    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2001, Book II)]
    [November 10, 2001]
    [Pages 1380-1381]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks at a Luncheon Hosted by United Nations Secretary-General Kofi
    Annan in New York City
    November 10, 2001

        Mr. Secretary-General, distinguished members of the United Nations
    community, excellencies, and ladies and gentlemen. It's a great honor to
    attend my first U.N. General Debate as President of the United States.
    It's a special pleasure for all of us this year to be in New York, a
    city whose strength, determination, and civility have been a powerful
    testament to the human spirit. My country is very honored that for over
    half a century, New York has served as host to the United Nations.
        The United States and the United Nations have more in common than
    just a city; we also share a set of common values. Today those values
    are under attack, and the United Nations and the United States stand
    together to defend them. In this great cause, it is a special honor for
    me to have found a great partner in Kofi Annan.
        Mr. Secretary-General, I appreciate the many times we have spoken,
    particularly over the last 2 months. These have been difficult and
    challenging days for my Nation, and I've benefited from your wisdom

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    and your vision and your resolve and your optimism.
        Mr. Secretary-General, let me take this opportunity to congratulate
    you and the United Nations once again on your receipt of this year's
    Nobel Peace Prize.
        Mr. Secretary-General, you've been the leader of the United Nations
    at a time it needed leadership, at a time when your strong advocacy for
    peace and international public health and collective security was needed
    so badly. You've been a strong voice for human solidarity and vigilance
    against violence. And Americans deeply admire your strong defense of the
    universality of human rights.
        We've been called to fight many times in the defense of human
    rights. And today, we're called again, because today, our very
    civilization is threatened. Mr. Secretary-General, we appreciate your
    support in this great struggle.
        I offer you this toast: Mr. Secretary-General, to the continued
    success of your stewardship of the United Nations, to the institution
    you serve so ably, and to our common search for peace and justice in the
    world. God bless.

    Note: The President spoke at 1:44 p.m. in the North Delegates Lounge at
    the United Nations Headquarters.