President Welcomes Chancellor Merkel (VIDEO)

President Bush Welcomes Chancellor Merkel of Germany to the White House
Cross Hall, FULL STREAMING VIDEO, 6:35 P.M. EST. In Focus: Global Diplomacy

PRESIDENT BUSH: Madam Chancellor, thank you. Welcome back to Washington. It's good to welcome you here to the White House. And Laura and I are looking forward to feeding you dinner. I'm not so sure it's going to be as good a dinner as the barbecue you fed us -- (laughter) -- but we'll try.

This new year marks the beginning of Germany's presidency of both the EU and the G8. And we just had a wide-ranging discussion about a lot of issues.

We talked about the Chancellor's ambitious agenda for both those leadership roles. We discussed how we can continue to work together to promote prosperity and security and peace.

We spent time talking about Afghanistan, and I appreciate very much, Madam Chancellor, your support for the people of Afghanistan. You take your NATO commitments seriously. We're proud to serve alongside such a strong ally.

We talked about Iran, and I thanked Chancellor Merkel's strong support for a Chapter 7 Iranian -- Chapter 7 United Nations Security Council resolution on Iran. It was an important message to send Iran,

that the free world wants there to be a peaceful future. And we don't see a peaceful future with the Iranians developing a nuclear weapon. And so I want to thank you for your leadership, Madam Chancellor. We're going to continue to work together on the Iranian issue. It's important for us to follow through in order -- on this Chapter 7 resolution in order to solve this issue peacefully.

We talked about the Israeli-Palestinian issue. And Madam Chancellor had a good idea to convene the Quartet, which I agreed to. I think the Quartet ought to meet at an appropriate time.

Condoleezza Rice will be going to the Middle East here shortly. She'll come back to report to not only me but also to the Chancellor, about how we can move the process forward. We're committed -- strongly committed to a two-state solution with Israeli and Palestine living side by side in peace, two democracies supporting each other's rights to exist. I'm optimistic that we can achieve that objective; I'm looking forward to working with the Chancellor to do so.

We talked about Lebanon. And one thing is for certain, this administration -- and I'm confident Chancellor Merkel, as well -- will support the Siniora government.

Isn't it amazing that young democracies are constantly attacked by radicals and extremists, and Lebanon is such an example. And I believe those of us who are fortunate enough to live in free societies have an obligation to support democracies like that of Lebanon.

We talked about Darfur. I appreciate very much Chancellor Merkel's deep concern for the suffering that goes on in Darfur. You may realize that my administration has called the suffering there a genocide. We take the issue very seriously. We expect the Bashar government to make more progress toward allowing there to be not only security, but goods and supplies provided to the people that suffer there. And Madam Chancellor understands the issue. I appreciate the fact that German planes are flying relief into Darfur. Your great country is making a strong commitment and we look forward to working with you as the head of the EU, as well, to help end the suffering there in that part of Africa.

We talked about trade. We're committed to the Doha round. We've got hard work to do to overcome our obstacles. But we spent a -- we had a good, frank discussion on the subject. Jose Barroso and his trade minister will be coming to the United States on Monday; we'll continue to further our dialogue on Doha. But I believe we can get a deal done -- it's just going to take a lot of will and a lot of hard work to do it. I know it is going to be necessary if we really do want to deal with global poverty, to have a successful round at Doha. Trade is the best way to help poor nations develop their economy so that people can realize the benefits of wealth moving throughout their society.

We talked about climate change. And I assured the Chancellor that I've been committed to promoting new technologies that will promote energy efficiency, and at the same time do a better job of protecting the world's environment. And I believe there's a chance now to put behind us the old, stale debates of the past and focus on technological developments that will enable us to be good stewards of the environment, and at the same time enable us to become less dependent on oil and hydrocarbons from parts of the world that may not like us.

Here in the United States, we're going full-steam ahead with new technologies that will change the way we drive our cars and power our homes and light our streets. And so, Madam Chancellor, we've discussed a lot. We'll have a chance to further our discussions over dinner. I'm so happy you're here. I appreciate you taking time to come and visit. The floor is yours.

CHANCELLOR MERKEL: (As translated) -- and the G8 presidency and the fact that this trip here to Washington happens today are certainly not a matter of coincidence, but it is clearly an expression of the fact that we share values, that there are a lot of common interests between our two countries, and that there is also a lot of need for enhanced cooperation between the European Union and the United States of America. We clearly are in need of that cooperation in order to make further progress in solving the problems besetting the world of today.

There are a lot of issues that we debated here today that have clearly a connection to our presence in the European Union. The Doha Round is one issue that comes to mind. We would like to cooperate very closely on that. We are all aware of the fact that this window of opportunity that we have is closing fast. We need to act swiftly. And it was with great pleasure that this is, indeed, an issue that is very important, not only to the European Union, but also to the United States of America.

We will have to further exchange also our views with the G20 in order to achieve an objective that is in our interest and is in their interest, that helps them to get access to our markets and that also helps us.

There will be a G8 meeting later on in the year, and there will be issues related to that that will deal with the climate change, is one. I was delighted to hear that there is a readiness here and we shall continue to work on this -- our experts, indeed, work on this.

On the one hand, we obviously need economic growth. But on the other hand, a reduction, also, of greenhouse gases. We were at one on this. And energy efficiency is the primary goal that we need to attain. There are a lot of areas where we are confident we can cooperate, starting from biofuels to new technologies that we are going to develop. Between the European Union and the United States, I think there is a wide scope for further talks on this.

We also talked about this project of a future common market, joint efforts to make our economic forces so efficient that these economies, our two economies that, after all, rest on the same values, can be rendered more efficient. There will be close contacts; we will set up a working group that will further explore those issues and that will then prepare for the EU-U.S. summit.

It's certainly an uphill battle. I always describe it as a sort of thick board that needs to be chalked at. And what we're dealing here with is, for example, patent laws, international financial markets, protection of intellectual property rights, and so on.

We also talked about the international situation, the situation particularly here in the Middle East. We thought that, for example, in the framework of the Quartet, the European Union can do a lot in order to bring about a solution to the problems besetting the Middle East. I'm delighted to hear that Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice is going to go to the region shortly. I think this is the right point in time to take some time and reflect what the Quartet can actually do in order to bring about a solution.

We would like the European Union to speak with one and the same voice, saying we want a two-state solution, we want the recognition of the state of Israel by the Palestinians, we want to strengthen President Abbas, and we also want to strengthen, to bolster the evolution of a strong Lebanon. We discussed this today, too, and we also discussed the measures that we think need to be taken.

We cooperate very well in Afghanistan. It was an issue that we discussed at greater length during the NATO meeting in Riga. There will by the end of January be a NATO meeting on that particular issue. I think this is going to be actually very important, that particular meeting, in order to take up where we left off in Riga, to concentrate on military projects, obviously, but also to give a very strong boost to civilian projects so that we might continue to build on what we agreed during the last NATO meeting.

Obviously, we also talked about the situation in Iraq. Allow me to say although Germany is not militarily present in Iraq, we have every interest in seeing Iraq taking a turn for a more peaceful development, where people no longer need to be in fear of their lives, and that politically we shall do everything we can in order to give support to such a positive development.

Well, my impression is that over the next six months during our presidency there is a lot on the agenda. There are a lot of common interests, as a I said, and a lot of areas where I feel we can tackle problems together. And I think this dialogue is just the beginning of a very intensive dialogue we shall continue to have during our presidency -- this is, after all, a sixth meeting already. So I think we may safely speak of a continuous exchange of views. Thank you yet again for the invitation, Mr. President.

Q Thank you, Mr. President. You spoke for nearly two hours today with Iraq's Prime Minister. Do you both agree now on the need to send more U.S. troops to Iraq to deal with the rising violence in that country?

PRESIDENT BUSH: Well, Ben, my thinking is taking shape. I'll be ready to outline a strategy that will help the Iraqis achieve the objective of a country that can govern, sustain and defend itself sometime next week; I've still got consultations to go through. Whatever decision I make, though, will be all aimed at achieving our objective.

I did have a good discussion with Prime Minister Maliki. It did nearly last for two hours. I talked about a lot of topics with him. One thing I was looking for was will -- to determine whether or not he has the will necessary to do the hard work to protect his people. And I told him, I said that, you show the will, we will help you. And that's -- I'm in the process of making up my final decision as to what to recommend -- what recommendations to accept. One thing is for certain, I will want to make sure that the mission is clear and specific and can be accomplished.

