    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2002, Book I)]
    [February 13, 2002]
    [Pages 220-226]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    The President's News Conference With President Pervez
    Musharraf of Pakistan
    February 13, 2002

        President Bush Good morning. It's my honor to welcome President
    Musharraf to the White House. President Musharraf is a leader with great
    courage and vision, and his nation is a key partner in the global
    coalition against terror. Pakistan's continuing support of Operation
    Enduring Freedom has been critical to our success so far in toppling the
    Taliban and routing out the Al Qaida network.
        Yet President Musharraf has made an even broader commitment. He has
    declared that Pakistan will be an enemy of terrorism and extremism
    wherever it exists, including inside his own border. He understands that
    terrorism is wrong and destructive in any cause. He knows that his
    nation cannot grow peacefully if terrorists are tolerated or ignored in
    his country, in his region, or in the world. He is committed to banning
    the groups that practice terror, closing their offices and arresting the
    terrorists themselves.
        Terrorists operating in Pakistan recently kidnaped American reporter
    Daniel Pearl. We spent a time today in the Oval
    Office

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    talking about our mutual desire to see that Mr. Pearl is returned home
    safely. I want to thank the President for his assistance and work on
    securing Mr. Pearl's release.
        I also applaud President Musharraf's clearly stated intention to
    work for peace in Kashmir and lower tensions with India. I'm
    particularly pleased to note that he is going to be holding elections
    later on this fall.
        The President has articulated a vision of a Pakistan as a
    progressive, modern, and democratic Islamic society, determined and
    serious about seeking greater learning and greater prosperity for its
    citizens. The United States is committed to working in partnership with
    Pakistan to pursue these objectives.
        Together, our nations will continue to cooperate against terror and
    trafficking in drugs. We will strengthen ties of trade and investment
    between our nations. We'll work to improve educational and economic
    opportunities for all Pakistanis, especially women and children. And my
    Government stands ready to work with all parties on the subcontinent to
    foster dialog to lower tensions and resolve outstanding issues.
        The forces of history have accelerated the growth of friendship
    between the United States and Pakistan. I believe the pages of history
    will record that this friendship was hopeful and positive and will lead
    to peace.
        Mr. President.
        President Musharraf. Thank you very much, Mr. President, for your
    welcome and your kind words and sentiments expressed for me and for
    Pakistan and for my Government.
        I recall with great pleasure our very productive meeting last
    November in New York. We have also spoken quite frequently on the
    telephone since then. I value most highly this opportunity to exchange
    views with you in person.
        Our discussions this morning have been fruitful and constructive and
    will continue over the lunch. Our meetings and discussions with senior
    members of your administration continue as part of the ongoing dialog
    which characterizes our close and cooperative relations.
        For more than half a century, the relations between Pakistan and the
    United States have been friendly, multifaceted, and enduring. They
    represent an important element of stability in our region and beyond.
    The criminal terrorist attacks of September 11th and the momentous
    events since then have demonstrated the depth and strength of this
    relationship between the United States and Pakistan.
        Pakistan has a firm position of principle in the international
    battle against terrorism. We reject terrorism in all its forms and
    manifestations anywhere in the world. We will continue to fulfill our
    responsibilities flowing from our commitment.
        I am gratified that my vision of Pakistan as a dynamic, liberal,
    progressive, peaceful, and genuinely democratic Muslim country and the
    decision I announced on 12 January have evoked a supportive response in
    the United States. I believe that Pakistan-United States relationship
    must draw strength from our past relationship as we move to a new
    century, a changed world and meet the challenges faced ahead.
        I apprised the President of the massive and aggressive deployment of
    Indian forces on our borders and the serious security situation that it
    has created. The immediate return of Indian forces to peacetime
    locations and the early resumption of dialog between Pakistan and India
    is the way forward. We welcome the constructive role played by President
    Bush and Secretary Powell in urging restraint and defusing military
    tensions.
        I am committed to a peaceful resolution of the Kashmir dispute, in
    accordance with the wishes of the Kashmiri people. All other differences
    existing between Pakistan and India should also be settled through
    peaceful means. We believe the United States can facilitate such a
    solution and help South Asia turn a new leaf.

