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THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
For Immediate
Release
TO THE CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES:
I am pleased to transmit to the Congress, pursuant to section 123 of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, as amended (42 U.S.C. 2153) (AEA), the text of a proposed Agreement for Cooperation Between the Government of the United States of America and the Government of India Concerning Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy. I am also pleased to transmit my written determination concerning the Agreement, including my approval of the Agreement and my authorization to execute the Agreement, and an unclassified Nuclear Proliferation Assessment Statement (NPAS) concerning the Agreement. (In accordance with section 123 of the AEA, as amended by title XII of the Foreign Affairs Reform and Restructuring Act of 1998 (Public Law 105‑277), a classified annex to the NPAS, prepared by the Secretary of State in consultation with the Director of National Intelligence, summarizing relevant classified information, will be submitted to the Congress separately.) The joint memorandum submitted to me by the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Energy and a letter from the Chairman of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission stating the views of the Commission are also enclosed.
The proposed Agreement has been negotiated in accordance with the AEA and other applicable law. In my judgment, it meets all applicable statutory requirements except for section 123 a.(2) of the AEA, from which I have exempted it as described below.
The proposed Agreement provides a comprehensive framework for U.S. peaceful nuclear cooperation with India. It permits the transfer of information, non-nuclear material, nuclear material, equipment (including reactors) and components for nuclear research and nuclear power production. It does not permit transfers of any restricted data. Sensitive nuclear technology, heavy-water production technology and production facilities, sensitive nuclear facilities, and major critical components of such facilities may not be transferred under the Agreement unless the Agreement is amended. The Agreement permits the enrichment of uranium subject to it up to 20 percent in the isotope 235. It permits reprocessing and other alterations in form or content of nuclear material subject to it; however, in the case of such activities in India, these rights will not come into effect until India establishes a new national reprocessing facility dedicated to reprocessing under IAEA safeguards and both parties agree on arrangements and procedures under which the reprocessing or other alteration in form or content will take place.
In Article 5(6) the Agreement records certain political commitments concerning reliable supply of nuclear fuel given to India Agreement does not, however, transform these political commitments into legally binding commitments because the Agreement, like other U.S. agreements of its type, is intended as a framework agreement.
The Agreement will remain in force for a period of 40 years and will continue in force thereafter for additional periods of 10 years each unless either party gives notice to terminate it 6 months before the end of a period. Moreover, either party has the right to terminate the Agreement prior to its expiration on 1 year's written notice to the other party. A party seeking early termination of the Agreement has the right immediately to cease cooperation under the Agreement, prior to termination, if it determines that a mutually acceptable resolution of outstanding issues cannot be achieved through consultations. In any case the Agreement, as noted, is a framework or enabling agreement that does not compel any specific nuclear cooperative activity. In the event of termination of the Agreement, key nonproliferation conditions and controls would continue with respect to material and equipment subject to the Agreement.
An extensive discussion of India's civil nuclear program, military nuclear program, and nuclear nonproliferation policies and practices is provided in the Nuclear Proliferation Assessment Statement (NPAS) and in a classified annex to the NPAS submitted to the Congress separately.
The AEA establishes the requirements for agreements for nuclear cooperation, some of which apply only to non-nuclear-weapon states (see AEA, section 123 a.). The AEA incorporates the definition of "nuclear-weapon state" from the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), which defines it to mean a state that has manufactured and exploded a nuclear weapon or other nuclear explosive device prior to January 1, 1967. Therefore India is a non-nuclear-weapon state for NPT and AEA purposes, even though it possesses nuclear weapons. The Agreement satisfies all requirements set forth in section 123 a. of the AEA except the requirement of section 123 a.(2) that, as a condition of continued U.S. nuclear supply under the Agreement, IAEA safeguards be maintained in India with respect to all nuclear materials in all peaceful nuclear activities within its territory, under its jurisdiction, or carried out under its control anywhere (i.e., "full-scope" or "comprehensive" safeguards).
The Henry J. Hyde United States-India Peaceful Atomic Energy Cooperation Act of 2006 (the "Hyde Act") established authority to exempt the Agreement from the full-scope safeguards requirement of section 123 a.(2) of the AEA, as well as certain other provisions of the AEA relating to supply under such an agreement, provided that the President makes certain determinations and transmits them to the Congress together with a report detailing the basis for the determinations. I have made those determinations, and I am submitting them together with the required report as an enclosure to this transmittal.
Approval of the Agreement, followed by its signature and entry into force, will permit the United States and India to move forward on the U.S.-India Civil Nuclear Cooperation Initiative, which Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and I announced on July 18, 2005, and reaffirmed on March 2, 2006. Civil nuclear cooperation between the United States and India pursuant to the Agreement will offer major strategic and economic benefits to both countries, including enhanced energy security, an ability to rely more extensively on an environmentally friendly energy source, greater economic opportunities, and more robust nonproliferation efforts.
The Agreement will reinforce the growing bilateral relationship between two vibrant democracies. The United States is committed to a strategic partnership with India, the Agreement promises to be a major milestone in achieving and sustaining that goal.
In reviewing the proposed Agreement I have considered the views and recommendations of interested agencies. I have determined that its performance will promote, and will not constitute an unreasonable risk to, the common defense and security. Accordingly, I have approved it and I urge that the Congress also approve it this year.
GEORGE W. BUSH
THE WHITE HOUSE, September 10, 2008.
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
For Immediate Release August 29, 2008
Labor Day 2008
I send greetings to all Americans celebrating Labor Day 2008.
In America, all citizens have an opportunity to forge their own paths forward, and their success is limited only by the size of their dreams. From engineering to healthcare and from small businesses to education, the American people are the most industrious, enterprising, and productive in the world. These talented and innovative workers provide for their families and play a vital role in building a more prosperous future for our country. By trusting in the ingenuity and creativity of America's risk-takers and dreamers, our country will remain the most vibrant, hopeful, and dynamic around the globe.