Q Madam Chancellor, Mr. President, concerning the Middle East and the revival of the Quartet, did you consider to enlarge the mandate of the Quartet? And there have been talks in Europe about including Lebanon problems, maybe even talks to Syria and broadening the mandate of this, since last summer during the conflict of the northern border between Israel and southern Lebanon, you learned that all these problems are interlinked.

PRESIDENT BUSH: Your first part of your question? I didn't hear the first part of your question.

Q I was just referring --

PRESIDENT BUSH: Broaden the Quartet, is that what you said?

Q That broaden -- mandate of the Quartet, that you take care of more than the conflict between the Israelis and the Palestinians.

PRESIDENT BUSH: My view is the Quartet ought to stay focused on the Israeli-Palestinian issue, because when we solve that problem, a lot of other problems will be easier to solve.

Secondly, Syria knows exactly what she needs to do in order to reenter the nation -- reenter the -- you know, to be viewed as a nation that's constructive. And my own view is, is that we need to proceed with the Hariri tribunal as fast as possible, and hold people to account. If they murder somebody, they need to be held to account. People need to -- they need to bring this to conclusion.

So my attitude on Syria is they can be a much more constructive partner and they haven't been. They don't need to be told that in meeting after meeting after meeting. They get told that right here in a press conference like this. They know exactly what they need to do. And it's their choice to make.

CHANCELLOR MERKEL: I think that the Quartet actually has its work cut out for it, looking at the Middle East conflict, first and foremost. I mean, it needs to be spelled out clearly what one actually wants to achieve, and the players in the region need to have the necessary willingness to bring about a solution. They can be supported by the Quartet, and international unified opinion can be set up through the Quartet.

But I think the main task, really, is to push matters along, to give a support to Prime Minister Siniora to develop a truly sovereign Lebanon. I think Syria needs to be given a push there. And Syria, I think looking at, for example, the efforts made by the European Union, looking at the fact that the Foreign Minister of Germany went there to talk to them, Syria has been given a lot of opportunities. Unfortunately, they have allowed those opportunities to pass without taking any action. We expect Syria to change, but unfortunately so far, we haven't received any optimistic messages to that effect.

Q Mr. President, you mentioned that you see national reconciliation as a crucial goal there for your policy. Why then haven't you condemned the taunting that Saddam Hussein faced on the gallows from Shiite officials? And on a related subject, can you be more specific as to which day next week you'll be unveiling your Iraq policy?

THE PRESIDENT: The second part of your question, no. (Laughter.) First part of your question, I want you to anticipate the speech -- I want you to be thinking about it. I want you to be internalizing it.

Q (Inaudible.)

THE PRESIDENT: Thank you. I talked to Prime Minister Maliki about the videotape that was released during the execution of Saddam Hussein. He said he's going to fully investigate what happened. I appreciate that very much. One thing is for certain: A horrific chapter in Iraqi history has been closed, and now we're talking about a more hopeful chapter for the Iraqi people. And that's what I spent most of my time talking to him about.

We expect there to be a full investigation of what took place. The Iraqi people want to move forward, they want to forget that terrible part of their past and they want to live in peace. And it's in our nation's interest to help them do so.

So I spent a lot of time talking about the strategy to help achieve that objective, and that objective is a country that is an ally in this war on terror, a country that sends a strong example to reformers and women throughout the Middle East that it's possible to live in a free society that can work for the common good. I believe Prime Minister Maliki has the will necessary to make the tough decisions. That's one of the things I learned today. And in the meantime, he said he's going to fully investigate what took place.

Q Sir, do you have a personal reaction, though --

PRESIDENT BUSH: My personal reaction is, is that Saddam Hussein was given a trial that he was unwilling to give the thousands of people he killed. He was given a fair trial -- something he was unwilling to give thousands of Iraqi citizens, who he brutalized. I wish, obviously, that the proceedings had been done in a more dignified way. But, nevertheless, he was given justice; the thousands of people he killed were not.

Q I have a question to the President, and then a question to the Chancellor. Mr. President, now Germany tries to have a new action of the Middle East Quartet. And the debate always is how can European powers influence a superpower like the United States? Whether Germany objected Iraq or Tony Blair got along in Iraq, they had not much influence, the pessimists say. Can you give us one example where you changed your mind after talking to a European leader?

And, Mrs. Merkel, there are actually few successes of the Quartet over the past time. Were the efforts so weak, or are the problems so great that they simply have not been able to achieve progress? And what does this mean, what does this spell out for renewal of efforts?

PRESIDENT BUSH: I have come to realize that -- I don't know if I'd call this "change of mind," but one thing that my European friends have taught me is that the United Nations is an important body in order to be able to convince parliaments of hard work that needs to be done. For example, getting resolutions on Iraq at the United Nations is important for a country like Denmark or Holland, in order for them to go to their parliaments and say, we have U.N. approval.

As you probably are aware, I've really never felt like the United States needs to get United Nations approval to make decisions necessary for our security. But I have come to realize that other countries do rely upon the United Nations and I respect that a lot. So there's an area, for example, where I have been taught a lesson by my allies and friends.

I listen to Angela Merkel a lot. She has got a lot of wisdom. I don't know if this helps her or hurts her for me to say this, but nevertheless, my consultations with Angela are very productive and very important.

The United States needs to have good relations with Europe in order for us to achieve big objectives, whether it be trade or peace or security, it's -- the relations between Europe and the United States are vital. And sometimes the relations are -- can be difficult. Not every country agrees throughout Europe. And yet Angela always gives me good advice as to how to deal with the common problems we face in order to make sure that our alliance works for the common good. And I appreciate that very much.

CHANCELLOR MERKEL: I simply think that we ought to try time and again to achieve some sort of results in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Looking at another field, for example, the adoption of the resolution on Iran, after all, we were able, looking at the past months to forge a uniform position of the international community and have that reflected in a resolution of the United Nations Security Council. I think that's an enormous success, although things went obviously more slowly than if the EU and the United States, for example, had negotiated together.

But by including Russia and China time and again in these negotiations, what evolved out of that process is an international community that is credibly being able to show Iran where there is a red line. And I think it's essential to see that the European Union, the United States, China and Russia need to pull in the same direction on a number of other international issues.

And I think it's very important that that goes for the Quartet, for example, too, because that's where I think that we will be able to make -- it's an ideal forum where we can actually be able to make a difference and in a coherent fashion.

If that Quartet were to be more active, therefore, in the future, the presidency and also the Commission would obviously also have to meet a very specific task in fulfilling that -- its part of the mandate. We need to make it clear, particularly to the not so constructive parts of Hamas, that they cannot play us off each other -- us, that is the EU and the United States -- but that we pull in the same direction, that we move in concert.

And I must say I am a strong believer in this multilateral effort in these international fora, because it shows clearly where the red line is to those who do not wish for democracy. And this is what we need to do, time and again make it clear to them where the limits are, where the red lines are.

PRESIDENT BUSH: No back rubs. (Laughter.)

END 6:57 P.M. EST, For Immediate Release, Office of the Press Secretary, January 4, 2007

Technorati Tags: President Bush and German Chancellor Merkel or Angela Merkel and Germany and Merkel and NATO or German and White House or VIDEO and Chapter 7 or Nations Security Council resolution on Iran

Secretary Condoleezza Rice, Kennedy Center Honors

Secretary Rice Hosts 29th Annual Kennedy Center Honors Dinner at the State Department in Washington, DC. PODCAST OF THIS ARTICLE Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. Good evening and welcome to the Department of State. I am so pleased to host this esteemed and wonderful and fun crowd here at the Department. I'd like to recognize Steve Schwarzman, who is the chairman of the Kennedy Center. Steve. (Applause.) I'd like you to know that we believe very strongly in the power of the arts and culture to bring people together and so we have joined with the Kennedy Center as a partner in a global cultural initiative.

And thank you very much, Steve, for helping to spearhead that partnership. Steve's support of the arts dates all the way back to his college years. And many of you, like me, will be impressed to know that Steve actually founded a Yale ballet society. Now he has since said that that was because he wanted to meet girls. (Laughter.) I think, though, it has translated into a real love of the arts. And with his wife, Christine, his wonderful partner, they have done so much for this organization, so thank you, Steve and Christine. (Applause.)

For almost 30 years, the Kennedy Center Honors has recognized the world's best and brightest, the creative talents who have made lasting contributions to the performing arts in America. It's my great privilege tonight to welcome each of this year's honorees: Zubin Mehta, a magnificent maestro, born, as they say, to the baton. In 1954, on one of his first days outside of his native India, he heard the Vienna Philharmonic play Brahms. "I didn't know such a sound existed," he said. I feel the same way about Brahms, my favorite composer. Unfortunately, I'm still struggling on the piano to bring that sound into existence. It's all the more reason to appreciate and love the work of Zubin Mehta. Thank you, maestro, for your contributions. (Applause.)

