House Speaker Hastert to Launch Neutrino Experiment at Fermilab

House Speaker Hastert to Launch Neutrino Experiment at Fermilab, Friday, March 4

BATAVIA, Ill.—Speaker of the House J. Dennis Hastert Jr., of the Illinois 14th Congressional District, will officially launch the MINOS neutrino experiment during dedication ceremonies at the Department of Energy’s Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory on Friday, March 4, 2005.

The dedication will take place at 2:30 p.m. in Wilson Hall’s Ramsey Auditorium.

All media wishing to cover the dedication must respond to the Fermilab Office of Public Affairs by Noon on Wednesday, March 2 to arrange for event access and security passes.

The MINOS experiment sends neutrinos from Fermilab through the earth to a 6,000-ton detector located a half-mile below the surface in a former iron mine in Soudan, Minnesota. The neutrinos leave virtually no trace as they make the 450-mile trip in 2.5 milliseconds.

Again, all media wishing to cover the MINOS experiment dedication must respond to the Fermilab Office of Public Affairs by Noon on Wednesday, March 2 to arrange for event access and security passes.

Fermilab is a U.S. Department of Energy Office of Science national laboratory, operated under contract by Universities Research Association, Inc. -30-

Contact:Mike Perricone, Fermilab Public Affairs, 630-840-5678 email mikep@fnal.govKurt Riesselmann, Fermilab Public Affairs, 630-840-5681 email kurtr@fnal.gov

SENATE ENERGY COMMITTEE SCHEDULE FOR THE WEEK OF FEBRUARY 28

SENATE ENERGY COMMITTEE SCHEDULE FOR THE WEEK OF FEBRUARY 28

Washington, D.C. - The Senate Energy & Natural Resources Committee will hold three full committee hearings next week.

The full committee will hold a hearing on Tuesday, March 1 at 10:00 a.m. to receive testimony regarding the President’s FY 2006 Budget for the Department of the Interior.

Invited Witnesses Include:

The Honorable Gale Norton Secretary Department of the Interior

accompanied by:

The Honorable P. Lynn Scarlett Assistant Secretary Policy, Management, and Budget Department of the Interior; Nominee, Deputy Secretary

John Tresize Chief Budget Officer Department of the Interior

The full committee will hold a hearing on Wednesday, March 2 at 10:00 a.m. to receive testimony regarding the President’s FY 2006 Budget for the U.S. Forest Service.

Invited Witnesses Include:

The Honorable Mark Rey Undersecretary Natural Resources and Environment Department of Agriculture

accompanied by:

Mr. Dale Bosworth Chief Forest Service Department of Agriculture

The full committee will hold a hearing on Thursday, March 3 at 10:00 a.m. to receive testimony regarding the President’s FY 2006 Budget for the Department of Energy.

Invited Witnesses Include:

The Honorable Samuel W. Bodman Secretary Department of Energy ###

Sabawi Ibrahim Al- Hassan Al- Tikriti

Security Forces in Iraq arrest the criminal Sabawi Ibrahim Al- Hassan Al- Tikriti

Security Forces in Iraq have arrested the criminal, Sabawi Ibrahim Al- Hassan Al- Tikriti, the half-brother of the ousted president Saddam Hussein and one of the leaders in the former Security Service, who has killed and tortured Iraqi citizens.

Mr. Thair Al- Nakib, the Prime Minister's Spokesman announced " Sabawi's detention comes from the insistence of the Iraqi government in chasing and detaining all criminals who have committed massacres and have their hands stained with the blood of the Iraqi nation. We will bring them to the justice so that they are punished.

Sabawi Al- Tikriti contributed effectively in planning, supervising and carrying out many terrorist acts inside Iraq .

SOURCE: Iraqi Interim Government

USPS SEEKS TO EXTEND NEGOTIATED PRICING TO FOURTH MAILER

USPS SEEKS TO EXTEND NEGOTIATED PRICING TO FOURTH MAILER

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The U.S. Postal Service has filed for a recommended decision on a fourth negotiated service agreement (NSA) from the Postal Rate Commission that extends the innovative product to the financial services company HSBC North America Holdings Inc.

The agreement with HSBC would be similar to three previous NSAs with other mailers, and is functionally equivalent to the Postal Service's landmark first such agreement with Capital One.

"Providing price incentives for mailers to encourage more mail volume and best practices can help make it possible for us to keep rates affordable for everyone," said Anita Bizzotto, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer.

HSBC is one of the largest banking and financial services organizations in the world, and one of the ten largest originators of First-Class Mail in the United States.

The agreement has three main features: it provides incentives for HSBC to send additional First-Class Mail, ensures that the customer will maintain superior mail- quality practices, and produces cost savings for the Postal Service from the customer agreeing to receive electronic information about undeliverable mail instead of having pieces physically returned.

A negotiated service agreement is a pricing instrument that gives the Postal Service a mechanism for customizing rates and services to accommodate the unique mailing needs of specialized business customers and to encourage cost-efficient mail preparation for accurate sorting and distribution.

The Postal Service broke new ground when it negotiated the first NSA with Capital One. "Clearly with the results of the Capital One NSA, which produced $21.7 million of contribution to the cost of overhead in just one year, we have demonstrated the value of NSAs to encourage incremental First-Class Mail volume" said Stephen Kearney, Vice President of Pricing and Classification.

The Postal Service anticipates an expeditious review of this NSA under the Commission's rules governing "functionally equivalent NSAs." Once the Postal Service receives a recommended decision, the Governors must still vote to implement the NSA.

"Since 1775, the Postal Service has connected friends, families, neighbors and businesses by mail. It is an independent federal agency that visits 142 million homes and businesses every day and is the only service provider delivering to every address in the nation. The Postal Service receives no taxpayer dollars for routine operations, but derives its operating revenues solely from the sale of postage, products and services. With annual revenues of more than $69 billion, it is the world's leading provider of mailing and delivery services, offering some of the most affordable postage rates in the world. The Postal Service delivers more than 46 percent of the world's mail volume-some 206 billion letters, advertisements, periodicals and packages a year-and serves seven million customers each day at its 37,000 retail locations nationwide."

# # # FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Media Relations 202-268-2155 February 25, 2005 News Release No. 05-014 www.usps.com

Federal Reserve Board Community Reinvestment Act (CRA)

The Federal Reserve Board on Friday invited public comment on proposed revisions to its regulations implementing the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) that are intended to reduce regulatory burden on community banks while making CRA evaluations more effective in encouraging banks to meet community development needs.

The Board's notice of proposed rulemaking is identical to proposals approved by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) on February 22, 2005. The proposal would:

Exempt banks with assets between $250 million and $1 billion, referred to as "intermediate small banks," from the data reporting obligations the current CRA regulations imposed on banks with assets larger than $250 million.

Subject intermediate small banks to a two-part test (retail lending and community development) instead of the current three-part test (lending, investment, and service). For intermediate small banks, a satisfactory community development rating, as well as a satisfactory retail lending rating, would be necessary for an overall rating of "Satisfactory."

Revise the definition of "community development" for all banks of any size to make it more responsive to the community development needs of rural areas.

Clarify when illegal lending practices--for example, by a bank's affiliate--might reduce the bank's CRA rating.

The proposal addresses concerns expressed by the Board in July 2004 when it withdrew a February 2004 proposal to raise the small-bank threshold to $500 million. The Board expressed concern in July that the proposal was not certain to yield significant cost savings for banks, but might reduce community development capital in some rural communities. The current proposal would deliver greater cost savings while maintaining scrutiny of banks' community development records, though on a more flexible basis. It would also refine the definition of "community development" in rural areas in an effort to make the regulations more effective in encouraging rural development.

Comments are due within 60 days from the date of publication in the Federal Register, which is expected shortly. 2005 Banking and consumer regulatory policy Release Date: February 25, 2005 For immediate release

Nuclear Regulatory Commission nuclear export to China

NRC ISSUES LICENSES ALLOWING WESTINGHOUSE TO EXPORT NUCLEAR REACTOR EQUIPMENT AND FUEL TO CHINA

The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission has issued a license authorizing Westinghouse Electric Co. to export to China the reactor systems, components and associated equipment and engineering services to build and operate as many as two pressurized water nuclear reactors at the San Men site and two at the Yang Jiang site. A second license was also issued, authorizing Westinghouse to export enough low-enriched uranium fuel to be used in the initial core and in one refueling for each reactor.

