    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2005, Book I)]
    [April 21, 2005]
    [Page 653]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on Senate Passage of Appropriations Legislation for
    Afghanistan, Iraq, and the War on Terror
    April 21, 2005

        I applaud the Senate for its strong bipartisan support for our
    troops and our continued effort to win the war on terror. New
    democracies are taking root in Iraq and Afghanistan, and America is
    proud to stand with them. Both countries are assuming greater
    responsibility for their own security, which will help our troops return
    home as quickly as possible with the honor they have earned. I urge the
    House and Senate to reach a final agreement that focuses taxpayer
    dollars on providing the tools our troops and diplomats need now, so
    that I can sign a bill into law as soon as possible.