Each year on Labor Day, we honor the dedicated men and women of our Nation's workforce. Their determined efforts add to the strength and vitality of our country and build a brighter future for America.
Laura and I send our best wishes.
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary (Crawford, Texas)
For Immediate Release August 25, 2008
MINORITY ENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT WEEK, 2008
- - - - - - -
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION
The opportunities of America make our land a beacon of hope for people from every corner of the world. America's minority-owned businesses contribute greatly to our economy and the richness of our country. During Minority Enterprise Development Week, we recognize minority entrepreneurs and recommit ourselves to fostering an environment where everyone can attain the American dream.
In America, people's dreams matter more than their background. Across our country, minority business owners are working hard to achieve their goals and helping to extend the promises of America to their fellow citizens. These businesses and their employees are vital contributors to our national prosperity.
My Administration has lowered taxes, supported pro-growth policies, and enacted an economic stimulus package to encourage small and medium-sized business growth. By keeping more money in the hands of families and small businesses, they can save, invest, spend, and give back to their communities. Our economy is resilient and dynamic because Americans are the most industrious, creative, and enterprising people in the world and because we believe in a free market economy that rewards those qualities.
During Minority Enterprise Development Week, we recognize the value minority entrepreneurs and their employees add to our country. They are vital to our Nation's economic strength and an essential part of our national heritage.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim August 31 through September 6, 2008, as Minority Enterprise Development Week. I call upon all Americans to celebrate this week with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities to recognize the many contributions of our Nation's minority enterprises.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-fifth day of August, in the year of our Lord two thousand eight, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-third.
GEORGE W. BUSH GEORGE W. BUSH
Straight To The Point:
President Bush: "The Work Of Democratic Development Is The Great Cause Of Our Time" President Bush Participates In Ceremonial Groundbreaking For United States Institute Of Peace, Says "Advancing The Cause Of Liberty Is Necessary To Advance The Cause Of Peace"
"[W]e're in an ideological struggle against violent extremism. The U.S. Institute of Peace is playing an important role, and I thank you for that. In Afghanistan, you're helping a young democracy establish the rule of law and strengthen public education and build civil society. In Iraq, you're helping the nation overcome the legacy of decades of tyranny by strengthening government institutions and promoting peaceful engagement. And although the struggle against violent extremism is in its early years, there's no doubt in my mind freedom will again prevail and your help is going to be important." President George W. Bush, 6/5/08
"The United States Is Leading And Must Continue To Lead The Cause Of Freedom For The Sake Of Peace"
President Bush: "Free societies are peaceful societies." "We believe that freedom is the birthright of every man, woman and child. Freedom helps supplant the conditions of hopelessness that extremists exploit to recruit terrorists and suicide bombers. People who live in liberty are less likely to turn to ideologies of hatred and fear, and that is why the United States is leading and must continue to lead the cause of freedom for the sake of peace." (President George W. Bush, Remarks At Ceremonial Groundbreaking Of United States Institute Of Peace, Navy Hill, Washington, DC, 6/5/08)
· "Our most solemn obligation is to protect the American people." "That is why we're pursuing and bringing to justice terrorists. We're fighting them overseas so we don't have to face them here in the United States of America."
"Civilian Expertise Is Vital To Strengthening The Institutions Of Freedom"
President Bush: "We launched what's called a Civilian Stabilization Initiative, which is being run out of the State Department in the Office of Reconstruction and Stabilization." "In the future, civilian expertise will be needed in other countries where we do not have ongoing military operations. At the moment we lack the capability to rapidly deploy civilian experts with the right skills to trouble spots around the world."
· "America is training international peacekeepers so they can deploy to provide security in troubled regions. We started what's called the Global Peace Operations Initiative." "The whole idea is to work to train international peacekeeping forces so they can do the work necessary to provide stability and security, so institutions can advance. So far, we've trained more than 40,000 peacekeepers, and the plan is to train 75,000 additional."
· "In Iraq and Afghanistan, we've developed an important tool to tap into civilian expertise called Provincial Reconstruction Teams." "PRTs bring together civilian, diplomatic and military personnel. They move into communities that our military has cleared of terrorists. They help ensure that security gains are followed with real improvements in daily life by helping local leaders create jobs and deliver basic services and build up local economies."
"Aiding The Rise Of Strong And Stable Democracies Requires The Efforts Of Other Governments Non-Governmental Organizations, And People Around The World"
President Bush: "[W]e must be confident in our ability to help others realize the blessings of freedom." "My big concern is that the United States becomes isolationist and nervous; we don't support those values that have stood the test of time."
· "[T]he work of democratic development is the work of non-governmental organizations, like the U.S. Institute of Peace." "[T]hese organizations can go into countries where it's harder for governments to operate. So it's very important for this government and future governments to always be a strong and steady partner to non-governmental organizations and groups like the U.S. Institute of Peace."
· "The work of democratic development is the work of all free nations." "The work of democratic development sometimes requires young democracies under siege to band together with partnerships to deal with common threats."
· "[I]t's in our interest that we continue to increase the number of students coming to study in the United States." "[I]f we expect democracies to prevail, to marginalize the extremists, countries it requires countries to have good, strong democratic leaders, and the best way to encourage that is to have them come to our colleges and universities. We've made good progress about changing the student visa regime after 9/11. We've increased the number of students coming here."
"It's In Our Security Interest To Eliminate Safe Havens For Terrorists And Extremists"
President Bush: "It's in America's vital interest to help all combat ideologies of hate." "It's in our security interest to eliminate safe havens for terrorists and extremists. It's in our national interest to develop institutions that allow them to govern their territories effectively and improve their lives."
· "We're transforming the United States military so we can deliver justice to the terrorists in a more effective way."
· "We're transforming America's capabilities to help poor and struggling societies become healthy and prosperous." "[W]e've seen those effective transformations through the Emergency Plan for AIDS, or Malaria Initiative, or the Millennium Challenge Account. The Millennium Challenge Account represents a different approach to development. It rewards nations that govern responsibly and fight corruption, and invest in the health and education of their people, and use the power of free markets and free trade to lift the people out of poverty."