Westinghouse submitted the application for the license to export the reactors on Feb. 25, 2004, and the application for the fuel export license on August 26, 2004. Should China accept Westinghouse’s bid for constructing the plants, shipments of the reactor systems and components are expected to begin around mid-2007.

After carefully reviewing the applications and associated information, the NRC concluded that approving these exports to China will not be adverse to the common defense and security. The NRC also agreed with the conclusions reached by interested Executive Branch agencies that approving these exports is fully consistent with U.S. legal requirements.

NRC NEWSU.S. NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION Office of Public Affairs Telephone: 301/415-8200 Washington, DC 20555-0001 E-mail: opa@nrc.gov, nrc.gov/ No. 05-037 February 25, 2005

Ecological Research in Marine Environments

LTER 1

Long-Term Ecological Research in Marine Environments is Topic of Symposium. Image Courtesy: Plum Island Long-Term Ecological Research (LTER) Site Long-Term Ecological Research at Plum Island, Massachusetts

At a symposium on Thursday, March 3, scientists will highlight projects underway at the new California Current Ecosystem research site, and the Moorea Coral Reef research site, in the Pacific islands of French Polynesia. These studies and research at other Long-Term Ecological Research (LTER) sites are contributing important information about the plight of the world’s oceans. Scientists will also identify and discuss ecological “grand challenges” of the 21st Century.

The LTER network, funded by the National Science Foundation, comprises 26 field sites located primarily in the United States, but with a geographic span from the Arctic and Antarctic to the tropics. The sites represent Earth’s major ecosystems and include deserts, grasslands, forests, tundra, urban areas, agricultural systems, freshwater lakes, coastal estuaries and salt marshes, coral reefs and coastal ocean zones.

Who: Henry Gholz, NSF LTER Program Director, Philip Taylor, NSF Biological Oceanography Program Director, Scientists from coastal and other LTER sites

What: Symposium on results of Long-Term Ecological Research at marine sites

When: Thursday, March 3, 2005, 8:30 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.

Where: National Science Foundation 4201 Wilson Blvd. Stafford II Building, Room 555 Arlington, VA22230

For a detailed symposium agenda, or to arrange for a pass to enter the building, please contact: Cheryl Dybas, cdybas@nsf.gov, (703) 292-7734 - NSF- Media Advisory 05-003 February 24, 2005

Inauguration of President Tabar Vzquez Uruguay

President George W. Bush today announced the designation of a Presidential Delegation to the Oriental Republic of Uruguay to attend the Inauguration of President Tabar Vzquez, on March 1, 2005.

The Honorable Elaine L. Chao, Secretary of Labor, will lead the delegation.

Members of the Presidential Delegation are:

The Honorable Martin J. Silverstein, U.S. Ambassador to the Oriental Republic of Uruguay

Ms. Marilyn Ware of Pennsylvania, Chairman Emerita of American Water

# # # For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary February 25, 2005 Personnel Announcement

Indonesia: Secretary Rice’s Decision to Certify International Military Education and Training

Indonesia: Secretary Rice’s Decision to Certify International Military Education and Training

Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice has determined that Indonesia has satisfied legislative conditions for restarting its full International Military Education and Training (IMET) program.

Current restrictions on the IMET program were in put in place by the Administration, and subsequently legislated by Congress, due to insufficient cooperation by the Indonesian military in investigating the August 2002 murders of two American citizens and one Indonesian citizen in Papua province. Secretary Rice has determined that the Government and the Armed Forces of Indonesia (TNI) have cooperated with the FBI’s investigation into
these murders and continue to do so, and thus have fulfilled the requirements articulated in the legislation to allow for resumption of the full International Military Education and Training Program.

Indonesian cooperation has resulted in the indictment of Anthonius Wamang, an Indonesian citizen and member of a Papuan separatist group, on charges of murder, attempted murder, causing serious bodily injury and illegal firearms. The U.S. – Indonesia joint investigation by the FBI and Indonesian National Police continues.

Indonesia has not participated in the full International Military Education and Training program since 1992, when restrictions were first imposed in response to the massacre of civilian protestors in Dili, East Timor. Restrictions were maintained after Indonesian security forces and their militia devastated East Timor in the wake of the August 1999
UN – sponsored independence referendum, and since then were tied to cooperation in the investigation of the Timika murders.

The Department expects that Indonesia’s resumption of full International Military Education and training will strengthen its ongoing democratic progress and advance cooperation in other areas of mutual concern.

2005/247 Released on February 26, 2005 Press Statement Richard Boucher, Spokesman Washington, DC

Visit of Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice to Mexico

Visit of Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice to Mexico

Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice will visit Mexico on Thursday, March 10, for meetings with government officials, business leaders, and members of civil society. The Secretary welcomes this opportunity to reaffirm the close bilateral relationship we enjoy with our southern neighbor.

2005/240 Released on February 25, 2005

Press Statement Richard Boucher, Spokesman Washington, DC February 25, 2005

Acting Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs

Acting Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs

Question: With the departure of Assistant Secretary Beth Jones, who will be the acting Assistant Secretary for European and Eurasian Affairs?

Answer: Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for European and Eurasian Affairs Robert A. Bradtke will serve as the Acting Assistant Secretary effective Tuesday, March 1, 2005.

2005/246

Taken QuestionOffice of the Spokesman Washington, DC February 25, 2005 Question Taken at February 25, 2005 Daily Press Briefing

Philip Zelikow Counselor Department of State

Appointment of Philip Zelikow as the Counselor of the Department of State

Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice today announced the appointment of Philip Zelikow as Counselor of the Department of State.

Though the position has been vacant since 2001, the office of the Counselor is not new, having been part of the Department’s organization since 1909. The Counselor is a principal officer of the Department. As Counselor, Dr. Zelikow will serve as a senior policy advisor on a widerange of issues and will undertake special assignments as directed by the Secretary.

“Philip and I have worked together for years,” Secretary Rice commented, “and I value his counsel and expertise. I appreciate his willingness to take on this assignment.”

Dr. Zelikow has served previously in government, most recently as the Executive Director of the 9/11 Commission. Formerly a trial and appellate attorney in Houston, Zelikow served as a career foreign service officer overseas, in the Department, and on detail to the NSC staff. He then taught at Harvard University and at the University of Virginia, where he was, until his current appointment, the White Burkett Miller Professor of History and Director of the Miller Center of Public Affairs. A former member of the President’s Foreign Intelligence Advisory Board (2001-2003), Dr. Zelikow also directed the privately-sponsored Carter-Ford Commission on Federal Election Reform, which led to the Help America Vote Act of 2002.

Dr. Zelikow received his BA in history from the University of Redlands, his JD from the University of Houston, and his MA and Ph.D. degrees in international law and diplomacy from Tufts University’s Fletcher School.

2005/244 Released on February 25, 2005 Press Statement Richard Boucher, Spokesman
Washington, DC

Bombing in Tel Aviv, Secretary Rice

Bombing in Tel Aviv Secretary Condoleezza Rice Washington, DC February 25, 2005

I condemn in the strongest possible terms today’s bombing in Tel Aviv. I offer our deepest sympathy to the victims of this terrorist attack, their families, and the Israeli people and hope for a speedy recovery to those injured. We have been in contact with Israeli officials to convey our condolences and our support against terrorism.

Terrorist attacks, such as today’s bombing in Tel Aviv, not only kill innocent civilians, but also undermine the aspirations and hopes of the Palestinian people.

It is essential that Palestinian leaders take immediate, credible steps to find those responsible for this terrorist attack and bring them to justice. We understand that the Palestinian leadership has condemned the attack. We now must see actions that send a clear message that terror will not be tolerated.

2005/245 Released on February 25, 2005

Secretary Rice Supporting the Palestinian Authority

Secretary Rice Travel to Attend the London Meeting on Supporting the Palestinian Authority

Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice will travel to London, UK, on Monday, February 28, for the March 1 London Meeting on Supporting the Palestinian Authority. Secretary Rice looks forward to working with key officials there on our joint efforts to support Palestinian political institutions, to build security, and to invigorate the Palestinian economy. The meeting in London will include 30 delegations, including a number of Arab states and other members of the international donor community who will come together to express their support for the new Palestinian leadership. Secretary Rice also will participate in a Quartet meeting, bilateral discussions with the British, and other meetings while in London, before returning to Washington, D.C. on Wednesday.

