    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2005, Book I)]
    [April 25, 2005]
    [Pages 659-660]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Exchange With Reporters in Crawford, Texas
    April 25, 2005

    President's Meeting With Crown Prince Abdullah of Saudi Arabia

        Q. What do you expect to get out of this meeting, sir?
        The President. Do you like the footpath?
        Q. Let's talk about the meeting.
        The President. This is an important relationship--personal
    relationship with the Crown Prince is important. I look forward to
    talking with him about a variety of subjects. I'm glad you're here.
    Thank you for coming. I hope you're enjoying this day.

    Oil Prices/Energy Legislation

        Q. How much progress can you make on oil prices?
        The President. I'll be glad to answer those questions at a later
    time.
        Q. Later today?
        The President. No. No, of course I'll talk about energy. And the
    Crown Prince understands that it's very
    important for there to be a--make sure that the price is reasonable. A
    high oil price will damage markets, and he knows that. I look forward to
    talking to him about that. But as well as--you know, we'll talk about
    his country's capacity. It's an important subject.
        One thing is for certain: I need to sign an energy bill. I
    appreciate the House passing the energy bill, and now it's time for the
    Senate to pass the energy bill. The bill is a long time in coming. The
    Vice President and I suggested they pass a bill
    in 2001, and nothing happened. Now is the time for something to happen.
    I'm looking forward to getting back to Washington and continue to talk
    about energy.
        Q. Sir, do you think gas prices can be any lower than it is today?
        The President. That depends on the supply and demand. One thing is
    for certain: The price of crude is driving the price of gasoline. The
    price of crude is up because not only is our economy growing, but
    economies such as India and China's economies are growing.
        Here comes my guest. Anyway, nice
    going; you got me to answer some questions.

    Note: The exchange began at 11:05 a.m. at the Bush Ranch.

    [[Page 660]]