    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2006, Book II)]
    [November 16, 2006]
    [Pages 2085-2086]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks Following Discussions With Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong of Singapore in Singapore
    November 16, 2006

        Prime Minister Lee. Well, I have just a few words to say. I'm very
    happy to have President Bush here and visiting Singapore for the second
    time in 3 years. We've had a very good conversation on many issues. Our
    bilateral relationship is excellent. We've had a very good time talking
    about it. We discussed what was happening in the region, what's
    happening in the Middle East, what's happening all over Asia, our
    economic matters, as well as security issues, as well as terrorism.
        And on many of these areas, we not only exchanged notes but found a
    significant degree of matching in our views. Maybe it's because we've
    exchanged views so many times and we know how each other think, but I
    think it's also because our interests are aligned. And Singapore is very
    happy that America has a stake in the region and is growing the stake in
    the region. And we would like to help this to happen and to ensure that
    this continues for a long time to come.
        So welcome, sir.
        President Bush. Mr. Prime Minister, thanks. Thank you for your
    hospitality, again. Laura and I feel very
    comfortable in your country, and we feel comfortable in your presence.
    You're right, we had a wide-ranging discussion. I always benefit when I
    get your advice and your counsel on the neighborhood. And I think
    America's presence in the Far East is very important for our own
    country. And therefore, when you share your thoughts with me, it makes
    it much easier for us to conduct wise foreign policy.
        We've got a lot in common, particularly our desire to continue to
    promote free and

    [[Page 2086]]

    fair trade, because your country has shown that open markets are capable
    of lifting up an entire people. And I congratulate you on your
    leadership, congratulate the people of Singapore for really being a
    model for the neighborhood.
        And I'm looking forward to the dinner tonight that you're giving.
        Prime Minister Lee. Thank you very much.

    Note: The President spoke at 2:29 p.m. at the Istana.