2005/239 Press Statement Richard Boucher, Spokesman Washington, DC February 25, 2005

Annual Report on Human Rights 2/28/05

Special Press Briefing and Release of 2004 Annual Report on Human Rights-February 28, 2005

Under Secretary Paula Dobriansky will deliver remarks on the release of the State Department’s 2004 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices on Monday, February 28 at 9:00 a.m. After the Under Secretary’s opening remarks, Acting Assistant Secretary for Democracy, Human Rights and Labor Michael Kozak will provide introductory remarks on the report and respond to reporters’ questions. This event is on camera and on the record, and will be held in the State Department’s press briefing room (Room 2209).

Advance Copies of the Embargoed Report

Embargoed copies of the report on CD-ROM will be available on Monday, February 28 at 8:15 a.m. in the State Department’s Press Office (Room 2109). The entire report is EMBARGOED until the end of the press briefing, approximately 10:00 a.m., February 28. The report is available on a first-come, first-served basis, one CD per media organization, and must be collected in person from Room 2109. Copies will not be reserved, mailed, faxed or delivered to a building entrance.

Press who attend this briefing should arrive at the C Street entrance (2201 C Street, NW) and must present either (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) letter from their employer on letterhead verifying their employment as a journalist, accompanied by an official photo identification card (driver’s license, passport). Press should allow adequate time to process through security and to be in the briefing room 10 minutes before the briefing.

Electronic Access to the Report via Internet
The full text of the report will be available for downloading from the State Department web site at: state.gov as soon as possible after the briefing on February 28.

Book Form

As soon as it has been printed by the Government Printing Office, copies of the full report will be sold by the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington DC 20402; telephone 202-512-1800; fax 202-512-2250.

Press Contacts For more information on this event, contact: Gene Bigler, Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor, (202) 647-3904 or the Office of Press Relations, (202) 647-2492 2005/236 Released on February 25, 2005 Notice to the Press Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC

Commission on the Status of Women

U.S. Participation in the United Nations 49th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women

United States Representative to the Commission on the Status of Women Ambassador Ellen R. Sauerbrey will head the U.S. delegation to the 2005 meeting of the UN Commission on the Status of Women. The meeting commemorates the tenth anniversary of the Fourth World Conference on Women (Beijing+10) and will be held February 28 – March 11 in New York. Other U.S. delegates include Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Department of State’s Bureau of International Organization Affairs Mark P. Lagon, and U.S. Representative to the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations Ambassador Sichan Siv.

The three public U.S. delegates are: Patricia P. Brister, who served on the Louisiana Republican State Central Committee for twelve years and served as Chairman of the Republican Party of Louisiana for four years; Susan B. Hirschmann, a partner with Williams and Jensen PLLC and former Chief of Staff to Congressman Tom DeLay (R-TX); and, Janet Parshall, host of the radio and television program "Janet Parshall’s America" and the author of several books, most recently "Traveling a Pilgrim's Path: Preparing Your Child to Navigate the Journey of Faith".

The United States is firmly committed to promoting the rights and advancement of women domestically and internationally. We hope this meeting of the Commission on the Status of Women will contribute to tangible efforts by all nations to expand the political participation, economic empowerment, freedom from violence, and education of women worldwide.

2005/241 Released on February 25, 2005 Media Note Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC

Freedom Calendar 02/26/05 - 03/05/05

February 26, 2004, Hispanic Republican U.S. Rep. Henry Bonilla (R-TX) condemns racist comments by U.S. Rep. Corrine Brown (D-FL); she had called Asst. Secretary of State Roger Noriega and several Hispanic Congressmen “a bunch of white men...you all look alike to me”

February 27, 1860, Abraham Lincoln launches campaign for Republican presidential nomination with speech at the Cooper Institute in New York.

February 28, 1871, Republican Congress passes Enforcement Act providing federal protection for African-American voters.

March 1, 1875, Civil Rights Act of 1875, guaranteeing access to public accommodations without regard to race, signed by Republican President U.S. Grant; passed with 92% Republican support over 100% Democrat opposition.

March 2, 1953, Republican Clare Booth Luce, U.S. Ambassador to Italy, becomes first woman to serve as ambassador to a major power.

March 3, 1865, Republican Congress establishes Freedmen’s Bureau to provide health care, education, and technical assistance to emancipated slaves.

March 4, 1954, President Dwight Eisenhower appoints J. Ernest Wilkins to serve as first African-American U.S. Asst. Secretary of Labor.

March 5, 1875, Blanche Bruce (R-MS) becomes first African-American to serve full term in U.S. Senate; in 1879 he was first African-American to preside over Senate.

“Whenever I hear anyone arguing for slavery, I feel a strong impulse to see it tried on him personally.”

Abraham Lincoln

SOURCE: 2005 Republican Freedom Calendar

bush radio address 02/26/05 full audio, text transcript

bush radio address 02/26/05 full audio, text transcript

President's Radio Address

THE PRESIDENT: Good morning. This past week I was in Europe, where I had good discussions with our friends and allies about how to meet the mutual challenges we face: spreading freedom and democracy, defeating terrorism, expanding prosperity and promoting peace. In our meetings, we reaffirmed the vital importance of the transatlantic alliance for advancing these common interests and values.

Now that I'm back home, I'm eager to move ahead with one of my top domestic priorities: strengthening and saving Social Security. I have already met with tens of thousands of you in nine states to discuss this important issue. During the recent congressional recess, many senators and congressmen have held their own town hall meetings to discuss Social Security reform with their constituents. For example, Senator Rick Santorum hosted forums all across Pennsylvania this week. And Wisconsin Congressman Paul Ryan held nearly three dozen listening sessions in his district. I am pleased with the progress of the national discussion on this issue, and I look forward to hearing everyone's ideas when the Congress returns.

Meanwhile, I'll be visiting New Jersey and Indiana next week, and I plan to keep traveling across the country to talk about Social Security. I will continue to reassure those of you born before 1950 that your Social Security benefits will not change in any way: You will receive your checks, and that is a fact.

I will also make clear to younger workers that Social Security is heading toward bankruptcy. Massive numbers of baby boomers, like me, will soon begin to retire. People are living longer and benefits are scheduled to increase dramatically, and fewer workers will be paying into the system to support each retiree. For you younger workers, the current system has made promises that it cannot keep -- and that is also a fact. Every year we wait to address this problem will make any eventual solution more painful and drastic, and we will saddle our children and grandchildren with an ever-greater burden. We need to act now to fix Social Security permanently.

As we fix Social Security, we must also make it a better deal for younger workers. I have proposed allowing you to set aside part of your payroll taxes in personal retirement accounts. These accounts would be voluntary; the money would go into a conservative mix of bond and stock funds that would have the opportunity to earn a higher rate of return than anything the current system could provide. And that money would provide a nest egg to supplement your traditional Social Security check or to pass on to your children. Best of all, it would replace the empty promises of the current system with real assets of ownership.

I have said repeatedly that all options are on the table for strengthening Social Security, with the exception of raising the payroll tax rate. I'm willing to listen to any good idea. And I will work in good faith with members of Congress from both parties on this issue. Some in Washington want to deny that Social Security has a problem, but the American people know better and you have the power to determine the outcome of this debate.

I encourage all Americans, particularly our younger workers, who have so much at stake, to ask your elected leaders what they intend to do to keep the promise of Social Security alive in the 21st century. Saving Social Security will not be easy, but if you make clear that you expect your leaders to confront problems head on, not pass them on to future generations, I am confident that we will put aside partisan politics in Washington and meet our duty to you, the American people.

Thank you for listening.

END For Immediate Release February 26, 2005

John W. Snow on Fourth Quarter GDP

Statement of Treasury Secretary John W. Snow on Fourth Quarter GDP Growth

Today's announcement that fourth quarter real gross domestic product grew at a 3.8 percent rate rather than the 3.1 percent rate originally reported illustrates that America's economy has been moving in the right direction and Americans are seeing results. I was particularly pleased to see that business investment was revised up to a growth rate of 14 percent. Recent economic data for the first quarter, including the steep drop in new claims for unemployment insurance and robust growth in business spending on capital goods, show that this momentum is continuing into 2005.

President Bush is committed to keeping the economy on the path of healthy growth by making the tax cuts permanent, reducing the burden of frivolous lawsuits, and strengthening social security. The President's leadership on economic policy is clearly moving the economy in the right direction.

February 25, 2005 JS-2275

Alberto R. Gonzales priorities of Justice

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALBERTO R. GONZALES TO DELIVER REMARKS AT HOOVER INSTITUTION BOARD OF OVERSEERS MEETING

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Attorney General Alberto R. Gonzales will deliver remarks highlighting the key priorities of the Department of Justice at the Hoover Institution Board of Overseers meeting on MONDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2005 at 12:00 P.M. EST.