· "We're also transforming America's capabilities to helping emerging democracies build free institutions while under fire from terrorists and under pressure from state sponsors of terror." THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
For Immediate
Release
National Homeownership Month, 2008
- - - - - - -
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
For many Americans, owning a home represents freedom, independence, and the American dream. During National Homeownership Month, we highlight the benefits of owning a home and encourage our fellow citizens to be responsible homeowners.
My Administration is committed to helping Americans achieve their dreams of homeownership. We have worked to ensure that the mortgage industry is more transparent, reliable, and fair, and in order to sustain homeownership, we have launched initiatives to help responsible homeowners keep their homes. The FHASecure program has given the Federal Housing Administration more flexibility in refinancing mortgages for homeowners who have good credit histories but cannot afford their current payments. In addition, the HOPE NOW Alliance connects struggling homeowners with lenders, loan servicers, and mortgage counselors to help families stay in their homes. Homeowners deserve our help, and these initiatives assist those in need.
During National Homeownership Month and throughout the year, I encourage all Americans to take advantage of financial education opportunities to explore homeownership. My Advisory Council on Financial Literacy is finding ways to help educate people from all walks of life about matters pertaining to their finances and their futures. By practicing fiscal responsibility, Americans can contribute to the strength of our neighborhoods and our country.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim June 2008 as National Homeownership Month. I call upon the people of the United States to join me in recognizing the importance of homeownership and building a more prosperous future for themselves and their communities.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-ninth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand eight, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-second.
GEORGE W. BUSH THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
______________________________ For Immediate
Release
STATEMENT BY COUNSELOR TO THE PRESIDENT ED GILLESPIE
NBC News responded to our objection to their editorial decision to misleadingly edit the Presidents interview with Richard Engel as aired on NBC Nightly News and The Today Show by noting it was available in its entirety on the MSNBC website. This misses the point.
While we appreciate that viewers can visit the MSNBC website to see how NBC News edited the interview to completely alter the nature of the Presidents answer, we know that most will not its simply absurd for people to have to log onto the internet and stream video to get accurate information from NBC News.
We also look forward to hearing their response to our additional concerns about their labeling Iraq as a civil war, and if they have reason not to believe official economic data.
# # # THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
______________________________ For Immediate
Release
REMARKS BY THE PRESIDENT UPON SIGNING H.R. 4286, CONGRESSIONAL GOLD MEDAL: DAW AUNG SAN SUU KYI
Oval Office
8:49 A.M. EDT
THE PRESIDENT: I just signed a bill passed by the leaders of the Senate and House who have joined me to honor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi with the Congressional Gold Medal.
This is a fitting tribute to a courageous woman who speaks for freedom for all the people of Burma, and who speaks in such a way that she's a powerful voice in contrast to the junta that currently rules the country.
Burma has been hit by a terrible natural disaster. Laura and I and members of the Senate and House here express our heartfelt sympathy to the people of Burma. The United States has made an initial aid contribution, but we want to do a lot more. We're prepared to move U.S. Navy assets to help find those who've lost their lives, to help find the missing, to help stabilize the situation. But in order to do so, the military junta must allow our disaster assessment teams into the country.
So our message is to the military rulers: Let the United States come to help you, help the people. Our hearts go out to the people of Burma. We want to help them deal with this terrible disaster. At the same time, of course, we want them to live in a free society.
I want to thank you for your leadership, thank you for your determination to send a message that America stands with this courageous woman. Thank you.
END
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the First Lady
______________________________ For Immediate
Release
STATEMENT BY THE FIRST LADY ON BURMA
James S. Brady Press Briefing Room
3:05 P.M. EDT
MRS. BUSH: Thank you, everybody, for coming out. I just want to make a few comments about Burma.
On Saturday, Cyclone Nargis swept through Burma. The storm affected more than 2 million people, and according to the Burmese media, killed thousands. The aftermath has left cities paralyzed, families separated and houses and businesses destroyed.
Americans are a compassionate people and we're already acting to provide help. The U.S. has offered financial assistance through our embassy. We'll work with the U.N. and other international non-governmental organizations to provide water, sanitation, food and shelter. More assistance will be forthcoming.
The United States stands prepared to provide an assistance team and much needed supplies to Burma as soon as the Burmese government accepts our offer. The government of Burma should accept this team quickly, as well as other offers of international assistance.
As they cope with this tragedy, the men and women of Burma remain in the thoughts and prayers of many Americans. It's troubling that many of the Burmese people learned of this impending disaster only when foreign outlets -- such as Radio Free Asia and Voice of America -- sounded the alarm. Although they were aware of the threat, Burma's state-run media failed to issue a timely warning to citizens in the storm's path.
The response to the cyclone is just the most recent example of the junta's failure to meet its people's basic needs. The regime has dismantled systems of agriculture, education and health care. This once wealthy nation now has the lowest per capita GDP in Southeast Asia.
Despite the havoc created by this weekend cyclone, as far as we can tell Burma's military leaders plan to move forward with the constitutional referendum scheduled for this Saturday, May 10th. They've orchestrated this vote to give false legitimacy to their continued rule. The proposed constitution was drafted in a flawed process that excluded opposition and some key ethnic groups. It would effectively give the military a veto over any constitutional changes. The constitution would prohibit democracy activists who are current or former political prisoners, including Aung San Suu Kyi, from taking office. To ensure their constitution becomes law, the regime has been intimidating voters and using force against dissidents. Public gatherings have been banned and printed materials may not be distributed without governmental approval.
As the date of the referendum draws near, there's been an increase in arrests of opposition party members and activists. This continues to take place, despite a call from the international community, and most recently from the United Nations Security Council, for Burma's government to ensure its referendum is free, fair and inclusive.
In response to the regime's continued repression, President Bush has instructed the U.S. Treasury Department to freeze assets of Burmese state-owned companies that are held in U.S. banks. This adds to actions last year to expand U.S. sanctions against Burma's regime, and to tighten sanctions against its top leaders. We thank the European Union, Canada and Australia for joining the United States in imposing similar restrictions. And we appeal to China, India, and Burma's fellow ASEAN members to use their influence to encourage a democratic transition.
