    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2006, Book I)]
    [March 4, 2006]
    [Pages 408-409]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks at a State Dinner Hosted by President Pervez
    Musharraf of Pakistan in Islamabad
     March 4, 2006

        Mr. President and Mrs. Musharraf and
    distinguished guests, Laura and I thank you for
    the warm and gracious welcome. It's such a pleasure to be here in
    Pakistan. We've had a fantastic day. I was fooled by a googly.
    [Laughter] Otherwise, I'd have been a better batsman. But it's been a
    full day, Mr. President, and your hospitality has overwhelmed us, and
    thank you.
        I bring greetings from my fellow citizens, in particular the
    thousands of Pakistani Americans who call my land home, folks who have
    really made a tremendous contribution to the United States of America.
        Our nations are strong allies, Mr. President. We're allies in the
    war on terror, and we're allies in laying the foundation of lasting
    peace. In the struggle in the war on terror, Pakistan and America has
    lost many good citizens. And we ask for God's blessings on their
    families. Pakistan's efforts to enhance peace and security have earned
    the respect and the admiration of the American people. When the
    terrorists are defeated and when the peace is won, our two nations will
    share the peace together.
        The American people care deeply about the people of Pakistan. We
    watched with horror and great sorrow as last year's earthquake
    devastated this ancient land. Americans have experienced the trauma of
    natural disasters in our own country, and we've witnessed the power of
    friendship to rebuild lives and to restore hope. I'm proud

    [[Page 409]]

    of the U.S. relief efforts. I want to thank those officials who are here
    to help the people of Pakistan.
        I'm pleased that our helicopters earned the name ``angels of mercy''
    from those who were anxious for help in the mountains. I'm proud that
    our Government and businesses and private organizations and individual
    families also saw your need and gave their time and treasures to help
    rebuild this vital nation. Our donations reflect the compassion of our
    country, the respect we have for Pakistan. And we will make good on our
    donations, Mr. President.
        America and Pakistan have confronted great challenges together, and
    we will continue to do so. Americans will support the Pakistani people
    as they take further steps toward democracy, expand educational
    opportunities for boys and girls, and create prosperity through
    innovation and global trade. Pakistan has a bright future because of its
    proud people and because of the hard work of a strong leader. President
    Musharraf, you've proved yourself to be a man of courage and vision. I
    appreciate the honor of being your partner in working for peace and
    security.
        And so, Mr. President, with gratitude for what we've accomplished
    and with optimism for what we will yet accomplish, I offer my respect to
    you, to your gracious wife, and to the people of Pakistan.

    Note: The President spoke at 8:10 p.m. at the Aiwan-e-Sadr. In his
    remarks, he referred to Sehba Musharraf, wife of President Musharraf.
    The transcript released by the Office of the Press Secretary also
    included the remarks of President Musharraf.