WHO: Attorney General Alberto R. Gonzales

WHAT: Hoover Institution Board of Overseers Meeting

WHEN: MONDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2005 12:00 P.M. EST Cameras must pre-set BY 11:30 A.M. EST

WHERE: Willard Ballroom Willard Intercontinental Hotel 1401 Pennsylvania Ave., N.W. Washington, D.C. 20004

NOTE: ALL media MUST PRESENT GOVERNMENT-ISSUED PHOTO ID (such as driver’s license) as well as VALID MEDIA CREDENTIALS. Media interested in attending the event should have their cameras pre-set by 11:30 A.M. EST. All press inquiries regarding logistics should be directed to Angela Williamson at 202-305-5126. ### FOR PLANNING PURPOSES ONLY FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2005 WWW.USDOJ.GOV AG (202) 514-2008 TDD (202) 514-1888 *******MEDIA ADVISORY*******

Secretary Watson Federal Energy Program Wildlife and Habitat

Assistant Secretary Watson Says Federal Energy Program Reflects Strict Environmental Protection
Efforts Underscore Federal Commitment to Protect Wildlife and Habitat

WASHINGTON-In a letter to Trout Unlimited today, Assistant Secretary of the Interior for Land and Minerals Management Rebecca Watson highlighted the Bush administration's strong commitment and strict adherence to environmental regulations designed to protect wildlife and wildlife habitat. Watson addressed concerns TU expressed in a Feb. 15, 2005, letter to Secretary of the Interior Gale Norton about oil and gas development on public lands.

"The Department of the Interior's energy program reflects the administration's belief that environmentally sound energy development is important to our national security and economic well-being," Watson wrote. "It also directly supports the Bureau of Land Management's mandate to manage resources to best meet the present and future needs of the American people."

Watson noted that the federal government has taken several measures to help ensure that conservation of wildlife, wildlife habitat and recreation are part of the land-use planning process on public lands.

"Our strong commitment to multiple use management is reflected in the Bureau of Land Management's land-use plans," Watson said. "These plans are developed in an open public process and are the blueprint for how all activities and resources are managed on lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management."

Watson said President Bush made his mandate very clear in the National Energy Policy where he said 'We must work to build a new harmony between energy needs and our environmental concerns. The truth is energy production and environmental protections are not competing priorities. They are dual aspects of a single purpose, to live well and wisely upon the earth.'

With that message in mind, on June 22, 2004, Watson announced a new Bureau of Land Management policy initiative designed to enhance protection for wildlife by reducing long-term impacts from oil and gas activity through the use of Best Management Practices. She also directed the BLM to issue a policy (August 13, 2004) confirming that land managers have discretion to temporarily defer leasing when it might conflict with wildlife protection proposals in resource management plans under development.

"We routinely set aside special areas that hold unique values," Watson said. "We have withdrawn leases from energy development to protect wildlife. "Out of 261 million acres managed by BLM, fewer than 325,000 acres are directly affected by oil and gas production activities. That is about one-tenth of 1 percent."

For example, in October 2004, the BLM deferred work on an oil and gas proposal in the Blackleaf area along the Rocky Mountain Front in Montana until at least 2008, in order to allow time for a landscape-scale study of the area. In Utah, since January 2004, the BLM has deferred action on 568 parcels out of 1,146 nominated for oil and gas leases, nearly half, to allow for additional analysis of wildlife, cultural or other resource values.

Watson indicated that the critical leasing decisions are made during the planning stage. It is in that process where other uses such as hunting, fishing, camping and livestock grazing are thoroughly analyzed and competing priorities are balanced.

"The environmental review that is part of the land-use planning process analyzes potential impacts of all activities using the best and most recent information available," Watson said. "It is a complicated process, but it is fully open to the public and people need to be involved. The BLM should have the benefit of diverse and thoughtful views as it develops its resource management plans."

Letter from Assistant Secretary Watson in PDF format

Rebecca W. Watson is the Assistant Secretary for Land and Minerals Management at the U.S. Department of the Interior. She provides policy, priorities and oversight to the Bureau of Land Management, Minerals Management Service, and Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement. These three bureaus have responsibility for the production of about 35 percent of the nation's domestic oil, natural gas and coal that heat and cool our homes, fuel our cars and trucks, and power our high-tech economy. The Bureau of Land Management also manages about one-eighth of the land in the United States for a wide variety of uses benefiting the public including recreation, grazing, timber production, mining, wilderness, energy development and wildlife habitat.

Office of the Secretary Contact: John Wright For Immediate Release: Feb. 24, 2005 202-208-6416

National Biodefense Analysis and Countermeasures Center

National Biodefense Analysis and Countermeasures Center General Overview

The Department of Homeland Security’s National Biodefense Analysis and Countermeasures Center (NBACC) will provide the nation with essential biocontainment laboratory space for biological threat characterization and bioforensic research.

The NBACC facility, managed by Homeland Security’s Science & Technology directorate in accordance with the Homeland Security Act of 2002 and the Homeland Security Presidential Directive entitled “Biodefense for the 21st Century,” will be located within the National Interagency Biodefense Campus at Fort Detrick, Maryland.

The programs conducted at NBACC will provide knowledge of infectious properties of biological agents, effectiveness of countermeasures, decontamination procedures, and forensics analyses to support policy makers and responders’ development of policies, programs, and technologies.

NBACC is part of a nationwide group of institutions that collectively are referred to as the Homeland Security Biodefense Complex. The Complex includes the Plum Island Animal Disease Control Center, the Biodefense Knowledge Center, the national laboratories, and the university-based Homeland Security Centers of Excellence.

Composition of NBACC NBACC will be comprised of:

The National Bioforensic Analysis Center (NBFAC), is designated in Presidential Directive “Biodefense for the 21st Century, to be the lead federal facility to conduct and facilitate the technical forensic analysis and interpretation of materials recovered following a biological attack in support of the appropriate lead federal agency. NBFAC conducts bioforensic analysis of evidence from a bio-crime or terrorist attack to attain a “biological fingerprint” to identify perpetrators and determine the origin and method of attack.

The Biological Threat Characterization Center (BTCC) will conduct studies and laboratory experiments to fill in information gaps to better understand current and future biological threats, assess vulnerabilities, conduct risk assessments, and determine potential impacts in order to guide the development of countermeasures such as detectors, drugs, vaccines, and decontamination technologies to protect the U.S. against these threats.

Facility Status

DHS completed the environmental planning and public review process for the construction of the NBACC facility with a Record of Decision on January 26, 2005. It is anticipated that an architectural and engineering (A&E) contract will be awarded late March 2005 to allow groundbreaking to take place in the summer of 2006 and completion of the project in 2008.

A contract is scheduled to be awarded in March to begin design of the NBACC facility.

The gross space, or entire footprint, is expected to be about 160,000 square feet. This includes administration areas, BSL- 2, 3 and 4 laboratory space, air handling equipment space, security controls, and other supporting features.

The anticipated number of researchers and support staff is approximately 120.

An interim capability for the NBFAC has been established in partnership with the FBI and the U.S. Army at the U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases (USAMRIID) at Fort Detrick. Also, some threat characterization research and studies are being conducted in other established private and government laboratories, including USAMRIID.

The National Interagency Biodefense Campus

NBACC will be located on the new National Interagency Biodefense Campus at Fort Detrick. The other agencies sharing the Ft. Detrick National Interagency Biodefense Campus are:
• Health and Human Services’ National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), NIH
• Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Research Service and Foreign Disease-Weed Science Research Unit (FDWSRU), and the
• Department of Defense’s U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases (USAMRIID), USMRMC

Collectively, these laboratories have complementary scientific goals and will collaborate on developing a comprehensive understanding of biological agent characteristics (NBACC), elucidating the disease process (NIAID Integrated Research Facility) and developing products to reduce risks to human health and agricultural productivity (USAMRIID, USDA- ARS).

The unique missions of forensics analyses and threat characterization will complement the mission responsibilities of the other agencies. Coordination of these proposed activities takes place through an established Fort Detrick interagency committee.

### updated February 24, 2005 SOURCE: U.S. Department of Homeland Security

The Department of Homeland Security’s Science and Technology directorate has issued a Request for Information (PDF, 6 pages, 102 KB) concerning the management and operations (M&O) of the National Biodefense Analysis and Countermeasures Center (NBACC). Responses to the Request for Information will be considered as part of a broader ongoing management planning process for the NBACC facility.

