    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2006, Book II)]
    [July 14, 2006]
    [Pages 1393-1394]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks in a Discussion With Civic Leaders in St. Petersburg, Russia
    July 14, 2006

        Ambassador, thank you for setting up
    this meeting. I've just had a really interesting meeting. I've been
    meeting with young, vibrant Russian activists who, first, love their
    country; secondly, care deeply about the form of government of the
    country; and third, care deeply about the human condition in their
    country.
        These folks come from a variety of different NGOs and civic groups,
    representing a variety of issues, all bound together to be involved in
    their governments, in their countries, so that it's the best it can
    possibly be.
        I spent a lot of time listening to their concerns. I assured them
    that the United States of America cares about the form of government in
    Russia, that we believe in the universal values embedded in democracy.
    We believe in rule of law; we believe in human rights; we believe
    everybody has a right to be treated equally.
        I explained to them that our own Government and our country took a
    while to evolve, but nevertheless, it's important to be aiming toward a
    better tomorrow.
        I hope my visit here was encouraging to them; it certainly was
    instructional for me. I explained to them my strategy of dealing with
    Vladimir Putin, who is my friend. Some
    asked me to deliver messages, which I'd be more than happy to do. I
    explained to them that it's in the U.S. interests to remain engaged with
    Russia--Russia is a great country with a fantastic future--and that the
    foreign policy of my administration will be to work with Russia to solve
    common problems and, at the same time, be in a position where we can
    have a frank exchange of ideas and philosophies and views.
        I told the young leaders here that this has been a very enriching
    experience for me. I shared the thought--shared the idea that I'm the
    father of 24-year-old twin daughters. I'm looking at some folks here at the table who are
    their age; I'm impressed by their courage and their idealism and their
    desire to make their societies a better place.
        So I want to thank you all for your visit. Thank you for your frank
    exchanges. I will you all the very best, and I ask for God's blessings
    on the people of Russia.

    Note: The President spoke at 4:06 p.m. at the Counsel General's
    residence. In his remarks, he referred to U.S. Ambassador to Russia
    William J. Burns; and President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia. A tape was
    not available for verification of the content of these remarks.

    [[Page 1394]]