    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2003, Book II)]
    [December 9, 2003]
    [Pages 1699-1700]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks at a Welcoming Ceremony for Premier Wen Jiabao of China
    December 9, 2003

        Mr. Premier, members of the delegation, it is my honor to welcome
    you to the White House. Your visit reflects the increasing ties of
    cooperation and commerce between our two nations.
        America and China share many common interests. We are working
    together in the war on terror. We are fighting to defeat a ruthless
    enemy of order and civilization. We are partners in diplomacy working to
    meet the dangers of the 21st century. We are full members of a world
    trading system that rewards enterprise and lifts nations.
        Our two nations seek a Korean Peninsula that is stable and at peace.
    The elimination of North Korea's nuclear programs is essential to this
    outcome. Realizing this vision will require the strong cooperation of
    all North Korea's neighbors. I am grateful for China's leadership in
    hosting the six-party talks which are bringing us closer to a peaceful
    resolution of this issue. And my Government will continue to work with
    China as it plays a constructive role in Asia and in the world.
        The rapid rise of China's economy is one of the great achievements
    of our time. China's increasing prosperity has brought great benefits to
    the Chinese people and to China's trading partners around the world. We
    recognize that if prosperity's power is to reach in every corner of
    China, the Chinese Government must fully integrate into the rules and
    norms of the international trading and finance system.

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        China has discovered that economic freedom leads to national wealth.
    The growth of economic freedom in China provides reason to hope that
    social, political, and religious freedoms will grow there as well. In
    the long run, these freedoms are indivisible and essential to national
    greatness and national dignity.
        As our two nations work constructively across areas of common
    interest, we are candid about our disagreements. The growing strength
    and maturity of our relationship allows us to discuss our differences,
    whether over economic issues, Taiwan, Tibet, or human rights and
    religious freedom, in a spirit of mutual understanding and respect.
        China is a great civilization, a great power, and a great nation.
    Premier Wen, when my country looks forward to--my country looks forward
    to working with you as China increasingly takes its place among the
    leading nations of the world.
        The United States and China have made great progress in building a
    relationship that can address the challenges of our time, encourage
    global prosperity, and advance the cause of peace. It is my hope that
    your visit will further that progress.
        Welcome, and thank you for coming.

    Note: The President spoke at 10 a.m. on the South Portico at the White
    House, where Premier Wen was accorded a formal welcome with full
    military honors. The transcript released by the Office of the Press
    Secretary also included the remarks of Premier Wen.