North American Natural Gas Vision

United States, Canada and Mexico Release the "North American Natural Gas Vision"
WASHINGTON, DC -- The North American Energy Working Group (NAEWG), a group of senior energy officials from Canada, Mexico and the United States, today released the "North American Natural Gas Vision," a trilateral report by the three governments that includes information on the natural gas market in the North American region, including forecasts through the year 2012. U.S. Energy Secretary Samuel Bodman joined Minister of Natural Resources Canada R. John Efford and Mexico's Energy Secretary Fernando Elizondo in announcing the report's release.

“This document is a key cooperative effort among the three countries to address one of the most important energy issues facing us all,” Secretary Bodman said. “It demonstrates the commitment of the three governments to encourage a secure, competitive, efficient and growing North American gas market that will help fuel the economies and environmental objectives of the three countries.”

The "North American Natural Gas Vision" contains three sections: a summary of key findings; a review of the sector from 1990 to 2003; and a forecast on market supply, demand, prices, and trade out to the year 2012. The report also includes comments on issues beyond 2012. The report is the culmination of two years' work by the NAEWG’s Natural Gas Experts Group, which reviewed various measures North America can take to achieve its goals for natural gas. It examines the increasingly important role of natural gas in the energy sectors of the three countries and will serve as an important reference document for governments, businesses and the general public.

The "North America Natural Gas Vision" represents another step in fulfilling the goals of the NAEWG: to foster communication and cooperation among the governments and energy sectors of the three North American countries on energy-related matters of common interest, and to enhance North American energy trade and interconnections, consistent with the goal of sustainable development, for the benefit of all; respecting the domestic policies, divisions of jurisdictional authority and existing trade obligations of each country.

In addition to releasing the "North America Natural Gas Vision" today, NAEWG also announced the availability of a second document that examines federal regulation of cross-border electricity trade, the "Guide to Federal Regulation of Sales of Imported Electricity in Canada, Mexico, and the United States." The report is an overview of the domestic treatment of imported electricity in North America and a follow-up to "North America - Regulation of International Electricity Trade," released in 2002

At the Summit of the Americas held in Quebec, Canada, in April 2001, U.S. President Bush, then-Canadian Prime Minister Chretien and Mexico's President Fox committed to expanding energy trade among the three nations and strengthening the energy market in North America. Building on this commitment, the U.S. Secretary of Energy, the Minister of Natural Resources Canada and Mexico's Secretary of Energy agreed to establish the NAEWG. In addition to releasing five reports and continuing work in those areas, the NAEWG is examining other issues including energy science and technology and critical infrastructure protection.

This report is available on:
pi.energy.gov/pdf/, nrcan.gc.ca/, energia.gob.mx/work/ng.pdf
Media contacts:Anne Womack Kolton, 202/586-4940Drew Malcomb, 202/586-5806 Number: R-05-022 February 25, 2005

Gutierrez Commerce Secretary Announces New ID Standard

Commerce Secretary Announces New ID Standard for Federal Agencies

U.S. Commerce Secretary Carlos M. Gutierrez today announced he has approved a new standard for a smart-card-based form of identification for all federal government departments and agencies to issue to their employees and contractors requiring access to federal facilities and systems.

“Protecting federal facilities, systems and the employees who have access to them is of vital importance to this Administration,” said Gutierrez. “This new standard will enable federal agencies to issue more secure and reliable forms of identification to better protect federal assets against threats such as terrorist attacks. It also will help safeguard against other risks such as identity theft,” said Gutierrez.

On Aug. 27, 2004, President Bush issued a Homeland Security Presidential Directive calling for a mandatory, government-wide personal identification standard. The directive specified that the secure and reliable forms of identification should be based on sound criteria for verifying the cardholder’s identity; be strongly resistant to identity fraud, tampering, counterfeiting and terrorist exploitation; use electronic methods of rapid authentication; and be issued only by providers whose reliability has been established by an official accreditation process. (The presidential directive is available at whitehouse.gov/news/releases/.)

Computer security specialists at the Commerce Department’s National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) worked closely with other federal agencies—including the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), the Office of Science and Technology Policy, and the Departments of Defense, State, Justice and Homeland Security—as well as private industry to develop Federal Information Processing Standard (FIPS) 201, Personal Identity Verification (PIV) of Federal Employees and Contractors.

As a result of public meetings, briefings by NIST and OMB, and the public availability of the draft FIPS as announced previously in the Federal Register, NIST received comments from more than 80 organizations and individuals. These comments were carefully considered and led to many changes in the final standard. (Comments are available at csrc.nist.gov/piv-project/.)

The standard specifies the technical and operational requirements for the PIV system and card. The first part of the standard describes the minimum requirements needed to meet the control and security objectives of the presidential directive, including the process to prove an individual’s identity. By October 2005, agencies must meet the requirements of the first part of the standard.

The second section explains the many components and processes that will support a smart-card-based platform, including the PIV card and card and biometric readers. It also describes a means to collect, store and maintain information and documentation needed to authenticate and assure an individual’s identity. OMB will determine the timeline for agencies to comply with the second part of the standard.

The standard provides graduated levels of security to give agencies flexibility in selecting the appropriate level of security for each application. Agencies will continue to have full flexibility in determining who is allowed to have access to their systems and facilities.

The PIV card is the primary component of the system. About the size of a credit card, the PIV card will contain integrated circuit chips for storing electronic information, a personal identification number and biometric data—a printed photograph and two electronically-stored fingerprints. The standard includes requirements to protect the privacy of PIV cardholders. OMB will provide privacy and implementation guidelines to federal agencies.

NIST also is working to develop two key companion documents to FIPS 201. Interfaces for Personal Identity Verification (NIST Special Publication 800-73) will specify interface requirements for retrieving and using data from the PIV card. Biometric Data Specification for Personal Identity Verification (NIST Special Publication 800-76) will specify technical acquisition and formatting requirements for the biometric credentials of the PIV system.

A copy of FIPS 201and other information are available at csrc.nist.gov/piv-project/.

Since 1972, NIST has been developing technical standards and guidelines for federal computer systems. NIST typically develops FIPS when there are compelling federal government requirements, such as for security and interoperability, for which there are no acceptable industry standards or solutions. In doing so, NIST is carrying out its responsibilities under the Federal Information Security Management Act of 2002.

As a non-regulatory agency of the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Technology Administration, NIST develops and promotes measurement, standards and technology to enhance productivity, facilitate trade and improve the quality of life.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Friday, February 25, 2005

USDA Raises FY 2005 Agricultural Export Forecast

USDA RAISES FY 2005 AGRICULTURAL EXPORT FORECAST BY $3 BILLION TO $59 BILLION

WASHINGTON, Feb. 24, 2005 - The U.S. Department of Agriculture today raised the fiscal year 2005 forecast of agricultural exports from $56 billion to $59 billion. This would make FY 2005 the 3rd highest export sales year ever following FY 2004 at $62.3 billion and FY 1996 at $59.8 billion.

"This new export forecast clearly demonstrates the strength of the U.S. agricultural sector," said Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns. "We will continue to work vigorously to expand and maintain economic opportunities for our farmers and ranchers through the World Trade Organization negotiations and through other agreements, such as the Central American- Dominican Republic Free Trade Agreement."

This year, the United States is experiencing increased competition and lower prices for bulk commodities such as grains, oilseeds and cotton. Conversely, there is increased demand for some U.S. high-value products, which are bolstered by the weaker dollar. Horticultural sales are forecast at a record $14.5 billion. Broad-based gains for many fruits and vegetables as well as wines and essential oils are expected, largely due to higher prices. Pork exports are also expected to reach a record volume and value with strong demand from Japan, Mexico and Canada. Very strong gains also are expected in dairy exports, largely supported by non-fat dry milk powder.

Canada will remain the No. 1 market for U.S. agricultural products at a projected $10.2 billion, while Mexico at $8.5 billion is expected to surpass Japan ($7.7 billion) for the first time. Export sales to the European Union (EU) are projected at $7 billion and China at $4.6 billion, to account for the top five markets. U.S. agricultural exports to the Western Hemisphere should exceed those to Asia by $2.9 billion.