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        The faithful implementation of the Bonn accord provides the best
    guarantee for the future of Afghanistan. The interim administration must
    be strengthened and its writ established over the entire country.
    Rehabilitation and reconstruction must begin in Afghanistan. The Tokyo
    donors conference has provided a forceful and timely impulse to this
    process, which will also accelerate the return of millions of Afghan
    refugees in Pakistan to their homeland.
        Together, the United States and Pakistan can accomplish great
    things. We have embarked on a long-term partnership. We look forward to
    an era of robust collaboration. I look forward, Mr. President, to your
    visit to Pakistan, where a warm and cordial welcome awaits you from the
    people of Pakistan, who hold you in the highest of esteem.
        I thank you, sir.
        President Bush. Thank you, Mr. President; good job.
        President Musharraf. Thank you.

    Iraq/Daniel Pearl

        Q. Mr. President, your advisers have long said that there needs to
    be regime change in Iraq. Are you looking at military action to achieve
    that goal? How could Saddam be toppled?
        And to President Musharraf, are you confident that Mr. Pearl is
    alive and will be released soon?
        President Bush. Ron [Ron Fournier, Associated Press], I meant what I
    said the other night, that there are some nations in the world which
    develop weapons of mass destruction with one intention, and that is to
    hold America hostage and/or harm Americans and/or our friends and
    allies. And I also meant what I said, that I look forward to working
    with the world to bring pressure on those nations to change their
    behavior. But make no mistake about it, if we need to, we will take
    necessary action to defend the American people.
        And I think that statement was clear enough for Iraq to hear me, and
    I will reserve whatever options I have. I'll keep them close to my vest.
    President--or Saddam Hussein needs to
    understand I'm serious about defending our country.
        I think one of the worst things that can happen in the world is
    terrorist organizations mating up with nations which have had a bad
    history and nations which develop weapons of mass destruction. It would
    be devastating for those of us who fight for freedom. And therefore, we,
    the free world, are going to--must make it clear to these nations
    they've got a choice to make. And I'll keep all options available if
    they don't make the choice.
        Q. Mr. President, Mr. President----
        President Bush. Here's what's going to happen. Hold on for a second,
    please. Hold on for a second. These two press people are going to
    actually bring some order to this by calling upon individuals, and the
    President is going to speak about Daniel Pearl.
        President Musharraf. Your first part of the question, whether Mr.
    Pearl is alive or dead--I am reasonably sure he's alive, and I really
    very much hope--we all hope that he's alive. About getting him released,
    well, let me say we are as close as possible to getting him released.
        But I would like to emphasize here that I have taken certain steps
    in Pakistan to crush extremism, religious intolerance in the society.
    And therefore, I expected a certain degree of fallout of these steps.
    But however, I would like to say we are not deterred. These kinds of
    things were expected, and we will meet this challenge and try to resolve
    whatever negative influences it creates in our society.
        I very much hope that with all our efforts and the combined efforts
    of all the intelligence agencies in Pakistan, we will be able to get Mr.
    Pearl released.

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    Kashmir

        Q. Mr. President, it is evident that the Kashmir issue has not been
    resolved through bilateral talks between India and Pakistan. In the
    beginning, U.S. even voted for Kashmir, the United States and U.N.
    resolution. Now we hope that U.S. come forward for mediation and resolve
    this issue, because this is the main issue between India and Pakistan.
        President Bush. Well, our hope is that we can facilitate meaningful
    dialog between India and Pakistan. The only way this issue is going to
    be solved is if the Pakistani Government and the Indian Government sit
    down and have serious, meaningful dialog to resolve this issue. And you
    heard the President of Pakistan say his hope is that there's a peaceful
    resolution. That's our hope, as well. And so the best thing our
    Government can do is to encourage there to be a--to come to the table
    and start to have meaningful, real dialog. And that's what we'll
    continue to press for.

    Campaign Finance Reform

        Q. On campaign finance reform, sir, are Republican----
        President Bush. Is this to the Pakistani President, or me?
    [Laughter]
        Q. For you, sir. On campaign finance reform, are Republican
    operatives trying to kill the bill? And will you sign Shays-Meehan if it
    gets to your desk?
        President Bush. Well, I want to sign a bill that improves the
    system. And it seems like to me that if they get a bill out of the House
    of Representatives that improves the system, it ought to be in effect
    immediately. But we'll see what comes my way. And I would look at it
    very carefully and give it a good look.
        Q. What about the Republicans--are they trying to kill the bill,
    working for the RNC?
        President Bush. I've talked to many Republicans that are trying to
    improve the system, as well. And again, I repeat--I understand there's a
    chance to amend the bill that says, if it improves the system, let's
    have it in effect this year. And I support that. I think it makes sense.
    But I'll take a good look at it. It's making its way through the system,
    and I'll give it a good look.

