    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2002, Book II)]
    [July 17, 2002]
    [Pages 1252-1253]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks at a Welcoming Ceremony for President Aleksander
    Kwasniewski of Poland
    July 17, 2002

        Mr. President, Madam First Lady,
    members of the Polish delegation, distinguished guests, on behalf of the
    American people, it is my great honor to welcome you to the United
    States.
        This is the--only the second state visit of my administration, and
    it symbolizes the high importance America places on our friendship with
    Poland. This friendship is rooted in our common history and sustained by
    our common values.
        This generation of Poles has written a story of courage and
    determination that has inspired America and has inspired the world. Out
    of a past filled with pain and oppression, Poland is constructing a
    future defined by greater freedom, good relations with its neighbors,
    and increasing influence throughout Europe.
        And today, Mr. President, we meet as leaders of two strong, mature
    democracies, ready to shape a new era of freedom and security. Together,
    Poland and America are standing and fighting side by side in the war
    against global terrorism. From military forces to law enforcement,
    terrorist financing and intelligence, Poland's support and solidarity in
    this great struggle has been unqualified, and America is deeply
    grateful.
        Our nations are determined to lead the way in NATO's efforts to
    develop new capabilities to meet new threats. We're united in our
    determination that our children will inherit a world defined not by fear
    and chaos but by tolerance and freedom.
        Together, Poland and America are building that freedom on the
    continent of Europe. Today, a new Europe is within our grasp, one that
    is whole and free and at peace for the first time in its history.
        In November, the President and I will join other NATO leaders in
    Prague to decide on inviting new members into the Alliance. On this
    issue, Poland and America stand united. We believe in NATO membership
    for all European democracies ready to share in NATO's responsibilities.
    Our aim is for freedom and security to span the European Continent from
    the Atlantic and the Mediterranean to the Baltic Sea and the Black Sea.
        Together, Poland and America are also building our common
    prosperity. The trade and investment that flows between our countries
    creates jobs and lifts lives on both continents. We're determined to
    bring the benefits of trade and markets to all our citizens.
        Today, Poland and America are forging a new strategic relationship,
    but the friendship between our people is very old. Nine million
    Americans claim Polish descent. Over two centuries ago, when Americans
    were fighting for our independence, Poles fought alongside us. In the
    century just passed, as Poles reclaimed their independence, America
    stood by Poland. And today, Poland and America stand and fight together
    for our common freedom and for bringing the hope of freedom to all who
    seek it in the world.
        Mr. President, in June of last year you welcomed Laura and me to
    Poland. You showed us a nation of deep faith, a central part of Europe's
    soul. And you showed us a nation alive with liberty and energy and

    [[Page 1253]]

    enterprise. Today Laura and I are honored to welcome you and the First
    Lady to an America that is proud to call
    Poland a friend, an ally, and a partner.
        Thank you for coming, and welcome.

    Note: The President spoke at 9:10 a.m. on the South Lawn at the White
    House, where President Kwasniewski was accorded a formal welcome with
    full military honors. In his remarks, President Bush referred to Jolanta
    Kwasniewska, wife of President Kwasniewski. The transcript released by
    the Office of the Press Secretary also included the remarks of President
    Kwasniewski.