    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2007, Book I)]
    [June 21, 2007]
    [Page 792]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Joint Statement by President George W. Bush and Prime Minister Tony
    Blair of the United Kingdom on a Defense Trade
    Cooperation Treaty
    June 21, 2007

        President Bush and Prime Minister Blair have today signed a Defense
    Trade Cooperation Treaty which will further strengthen and deepen the
    effort between our respective defense establishments to achieve fully
    interoperable forces, and to leverage the strength of our defense
    industries in direct support of our armed forces.
        At a time when American and British forces continue to work closely
    together on operations overseas, the President and the Prime Minister
    share the view that we need to do all that we can to enhance our ability
    to cooperate by reducing the barriers to exchange of defense goods,
    services, and information between the United States and the United
    Kingdom.
        This further cooperation will benefit the operational defense
    capabilities of the United States and the United Kingdom by improving
    the interoperability of equipment and systems between our armed forces.
    Our armed forces must have the most effective means possible to fight
    not only in traditional battlefield situations, but also when they face
    asymmetric threats such as IEDs. By removing barriers to communication
    and collaboration between, and among, our armed forces and our defense
    industries, we will provide our forces with the most effective means
    possible to counter these threats.
        In addition, these new arrangements will help maintain the strength
    of our respective defense industries. By enhancing the ability of our
    defense industries to take advantage of the rich and deep technical
    experience in the United States and in the United Kingdom, we will
    continue to develop and field the most effective military capabilities
    possible.
        Together, both governments will also aim to finalize implementing
    arrangements by the end of the year and to complete steps necessary
    under their respective domestic laws to implement the treaty.

    Note: An original was not available for verification of the content of
    this joint statement.