REMARKS BY PRESIDENT BUSH
IN AN EXCHANGE OF TOASTS
Malacanang Palace
Manila, Philippines
October 18, 2003
Thank you very much, Madam President and Attorney Arroyo, for your gracious
hospitality. Laura and I are really grateful for your warm words of
welcome. We also appreciate the distinction you have bestowed upon us
this evening, the Order of the Sikatuna and the Order of Gabriela Silang.
We are honored to accept them on behalf of the American people. (Applause.)
I represent the oldest democracy in the Americas. And I'm proud to
pay tribute to the oldest democracy in Asia. (Applause.) The friendship
between our countries is strong and warm and enduring. And we reaffirm
that partnership here tonight.
Today, I was the first United States President since Dwight Eisenhower
to address a joint session of your Congress. In 1960, President Eisenhower
expressed America's firm support for a fledgling democracy. Two generations
later, I am pleased to show my country's support for the great democracy
you have become. (Applause.)
The Philippines and the United States are linked by shared values,
by shared history, and by a shared commitment to the defense of liberty.
Only a few miles from this palace are the graves of 17,000 Americans
who fought for freedom in the Pacific. Their lasting legacy and the
legacy of the Filipinos who fought with them is a free and democratic
Philippine nation.
Today free nations are tested once again. Once again, we face determined
enemies of freedom -- the terrorists and their allies. Once again, we
are depending on one another in an hour of need. Once again, we are
relying on the strength of the great alliance between our two countries.
Once again, we will prevail. (Applause.)
Madam President, I thank you for your friendship and counsel, for your
courage and perseverance. And I offer this toast to you, to the great
nation of the Philippines, and to the lasting friendship between our
two peoples.
(A toast is offered.)
Thank you all. (Applause).
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