[Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2004, Book II)]
[September 21, 2004]
[Page 2150]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]



Remarks at a Luncheon Hosted by Secretary-General Kofi Annan of the United Nations in New York City
September 21, 2004

    Mr. Secretary-General, distinguished members of the United Nations 
community, excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, my country is honored to 
welcome you to New York. This is my fourth General Assembly, and I'm 
very pleased to be among you as we open the 59th Session of the United 
Nations General Assembly this year under the leadership of Foreign 
Minister Ping of Gabon.
    We last met in the shadow of a great tragedy. In August 2003, a 
terrorist attack in Baghdad took the lives of 22 servants of peace, 
including Sergio de Mello, who gave his life for the values of liberty 
and peace. We pledge, once again, to carry on their essential work.
    That work is moving forward. U.N. officials are helping the people 
of Afghanistan as that nation moves toward an historic Presidential 
election this October. In Iraq, you're helping to build the 
infrastructure of democracy and prepare the way for free and fair 
nationwide elections. In Sudan and Liberia, Haiti and other nations, 
this body has been working hard to bring security, humanitarian 
assistance, and stability to the people in desperate need. Much credit 
for these efforts is due to Kofi Annan, who has shown strong vision.
    Mr. Secretary-General, with admiration for your leadership and with 
confidence in this organization, I offer a toast to you and your service 
and to the United Nations.

Note: The President spoke at approximately 1:41 p.m. at the United 
Nations Headquarters. In his remarks, he referred to Foreign Minister 
Jean Ping of Gabon, President, 59th Session of the U.N. General 
Assembly. The transcript released by the Office of the Press Secretary 
also included the remarks of Secretary-General Annan.