    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2003, Book II)]
    [October 19, 2003]
    [Pages 1362-1363]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks at a State Dinner Hosted by King Phumiphon Adunyadet and Queen Sirikit of
    Thailand in Bangkok
    October 19, 2003

        Thank you, Your Majesty, for your warm and gracious welcome. Thanks
    also to Her Majesty the Queen for hosting this event. I thank as well
    the Grand Chamberlain who earlier today led us on a tour of the
    magnificent Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Laura and I have been seeing
    the famous hospitality of the Thai people, and we are most grateful.
        The United States of America deeply values our alliance with the
    Kingdom of Thailand. Your Majesty, the world has changed greatly since
    your reign began 57 years ago. Yet thanks to your enlightened leadership
    and steady hand, the friendship between our two nations has remained
    constant.
        Over the decades, we worked together to build the foundations of
    liberty in this region, rule of law, respect for human rights, free
    enterprise, and peace. Today, we continue to strive toward the same
    goals in the face of different challenges. Nations are working together
    in Afghanistan and Iraq. Royal Thai troops have served well in both
    places, helping Afghans and Iraqis make the transition from tyranny to
    self-government.
        The emergence of these free nations is a setback for terrorism and
    radicalism. By sharing the duties of our coalition, Thailand is
    contributing to peace and stability in those two countries and
    increasing the security of all free nations.
        Thailand has played a vital role in East Timor, helping create a new
    nation to bring dignity to nearly a million people and to stabilize an
    entire region. You are fully joined in the fight against the drug trade
    and against HIV/AIDS and other diseases.
        Thailand is a principled, generous nation, rising to meet the
    challenges of our time. Thailand's positive influence in the world

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    is inspired by the fine example of service that Your Majesty and Her
    Majesty the Queen set for your people. It's also vivid in the great,
    humane traditions of this land. America is honored to have your
    friendship.
        So I offer a toast to Your Majesties, to the royal family, and to
    your great nation.

    Note: The President spoke at 7:40 p.m. in the Chakri Throne Room at the
    Grand Palace. A tape was not available for verification of the content
    of these remarks.