[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.