Agricultural imports are forecast at a record $58 billion, continuing a 35-year upward trend that has advanced at a faster pace since 2003. With exports lower in 2005, the trade surplus is expected to be about $1 billion. Demand for imports continues to rise, but most of the current increase in import value is due to higher prices. Consistent with long-term trends, rising imports of fresh and processed fruits and vegetables, wines and beer and essential oils account for more than half of the gain, but large beef and snack food purchases have also been significant in recent years.

USDA's Economic Research Service, Foreign Agricultural Service and World Agricultural Outlook Board release agricultural trade forecasts quarterly. The summary and full report of USDA's "Outlook for U.S. Agricultural Trade" may be accessed from the ERS Web site at ers.usda.gov/ or the FAS Web site at fas.usda.gov/. The next quarterly report will be issued in May 2005.

Release No. 0064.05 Contact: Ed Loyd (202) 720-4623, Harold Kanarek (202) 720-0328

Missile Defense Agency test

Standard Missile-3 (SM-3)

050224-N-0000X-001 Pacific Ocean (Feb. 24, 2005) – A Standard Missile-3 (SM-3) leaves the guided missile cruiser USS Lake Erie (CG 70) enroute to intercept a short-range ballistic missile target, launched minutes earlier from the Pacific Missile Range Facility, Barking Sands, Kauai, Hawaii.

The intercept, which occurred some 100 miles from the island of Kauai, was the latest Missile Defense Agency test of its sea-based midcourse program. The program, in cooperation with the U.S. Navy, has had five intercepts in the last six attempts. U.S. Navy photo (RELEASED) SOURCE: US Navy.

FULL TEXT In PDF Format Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense Flight Test Successful

155th Brigade Combat Team KARBALA, Iraq

U.S. Soldiers, Iraqi civil authorities work together to improve city of Karbala

KARBALA, Iraq -- Soldiers of the 155th Brigade Combat Team, assigned to the I Marine Expeditionary Force, are working with the governor and civil authorities in Karbala to bring an improved quality of life for the residents of the city.

Lieutenant Col. Gary Huffman, commander of the 2nd Battalion, 144th Field Artillery, 155th BCT, met with the local authorities to plan the projects to accomplish that goal.

Among the projects are security planning and patrols to support local civil authorities, additional medical supplies and support, enhanced availability of essential services, and employment opportunities for local citizens.

Although the plans and projects are in the early stages, through cooperation, mutual understanding and robust work efforts, Karbala will grow and achieve the success the citizens and leadership seek, said Huffman. -30-

United States Marine Corps Press Release Public Affairs Office I Marine Expeditionary Force (FWD) imefmediateam@imefdm.usmc.mil Contact: Release # 0225-05-0624 Feb. 24, 2005

Missing Korean War Serviceman Identified

Missing Korean War Serviceman Identified

The Department of Defense announced today that the remains of a U. S. Air Force pilot, missing in action from the Korean War, has been identified and will soon be returned to his family for burial with full military honors.

Air Force Captain Troy “Gordie” Cope of Norfolk, Ark., will be buried in Plano, Texas, on May 31.

On Sept. 16, 1952, Cope and his wingman, both flying F-86 Saber Jets from Kimpo Air Base in South Korea, encountered six MiG-15s of the North Korean Air Force. Cope was flying near the Yalu River, separating North Korea from China, on combat air patrol in an area known as “MiG Alley.” In the ensuing aerial dogfight, Cope lost contact with his wingman and was never seen again.

In 1995, an American businessman saw a metal dogtag belonging to Cope in the military museum in Dandong, China. He copied the data and reported it to U.S. authorities, yet inquiries to both the Chinese and North Korean governments yielded no further leads.

Then in 1999, during archival research by analysts of the Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO), documents about Cope’s shootdown were discovered in Russian archives in Podolsk. These archives held documents that included statements and drawings by the Russian pilots who were flying the MiG-15s for the North Koreans. Also included were detailed reports on the ground search carried out by Russian and Chinese officials in Dandong where the crash site was located.

After DPMO’s discussions with the Chinese government in 2003, a team of specialists from the Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command excavated the site in May 2004 and found aircraft debris and human remains which were identified in October. Dandong citizens and officials assisted the team throughout the excavation, and were praised by the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for POW/Missing Personnel Affairs Jerry D. Jennings.

“Without the assistance of the people of Dandong, this would not have been possible. The family of Troy Cope and the American people express our appreciation to all those who helped us bring Troy Cope home again,” said Jennings.

Of the 88,000 Americans missing from all conflicts, 8,100 are MIA from the Korean War.

No. 197-05 IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 25, 2005 U.S. Department of Defense Office 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

Investigation alleged Law Armed Conflict violation

Investigation on alleged Law of Armed Conflict violation continues Feb. 24, 2005

CAMP FALLUJAH, Iraq -- The investigation into the allegation of the unlawful use of force in the death of an enemy combatant inside a mosque in Fallujah during combat operations on Nov.13, 2004 has not been completed.

Maj. Gen. Richard F. Natonski, commanding general, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, initiated the investigation immediately after being informed of the alleged unlawful use of force by a U.S. Marine of the 1st Marine Division. The Naval Criminal Investigative Service is conducting the investigation.

The purpose of the investigation is to determine whether the Marine acted in self-defense, violated military law or failed to comply with the Law of Armed Conflict.

The facts of this case are being thoroughly pursued to make an informed decision and to protect the rights of all people involved.

A press release will be issued as soon as the investigation is completed. -USMC-

For more information, please contact Maj. Francis Piccoli, public affairs officer, I Marine Expeditionary Force, at piccolifp@imefdm.usmc.mil. -30- Public Affairs Office I Marine Expeditionary Force (FWD imefmediateam@imefdm.usmc.mil Contact: Release # 0224-05-0650

Assistance to Somali Transitional Government

Assistance to Somali Transitional Federal Government

Question: Is the U.S. providing financial assistance to the Somali Transitional Federal Government?

Answer: The United States is the largest bilateral donor to the Somali people, providing approximately $30 million in assistance annually. However, the U.S. does not provide direct assistance to the Somalia Transitional Federal Government (TFG). Since the Transitional Federal Government remains resident in Nairobi and has not yet established itself as a functioning government inside Somalia, significant donor assistance is precluded at this time.

U.S. assistance to a prospective Somali government is also constrained by the country’s outstanding arrears on its debt, which causes Somalia to fall under statutory provisions that restrict U.S. aid. Somalia’s debt to the United States is approximately $608 million, with $495 million in arrears since 1989. The Horn of Africa Act does permit certain kinds of assistance to Somalia, but requires it to be funneled through private voluntary organizations and certain international organizations.

2005/234 Released on February 24, 2005

Taken Question Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC February 24, 2005 Question Taken at February 23, 2005 Daily Press Briefing

President Addresses Citizens of Slovakia

President Addresses and Thanks Citizens of Slovakia Hviezdoslavovo Square Bratislava, Slovakia 12:17 P.M. (Local)

Public Domain Photo Gallery: Prime Minister Mikulas Dzurinda of Slovakia welcomes President George W. Bush in Bratislava, Slovakia, February 24, 2005. White House photo by Eric Draper. President George W. Bush gives his thumbs up as he leaves the stage with Prime Minister Mikulas Dzurinda of Slovakia after speaking at Hviezdoslavovo Square in Bratislava, Slovakia, Thursday, Feb. 24, 2005. White House photo by Eric Draper. Laura Bush delivers remarks during the opening of "Info USA" at the University Library in Bratislava, Slovak Republic, Thursday, Feb. 24, 2005. White House photo by Susan Sterner. During the opening of "Info USA" at the University Library in Bratislava, Slovak Republic, Feb. 24, 2005, Laura Bush writes a note in the library's guest book. White House photo by Susan Sterner. During the opening of University Library's "Info USA," Tibor Trgina, General Director of the library, shows Laura Bush books and artwork preserved at the library in Bratislava, Slovak Republic. Laura Bush was also joined by Slovak Republic's Minister of Culture Rudolf Chmel, center, during her visit to the library, Thursday, Feb. 24, 2005. White House photo by Susan Sterner. President George Bush listens to Slovak Prime Minister Mikulas Dzurinda's introduction before giving remarks at Hviezdoslavovo Square in Bratislava, Slovakia, Feb. 24, 2005. White House photo by Paul Morse. President George W. Bush and Slovakia’s Prime Minister Mikulas Dzurinda are greeted by a crowd of thousands gathered in Bratislava's Hviezdoslavovo Square, February 24, 2005. White House photo by Eric Draper. During his visit to the Presidential Palace in Bratislava, President George W. Bush walks with Slovak President Ivan Gasparovic Thursday, February 24, 2005. White House photo by Eric Draper.