    Pakistan-U.S. Relations

        Q. President Bush, you talked about history----
        President Bush. Talked about--excuse me?
        Q. You talked about history----
        President Bush. Oh, history, yes. Getting a little hard of hearing.
        Q. And history shows that the U.S. dumped Pakistan after the Afghan
    war in 1980. So a common Pakistani wants to know whether the U.S. will
    repeat the same history again, once again. And secondly, how do you plan
    to help Pakistan, the modernization of Pakistan in its struggle of
    survival against mighty and militarized India?
        President Bush. Well, that's a very legitimate question. And it's--
    one of the reasons why President Musharraf and I are spending time
    together is, he has got to be confident in me and my Government
    willingness to stay supportive of Pakistan. I think one of the things,
    in order for us to have a positive relationship, is that he realizes
    that when we say we're committed, we're committed. And we're committed
    to peace in the region. We're committed to fighting terror.
        The President made a tough decision and a strong decision. It's not
    only a decision about fighting terror; it's a decision for the direction
    of his country. And we support that strongly.
        So I can understand why some in Pakistan are saying, ``Well, oh,
    this is just a short-term dance.'' But so long as we share the same
    ideals and values and common objectives, we'll work with Pakistan. And
    there are ways to help. The President is going to go see Secretary
    Rumsfeld today. We have--he negotiated
    and we willingly supported a strong aid package in the '02

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    budget. We're now discussing help in the '03 budget. We want to help
    facilitate the President's concerns about a debt burden on Pakistan. We
    want to talk about trade matters. We want to help him achieve his vision
    of elevating the average citizen by giving them a chance and a hopeful
    opportunity for life.
        And so, I would suggest that people in Pakistan remember to think
    about the future and not dwell in the past. That's what the President
    has done with his vision, and I am proud to call him friend.
        I want to remind people from Pakistan that I didn't mention many
    world leaders in my State of the Union. But I mentioned President
    Musharraf, for a reason. And hopefully, that's an indication of my
    sincerity of developing a strong and meaningful relationship.

    Education Reform in Pakistan

        Q. Mr. Bush and Mr. Musharraf, should secular schools be the
    standard in Islamic communities in Pakistan to prevent jihads and other
    terrorists attacks like 9/11?
        President Bush. Let me first--and I'd like the President to speak on
    this, basically on the madrasa school issue in Pakistan. One of the
    things that most impressed me about President Musharraf, that gives me
    confidence in his vision, is that the last time we met in New York City,
    we spent a fair amount of time talking about education reform. And the
    President has placed a very intriguing and very interesting woman in charge of the education system in Pakistan. She
    used to work in rural areas, a rural province of the country. He's
    elevated her to Cabinet position because she's a reformer. She
    understands the modern world requires an education system that trains
    children in basic sciences and reading and math and the history of
    Pakistan.
        And the President laid out to me a vision, which he can share with
    you, about how to encourage madrasas to adopt a curriculum that will
    actually--will work and will provide a workforce, a trained workforce,
    and will give people hope.
        And so our Government is committed to working with the Pakistani
    Government on education reform. We had a--as I understand that of the
    $600 million, part of the aid package last year, 100 million of those
    dollars have gone into education reform. The President will make the
    decision as to how best to use that. There's 35 million--or 34 million
    additional dollars this year that will go help on education reform.
        I shared with him my passion about education reform here in America,
    and I want to applaud him for making a visionary statement about
    education. He knows what I know: An educated child is one much more
    likely to be able to realize dreams and to be a productive citizen.
        So, April [April Ryan, American Urban Radio Networks], I think--let
    the President speak to this issue, if you don't mind.
        President Musharraf. Thank you. We are involved in Pakistan, as I
    laid out in the 12 January speech, in a jihad--jihad-e-akbar, which I
    call a greater jihad, which is in our teaching in Islam, a jihad against
    illiteracy, a jihad against poverty, backwardness, hunger. This is the
    jihad that we are engaged now and we have initiated.
        Now, within this jihad, education forms a focal area. And since the
    President wants me to focus particularly on madrasa, in education we are
    taking three areas of education. One is the madrasa education; the
    second is the primary and secondary education; and the third is higher
    education. I would just like to focus on the madrasa education. We have
    formulated strategies in each one of these three areas.
        Madrasas, we must understand, are basically--there are about 600,000
    to 800,000 students here in madrasas. Now, the positive aspect of the
    madrasa--which I did lay out in my speech also; I would like to
    highlight for everyone to hear--is that they are a welfare. They have a
    welfare and humanitarian aspect to them. They feed and house the poorest
    of the poor

