    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2005, Book I)]
    [February 23, 2005]
    [Pages 294-295]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks at a Luncheon Hosted by Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder of Germany in Mainz, Germany
    February 23, 2005

        Gerhard, before I raise my imaginary glass--[laughter]--I do want to
    thank you for your hospitality. You and Doris have been very kind to Laura and
    me, and we

    [[Page 295]]

    appreciate that. I want to thank all the folks who have come to say
    hello from around this great country. It means a lot to both of us that
    you're here.
        You know, in the course of my political career, I've often been
    accused of following in my father's
    footsteps. I don't know why people say that. [Laughter] I'm proud to be
    here, 16 years after he was here. I hope he brought my mother because, like me, we both married above ourselves.
    [Laughter] I'm proud to be traveling with Laura.
        The first trip I took since my second inauguration was to Europe,
    because Europe is a vital relationship for the United States of America.
    It is in my Nation's interest that Europe be strong. We want a strong
    partner for peace and freedom. We can't have good, strong relations with
    Europe if we don't have good relations with Germany. This great nation
    is the heart of Europe.
        My trip today should say to the people of this good country and my
    country that past disagreements are behind us, and we're moving forward
    for the good of mankind. And that shouldn't be a surprise to people,
    because we believe in human rights and human dignity and the worth of
    every individual.
        And so today I come to Germany to raise my imaginary glass to our
    friendship, our relationship, our ability to work together, and for
    freedom and peace. May God bless you all.

    Note: The President spoke at 11:58 a.m. in the Grosser Saal Lobby of the
    Electoral Palace. In his remarks, he referred to Doris Schroeder-Koepf,
    wife of Chancellor Schroeder. The transcript released by the Office of
    the Press Secretary also included the remarks of Chancellor Schroeder.