    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2007, Book I)]
    [April 23, 2007]
    [Page 471]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the Death of Boris Yeltsin
    April 23, 2007

        Laura and I are deeply saddened by the death
    of former Russian President Boris Yeltsin. President Yeltsin was an
    historic figure who served his country during a time of momentous
    change. He played a key role as the Soviet Union dissolved, helped lay
    the foundations of freedom in Russia, and became the first
    democratically elected leader in that country's history. I appreciate
    the efforts that President Yeltsin made to build a strong relationship
    between Russia and the United States. We offer our sincerest condolences
    to the Yeltsin family and to the Russian people.