    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2003, Book II)]
    [October 15, 2003]
    [Page 1312]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    [[Page 1312]]

    Statement on Japan's Announcement of Reconstruction Aid to Iraq
    October 15, 2003

        I welcome Japan's announcement that it will provide $1.5 billion
    toward immediate reconstruction needs in Iraq. I applaud this bold step,
    which will help mobilize international support for efforts to build a
    stable, peaceful, and democratic Iraq. Japan recognizes that this effort
    is critical to security and peace not only in Iraq and the Middle East
    but also for Japan and throughout the world. Japan's own history shows
    the power of international cooperation to help a great people build
    democracy and prosperity and become a beacon of freedom that inspires
    all nations.
        I also commend Japan's announcement that it is working on a larger
    aid package in preparation for the October 23-24 Madrid Donor's
    Conference. We look forward to working with Japan and other countries to
    make the Madrid Conference a success for the people of Iraq.