PRESIDENT BUSH: Thank you all. Dobrý deò. (Applause.) Mr. President, Mr. Chairman, Mr. Prime Minister, thank you for your strong leadership and friendship. Mr. Mayor, distinguished guests, citizens of a free Slovakia. (Applause.) Thank you for your hospitality. Laura and I are honored, extremely honored to visit your great country. We bring greetings and we bring the good wishes of the American people. (Applause.)

With us here today is a group of remarkable men and women from across Central and Eastern Europe, who have fought freedom's fight in their homelands and have earned the respect of the world. We welcome you. We thank you for your example, for your courage and for your sacrifice. (Applause.)

I'm proud to stand in this great square, which has seen momentous events in the history of Slovakia and the history of freedom. Almost 17 years ago, thousands of Slovaks gathered peacefully in front of this theater. They came, not to welcome a visiting President, but to light candles, to sing hymns, to pray for an end to tyranny and the restoration of religious liberty. (Applause.)

From the hotel to our left, communist authorities watched thousands of candles shining in the darkness -- and gave the order to extinguish them. The authorities succeeded in crushing that protest. But with their candles and prayers, the people of Bratislava lit a fire for freedom that day, a fire that quickly spread across the land. (Applause.) And within 20 months, the regime that drove Slovaks from this square would itself be driven from power. By claiming your own freedom, you inspired a revolution that liberated your nation and helped to transform a continent. (Applause.)

Since those days of peaceful protest, the Slovak people have made historic progress. You regained your sovereignty and independence. You built a successful democracy. You established a free economy. And last year, the former member of the Warsaw Pact became a member of NATO, and took its rightful place in the European Union. Every Slovak can be proud of these achievements. And the American people are proud to call you allies and friends and brothers in the cause of freedom. (Applause.)

I know that liberty -- the road to liberty and prosperity has not always been straight or easy. But Americans respect your patience, your courage and your determination to secure a better future for your children. As you work to build a free and democratic Slovakia in the heart of Europe, America stands with you. (Applause.)

Slovaks know the horror or tyranny, so you're working to bring hope of freedom to people who have not known it. You've sent peacekeepers to Kosovo, and election observers to Kiev. You've brought Iraqis to Bratislava to see firsthand how a nation moves from dictatorship to democracy. Your example is inspiring newly-liberated people. You're showing that a small nation, built on a big idea, can spread liberty throughout the world.

At this moment, Slovak soldiers are serving courageously alongside U.S. and coalition forces in Afghanistan and Iraq. Some have given their lives in freedom's cause. We honor their memory. We lift them up in our prayers. Words can only go so far in capturing the grief of their families and their countrymen. But by their sacrifice, they have helped purchase a future of freedom for millions. Many of you can still recall the exhilaration of voting for the first time after decades of tyranny. And as you watched jubilant Iraqis dancing in the streets last month, holding up ink-stained fingers, you remembered Velvet Days. For the Iraqi people, this is their 1989, and they will always remember who stood with them in their quest for freedom. (Applause.)

In recent times, we have witnessed landmark events in the history of liberty, a Rose Revolution in Georgia, an Orange Revolution in Ukraine, and now, a Purple Revolution in Iraq. With their votes cast and counted, the Iraqi people now begin a great and historic journey. They will from a new government, draft a democratic constitution, and govern themselves as free people. They're putting the days of tyranny and terror behind them and building a free and peaceful society in the heart of the Middle East, and the world's free nations will support them in their struggle. (Applause.)

The terrorist insurgents know what's at stake. They know they have no future in a free Iraq. So they're trying desperately to undermine Iraq's progress and throw the country in chaos. They want to return to the day when Iraqis were governed by secret police and informers and fear. They will not succeed. The Iraqi people will not permit a minority of assassins to determine the destiny of their nation. We will fight to defend this freedom and we will prevail. (Applause.)

Victory in this struggle will not come easily or quickly, but we have reason to hope. Iraqis have demonstrated their courage and their determination to live in freedom, and that has inspired the world. It is the same determination we saw in Kiev's Independent Square, in Tbilisi's Freedom Square, and in this square almost 17 years ago. (Applause.)

We must be equally determined and also patient. The advance of freedom is the concentrated work of generations. It took almost a decade after the Velvet Revolution for democracy to fully take root in this country. And the democratic revolutions that swept this region over 15 years ago are now reaching Georgia and Ukraine. In 10 days, Moldova has the opportunity to place its democratic credentials beyond doubt as its people head to the polls. And inevitably, the people of Belarus will someday proudly belong to the country of democracies. Eventually, the call of liberty comes to every mind and every soul. And one day, freedom's promise will reach every people and every nation. (Applause.)

Slovakia has taken great risks for freedom in Afghanistan and Iraq. You have proved yourself a trusted friend and a reliable ally. That is why I recently announced a new solidarity initiative for nations like Slovakia that are standing with America in the war on terror. We will help you to improve your military forces so we can strengthen our ability to work together in the cause of freedom. We're working with your government to make it easier for Slovaks to travel to the United States of America. (Applause.) Hundreds of thousands of our citizens can trace their roots back to this country. Slovak immigrants helped build America and shape its character. We want to deepen the ties of friendship between our people, ties based on common values, a love of freedom, and shared belief in the dignity and matchless value of every human being. (Applause.)

The Velvet Generation that fought for these values is growing older. Many of the young students and workers who led freedom's struggle here now struggle to support families and their children. For some, the days of protest and revolution are a distant memory. Today, a new generation that never experienced oppression is coming of age. It is important to pass on to them the lessons of that period. They must learn that freedom is precious, and cannot be taken for granted; that evil is real, and must be confronted; that lasting prosperity requires freedom of speech, freedom to worship, freedom of association; and that to secure liberty at home, it must be defended abroad. (Applause.)

By your efforts in Afghanistan and Iraq and across the world, you are teaching young Slovaks these important lessons. And you're teaching the world an important lesson, as well: that the seeds of freedom do not sprout only where they are sown; carried by mighty winds, they cross borders and oceans and continents and take root in distant lands.

I've come here to thank you for your contributions to freedom's cause, and to tell you that the American people appreciate your courage and value your friendship. On behalf of all Americans, dakujem, and may God bless you all.

END 12:39 P.M. (Local) For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary February 24, 2005

U.S.-Russia Joint Bratislava Initiatives

U.S.-Russia Joint Fact Sheet: Bratislava Initiatives Joint Presidential Action

The President of the Russian Federation and the President of the United States committed to pursue a number of initiatives that will make the two countries and their citizens safer and more prosperous. The Presidents issued joint statements on three matters and agreed to personally ensure progress on all three issues. They will assess progress at subsequent meetings this year.

Nuclear Security Cooperation

The two countries will enhance cooperation to counter one of the gravest threats the two countries face, nuclear terrorism. This cooperation will include:

o Enhancing an emergency response capability to deal with a nuclear or radiological incident, including development of additional technical methods to detect nuclear and radioactive materials that are, or may be, involved in the incident;

o Working together to help ensure full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1540;

o Sharing "best practices" for the sake of improving security at nuclear facilities bilaterally and with other nations with advanced nuclear programs;

o Enhancing of the "security cultures" in both countries; and

o Working jointly to develop low-enriched uranium fuel for use in any U.S.- and Russian-design research reactors in third countries now using high-enriched uranium fuel, and to return fresh and spent high-enriched uranium from U.S.- and Russian-design research reactors in third countries.

While the security of U.S. and Russian nuclear facilities meet current requirements, the Presidents stressed that these requirements must be constantly enhanced to counter evolving terrorist threats. To this end, the Presidents agreed to develop a plan of work through and beyond 2008 for cooperation on security upgrades of nuclear facilities.

The Presidents established a U.S.-Russian Senior Interagency Group for cooperation on nuclear security (including the disposition of fissile material no longer needed for defense purposes) chaired by Secretary of Energy Bodman and Rosatom Director Rumyantsev. The Senior Interagency Group will report on implementation of the two countries' cooperation in this sphere, taking into account key financial, legal, technical, and other considerations.

World Trade Organization (WTO)

The Presidents committed the United States and Russia to work together to complete our bilateral negotiations for Russia's accession to the WTO in 2005 and to help Russia complete the multilateral negotiations necessary for WTO accession. Russian WTO membership will integrate Russia more fully into the global economy, improve the trade, regulatory, and investment climate, and facilitate increased U.S.-Russian trade and investment.