Burma's ruling generals have had their chance to implement the good government they promised to their people. If it proceeds under current conditions, the constitutional referendum they have planned should not be seen as a step toward freedom, but rather as a confirmation of the unacceptable status quo.
Thank you all very much for giving me a chance to speak. I'm going to leave tomorrow for Crawford, for Jenna's wedding, and I wanted to be able to make a statement about Burma before I left.
So I'm happy to take questions.
Q Mrs. Bush, could you offer us any specifics yet about the scope of the U.S. disaster relief package?
MRS. BUSH: Right now, the earliest part of the relief is money that the embassy already has, that's already there that we can distribute to other NGOs -- the World Food Program, other groups that are on the ground. If they will let our DART team in, then we'll be able to assess what else we can do. And we do have other supplies and commodities in the area -- not in Burma, but close in the area, that would be available soon for help if our DART team can get in and see what they can do.
Q And given your concerns about the ruling government there, are you also worried that any U.S. aid might not get to the people affected?
MRS. BUSH: Well, I'm worried that they won't even accept U.S. aid. And I urge the government to accept aid from the United States and from the entire international community right now, while the needs of their people are so critical.
Q Mrs. Bush, is there any evidence that the sanctions the U.S. and other nations have imposed on the leaders in Myanmar, or Burma, have had an effect?
MRS. BUSH: Only anecdotal. We have heard, and not -- probably can't really confirm -- about some of the leaders who are targeted -- actions that they've taken that make us think they don't like those targeted sanctions on the leaders themselves.
Q Madam, do you have any strong message for the dictatorship, military dictatorship in Burma as far as this democracy and this cyclone is concerned? And do you think they will have a change of heart and minds because of this tragedy?
MRS. BUSH: I hope so. I hope that their will be one good thing that comes out of such huge destruction, and that would be the government's realization that the people of Burma need help and they need more help than they can give them -- or that they've been able to give them.
And the country has just been totally decimated with both education, agriculture -- all of the things that made Burma one of the richest countries in Asia have now been dismantled. And it's very, very important that the regime start to accept both technical help from out of the country and, obviously in this sort of disaster, very -- be able to accept the really basic help that anybody would need, any country would need and any people would need after this kind of disaster.
Q And madam, what message you have for India, what India can do?
MRS. BUSH: Well, I think India can help. India is close, on the border there. I think there are a lot of ways they could help and get help there quickly, and maybe the Burmese government would accept it more readily from the Indian government than they do from the U.S. government.
April.
Q Mrs. Bush, why such an historic interest? This is a first, for a First Lady to come to this podium and talk about a cyclone. Why such a historic interest?
MRS. BUSH: Well, you know I've been interested in Burma for a long time. It started really with an interest in Aung San Suu Kyi and reading her works and just the story of a Nobel Prize winner who's been under house arrest for so long, whose party was overwhelmingly elected in an election and then never able to take office. And so it started with an interest in her, and then just the more I've seen, the more critical I see the need is for the people in Burma to be -- for the world to pay attention to the people of Burma, and for the world to put pressure on the military regime.
Q And a follow-up. What about the issue of sanitation? You talked about that, and dysentery. Could you talk a little bit more about --
MRS. BUSH: Those are the sort of things that international help would be critical for. We don't know, for instance, in the -- people were already talking about the high price of rice. We don't know -- they would have been just in the planting season -- what would happen if this big 12-foot surge of ocean water, salt water comes over the -- what would have been rice-planting ground. We just don't know, but it seems very, very dire. They were all -- already needed the help of the World Food Program, the WFP -- and now they'll need it even more.
And so it's really important for the regime to accept this kind of help to open their doors to all the help, to all of the help the U.N. could give, from U.N. AIDS* to UNICEF -- each one of the international programs that can help, as well as help from every government that is willing to help. And I know there are a lot of governments that are.
Q Why do you think that the government didn't allow the state-run media to post those warnings?
MRS. BUSH: I don't know. I have no idea.
Q Quick follow on that. Do you think that they have blood on their hands for that lack of warning?
MRS. BUSH: Well, I just think it's very, very important -- that we know already that they are very inept; that they have not been able to govern in a way that lets their company -- country, for one thing, build an economy. This is a country that's rich in natural resources. Their natural resources are being depleted as they sell them off, as far as we can tell from the outside, for the financial benefit of the regime itself and not for the good of the people. We know that.
We know these huge forests -- teak and mahogany forests may be being depleted -- that they have. Their gem shows -- last year many American gem countries [sic] and European gem countries [sic] refused to go to the big gem auctions because they didn't want to prop up the government. But we do know that a lot of -- that China, for instance, a lot of Chinese gem buyers did go.
Q Mrs. Bush, the European Union has pledged $3 million. That initial aid offer from the United States is only $250,000.
MRS. BUSH: That's right.
Q If they accept some assistance, how large would the U.S. --
MRS. BUSH: Well, I don't know that. I mean, we'll have to see what it would be, and I can't speak to how large that would be. But I can -- I feel sure that it would be substantial if we can give it. The money that -- the first fund, the first $250,000 from the U.S. government is money that the embassy already has in a fund for something like this, and they can give it immediately to the World Food Program or other NGOs that are meeting the very immediate needs.
If we can get some sort of team in there to assess what the other needs are, then I feel very assured that the United States government will follow with bigger --
Q What have they said?
MRS. BUSH: I don't know that. They haven't said anything, as far as I know.
Q Mrs. Bush, what can you tell us about the President signing legislation in the near future to award Aung San Suu Kyi the Congressional Gold Medal?
MRS. BUSH: The President will sign the legislation tomorrow, the congressional legislation that awards Aung San Suu Kyi the Congressional Medal of Honor.** And I was hoping to be here with him when he did that. I don't think I'll be here because I think I'll be going on tomorrow.