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    children. So this is the positive aspect of their providing free board
    and lodge to the poorest of the poor.
        Now, the weaknesses of some of the madrasas only teaching
    religious--giving religious education to the children has to be removed.
    And the children in these madrasas need to be brought into the
    mainstream of life. And that is what we are doing.
        We have asked the madrasas to introduce four subjects, and these are
    science, English, Pakistan studies, and mathematics. Now, with these
    four subjects introduced, we have also created a board for them to take
    their examinations from. And once they take their examinations through
    these boards, it will make them eligible to transfer to any other
    college or university, if I want to give them a scholarship and take
    them there, or to get them a job anywhere, in a banking area or in the
    military or anywhere, instead of focusing only into the religious field.
        So this is the strategy that we have adopted to get these children
    into the mainstream of life in Pakistan. So the basic idea is, utilize
    their strength, the strength of their giving free board and lodge to
    such a vast population of the poorest of the poor, and eradicate their
    weakness so that they are drawn into the mainstream of life in Pakistan.
    This is the strategy we are following.

    U.S. Treatment of Pakistanis

        Q. My question is for President Bush. President, you know----
        President Bush. Why am I not surprised? [Laughter]
        Q. Almost more than 700,000 Pakistanis are based in the United
    States.
        President Bush. Say that again? I'm sorry.
        Q. Almost more than 700,000 Pakistanis are based in the United
    States.
        President Bush. Right, right.
        Q. But after September 11th, FBI and different law enforcing
    agencies, they made a major crackdown against different communities. And
    Pakistani community has especially been targeted by law enforcing
    agencies, and hundreds of Pakistanis are in different detention centers.
    And there is a sense in the community they are treating them like a
    terrorist. And you know, very wrong messages are delivered back to
    Pakistan that in the United States, Pakistanis are treated like a
    terrorists. And on the other side, in Pakistan, is supporting all the
    way the United States in the war against terrorism.
        President Bush. Yes.
        Q. And the same White House--Mexican President, Mr. Fox, visited
    White House, and you promised that you will consider to give guest
    worker status to illegal Mexicans, 3.5 million. So keeping in, you know,
    the Pakistani--what they have done for United States, would you be kind
    enough to consider a legal status for a small number of illegal
    Pakistanis who are in process of legalization?
        President Bush. Well, first, we need to reform our INS. There's no
    question the paperwork delays are way too long. It's frustrating for
    people. So for those who are amazed at the fact that paperwork can stay
    in a process for such a period of time, I can understand that.
        Secondly, I've always believed that we ought to encourage a willing
    employee and a willing employer to come together. And as we discuss
    immigration law, that ought to be an aspect of the law.
        And finally, this great Nation is a nation that will protect
    ourselves; we're still under threat. But we treat people with ultimate
    respect. I mean, people in this country have got a chance to get
    attorneys at law to help them. People are not being--we never said,
    let's go single out a particular group of citizens. Let's protect
    America. If we get any kind of lead or any kind of hint about anything
    that is--could lead to an attack, we're going to give people a chance to
    share information to protect America. That makes sense, if you're living
    here and

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    you care about the country, that you ought to be given a chance to
    participate.
        So I don't know who, specifically, you're referring to, but people
    are being treated incredibly humanely here--and in Guantanamo Bay, by
    the way. Perhaps you're referring to maybe some citizens there. I will
    just assure you, like I've assured the President, that people are
    getting fantastic health care, much better health care today in
    Guantanamo Bay than they were getting in Afghanistan, I can assure you.
        And so our country is mindful of the need to respect people's
    rights. But I want to assure you, we will do, within our power, within
    the Constitution of the United States, what it takes to defend the
    American people. My most important job is to protect innocent Americans,
    and this is exactly what I'm going to do.
        Listen, thank you all very much.

    Note: The President's news conference began at 11:34 a.m. in the Cross
    Hall at the White House. In his remarks, he referred to President Saddam
    Hussein of Iraq and Minister for Education Zubeda Jalal of Pakistan. A
    reporter referred to President Vicente Fox of Mexico. President
    Musharraf referred to the Bonn Agreement, the December 5, 2001,
    Agreement on Provisional Arrangements in Afghanistan Pending the Re-
    establishment of Permanent Government Institutions, reached at a United
    Nations-sponsored meeting of Afghan representatives, which established
    the Interim Afghan Administration; and the Tokyo donors conference, the
    January 20-21 meeting of 61 nations which pledged $4.5 billion for the
    reconstruction of Afghanistan.