    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2006, Book II)]
    [November 28, 2006]
    [Page 2126]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks at a Lunch Hosted by President Toomas Ilves of Estonia in Tallinn
    November 28, 2006

        Mr. President, thank you very much, and Mr. Prime Minister, thank you as well for your gracious hospitality. I'm
    really thrilled to be here in Estonia. I love being in a country that
    values liberty and freedom. I appreciate being in a country that
    understands there are duties and obligations beyond her border to help
    others realize the benefits of liberty and freedom. I'm very proud of
    your military, and I'm pleased to be in the presence of those who wear
    the uniform of Estonia. I know our military has great respect for the
    Estonian soldiers.
        I am amazed to be in a country that has been able to effect a flat
    tax in such a positive way. I am impressed by the e-governance that you
    have here in Estonia.
        All in all, this has been a very worthwhile and exciting visit for
    me, and I thank you for your warm hospitality. And I'd like to raise my
    glass to the leadership of this important country, to our friendship,
    and most importantly, to the people of Estonia.

    Note: The President spoke at approximately 11:42 a.m. in the Estonian
    Theater. In his remarks, he referred to Prime Minister Andrus Ansip of
    Estonia. The transcript released by the Office of the Press Secretary
    also included the remarks of President Ilves.