    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2003, Book II)]
    [November 15, 2003]
    [Page 1546]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the Announcement of a Transition Plan by the Iraqi
    Governing Council
    November 15, 2003

        I welcome the announcement by the Iraqi Governing Council of a
    political timetable as called for by the United Nations in U.N.
    Resolution 1511. This statement is an important step toward realizing
    the vision of Iraq as a democratic, pluralistic country at peace with
    its neighbors.
        The plan outlined by the Governing Council meets a key mutual
    objective of the coalition and the Iraqi people: the restoration of
    sovereignty to a body chosen by the citizens of Iraq and based in a
    legal framework. It also commits Iraq to a process for drafting a
    permanent, democratic constitution that protects the rights of all
    citizens.
        The U.S. stands ready to help the Governing Council and all Iraqis
    translate this new timeline into political reality. The American people
    are committed to the future of an Iraq that is democratic and
    prosperous.