Dolly Parton, what a talent. This little girl from Tennessee hills, who became a businesswoman, a movie star, a philanthropist, and of course, the songstress who put country music into the popular ear and on the popular radio and she did it all with unique charm and wonderful wit. She once said, "I'm not offended by all those dumb blonde jokes, because I know I'm not dumb and I know I'm not blonde." (Laughter.) (Applause.) Well, Dolly, we know you're plenty smart. And as to hair color, every woman in this room will agree that that should be a matter of classified State secrets. (Laughter.)

Smokey Robinson. I've said it before and I'll say it again, the poet laureate of soul music and one of my personal favorites. I grew up on R&B and I still love listening to Smokey. In fact, the first concert that I ever went to and by the way, my first date was to a Smokey Robinson and the Miracles concert. My father went along. (Laughter.) I suspect he just thought there was too much power in Smokey's soul. (Laughter.)

Steven Spielberg. From hits like Jaws and E.T. to Schindler's List and Saving Private Ryan, he has pioneered the big picture blockbuster. But more than that, he's taken us into parts of the world and into characters that, without him, we would never know. He has focused his moral lens as well to show the world the universal virtues of compassion and courage and he's highlighted American patriotism. Thank you, Steven Spielberg, for your wonderful contributions. (Applause.)

Andrew Lloyd Webber. From Cats to Jesus Christ Superstar to The Phantom of the Opera, his musicals have captured the imaginations of millions, including yours truly. And he's made the most popular theater composer of all time our dear friend. His work, whether it's haunting or upbeat, it's music that a listener can leave, having listened to and always remembering. He's also the only Kennedy Center honoree to ever have a hit reality show. (Laughter.) Thank you, Andrew Lloyd Webber, for your contributions. (Applause.)

Like many of you, I'm just a lover of the arts, a fan, if you will. I can thank my parents for that, particularly my mother who gave me an early love of the arts with recordings of Mozart when I could barely stand up, with a recording of Aida that I remember at age five with my little eyes as big as saucers as the triumphal march was played, piano lessons at age three and on and on and on. They encouraged me to love the arts and they encouraged whatever talents I had.

Now sometimes, they also encouraged talents that I clearly didn't have. When I was about seven, my father wanted me to perform in my elementary talent show -- elementary school talent show, so he hired the drama teacher at the local high school to give me tap dancing lessons. (Laughter.) And then he bought me a little costume and I danced to "Sweet Sue." Needless to say, this was not one of the high points of my life. (Laughter.) But on the day of the show, there was my dad, all six-foot-two, 250 pounds of him standing at the side of the stage to make sure that nobody laughed. (Laughter.) Nobody laughed. In fact, everyone applauded. And I'm happy to say that now, since I'm Secretary of State, I have diplomatic security to make sure that you all applaud, too. (Laughter.) (Applause.)

Seriously though, the Kennedy Center Honors is one of my favorite events of the year because it's a time to celebrate the many ways in which art and music bind us together not just as Americans, but in the broader human community. This is especially fitting in a year when two of our five honorees are foreign citizens. Though we human beings speak different languages, come from different cultures, and hail from different lands, we share the same fundamental aspirations for freedom and equality, for truth and justice and beauty. These are not American ideals or Western ideals. They are universal. And what makes America great is not the idea of power, but the power of ideals.

Our nation's greatest source of strength has always been the force of our principles, our abiding belief that American society is enriched by our diversity and that we welcome the contributions of all people from any nation. America's artistic life reflects the diversity of the American experience and it reflects our debt to almost every culture and nationality on earth. It is, therefore, totally fitting that our honorees span that great diversity of American culture and of our debt to other nations.

It is also the case that the arts flourish most when they are practiced in a democracy. Indeed, throughout history, there have been many, many attempts by totalitarians and tyrants to control the arts. And one wonders why they cared so much what artists did, why the period of socialist realism in art in the Soviet Union, the place that I studied, for so much of my life. Well, because you see, they understand the power of the arts. They understand the power of the arts to give expression to the human spirit, they understand the power of the arts to give expression to human freedom. And to them, that is a threat. But in a democracy where creativity and innovation come only from the human spirit, not from some plan, the arts flourish.

And so it is perfectly fitting that in this room, named after one of America's great Founding Fathers, Benjamin Franklin, we honor these great artists who have honored us with their talent and their creativity and their ability to make the human spirit soar.

Thank you, Steven Spielberg, Smokey Robinson, Dolly Parton, Zubin Mehta and Andrew Lloyd Webber. Thank you for the extraordinary joy and inspiration that you have given to millions and thank you for helping the human spirit to soar.

2006/1088

Technorati Tags: State Department and Secretary of State or Kennedy Center Honors Dinner and Steve Schwarzman, or Steven Spielberg and Smokey Robinson or Condoleezza Rice, or Dolly Parton and Zubin Mehta,, or Andrew Lloyd Webber

Press Briefing Tony Snow 01/04/07 (VIDEO)

Press Briefing by Tony Snow, FULL STREAMING VIDEO. file is real media format, running time is 36:11. White House Conference Center Briefing Room.

White House Press Secretary Tony Snow briefs the press and answers questions. 01/04/2007: WASHINGTON, DC: 12:51 EST.

MR. SNOW: Hello. A couple of business items before I take your questions.

As you now know from wire reports, Harriet Miers has tendered her resignation as White House Legal Counsel, effective the 31st of this month. She informed the President yesterday, and he has regretfully accepted her resignation. We have copies of her letter available in lower press if you need to get copies.

Q Why is she leaving?

MR. SNOW: She's been here for six years. It's hard duty. Yes, it really is.

Q So have some other people.

MR. SNOW: I know. Well, as I told you guys, one of the things that -- look, Harriet is a very special person in this White House. She is beloved not only because she is a really good human being, she's an extraordinarily wonderful human being, but also somebody who is a very careful and scrupulous lawyer, a ferocious defender of the Constitution, and somebody who was also deeply loyal to the President, and just somebody who is a delight to work with. So it is one of these things where everybody really -- it's very bittersweet, and you can get that from the tenure of the -- tenor of her note. She has decided that it's time to move on. She and Josh Bolten have had a series of conversations in recent days about this, and she made her decision yesterday.

Harriet, with great regret, and a lot of people are going to miss her -- we are fortunate that she's going to be around until the end of the month. We do not have a successor. The search is, obviously, on. And one of the things that she has cited -- she told senior staff today that she wants to stay around until the 31st to make sure that she can do everything in her power to make sure that the transition within the office is smooth.

Let me also add, I have nothing further to add today in the way of personnel announcements. No details. And for those who are speculating about any others within the White House proper, I am aware of none and expect none. So just trying to take care of those questions before they arise.

Q Is it White House burnout? Is that what you're just clearly saying, White House burnout, after six years?

MR. SNOW: No, I'm just -- I'm not going to do a shorthand for it. I just think, again, Harriet has decided it's time to move on. And I'll let you -- her letter is pretty eloquent, and I'll let you read it. And if you have further questions, call me on it.

Also, the President today had about an hour-and-forty-five minute secure video teleconference call with Prime Minister Maliki of Iraq. It was scheduled for an hour, went for an hour-and-forty-five, about half of which were the two leaders simply talking one-on-one with their translators.

They discussed the current situation in Iraq, including the execution of Saddam Hussein. The President congratulated the Prime Minister on the decision to -- perhaps, congratulations is probably not the proper term to use. But he expressed that it was the right thing to do to investigate the taping and behavior at the execution of Saddam Hussein. And the Prime Minister agreed and said that the political parties were pained at the filming and the release, and they were taking a look at punishing those responsible.

They also noted that Saddam was a tyrant who killed hundreds of thousands. And the Prime Minister noted that the most common reaction in Iraq was jubilation that Saddam was no longer around, and also the end of any kind of excuses for people who may hold out that, well, maybe Saddam will come back.

It was expected that there would be small groups of Saddam supporters who would, in fact, demonstrate. And so that was not unexpected. However, there has been, according both to our folks over there and also to the Iraqis, no increase in violence as a result of the execution.