Energy Cooperation

The Presidents directed the U.S. and Russian Ministers of Energy and Commerce to meet to develop recommendations on how to intensify and develop further the bilateral energy dialogue, including through the mechanisms of the Energy Working Group and the Commercial Energy Dialogue. The Presidents set a goal of identifying concrete trade and investment opportunities for U.S. and Russian firms, including in support of Russia's pipeline and liquefied natural gas development and increased Russian oil and gas imports to U.S. markets; and targeting the initiation of several such projects no later than 2008.

The Presidents also instructed their governments to enhance cooperation in a number of other areas.

Counterterrorism

In the area of counterterrorism, the Presidents:

o Directed the co-chairs of the U.S.-Russian Counterterrorism Working Group to update their action plan, taking into consideration new counterterrorism challenges, and to press forward on implementation of action plan items;

o Agreed, because of the growing threat posed by terrorist use of improvised explosive devices (IEDs), to direct U.S. and Russian experts to share information on IEDs; and

o Instructed U.S. and Russian experts to facilitate efforts to store MANPADS more securely, or to destroy them if they are obsolete or otherwise exceed defense requirements, and to eliminate the illegal trade in such weapons, building on the MANPADS agreement signed in Bratislava by Minister Ivanov and Secretary Rice. That agreement provides a bilateral framework for the United States and Russia to cooperate in the control of shoulder-fired anti-aircraft missiles that can threaten global aviation if obtained by criminals, terrorists and other non-state actors.

Space Cooperation

o In the area of space cooperation, the Presidents called for enhanced cooperation, focusing on the International Space Station and other projects, including those related to possible lunar exploration.

Humanitarian, Social and People-to-People Cooperation

In the areas of humanitarian, social, and people-to-people cooperation, the Presidents:

o Called for efforts to further enhance our coordination when responding to humanitarian emergencies. They tasked their governments to build on previous collaboration and develop a bilateral mechanism to further improve coordination of our responses to future humanitarian emergencies and to convene a joint expert session, with other nations, to develop lessons learned from the response to the Indian Ocean tsunami;

o Affirmed their commitment to strengthening contacts between our societies and the citizens of our two countries by increasing the number of students, teachers, scientists, cultural workers, business people, and people from various professions who participate in bilateral exchange programs. They directed their governments to present specific proposals; and

o Called for greater joint efforts in countering the global threat of the spread of HIV/AIDS by identifying, training, and deploying health care professionals and raising public awareness. They instructed their governments to consider the possibility of joint work to combat the HIV/AIDS epidemic in third countries, at the request of those countries.

### For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary February 24, 2005

Bush, Putin, Nuclear Security Cooperation

Joint Statement by President Bush and President Putin on Nuclear Security Cooperation

The United States and Russia will enhance cooperation to counter one of the gravest threats our two countries face, nuclear terrorism. We bear a special responsibility for the security of nuclear weapons and fissile material, in order to ensure that there is no possibility such weapons or materials would fall into terrorist hands. While the security of nuclear facilities in the U.S. and Russia meet current requirements, we stress that these requirements must be constantly enhanced to counter the evolving terrorist threats. Building on our earlier work, we announce today our intention to expand and deepen cooperation on nuclear security with the goal of enhancing the security of nuclear facilities in our two countries and, together with our friends and allies, around the globe.

To this end the United States and Russia will continue and expand their cooperation on emergency response capability to deal with the consequences of a nuclear/radiological incident, including the development of additional technical methods to detect nuclear and radioactive materials that are, or may be, involved in the incident.

We will work together to help ensure full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1540 and early adoption of an International Convention on Nuclear Terrorism and the amended Convention on Physical Protection of Nuclear Material.

U.S. and Russian experts will share "best practices" for the sake of improving security at nuclear facilities, and will jointly initiate security "best practices" consultations with other countries that have advanced nuclear programs. Our experts will convene in 2005 a senior-level bilateral nuclear security workshop to focus increased attention on the "security culture" in our countries including fostering disciplined, well-trained, and responsible custodians and protective forces, and fully utilized and well-maintained security systems.

The United States and Russia will continue to work jointly to develop low-enriched uranium fuel for use in any U.S.- and Russian-design research reactors in third countries now using high-enriched uranium fuel, and to return fresh and spent high-enriched uranium from U.S.- and Russian-design research reactors in third countries.

The United States and Russia will continue our cooperation on security upgrades of nuclear facilities and develop a plan of work through and beyond 2008 on joint projects. Recognizing that the terrorist threat is both long-term and constantly evolving, in 2008 our countries will assess the joint projects and identify avenues for future cooperation consistent with our increased attention to the security culture in both countries.

We have established a bilateral Senior Interagency Group chaired by Secretary of Energy Bodman and Rosatom Director Rumyantsev for cooperation on nuclear security to oversee implementation of these cooperative efforts. A progress report will be due on July 1, 2005, and thereafter on a regular basis.

### For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary February 24, 2005

Bush, Putin, U.S.-Russian Energy Cooperation

Joint Statement by President Bush and President Putin on U.S.-Russian Energy Cooperation

Cooperation on energy issues remains an area of great promise for U.S.-Russian relations. We will work further to realize the vision for our energy cooperation in all aspects described in our statement in May 2002, including through the mechanisms of the Commercial Energy Dialogue and the Energy Working Group. Accordingly, we have instructed our ministers to continue their energy dialogue, concentrating on ways to enhance energy security, diversify energy supplies, improve the transparency of the business and investment environment, reduce obstacles to increased commercial energy partnerships, and develop resources in an environmentally safe manner.

We call upon our Ministers of Energy and Commerce to develop recommendations, which we can support at one of our upcoming meetings, on how to further intensify and develop our energy dialogue. Those recommendations will focus on identifying barriers to energy trade and investment, promoting initiatives to remove them on the basis of predictability, fairness and law, and suggesting specific proposals for cooperating in developing energy trade and investment.

We will promote the creation of transparent tax, legal, regulatory, and contractual conditions for our companies' cooperation, and support Russia's pipeline system development, which will create the preconditions for increasing deliveries of oil and gas export, including to the U.S. market.

We are interested in increasing U.S. commercial investment in Russia, so as to create additional capacity for liquefied natural gas (LNG) in Russia, and also with the aim of increasing LNG exports to U.S. markets. We would welcome increased Russian oil exports to the world market and an increased presence of imports from Russia in the United States. We would also welcome expanding mutual investments in the energy sectors of both countries.

The initiation of several concrete projects should be targeted for no later than 2008.

### For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary February 24, 2005

Iraq Police Service graduated 1,993

IRAQ POLICE GRADUATE 1,993 NEW POLICE OFFICERS

BAGHDAD, Iraq - The Iraq Police Service this week graduated 1,993 new police officers from basic police training courses in Sulaymaniyah and Baghdad. Completing the 8-week training courses were 259 police recruits from the Sulaymaniyah Regional Police Training Center and 1,734 recruits from the Baghdad Police Academy. The Baghdad class included 46 female police recruits.

The basic police training program is designed to provide fundamental and democratic policing skills based on international human rights standards to the students in preparation for assuming police officer responsibilities. The program consists of academic study of general policing topics combined with a strong focus on tactical operational policing skills.

To date, more than 25,000 police recruits have completed the 8-week training course developed for new recruits. An additional 35,000 police officers have completed the 3-week Transitional Integration Program (TIPs) course that provides officers with prior experience a condensed version of the longer basic police training course.

The new officers will immediately report for duty and take up their assignments at their respective police stations throughout Iraq. -30-

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 February 24, 2005 Release Number: 05-02-15 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Bush, Putin World Trade Organization

Joint Statement by President Bush and President Putin on Russia's Accession to WTO

The United States and Russia are committed to working together to complete our bilateral negotiations for Russia's accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO) in 2005. The results of the negotiations will enhance commercial opportunities between our two countries, support economic reforms that Russia has made a priority, and further integrate Russia into the world economy. Our trade ministers have made progress in pursuing our bilateral negotiations, and we have instructed them to accelerate these efforts.

Russia and the United States will continue to work closely in bilateral and multilateral negotiations to resolve remaining issues in ways that benefit both countries. The rules-based system of the WTO will further strengthen our economic relationship in all areas, including agriculture, manufacturing, services, and the improved protection and enforcement of intellectual property rights.

We will work to identify areas for progress in our bilateral negotiations that will give momentum to Russia's accession to the WTO and to Russia's economic reform program.

### For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary February 24, 2005