[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.