They also spent a lot of time talking about the way forward in Iraq. The President did not unveil a new way forward. He -- this is, again, another consultative phone call. And they talked at great length about the most important thing, which is winning. And they define winning the same way, which is to have an Iraq, where the Iraqis themselves can sustain, govern, and defend themselves, where they can handle the security operations. But also there were conversations about economics. For instance, the international compact. There was a lot of talk about political reconciliation and the importance of that.

The Prime Minister stressed his determination to go after anybody responsible for violence. That would include not only insurgent groups and Saddam loyalists, but also militias within Iraq. And he expressed confidence that his government is gaining greater capability -- not only on the military side, but the governance side. And so that was kind of the general gist of the conversation.

They also talked about the Prime Minister's plans for accelerating the reconciliation process, some conversations about important pieces of legislation that may be voted soon. And they're trying to work toward a more stable trajectory within Iraq this year, and obviously they'll talk again when they see fit.

Q Did they talk about the merits of increasing U.S. troops in Iraq?

MR. SNOW: They talked about various -- the one thing they -- they were talking about the importance of having sufficient force within Baghdad to create a stable situation within the city.

Q And did the President suggest that he was inclined to send more troops to Baghdad?

MR. SNOW: The President and the Prime Minister exchanged ideas, but I'm not going to get into details at that level.

Q Did the President press the Prime Minister on dealing with the Shiite militias?

MR. SNOW: No, because it was unnecessary. The Prime Minister talked about that without -- he brought the topic up. Now, I can't tell you, Bill, what the two of them discussed privately because they've literally -- everybody out of the room but the principals and their translators. And they had a very long conversation. I don't know if further conversation about that arose when the two of them were talking.

Q Well, does the President believe that progress is being made in eliminating the hold of the militias?

MR. SNOW: He thinks it's important to take on the militias, and that's a point that he made very clear. And the Prime Minister --

Q Yes, but does he think --

MR. SNOW: Well, at this point --

Q It doesn't appear that any progress has been made.

MR. SNOW: Well, the Prime Minister -- again, I'm not going to be -- I would refer you to people in Baghdad at the embassy or even in the Iraqi government for trying to characterize the situation on the ground there. I think it's not something I'm equipped or prepared to do.

Q Did the President say he was disturbed by how the execution was carried out with --

MR. SNOW: No, he simply said --

Q -- people shouting Moqtada?

MR. SNOW: No, he did not go into that detail. The President has not watched the tape.

Q So he said nothing about that?

MR. SNOW: What he said is that -- he did not talk about the optics, he simply said that it was the right thing to do, that there was concern in this country and around the world about it, and that he thought that the Prime Minister was doing the right thing by taking a look at it.

Q Did he say he was disturbed at all by what happened, and that it said anything about the efforts the Maliki government is making for national reconciliation?

MR. SNOW: No. But, again, the Prime Minister made it clear that he was unhappy with what was going on, and he also made it clear that he considers reconciliation, as I said yesterday, a very important objective and a very important -- it's a necessity. And he talked about ways in which they're continuing to pursue reconciliation within Iraq.

Q Tony, can we just -- as long as we're on personnel changes, The New York Times which you referred us to yesterday --

MR. SNOW: Yes.

Q -- said a couple of days ago, that General Casey's departure might be accelerated by the President. Is that true?

MR. SNOW: As I said, I'm not prepared to discuss any other personnel matters today.

Q Is he happy with what General Casey is doing?

MR. SNOW: He respects what General Casey has done. And again, I'm going to -- we will be happy to discuss other personnel matters at another time.

Q Would he like him to stay until summer?

MR. SNOW: Thank you, Martha.

Q I have another personnel question.

MR. SNOW: Okay.

Q Can you address reports --

MR. SNOW: Am I staying? Hope so.

Q Can you address the reports that Ambassador Negroponte is moving to Deputy Secretary of State?

MR. SNOW: No.

Q Okay. (Laughter.) Has the President been pleased with Ambassador Negroponte as DNI?

MR. SNOW: Yes.

Q How so?

Q Tony, did the other executions -- pending executions come up in the phone call?

MR. SNOW: No, they didn't, Steve.

Look, John Negroponte has come in as the first head of DNI, and he's done a very effective job of organizing and working within a brand new intelligence apparatus. He's done a terrific job. And the President, obviously, sees him five to six days a week with intel briefings and the like, and the two of them have a close and respectful relationship. And the President is very impressed with the work he's doing.

Q Tony, follow up to that?

MR. SNOW: Look, let me just -- I know you're all going to try to pull the tails about these stories, and I'm just not in a position to do it.

Q Do you want to comment -- there's speculation that the reason that Mr. Negroponte is going to move over to State is because Dr. Rice will leave in several months and that he's in a position to take over. Do you want to say anything about it?

MR. SNOW: No. But let me just -- let me try to do this. This will be some subtle body language that should help you on this. You ready? (Head and eye roll.) (Laughter.)

Q Anything on Maliki wants out? There were rumors --

MR. SNOW: No. There was -- there was no discussion of that and no indication at all -- thank you, Helen -- no, there was no indication at all on his part of any desire. As a matter of fact, the Prime Minister -- and this continues a trend that we've seen -- is showing greater and greater confidence not only in the mission, but the leadership in the government. And what you see is somebody who, with each subsequent meeting, I think has a greater sense of command and authority when he's talking about these matters. So, no, we did not get any sense of that at all.

Q Tony, changing topics for a moment.

MR. SNOW: Wait -- is this same topic, or --

Q No, different.

MR. SNOW: Okay, then we'll --

Q On the Postal Accountability and Enhancement Act, the President had a signing statement. And it says, "and the need for physical searches specifically authorized by law for foreign intelligence collection" -- and this is in reference to times when mail, domestic mail can be opened. Is the President trying to assert the same sort of authority that he asserted for the NSA eavesdropping program?

MR. SNOW: Well, number one, what's described as an eavesdropping program was a surveillance program that was narrowly targeted on al Qaeda or affiliated members overseas having conversations with individuals that one had reason to expect might be involved in such activities here in the United States. So eavesdropping gives the sense that it's -- there's kind of a random notion to listening in on innocent Americans. And that's clearly wrong.

Secondly, there is nothing new here. What the President is arguing -- what the signing statement indicates is what present law allows, and making it clear what the provisions are within present law in terms of dealing with some of these items.

Q There are some legal experts who've looked at this and say that the exigent circumstances portion has always been in law.

MR. SNOW: Right.

Q If they feel that there's a bomb in the letter, some danger.

MR. SNOW: Correct.

Q But what's new is the need for physical searches specifically authorized by foreign intelligence collection. And people we've talked to say there is no law that specifically deals with that aspect. So I'm wondering if the President views his executive power as he did in the -- I'll use your words -- terrorist surveillance program is the same here when it comes to mail in the United States?

MR. SNOW: Again, it says "physical searches specifically authorized by law for foreign intelligence collection." What the experts seem to have bracketed out is the specifically authorized by law as it applies to that provision. All this is saying is that there are provisions at law for -- in exigent circumstances for such inspections. It has been thus. This is not a change in the law. This is not new. It is not as was described in one paper a "sweeping new power" by the President. It is, in fact, merely a statement of present law and present authorities granted to the President of the United States.

Q But he feels necessary to state it.

MR. SNOW: That often happens. You find that within signing statements, as I've said many times, these are either designed to clarify the law, or if they're constitutional problems, to try to elicit, A, what those problems may be so that the White House and the executive branch may effectively execute the laws that have been passed by Congress.

Q Is it a constitutional problem?

MR. SNOW: No, this is not a constitutional problem. I've just laid out the general benchmarks. This is one of them, trying to make absolutely clear what present law permits.

Q On another subject, Iraq plans. Has the President signed any order calling for additional U.S. troops?

MR. SNOW: No, he hasn't.

Q And is it accurate -- is the White House position that he still has not taken an official position on whether or not he's sending more U.S. troops?

MR. SNOW: That is correct.

Q And where is the President in terms of the process? You said he has more consultations --

MR. SNOW: Yes, I think we're getting pretty close. Yes, there are still, I think, a few consultations ahead. But I think the President is -- I hate to be -- this is terribly vague, but he is narrowing down. I think he has a pretty clear sense of where he wants to go, but he also still wants to make sure that he's looked at this from every angle, and that he's done the consultations. He's been thorough in his consultations. And so we're not there yet, but I think it's getting pretty close.

Q Does he have a deadline, Tony?

MR. SNOW: No. No.

Q And when the White House does these courtesy calls to members of Congress, is there going to be some sort of process where you'll brief the media at the same time? Do you know -- have you figured out how that is going to work?