But he will, and I think that's important. I think it's just another way, like the Senate and the House caucuses on Burma, that let the people of Burma know that the United States is standing with them. And we do know that they listen to Radio Free Asia and they listen to Voice of America, and so it's very important to get our message out on those radio stations so that people in Burma know that we are aware of what's happened, and we are very aware of the needs of the people after the cyclone.
Q Do you think that might, though, affect the military junta's willingness to receive aid from the international community, particularly the U.S.?
MRS. BUSH: I hope not. I hope that the military will realize they have to accept aid from everybody they can possibly accept it from. And maybe that will be the something good that can come out of this terrible destruction.
Q Will they let her come to the U.S. to accept the medal?
MRS. BUSH: They might let her come accept; they might not let her ever go back. I don't think she would ever do that, because she couldn't be assured that she could go home. That's why she didn't go see her husband when he was dying in England.
Anything else?
Q Yes. The U.S. only provides a few million dollars in annual humanitarian aid to Myanmar now. Some relief officials have raised concerns that the existing U.S. sanctions plus the sheer lack of trust between the two countries will impede the flow of any significant U.S. aid following the cyclone. And the question is, how is the U.S. government going to balance those two objectives -- the ones of maintaining financial pressure on the junta, and at the same time making sure the cyclone victims aren't victimized once again?
MRS. BUSH: Well, that's the very -- that's always the question when sanctions are part of any sort of pressure that we can put on a government. And in fact that seems to be the only kind of pressure the United States can put on Burma. Certainly we hope that India, for instance, and other countries in the neighborhood can step up if they won't accept aid from the United States.
But I think in front of their own people and in front of the world, if they don't accept aid from the United States and from all the rest of the international community that wants to help the people of Burma, that that is just another way that the military regime looks so cut off and so unaware of what the real needs of their people are.
Okay, one last one.
Q Ma'am, is there any way for the Burmese leaders to salvage the referendum process? Should they scrap it, start from scratch?
MRS. BUSH: Well, I'm not going to give them any advice, but it would be very, very odd I think if they went ahead and held a referendum this Saturday.
Q Madam, all the best for the wedding, Jenna's wedding.
MRS. BUSH: Thank you very much. Thank you.
Q Any chance you'll let us cover it? (Laughter.)
Q No invitation for the White House press?
Q Is it true there is an altar of limestone --
MRS. BUSH: That's right, the President told that this morning on "Good Morning America." This was his idea, to build this beautiful limestone altar, and it's the Texas limestone -- the same that our house is made out of -- from a local quarry, and they're the ones that made it.
Q Is it permanent? (Laughter.)
MRS. BUSH: It's permanent.
Q Is he more nervous or are you?
MRS. BUSH: Neither one of us are nervous. I'm very, very excited. It's a very interesting passage of life when you get to that time in your life when your child, first child is getting married -- and we're getting, for us, our first son. So it's a thrill and we're very happy about it.
Q When some grandchildren come will they be named George --
MRS. BUSH: George or Georgia -- Georgina. Georgette. (Laughter.)
Q President is more excited, or you are more excited?
MRS. BUSH: We're both really, really excited. We're very thrilled, and of course Jenna is so happy and Henry is very happy. And that makes their mother and dad really happy.
Q Why the wedding didn't take place here at the White House?
MRS. BUSH: Well, she just wanted to get married at home. She just feels a lot more comfortable there. And it will be really beautiful. This is the time when the wild flowers are all blooming. And I think it will be a very, very lovely wedding, and it will be very like Jenna and Henry. And of course, that's what we want. We want what she wants.
Q How early Sunday morning is the bike ride the President will -- (laughter.)
MRS. BUSH: Since he probably won't be staying up to dance the last dance, it will probably be early.
Bye, you all. Thank you very much. And thank you so much for covering Burma, and I hope you'll keep watching. Thanks a lot.
END 3:21 P.M. EDT
* Joint U.N. Program on HIV/AIDS ** Congressional Gold Medal
President Bush: "Free Trade Means Jobs For Americans" President Bush Discusses The Importance Of Expanding Free Trade At Robinson Helicopter Company, Says "Good Trade Policy Is Fair Trade Policy"
"Free trade means jobs for Americans. Free trade means good paying jobs for Americans. And so Congress needs to pass these agreements for the sake of economic vitality. And Arnold talked about the effect for the state of California you're selling hundreds of billions of dollars' worth of goods out of California to other parts of the world. And we need to keep that trend going. I mean, if we [don't] want to worry about our economy long-term, you need your government knocking down barriers to our products and on goods and services." ─ President George W. Bush, 1/30/08
"Congress Needs To Pass [Free Trade] Agreements For The Sake Of Economic Vitality" President Bush: "One of the goals of this Administration is to reduce trade barriers." "Congress recently passed a deal with Peru. And we want to do the same thing with Colombia and Panama and South Korea. We're also going to try to get a Doha round of trade the Doha round is a great opportunity to advance prosperity around the world and deal a serious blow to those who exploit the hopeless." (President George W. Bush, Remarks On Trade And The Economy, Torrance, CA, 1/30/08)
? "Free trade means good paying jobs for Americans." "[I]f you're working for a company that's selling goods overseas, you're likely to be paid higher wages. Trade yields better pay."
? "When people are selling something overseas, it means somebody is working. And there's a lot of customers overseas." "Now, people in our country let's be perfectly frank about it, you hear them say trade isn't any good; it doesn't help. If I were a worker at Robinson, I'd be arguing against that. You've got good jobs here. People are working, and 70 percent of what you make gets sold overseas. So they ought to have a sign walking in here and say, trade is not only good, it is great; and we want the federal government to make it easier for us to sell products."
"Let's Level The Playing Field, Open Up Markets, So The Best Workers In The World Can Have The Fruits Of Their Labor Sold Overseas"
President Bush: "[T]hese trade agreements level the playing field. And that's important, because we can compete with anybody, anytime, anywhere, just as long as the rules are fair." "[W]e're not treated the same way. In other words, they got their goods and services coming to our country without a lot of tariffs and when we're trying to sell into their countries, they're taxing it, which makes it much harder to sell. Reasonable policy says to nations, you treat us the way we treat you. That's all we're asking for."
