemen and women who have given their lives in the war on terror.

Recently, we have seen freedom's gathering momentum in Afghanistan, the Palestinian territories, Ukraine -- and last Sunday, in Iraq. On that day, millions of brave Iraqis defied the threats of terrorists, and cast votes to determine their nation's future. The whole world can now see that the assassins and car-bombers are doomed to fail, because they are fighting the desire of the Iraqi people to live in freedom. And when Iraq is democratic, at peace with its neighbors, and able to defend itself, our nation will be safer, and our troops will return home with the honor they have earned.

The work ahead is not easy. But we go forward with confidence, knowing that America's best days are yet to come. Thank you for listening. END

For Immediate Release February 5, 2005

Condoleezza Rice Tony Blair Jack Straw Gerhard Schroeder

Remarks With British Prime Minister Tony Blair Before Meeting

Secretary Condoleezza Rice

PRIME MINISTER BLAIR: Could I just say a very warm word of welcome to Secretary Rice, Condi, who is a good friend of ours here. And we are delighted to see her in her new role and congratulate her warmly. It is an absolutely excellent appointment and we all look forward to working with you in the months and years to come. Obviously her visit here comes in advance of a visit to Europe, and the President's visit later this month. We will be discussing Iraq, no doubt, and the Middle East and various other issues. And I am sure it will be an excellent and constructive meeting, as ever, and you guys are going to get a chance…the grilling comes later with Jack, I think…but anyway it is a real pleasure and honor for us to welcome her here.

SECRETARY RICE: Thank you. Thank you very much, Prime Minister, for welcoming me and for having me here on my first stop on what is going to be an extended tour of Europe, and I am also going to the Middle East. And I look forward to conversations here to set up the President's visit. We have a lot of work to do and I want to thank you for your leadership and the friendship of Great Britain and the British people, as we try and spread freedom and democracy through the world, as we work to support the Iraqi people in their quest, and most especially, as you and the President have committed, as we try and bring to the Israelis and the Palestinians the chance for permanent peace.

2005/117 Pillared Room, #10 Downing Street London, United Kingdom February 4, 2005

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• Remarks With British Foreign Secretary Jack Straw After Meeting - FOREIGN SECRETARY STRAW: Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. It has been a very great pleasure to welcome to London Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice on her first official visit as the United States Secretary of State. And Condoleezza Rice has had a very good discussion this morning with the British Prime Minister, Tony Blair, and we too have had a very good bilateral discussion. And both the Prime Minister and I opened by congratulating Secretary Rice on her appointment and her endorsement by the Senate
• Remarks With German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder After Meeting - CHANCELLOR SCHROEDER: (In German) (inaudible) We have now spent one hour very intensely conversing with one another and as you might imagine, international topics were the dominant ones on our agenda. We have, as you might imagine, addressed the situation in Iraq. We have discussed this topic at length and we very strongly agree that what the country now needs is a perspective towards the course of democracy and stability for its future. And we are very much agreed on this purpose and on this being the important point, irrespective of what one thought about the military intervention in Iraq in the first place. I have very much said that Germany is strongly ready within what I have already outlined in previous statements to help Iraq to get towards this stable and hopefully democratic development

Army Corps of Engineers North Oubaidy, Baghdad

$15M Cleanup Effort Underway for North Oubaidy Sewage Problem

By Alicia Embrey Gulf Region Central District U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

BAGHDAD, Iraq -- On the sewage-flooded, garbage-strewn streets of North Oubaidy District, Baghdad, reconstruction is taking hold. The rebuilding of the infrastructure, however, will take time. Fortunately, according to a resident of North Oubaidy, the people of Iraq are a patient people. They endured under Saddam’s regime for decades without improvements; now that work is beginning, any visible improvement is noticeable and welcomed.

The cleanup effort is underway in an area where barefoot children play as sewage oozes from a nonexistent infrastructure. According to Ken Larson, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers resident engineer stationed at Camp Ironhorse, the Mahalla suburb east of downtown Baghdad never has had either a sewer system or a properly functioning water distribution system.

“The neighborhood has suffered for 25 years,” explained Maj. Pete Andrysiak, 20th Engineers Battalion, operations officer. “This is the result of a system designed for a population of ten thousand that is now occupied by up to one hundred thousand, and long neglected by the previous government.”

The project, a priority of Col. Robert B. Abrams, 1st Brigade Combat Team commander and Lt. Col. Lawrence B. Holmes, 20th Engineer Battalion commander, was to be funded and executed by the Project Contracting Office (PCO). “During this time, PCO had a lot of money pulled from the water sector, when it was time for cuts, this was a logical choice,” Andrysiak said.

Andrysiak, due to his previous USACE assignment, revived the project with the expertise of the Corps of Engineers. The Corps with its negotiation, contract, and project management experience, reduced the original bid of 89 million to 15 million. By refining the scope of work, USACE saved 63 million dollars.

“USACE has a resident office on site that is staffed with civilians and Soldiers that know the military, and can communicate and deliver accordingly,” Andrysiak said. “I can’t say enough about the support we have received to date. The whole team is incredible.”

With the 20th Engineers and USACE working together, the project was rejuvenated and Col. Abrams secured the necessary funds.

The construction endeavor will center on a complete sanitary sewer system with trunk lines and rehabilitation of the current water distribution system. The new system will include sewer mainline pipes and manholes, the connection and/or construction of laterals to approximately 12,500 homes – each averaging 8 to 10 people, as well as businesses. The project also provides for the construction of three pump stations.

A future environment with clean water, reliable power and dry sidewalks is only months away. Local subcontractors hired residents to clean two district sections of open slit trenches and standing raw sewage and to alleviate general pooling of sewage and storm water. As a result, improvements are already visible.

Although they are improving, current conditions present an uncontrollable health hazard. “Until the system is fully operational, the sewage will be directed to collection points located away from the habitable area now plagued,” said Travis Lynch, USACE, 1BCT project engineer. “This is a temporary solution to improve the health and quality of live issues in the immediate area.”

“The success of this project will help many Iraqis to trust in their government and the Coalition Forces,” said Cpt. Lee De Jesus, 20th Engineer Battalion project manager. “This project will be the first step toward providing better living conditions in other areas throughout the district. Kamalaya, just to the south, is next in line for improvements.” Release #050204k

Liberia’s 2005 Elections

Eligibility of Contestants for Elective Offices in Liberia’s 2005 Elections

The United States is very disturbed by the announcement by Liberian Labor Minister Supuwood that he would run for elected office this year. His candidacy violates the August 18, 2003 Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA), which states clearly that former combatants designated by the CPA would not be allowed to run for office in the October 2005 elections. The United States will not recognize the candidacies of such designated individuals.

The United States and the international community have invested too much in the peace process in Liberia to ignore this challenge to the CPA, to the electoral process, and to the authority of the National Elections Commission (NEC). The United States joins the Economic Community of West African States in calling upon the National Transitional Government of Liberia and all Liberians to work with the NEC to ensure that the electoral process conforms to the letter and spirit of the CPA.

2005/141 Released on February 4, 2005

Press Statement Adam Ereli, Deputy Spokesman Washington, DC February 4, 2005