MR. SNOW: No. We will try to make notifications -- I think one of the things -- a lot of times, this, for instance, is the case sometimes with personnel matters -- it's important to make sure that members of Congress are apprised early on. Members of Congress don't like to be reading about leaks in newspapers, they want to be consulted and informed in due time. And so I think that's one of the things -- members of Congress especially on key committees will certainly be the first to be contacted. But we, I promise you, will not leave you out.

Q Can you tell us if it's primetime?

MR. SNOW: No, I can't. No, I can't.

Q I mean, if it's such an important speech that the --

MR. SNOW: I understand. We'll release details when we're ready.

Q Back to the consultations. Is the White House still consulting with members of --

MR. SNOW: Well, today -- frankly what we're doing today is we're standing back. The new Congress just began business a little more than an hour ago, and I think this is a day when the new leaders are, rightfully, getting a lot of attention. And so --

Q -- consulting tomorrow, then?

MR. SNOW: There will be some consultations, and I don't know what the precise schedule is, but my guess is there will still be some more discussion.

Q Tony, can you discuss what's going to be on the agenda tonight with Merkel? Is it going to be Iran sanctions or --

MR. SNOW: No. I don't want to say "no" so directly because it may come up, but there are a whole series of things that are likely to arise. Chancellor Merkel is in a unique spot, as President of both the G8 and the EU this year. And so there are a series of conversations -- a lot of it is going to be on economics. Recently, with Secretary Paulson, she discussed the transatlantic economic partnership; the idea is to integrate the EU and U.S. economies more thoroughly on issues like regulation, standards, international property, other issues. Obviously we're interested in trade.

The Chancellor has -- apparently, there have been some news stories that the Chancellor might want to talk about global warming and climate change in a post-Kyoto environment. The President has been pretty forward-leaning in conversations with Chancellor Merkel and others about his support for being able to supply energy needs in a way that's friendly to the environment and does not raise problems with global warming.

Among other things, he's talked about nuclear power, clean coal technology. The President has committed $11 billion in clean-coal tax credits. He's talked about multilateral and -- multilateral cooperation on renewable energy sources. And I've been present when he's talked about that with leaders in Europe, and he continues to do that.

On the international front, there are a host of issues: Israel and Palestine is one; Syria, Lebanon, another; Iran and Afghanistan, clearly, are going to be on the table, as well as relations with other nations. So Doha Trade Round might come up, as well.

It's hard to say -- you know what's interesting is because the President and Chancellor Merkel have such a close relationship, my guess is this is going to be a bit like the meetings with Tony Blair or Koizumi where they tend to sort of assume -- they're going to go from topic to topic, and they're going to talk about whatever is top of mind.

You're smirking. I don't like that. Don't go there. Don't go there. (Laughter.)

Q Will they take questions after?

MR. SNOW: There will be -- yes, there will. We'll have a two and two.

Q Tony --

MR. SNOW: Yes, go ahead.

Q Two questions. One, what President think about Reverend Pat Robertson who said that U.S. might be again attacked middle of --

MR. SNOW: I'm not aware that the President has given it a lot of thought.

Q Second, as far as this new Congress is concerned, there will be -- the President might bring out, again, this immigration bill. There's a call from the battered women around the country -- there are so many battered women in the name of immigration. What President do you think that he will have some better system as far as those battered women in this country?

MR. SNOW: What kind of -- about battered women. Well, A, it's against the law, B, it's --

Q They bring them here, promise them green card or citizenship or visa, and then they are -- become battered women.

MR. SNOW: Goyal, my friend, they come here as a green card and then they're battered, is that what you're saying? So people who come here unbattered and --

Q People bring them here and promise them --

MR. SNOW: Well, look, you have a President who has been pretty outspoken on the abuse of women around the world, whether it be for sex trafficking or abuses against women within this country. So without having any specific idea of precisely what you're trying to get at, within American law that's illegal, and it's something that the President finds especially offensive and obviously it ought to be prosecuted.

Q Just to follow, but they're not getting much out of this -- justice or help -- because what they are doing --

MR. SNOW: Goyal, you have just asked me a global question about a theoretical universe for which I have no specific incidents to respond to, and therefore, I can't give you anything other than an answer that's so general it's not going to satisfy you. So if you can come up with something more precise for me, I'd love to help. Obviously the issue of battered women is something that, rightfully, outrages everybody.

Kelly.

Q Back to the Maliki conversation. Although you've told us the President has not seen the video, he has been fully briefed on the nature of the concern, about the taunting, things that were said --

MR. SNOW: Yes.

Q Does he believe that the way that was handled is in any way an example of the Maliki government not having control over the institution --

MR. SNOW: No. No, and I think what you're seeing is the Prime Minister asserting control immediately, because he clearly was unhappy with it, as well. And he made it absolutely clear -- the phrase he used, again, I think is -- he said it was pained, the government was pained, and that they were going to punish those responsible. That seems to me to be the reaction of somebody who was surprised by what he saw and unhappy upon seeing it.

Q Does the President see that as a setback to the forming of institutions that are necessary --

MR. SNOW: Again, if you take a look at what's been going on, the Prime Minister indicates that there does not seem to have been a rise in acts of violence or other sorts of activities within Iraq as a result of this, but he also understands the importance of reconciliation. And one of the interesting things is this does remove one of the arguments people have made, about what if Saddam comes back.

It also creates -- not the video, but the fact that in that part of the world, a tyrant who killed hundreds of thousands with impunity and never was punished, to see a man brought to justice, granted the trial that he would not grant his fellow citizens, given an appeal that nobody ever got, and getting treated -- and being able to have full access to law, and being lawfully executed after legal processes that had passed international muster, that's a powerful signal that the rule of law does apply within Iraq.

Q Concerns are not about Saddam's conduct. It's about the carrying out of justice in the final moments --

MR. SNOW: And the point I made yesterday is that there is -- at least among the American press, the fascination with the final moments and the relatively less description of the first 69 years.

Q It's not about Saddam.

MR. SNOW: There's -- well, no, of course, it's about Saddam.

Q It's not about Saddam. It's about the carrying out of justice, and was he subjected to circumstances that are not in line with what the U.S. is hoping Iraq will do in an execution?

MR. SNOW: Well, again, look, the Iraqis have made that point, Kelly. How many times do I have to point it out? The Prime Minister is unhappy with it.

Q But you resort to talking about Saddam. And our questions are really about the President's view of how this was handled.

MR. SNOW: I know. And as I've told you, the President thought it was appropriate to do a review. And the Prime Minister is doing a review. And I think we leave it at that.

Q Tony, on Maliki -- really quick -- you said that the President did not lay the new way forward out in this call.

MR. SNOW: Right, right.

Q Will the Prime Minister be consulted before the President lays out his new way forward?

MR. SNOW: Well, look, they talked about a lot of ideas. And I don't want to give the impression that the President didn't raise some things that are on his mind, he did. But on the other hand, anything that is going to take place will be in cooperation with the Iraqis, because one of the key elements of anything is transferring authority to the Iraqis. And we've talked about hastening their authority within combat units.

Q But this was the last call before the speech?

MR. SNOW: Maybe, maybe not.

Q Also on Maliki, you said that they talked about the importance of having sufficient force within Baghdad. Do they agree on what that level of force is, or the --

MR. SNOW: I'm not going to get into specific conversations about what they did -- the most important take-away is that they both have the same definition of victory, and they both have the same determination to win. And that was something that was, I think, reassuring to both because it gives them the ability now to work together and figure out practically the best way to achieve their goal.

Q In looking for a new White House counsel, how big a factor will the prospect of Democratic investigations be?

MR. SNOW: Well, look, you've seen, David, this week we have spent a lot of time talking about the importance of cooperation. And we still do. And we think there is an opportunity for this Congress to do a lot. And if some members within the Democratic Party decide that they want to engage in political acts of that sort, we will certainly be prepared. But in the case of Harriet, she's been here six years.

Q I'm not talking about any replacement, although this town is full of lawyers who specialize in dealing with --

MR. SNOW: We're not interested in acts of provocation. We are working on cooperation and trying to figure out ways in which this Congress and this President can reassure the American public that Washington, D.C. can sometimes be a place of accomplishment.

Q Let's put it this way, what do you think the President will be looking for in a new lawyer?

MR. SNOW: Well, why don't we just find out when you hear the new lawyer, and then I'll let that person's qualifications speak for themselves.

Let me get -- yes, Mark.

