    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2005, Book I)]
    [January 25, 2005]
    [Page 73]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the Supplemental Budget Request
    January 25, 2005

        When we decided to protect America from a gathering threat by
    removing Saddam Hussein from power, I made
    two fundamental pledges: First, our troops will have whatever they need
    to protect themselves and complete their mission; and second, the United
    States will stand with the Iraqi people and against the terrorists
    trying desperately to block democracy and the advance of human rights.
        This supplemental budget request will fulfill these important
    pledges and again makes clear to terrorists that our resolve is firm and
    we will complete our mission.
        Most of these funds will support American troops on the ground by
    continuing to provide them with the equipment and other supplies they
    need. The request also provides for the continued pursuit of Al Qaida
    and other terrorist elements in Afghanistan and elsewhere, while
    supporting the great progress Afghanistan has made toward joining the
    community of free nations. And resources are included to accelerate
    efforts to train and equip Iraqi and Afghan forces so they can assume
    greater responsibility for their own security.
        The supplemental also includes funding for other important
    priorities of American foreign policy, such as helping the Palestinian
    people build a democratic state, improving the economic and humanitarian
    situation of the Palestinian people, and bridging differences between
    Israelis and Palestinians.
        I am grateful that Congress, in a strong bipartisan fashion, has
    consistently voted to support our troops, and I urge it to do so again.

    Note: The Office of the Press Secretary also released a Spanish language
    version of this statement.