? "[I]t's in our strategic interest and our economic interest that the United States Congress passes this free trade agreement with Colombia." "Colombia is an important country for our interests. And if we reject this opportunity to support a friend with good economic policy, if we turn down this free trade agreement it will hurt our relations in South America. It will give the voices of false populism something to say."
"Trade Adjustment Assistance [Is] A Vital Program"
President Bush: "[W]hen you combine Trade Adjustment Assistance with our community colleges, what you've got is a great opportunity to help people who've lost a job because of trade find the skills necessary to get a better-paying job." "[S]ometimes when trade takes place somebody loses work, and I understand that and that's not a happy circumstance. And the government ought to help people. One response is, okay, let's just don't trade at all which would be bad, in my judgment. The other response is, let's have job training to help somebody get the skills necessary to fill the jobs of the 21st century. It's called Trade Adjustment Assistance, and it's a vital program."
"The Senate Ought To Accept The House [Economic Growth] Package, Pass It, And Get It To My Desk As Soon As Possible"
President Bush: "Our economy is flexible, it is resilient. We've been through problems before and every time we've come through strong. And that what's going to happen this time, too." "We've got some short-term issues to deal with. Fourth quarter growth slowed to .6 percent. In other words, there are signs that our economy are slowing. There's some uncertainty in the economy. But in the long run you've got to be confident about your economy. Inflation is down, interest rates are low, productivity is high."
? "But the federal government can help. And the smartest thing we can do is to help deal with the uncertainty by putting about $145 billion into your pockets" "[A]nd, at the same time, part of that $145 billion is to provide incentives for businesses, large and small, to invest. See, when you provide an incentive for a company to invest, they go out and buy a machine. And when they buy that machine, somebody has to put labor into the machine; somebody is working."
? "[W]hatever the Senate does, they should not delay this package. They should not keep money out of your pocket." "The sooner you get a check, the more likely it is that the stimulus package will kick in and make a difference."
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary (Miami, Florida)
______________________________
For Immediate
Release
Latin American And Korean Free Trade Agreements Vital To U.S. Economy And Security President Bush Urges Congress To Pass Pending Free Trade Agreements With Peru, Colombia, Panama, And South Korea
Today, President Bush will address the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce and call on Congress to pass pending free trade agreements with Peru, Colombia, Panama, and South Korea as quickly as possible. These agreements will level the playing field for workers, farmers, and businesses here in America. The President's remarks focus on how the three free trade agreements with Latin American countries will help lift their people out of poverty, and will strengthen the forces of freedom and democracy in the Western hemisphere.
Ψ Free trade agreements are benefiting the U.S. economy. For example, in the four years since we signed a free trade agreement with Chile, American exports to that country have more than doubled. And in just one year since we began implementing a free trade agreement with Central American nations and the Dominican Republic, American exports have grown by 13 percent.
Ψ Congress now has an opportunity to build on this success by passing new free trade agreements with Peru, Colombia, and Panama. Taken together, these deals will expand American access to 75 million new consumers, with a combined GDP of $245 billion from Peru, Colombia, and Panama. Members of Congress should have confidence in the ability of America to compete in the world, so long as the playing field is level, and they should show that confidence by approving these trade agreements with bipartisan votes.
Ψ These trade deals are also a historic opportunity to strengthen the forces of freedom and democracy throughout the Americas. By pursuing these trade agreements, we can help our friends in the neighborhood lift their people out of poverty, and help counter the false promises of populism promoted by some nations in the hemisphere.
Ψ The President will continue to work closely with Congress to pass a landmark free trade agreement with South Korea. This agreement alone is projected to add more than $10 billion to America's economy, and would strengthen our relationship with a democratic ally in a critical part of the world. Also, at the regional level, we are seeking broad trade agreements in the Americas and the Asia-Pacific. And at the global level, we are pushing hard for a successful conclusion to the Doha Round of trade talks, which has the potential to lower trade barriers across the world.
Peru
Peru has one of the fastest growing economies in South America. Last year, Peru's economy expanded by eight percent. Trade between the United States and Peru has more than doubled over the past three years.
The Peru free trade agreement would immediately eliminate most industrial tariffs, as well as many of its barriers to U.S. agricultural exports. Elimination of these tariffs would also provide new market access and fair treatment to U.S. companies that provide services and invest in Peru.
The free trade agreement would also strengthen our friendship with an important South American democracy. Last year, Peru held two rounds of free and fair elections, and through their representatives, the Peruvian people have made clear that they want to increase their ties to the United States. Congress should show America's commitment in return by voting on and approving the Peru free trade agreement.
Colombia
Colombia is our fifth largest trading partner in Latin America. Colombia's economy is strong and growing with a 6.8 percent expansion last year, and they are the largest market for U.S. agriculture exports in South America.
The Colombia free trade agreement would immediately eliminate tariffs on more than 80 percent of American industrial and consumer exports, and it would provide significant new duty-free access for American crops. About 8,000 U.S. companies that export to Colombia would find new buyers, and would be able to compete in Colombia on a level playing field for the first time in history.
For the sake of America's economy and security, Congress should pass the vital free trade agreement with Colombia this year. Both houses of the Colombian legislature have expressed overwhelming support for the trade agreement with the United States. Now they are waiting to see if we will hold up our end of the deal.
Ψ Colombia has proven itself worthy of America's support. In recent years, Colombia's democratically-elected president has taken courageous steps to stop drug traffickers, rein in paramilitary groups, and enforce the law. Since 2000, Colombia's kidnappings, terrorist attacks, and murders have all dropped substantially, convictions have increased, and Colombia has extradited hundreds of drug traffickers and terrorists to the United States.