Q Back to the -- just to follow on Roger's question. What I think he was getting at is the phone call -- the next phone calls that lawmakers get on Iraq, will they be to inform them on the plan, or is it still --

MR. SNOW: I think there are still going to be some conversations. I think -- yes.

Q -- out their views at this -- even at this --

MR. SNOW: There are going to be some discussions.

Q Tony, two questions on Iraq. Since the President hasn't called or ordered any troops, does this mean he's going to overlap troops, sending in troops early and keeping -- holding troops that are already there? Don't laugh. It's a real question, Tony.

MR. SNOW: I know, but what you want me to do is spread out the map and show you all sorts of plans, and I can't do that, April. I just can't talk about operational matters. I will leave that to the President.

Q Is that in play, though? Is that one of the options --

MR. SNOW: I'm not even -- look, they've tried it, you've now tried it. I just -- I can't be in a position of trying to tell you what operational matters are. I'll leave that to the President.

Yes.

Q Next question on Iraq. The handlers of the hanging, has it been concluded that this was a Shia lynch mob, because they had no allegiance to Iraq? In their statements, what they were saying, they were not talking about Iraq. They were talking about al Sadr's father. And it's --

MR. SNOW: Who was -- who was killed by Saddam Hussein.

Q But it wasn't about Iraq.

MR. SNOW: I -- April, I don't even -- I'm not sure I can understand the question, therefore, I can't answer it.

Q Has it been proven that this was a Shia lynch mob that killed Saddam Hussein?

MR. SNOW: No. But again, I would refer -- this is -- these are questions most properly raised with the Iraqi government, which is conducting its own investigation. But for me to render a summary, let alone inflammatory comments about what went on would be inappropriate.

Q Did you at least watch the tape where they were making the comments?

MR. SNOW: I have -- I've seen that part, yes.

Q You mentioned one of the topics tonight is Kyoto Protocol?

MR. SNOW: Yes.

Q Well, only Australia and the United States have not signed off on that. And given the reports that are coming out about global warming happening quicker than initially anticipated, many scientists are saying even the Kyoto Protocol is not tough enough, and that the timetable in that is not soon enough. So given that, is the White House at all at least reconsidering its own timetable on when --

MR. SNOW: This administration has been very aggressive -- I'm sorry, go ahead, Paula. I just wanted to go ahead --

Q No, I mean is the White House at all reconsidering its own 2012 timetable as perhaps not being soon enough to have a turning point in greenhouse gas emissions?

MR. SNOW: Look, what you're talking about is a global problem. And one of the weaknesses in Kyoto was the fact that a number of key players, especially key consumers of carbon products, were not even involved or anticipated. And therefore, whatever "progress" you have may be spoiled by developments elsewhere in the world. And what you need is something that's going to be a little more effective on a global scale.

The United States has been leading the way in terms of dealing with emissions problems and continues to. And the President has been the most forceful advocate in the history of this country for looking for alternative fuel sources. The previous administration did submit Kyoto to a vote. It lost by 95 to nothing, and at that point was dropped.

This administration believes that it's important to try to find ways of cleaning the environment without wrecking the economy. And that is not, in fact, a false choice, it is the fundamental choice. And with the emphasis on innovation and using market forces -- and certainly there are powerful incentives for people to do things cleanly -- we will encourage every development we possibly can.

Q So with respect to environmental and economic consequences, as you know, Prime Minister Tony Blair backed the Stern Report, which predicts dire consequences in both the environment and the economy, if this is not turned around.

MR. SNOW: I know, Paula. And now you're getting into a scientific debate where we can swap sources and neither of us will have the acumen to be able to back it up. There are plenty of people who will -- there are plenty of assessments on the Stern report, for and against. And I must freely confess it is beyond my competence as a humble press secretary to try to pretend that I'm an effective scientist on this. I think we're chasing our tails on this one.

The President does care about the environment, has been active and aggressive on it, and has been talking with European allies about such things as clean coal technology, about renewable fuels, biofuels. He has talked about any number of -- clean coal, the nukes, the whole bit. And certainly those are areas of concern. They're going to continue to be. Look, we want to find an environmentally responsible way to have green economies throughout the world so that you can have freedom and you can have your --

Q One follow-up, though. Why does the Prime Minister feel the United States needs to take the lead?

MR. SNOW: The United States is taking the lead.

Q If I could follow up on that, on Paula's. In the wake of the Wall Street Journal's --

MR. SNOW: Phone call. Oh, I'm sorry, it was a teleconference.

Q In the wake of the remarks Prime Minister Maliki made in the Wall Street Journal in that interview, do you know whether he and President expressed -- exchanged any -- how long did the Prime Minister --

MR. SNOW: No -- Helen asked that question -- no, it not only didn't come up, it really -- Prime Minister Maliki did not, in any way, shape or form, act like somebody who's weary of his job. As a matter of fact, as I said, this is somebody who seems to be getting a greater sense of command and confidence with each passing meeting, and it was something that the President did comment on after the meeting. So, as I said, the two of them felt comfortable enough that they booted the rest of us out of the room for half of it. So I think there's now one of those levels of confidence the President has with a number of leaders where he feels that the most productive conversations sometimes are the ones that they have one-on-one.

And I really -- I got no sense at all of that. It did not come up, nor did the circumstances or the tone of the conversation seem to reflect it.

Q Thank you, Tony. Two questions. There's a news report quoting the Secretary of HUD, Jackson, as saying that "Jesse Jackson, Al Sharpton and Julian Bond have created an industry. If we don't become victims, they have no income. White folks have nothing to do with the fact that seven out of every 10 black children born in this country are born out of wedlock and we have more black males in prison than we do in college." And my question: Does the President disagree with this statement by his Secretary of HUD?

MR. SNOW: Don't know, but one of the things he did talk about is the importance of building within all Americans a system where you have fewer out-of-wedlock births, because the research is pretty clear that when you do have intact households you have better results and fewer problems in the long run with children; that everybody deserves access to a first-rate school; that there should not be schools -- public schools should be of high quality, no matter how much your parents may earn; and that the most important way to dignity is through work, which is an attitude that has been shared by Democratic and Republican administrations.

Q The top of page one of this morning's Washington Times has a headline, "Cindy Sheehan routs the Democrats; House Majority Leaders run, hide." Do you, as the President's Press Secretary, believe that this headline is inaccurate?

MR. SNOW: Lester, I find it entertaining.

Q Tony, the German Chancellor says she wants to call a Middle East Quartet meeting as soon as practical, and says she has Russia's support for that. Does she have the United States' support for that?

MR. SNOW: It will be discussed. I'll give you a readout. I mean, I think one of the things that we want to do is to encourage in every way possible effective movement toward a two-state solution. The Quartet conditions are the backbone of that, obviously, making sure that you've got a Palestinian negotiating partner that renounces violence, that believes in meeting all treaty obligations, and acknowledges Israel's right to exist. Chancellor Merkel has spoken with the leaders in the region. And so I think we'll have to find out what she has to say.

Q Subtle body language on Negroponte stepping down as DNI?

MR. SNOW: I will not engage in subtle body language, but you guys may see more of me off camera.

Q Just to follow on Negroponte. We didn't see him in Crawford participating in that meeting with the President.

MR. SNOW: Yes, don't read -- that's reading too much --

Q Did he participate at all with the National Security Council meeting with the President when he was talking about his new Iraq strategy?

MR. SNOW: I was not party to the meeting. I don't know. That was last week you're talking about?

Q Yes.

MR. SNOW: Gordon, was -- do you know if --

MR. JOHNDROE: He's been in a number of them.

MR. SNOW: Yes, he's a regular actor. I think -- let me put it this way. Any attempt to read presence or lack thereof at Crawford into any kind of assessment of John Negroponte as DNI Director is not only a stretch, it's just going down the wrong road.

Q Well, not too much like a commentary on his abilities, but just whether or not -- I mean, the head of intelligence, it would have been important to have him in that meeting --

MR. SNOW: But he is -- look, he --

Q -- you had the Vice President, the Secretary of Defense, Secretary of State. Does that, in some way, reflect a diminished role for the intelligence community, and --

MR. SNOW: No, by no means at all. Keep in mind that the Director of National Intelligence is in briefing the President on a daily basis and has the trust and confidence of the President of the United States. So, no, I just -- like I said, you're barking up the wrong tree on that one. I know a lot of people have been trying to read something into it. But, no.

Q Tony, there hasn't been a deputy since May of 2006 at DNI.

MR. SNOW: At DNI or --

Q I mean at --

MR. SNOW: At State?

Q No, no. At -- under Negroponte at DNI.

MR. SNOW: Oh, okay.

