    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2003, Book II)]
    [November 3, 2003]
    [Page 1461]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on Senate Passage of the ``Emergency Supplemental
    Appropriations Act for Defense and for the Reconstruction of Iraq and
    Afghanistan, 2004''
    November 3, 2003

        I commend Congress for providing vital funds to support our mission
    and our troops deployed in Afghanistan, Iraq, and elsewhere. These
    resources, coupled with the growing assistance of international donors,
    will provide essential support to make Iraq more secure and to help the
    Iraqi people transition to self-government. The funds will also enable
    us to continue our efforts to help Afghanistan become a peaceful,
    democratic, and prosperous nation that contributes to regional
    stability.
        Our country is being tested. Those who seek to kill coalition forces
    and innocent Iraqis want America and its coalition partners to run so
    the terrorists can reclaim control. The strong bipartisan show of
    support for this bill underscores that America and the world are united
    to prevail in the central front in the war on terror by helping build a
    peaceful, democratic, and prosperous Iraq.
        I thank Chairmen Stevens and Young for their efforts and look forward to signing this
    bill.