Ψ President Uribe has responded decisively to concerns over violence and impunity in Colombia, particularly attacks on trade unionists. President Uribe has established an independent prosecutors unit to investigate and punish homicides against labor unionists. He has allowed the International Labor Organization to station a permanent representative in Bogota. He has also worked to offer Colombians better alternatives to a life of violence and drugs including the new jobs and economic opportunities that would come from a trade agreement with the United States.
Panama
In 2006, Panama and the U.S. exchanged almost $3 billion worth of goods nearly 50 percent more than just four years ago. Panama has one of the fastest-growing economies in Central America, with a growth rate of more than eight percent last year.
The Panama free trade agreement will build on this vibrant trade relationship, eliminating tariffs on 88 percent of our industrial and consumer goods exports to Panama. It would be especially beneficial for American farmers and ranchers, and create opportunities for American businesses to participate in the Panama Canal expansion project. It will also provide new market access for U.S. service suppliers, including in Panamas key financial services sector.
South Korea
The U.S.-Korea free trade agreement (KORUS FTA) is the most commercially significant bilateral free trade agreement the United States has concluded in over 15 years. Korea is the 11th largest economy in the world, with an annual GDP of nearly $1 trillion. The KORUS FTA will open a growing market of 49 million consumers to the full range of U.S. goods and services, from autos to telecommunications services. The U.S. International Trade Commission estimates the reduction of Korean tariffs on goods alone would likely add roughly $10-12 billion to annual U.S. GDP.
The KORUS FTA will eliminate tariffs on 94 percent of trade in industrial goods within three years, and more than half of U.S. agriculture exports to Korea will become duty free immediately. The free trade agreement will also address a range of non-tariff barriers, and increase transparency in Korea's regulatory processes. The agreement will strengthen Koreas economic reforms that have helped it become a prosperous economy and vibrant democracy and sustain the growth of trade and investment opportunities for the mutual benefit of both countries.
The agreement will strengthen the United State's competitive position in the rapidly transforming Asian market and cement ties with a vital regional ally. The U.S.-Korean alliance was forged in war more than a half century ago. The KORUS FTA will energize that alliance with shared prosperity. THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
______________________________ For Immediate Release September 11, 2007
The Sixth Anniversary Of 9/11: Remembering Lives Lost And Heroic Sacrifices Made What The United States And Its Partners Are Doing To Defeat Al Qaeda And Protect America Against Attack
Today, America Remembers The Innocent Who Lost Their Lives In The Most Barbaric Attack In Our Nation's History. We remember the heroic men and women who risked and sacrificed their lives so others might survive; we extend our thoughts and prayers to the families and friends of those who were lost; and we honor the selfless men and women of our Armed Forces, the dedicated members of our law enforcement and intelligence communities, and the thousands of others at the local, State, and Federal levels who protect our country, secure our liberty, and work to prevent future attacks.
Ψ Since September 11, 2001, The President's Top Priority Has Been Protecting The American People From Attack. The 9/11 attacks showed the ruthlessness of the enemy America faces. In response to this threat, we are on the offense against our enemies to confront threats before they reach U.S. soil, and we have strengthened our defense against another attack through new homeland security programs and stronger government institutions and laws.
Ψ We Are Attacking Terrorism At Its Roots By Advancing Freedom, Liberty, And Prosperity As The Alternative To The Ideologies Of Hatred And Repression. The War on Terror is more than a military conflict it is the decisive ideological struggle of the 21st century. To keep our Nation safe, America must continue to support those in nations like Iraq and Afghanistan seeking to build free societies and democratic institutions that provide an alternative to the hateful ideology of extremists and brutal dictators.
Ψ Our Intelligence Professionals Are Using Available Tools To Stay A Step Ahead Of Our Enemies And Congress Must Act To Make Those Tools Permanent. The Protect America Act of 2007, which President Bush signed into law on August 6, 2007, modified the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) to give the Intelligence Community necessary tools to acquire important information about our enemies. Passed with bipartisan support in the House and the Senate, the Act restores FISA to its original focus of protecting the civil liberties of Americans, while not acting as an obstacle to conducting foreign intelligence surveillance on targets located in foreign countries. But this new statute is a temporary and narrowly focused measure to deal with the most immediate shortcomings in the law. It is essential that Congress act to make the Protect America Act permanent and to extend it by providing meaningful liability protection to those alleged to have assisted our Nation following the 9/11 attacks.
We Have Been On The Offense Against Our Enemies Since The 9/11 Attacks
Since 9/11, The United States And Our Allies Have Been Fighting A Global Struggle Against A Terrorist Enemy Seeking To Impose Its Violent, Evil Vision On Free And Peaceful People Throughout The World. Together, we have committed to defeating the threat by working to attack the terrorists and deny them safe haven wherever they try to hide. · We have strengthened our cooperation with partners in key regions to undermine al Qaeda's attempts to tap into and to co-opt regional terrorist networks for their own strategic purpose. · We are working to cut off terrorist financing and disrupt their networks. · We have provided training, equipment, and other assistance to build the capacity of foreign partners to attack and defeat terrorists and to strengthen their ability to conduct law enforcement, financial, regulatory, intelligence, and military activities.
We Are Fighting Violent Extremists In Iraq And Afghanistan And Across The World So That We Do Not Have To Fight Them On American Soil. These extremists want to overthrow rising democracies, claim a strategic country as a haven for terror, destabilize the Middle East, and strike America and other free nations. This is why success in Afghanistan and Iraq is vital and will be a terrible blow to the extremists' ambitions.
The United States And Our Allies Have Captured Or Killed Dozens Of Senior Al Qaeda Leaders Since 9/11. Senior leaders include al Qaeda in Iraq leader Abu Mus'ab al Zarqawi, 9/11 mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, 9/11 attack facilitator Ramzi bin al Shibh, and al Qaeda military chief Muhammad Atif.