Q When Hayden left for CIA, there was a vacancy there.

MR. SNOW: Okay.

Q You're not going to talk about personnel announcements today, but is there a concern --

MR. SNOW: I'm especially not going to talk about that one, because I don't know--

Q -- is there a concern about leaving posts vacant before the confirmation is completed?

MR. SNOW: I said, stay tuned.

Yes, April. Last one.

Q Is this nation ready for a black or female President, be it Democrat or Republican?

MR. SNOW: Of course. (Laughter.)

END 1:28 P.M. EST, For Immediate Release, Office of the Press Secretary, January 4, 2007

Technorati Tags: President Bush and White House or Tony Snow and VIDEO, or Harriet Miers resignation and White House Legal Counsel, or Prime Minister Maliki, and execution of Saddam Hussein, or Baghdad and Iran or General Casey and Ambassador Negroponte or Iraq and terrorist surveillance program or Baghdad and Deputy Secretary of State or DNI, or John Negroponte, or Postal Accountability and Enhancement Act,

Romney Forms Presidential Exploratory Committee (VIDEO)

Governor Mitt Romney Forms Presidential Exploratory Committee, Wednesday, Jan 03, 2007. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, CONTACT: Kevin Madden. (857) 288-6400

Washington, D.C. - Today at 4 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, National Counsel Ben Ginsberg filed paperwork with the Federal Election Commission (FEC) announcing the formation of Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney's presidential campaign exploratory committee.

"After talking to my family, I have decided to take this initial step of forming an exploratory committee in order to raise the resources and build the campaign organization required to pursue the highest office in our country," Governor Romney said. "I look forward to continuing to talk with the American people to determine the best way we can meet a new generation of challenges."

Immediately after the filing, the Romney for President Exploratory Committee launched its official website: www.MittRomney.com.

Questions And Answers About Governor Romney's Presidential Campaign Exploratory Process

Q: What is the name of the exploratory committee?

A: Romney for President Exploratory Committee, Inc.

Q: When will Governor Romney formally declare his candidacy?

A: Governor Romney has not made a decision on when he will officially and formally declare his candidacy.

Q: What is the difference between this exploratory committee and formally announcing Governor Romney's candidacy?

A: This committee has been registered with the Federal Election Commission (FEC) allowing it to begin soliciting resources and organizing a federal campaign committee structure in anticipation of a formal announcement in the near future. Once an announcement is made, the word "exploratory" will be removed from the name. The committee formed today will use the money raised before and after a formal announcement.

Q: Can money raised by the exploratory committee be used by an eventual Romney for President Campaign Committee?

A: Yes. In fact, it's the same account.

Technorati Tags: Governor Mitt Romney and Presidential Exploratory Committee or National Counsel Ben Ginsberg and campaign organization or Federal Election Commission and Campaign Committee or candidacy and and VIDEO

As It Was on 9/11:Witness to History (VIDEO)

As It Was on 9/11: Witness to History FULL STREAMING VIDEO. State Department employees at home and abroad recount poignant stories of 9/11 and the extraordinary outpouring of sympathy and support from people around the world. AP Photos. Technorati Tags: President Bush and White House or 9/11 and State Department or WTC and World+Trade+Center or Pentagon and and VIDEO

President Meets with Cabinet (VIDEO)

President Bush Meets with Cabinet, FULL STREAMING VIDEO, Rose Garden 10:19 A.M. EST President Bush's Cabinet

THE PRESIDENT: Thank you all. We just finished our first Cabinet meeting of 2007. I want to thank my Cabinet officers for joining me here.

We discussed our priorities for the next two years, and how we plan to achieve them. The Congress has changed; our obligations to the country haven't changed.

Tomorrow, members of the 110th Congress will take their oaths of office, and I congratulate them. I welcome their arrival into town. I'm looking forward to working with them, and so are members of my Cabinet. We've all been entrusted with public office at a momentous time in our nation's history. And together we have important things to do. It's time to set aside politics and focus on the future.

I've been encouraged by the productive meetings that I've had with many of the new leaders of Congress, people from both parties. I want to thank them for coming down to the White House and talking to me about their ambitions and their goals for our country. I'm hopeful that Republicans and Democrats can find common ground to serve our folks, to do our jobs, to be constructive for our country.

One area where we must work together is that we've got to make sure we spend the people's money wisely. Over the past few years, pro-growth economic policies have generated higher revenues. Together with spending restraint, these policies allowed us to meet our goal of cutting the budget deficit in half three years ahead of schedule. We did so without taxing the working people. We kept taxes low.

It's now time to take the next step. Next month I will submit a five-year budget proposal that will balance the federal budget by 2012. This budget will restrain spending while setting priorities. It will address the most urgent needs of our nation, in particular the need to protect ourselves from radicals and terrorists; the need to win the war on terror; the need to maintain a strong national defense; and the need to keep this economy growing by making tax relief permanent.

By balancing the budget through pro-growth economic policies and spending restraint, we are better positioned to tackle longer-term fiscal challenges facing our country, namely the entitlement programs. These programs need to be reformed for the sake of younger Americans. We need to reform Social Security and Medicare and Medicaid so future generations of Americans can benefit from these vital programs without bankrupting our country.

Another area where we can work together is to reform the earmark process. One important message we all should take from the elections is that people want to end the secretive process by which Washington insiders are able to get billions of dollars directed to projects, many of them pork barrel projects that have never been reviewed or voted on by the Congress.

Some of the earmarks are not even included in legislation. They are stuffed into committee reports that have never been passed, and are never signed into law. Earmarks often divert precious funds from vital priorities like national defense. And each year they cost the taxpayers billions of dollars.

I appreciate the fact that Senator Byrd and Congressman Obey, the Democrats who will lead the appropriations process in the new Congress, heard the same message. For this year's budget, they pledged to maintain current levels of spending without additional earmarks. They agreed to a temporary moratorium on all earmarks. And this is a good start, and I appreciate their position. I also appreciate the fact that House Republicans last fall passed strong earmark reform idea -- put forth earmark reform ideas. And I appreciate their hard work.

But we need to do more. Here's my own view to end the "dead of the night" process: Congress needs to adopt real reform that requires full disclosure of the sponsors, the costs, the recipients, and the justifications for every earmark. Congress needs to stop the practice of concealing earmarks in so-called report language. And Congress needs to cut the number and cost of earmarks next year by at least half.

To help rein in wasteful spending and restore fiscal discipline in Washington, I call on Congress to give the President the tool that 43 governors have, a line-item veto.

There are just a few of the issues that we're going to need to work on in the year ahead. This new year brings new opportunities for progress, and I'm looking forward to working with the new Congress.

Thank you for your time.

END 10:25 A.M. EST. For Immediate Release, Office of the Press Secretary, January 3, 2007

Technorati Tags: President Bush and White House radio address or Cabinet meeting and 110th Congress or economic policies and federal budget or Social Security and national defense or "dead of the night" process and VIDEO

President Gerald R. Ford, National Cathedral

President George W. Bush and Mrs. Laura Bush stand at the side of his flag-draped coffin as they pay their respects to the late President Gerald R. Ford Monday, Jan. 1, 2007, in the Rotunda of the U.S. Capitol. White House photo by Shealah Craighead

RELATED:

• Funeral of President Gerald R. Ford (VIDEO) - 01/02/07 National Cathedral Service - LIVE COVERAGE, Pres. Ford Arrives in Andrews AFB, MD, Fmr. Pres. Ford Motorcade at WWII Memorial, Fmr. Pres. Ford Arrives at Capitol, East Front, U.S. Capitol Funeral Service for Fmr. Pres. Ford, Fmr. Pres. Gerald Ford Funeral Arrival Ceremony in Palm Desert, CA.
• Honoring Gerald R. Ford - Almost 4,000 soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines and Coast Guard members are gearing up to support the national farewell to former President Gerald R. Ford that will span a seven-day period with events in California, Maryland, the nation’s capital and Michigan
• National Day of Mourning for Gerald R. Ford - As a further mark of respect to the memory of Gerald R. Ford, the thirty-eighth President of the United States, NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, by the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, in honor and tribute to the memory of Gerald R. Ford, and as an expression of public sorrow, do appoint Tuesday, January 2, 2007, as a National Day of Mourning
• Statements on Death of President Gerald R. Ford (VIDEO) - THE PRESIDENT: My fellow Americans, all of us are saddened by the news that former President Gerald R. Ford passed away last night.

President Bush Attends Funeral Service for President Ford at the National Cathedral, FULL STREAMING VIDEO, The Washington National Cathedral, Washington, D.C.

