[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.

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