The U.S. And Our Allies Have Disrupted Key Terrorist Plots Since 9/11. Recent examples include: · September 2007: German authorities disrupted a terrorist cell planning attacks on military installations and facilities used by Americans in Germany. The Germans arrested three suspected members of the Islamic Jihad Union, a group that has links to al Qaeda and supports al Qaeda's global jihadist agenda. · September 2007: Danish authorities disrupted a cell, which included one al Qaeda-trained individual, planning terrorist attacks using explosives. · June 2007: Four individuals were charged with plotting to blow up major fuel tanks at JFK Airport. Three of the individuals have been arrested, and the U.S. is pursuing extradition of the fourth. · May 2007: The FBI arrested six al Qaeda-inspired individuals plotting to kill soldiers at Fort Dix Army Base in New Jersey. The plotters purchased weapons for the attack, which they had been planning since January 2006. · August 2006: British authorities broke up a plot to blow up passenger airplanes flying from the UK to the U.S. Our Intelligence Community believes this plot was just two to three weeks away from execution and could have rivaled 9/11 in the death and destruction caused.
We Have Created New Institutions And Enacted Laws To Help Us Win The Long War Against Terrorism
We Have Worked With Congress To Enhance Information Sharing Between All Levels Of Government So We Can Stop Terrorists Before They Strike. We have:
· Created The Department Of Homeland Security (DHS). This agency brings 22 Federal entities under one roof to better coordinate efforts to protect the U.S. Homeland.
· Passed The USA Patriot Act. This Act has increased the flow of information between law enforcement and intelligence officials and helped break up terrorist cells in the United States.
· Created The National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC). At the NCTC, law enforcement and intelligence personnel work side-by-side on terrorist threat analysis and conduct strategic operational planning to ensure the work of departments and agencies in the War on Terror is well coordinated and responds directly to the threats we face.
· Created The Position Of Director Of National Intelligence (DNI). The DNI coordinates and integrates the work of the Intelligence Community as a unified enterprise and serves as a core part of our national security team helping to keep the American people safe from harm.
· Established The Terrorist Screening Center (TSC). The TSC maintains the Government's consolidated list of suspected terrorists and individuals with terrorist links and helps get this information into the hands of State and local law enforcement.
We Are Increasing Our Cooperation With Key Allies To Defeat The Global Terror Network Of Al Qaeda And Other Extremists
Iraq: Helping the Iraqis as they build their democracy is critical to keeping the American people safe from the terrorists who want to attack us. A free Iraq will be a massive defeat for al Qaeda, a source of hope for the rest of the Middle East, and an ally in the War on Terror.
Afghanistan: The United States and the international community are helping the Afghan people build a free nation that will stop the Taliban and al Qaeda from returning to power and deny al Qaeda a base of operations. Afghanistan, with the help of the international community, has held two free and fair elections, almost doubled the size of its economy, and expanded availability of essential services such as health and education.
Pakistan: The Pakistanis understand the threat that al Qaeda and violent extremism pose to their country and the world, and we will continue to work with them to deny terrorists safe haven in Pakistan.
North Africa: We are working with our partners to counter al Qaeda's further expansion in the Maghreb evident in the emergence of "al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb" (AQIM). This group claimed responsibility for recent terrorist bombings in Algeria, including the September 6 and September 8 attacks, which resulted in the death of a number of civilians.
Persian Gulf: We are working with allies in the region to strengthen efforts to dismantle terrorist cells, stem terrorist financing, and undercut the ideology used by al Qaeda and its supporters to justify the murder of innocents.
Europe: We continue to build strong relationships with allied governments to increase information sharing and counterterrorism cooperation.
Southeast Asia: We are assisting host-nation counterterrorism efforts, which has resulted in the disruption of local plots and terrorist networks known to target Western interests. We also continue to cooperate with the Philippine and Indonesian governments on their counterterrorism efforts, which has led to the arrests and killings of key Abu Sayyaf and Jemaah Islamiyah figures.
We Are Implementing Programs To Increase Border And Transportation Security
Doubling The Size Of The Border Patrol: Since the President took office, border security and immigration enforcement funding has increased more than 126 percent, and by the end of 2008, the President will have doubled the size of the Border Patrol since he took office to over 18,000 agents. The Administration has also launched the Secure Border Initiative, which will provide the appropriate mix of personnel, infrastructure, and technology to help secure our Nation's borders.
Screening Visa Applicants: All applicants for U.S. visas are checked against extensive databases with terrorism-related information, and all international air and sea passengers on international voyages originating or concluding in the U.S. are vetted against a consolidated terrorist watchlist. Since 9/11, we have instituted mandatory interview requirements for virtually all applicants for visas to United States. We have also launched US VISIT, a program that collects biometrics of virtually all visitors to the United States. We are able to run these prints against United States government databases to help identify travelers and keep out those who intend to do us harm.
Instituting The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative: This program will require all travelers from the Western Hemisphere to show a passport or other secure document for travel to the United States by air, sea, or land.
Screening Containers: DHS established the Container Security Initiative, under which 78 percent of the containers that enter U.S. seaports are screened before they leave for our country. In addition, virtually all containers (98 percent) entering U.S. seaports will be scanned by high-tech radiation detectors by the end of this year. DHS also launched the Secure Freight Initiative to help identify radiological or nuclear threats well in advance of a container's arrival to our country.
Improving Aviation Security: Since 9/11, we have taken substantial steps to improve aviation security, while maintaining the efficiency of air transportation for the traveling public. Highly trained Transportation Security Officers screen passengers and baggage at airports across the country. Federal Air Marshals protect hundreds of domestic and international flights every day. We have hardened cockpit doors, armed pilots to defend the flight deck, and strengthened air cargo security.
· Passenger Name Record Agreement: Last month, we reached a Passenger Name Record agreement with the European Union in which the EU agreed to continue to provide us with access to pertinent data from airliners on passengers taking transatlantic flights to and from the EU. We also collect this information on arrivals from other regions as well.
· Advanced Passenger Information System: Last month, we enhanced our Advanced Passenger Information System by publishing a final rule requiring international air and sea carriers to provide Customs and Border Protection passenger manifest information prior to boarding, rather than when planes are already in flight and cruise ships are underway. |
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