11:20 A.M. EST

THE PRESIDENT: Mrs. Ford, the Ford family; distinguished guests, including our Presidents and First Ladies; and our fellow citizens:

We are here today to say goodbye to a great man. Gerald Ford was born and reared in the American heartland. He belonged to a generation that measured men by their honesty and their courage. He grew to manhood under the roof of a loving mother and father -- and when times were tough, he took part-time jobs to help them out. In President Ford, the world saw the best of America -- and America found a man whose character and leadership would bring calm and healing to one of the most divisive moments in our nation's history.

Long before he was known in Washington, Gerald Ford showed his character and his leadership. As a star football player for the University of Michigan, he came face to face with racial prejudice when Georgia Tech came to Ann Arbor for a football game. One of Michigan's best players was an African American student named Willis Ward. Georgia Tech said they would not take the field if a black man were allowed to play. Gerald Ford was furious at Georgia Tech for making the demand, and for the University of Michigan for caving in. He agreed to play only after Willis Ward personally asked him to. The stand Gerald Ford took that day was never forgotten by his friend. And Gerald Ford never forgot that day either -- and three decades later, he proudly supported the Civil Rights Act and the Voting Rights Act in the United States Congress.

Gerald Ford showed his character in the devotion to his family. On the day he became President, he told the nation, "I am indebted to no man, and only to one woman -- to my dear wife." By then Betty Ford had a pretty good idea of what marriage to Gerald Ford involved. After all, their wedding had taken place less than three weeks before his first election to the United States Congress, and his idea of a "honeymoon" was driving to Ann Arbor with his bride so they could attend a brunch before the Michigan-Northwestern game the next day. (Laughter.) And that was the beginning of a great marriage. The Fords would have four fine children. And Steve, Jack, Mike, and Susan know that, as proud as their Dad was of being President, Gerald Ford was even prouder of the other titles he held: father, and grandfather, and great-grandfather.

Gerald Ford showed his character in the uniform of our country. When Pearl Harbor was attacked in December 1941, Gerald Ford was an attorney fresh out of Yale Law School, but when his nation called he did not hesitate. In early 1942 he volunteered for the Navy and, after receiving his commission, worked hard to get assigned to a ship headed into combat. Eventually his wish was granted, and Lieutenant Ford was assigned to the aircraft carrier, USS Monterey, which saw action in some of the biggest battles of the Pacific.

Gerald Ford showed his character in public office. As a young congressman, he earned a reputation for an ability to get along with others without compromising his principles. He was greatly admired by his colleagues and they trusted him a lot. And so when President Nixon needed to replace a vice president who had resigned in scandal, he naturally turned to a man whose name was a synonym for integrity: Gerald R. Ford. And eight months later, when he was elevated to the presidency, it was because America needed him, not because he needed the office.

President Ford assumed office at a terrible time in our nation's history. At home, America was divided by political turmoil and wracked by inflation. In Southeast Asia, Saigon fell just nine months into his presidency. Amid all the turmoil, Gerald Ford was a rock of stability. And when he put his hand on his family Bible to take the presidential oath of office, he brought grace to a moment of great doubt.

In a short time, the gentleman from Grand Rapids proved that behind the affability was firm resolve. When a U.S. ship called the Mayaguez was seized by Cambodia, President Ford made the tough decision to send in the Marines -- and all the crew members were rescued. He was criticized for signing the Helsinki Accords, yet history has shown that document helped bring down the Soviet Union, as courageous men and women behind the Iron Curtain used it to demand their God-given liberties. Twice assassins attempted to take the life of this good and decent man, yet he refused to curtail his public appearances. And when he thought that the nation needed to put Watergate behind us, he made the tough and decent decision to pardon President Nixon, even though that decision probably cost him the presidential election.

Gerald Ford assumed the presidency when the nation needed a leader of character and humility -- and we found it in the man from Grand Rapids. President Ford's time in office was brief, but history will long remember the courage and common sense that helped restore trust in the workings of our democracy.

Laura and I had the honor of hosting the Ford family for Gerald Ford's 90th birthday. It's one of the highlights of our time in the White House. I will always cherish the memory of the last time I saw him, this past year in California. He was still smiling, still counting himself lucky to have Betty at his side, and still displaying the optimism and generosity that made him one of America's most beloved leaders.

And so, on behalf of a grateful nation, we bid farewell to our 38th President. We thank the Almighty for Gerald Ford's life, and we ask for God's blessings on Gerald Ford and his family.

END 11:27 A.M. EST. For Immediate Release, Office of the Press Secretary, January 2, 2007

Technorati Tags: President Bush and White House or President Gerald R. Ford and Michigan or 38th President and Betty Ford or United States Navy and United States Congress or funeral procession and National Day of Mourning

Funeral of President Gerald R. Ford (VIDEO)

UPDATE: CRAWFORD, Texas - President George W. Bush declares that, Tuesday 01/02/07 will be the National day of mourning for President Gerald R. Ford, Federal offices will be closed on that day. For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary December 28, 2006. PROVIDING FOR THE CLOSING OF GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS AND AGENCIES

Artist / Source: C-SPAN, Copyright: 2006 National Cable Satellite Corporation, Format RealVideo, Quality 128Kbps, Audio Channels, Rights Summary: There are no rights or restrictions associated with this clip. PHOTO GALLERY Pres. Ford Arrives in Andrews AFB, MD - The casket carrying the body of President Gerald R. Ford arrives at Andrews Air Force Base, in Maryland. 12/30/2006: WASHINGTON, DC: 42:57 min.

Fmr. Pres. Ford Motorcade at WWII Memorial - On the way to the Capitol, the funeral procession for Fmr. President Gerald Ford stops at the World War II Memorial on the National Mall.12/30/2006: WASHINGTON, DC: 6:51 min.

Fmr. Pres. Ford Arrives at Capitol, East Front - The motorcade of Fmr. Pres. Ford arrives at the East Front of the Capitol. After a 21-gun salute, the casket is carried up the steps and into the Rotunda.12/30/2006: WASHINGTON, DC: 28:28 min.

U.S. Capitol Funeral Service for Fmr. Pres. Ford - Fmr. President Gerald R. Ford is honored with a funeral conducted in the Capitol Rotunda. Speakers include outgoing Speaker of the House Dennis Hastert (R-IL), Sen. Ted Stevens (R-AK), and others. 12/30/2006: WASHINGTON, DC: 52:07 min.

Fmr. Pres. Gerald Ford Funeral Arrival Ceremony in Palm Desert, CA - Former President Gerald Ford funeral arrival ceremony in Palm Desert, California.12/29/2006: PALM DESERT: 20:17 min.

Technorati Tags: President Bush and White House or President Gerald R. Ford and Michigan or 38th President and Betty Ford or United States Navy and United States Congress or funeral procession and National Day of Mourning

Presidential Message for New Year's Day, 2007

Presidential Message for New Year's Day, 2007

Over the past year, we have reached important goals and confronted new challenges. At the start of this New Year, we move forward with trust in the power of the American spirit,

confidence in our purpose, and faith in a loving God who created us to be free.

In 2006, the number of jobs steadily increased, wages grew, the unemployment rate dropped, and we achieved our goal of cutting the deficit in half three years ahead of schedule. Thanks to the hard work and innovation of the American people, our economy has been growing faster than any other major developed nation. Significant tax relief has helped our citizens keep more of what they earn and fuel an economy that is vigorous and healthy. My Administration will continue to work to help create more jobs, reduce the deficit, and spread prosperity to all our citizens.

Last year, America continued its mission to fight and win the war on terror and promote liberty as an alternative to tyranny and despair. In the New Year, we will remain on the offensive against the enemies of freedom, advance the security of our country, and work toward a free and unified Iraq. Defeating terrorists and extremists is the challenge of our time, and we will answer history's call with confidence and fight for liberty without wavering.

Our Nation depends on the fine men and women in uniform who serve our country with valor and distinction, and we remain mindful of their dedication and sacrifice. America's troops and their families exemplify the great character of our country, and they have earned the respect and admiration of a grateful Nation.

As we celebrate the New Year, we look with hope to the year ahead and the opportunities it will bring.

Laura and I send our best wishes for a happy New Year. May God bless you, may God bless our troops and their families, and may God bless America.

GEORGE W. BUSH

# # # For Immediate Release, Office of the Press Secretary, December 31, 2006

Technorati Tags: President Bush and White House or New Year's Day and Laura Bush or God bless America and happy New Year