    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2007, Book I)]
    [January 29, 2007]
    [Pages 73-74]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks Following a Meeting With Members of the Securing America's
    Future Energy Organization
    January 29, 2007

        A group of our fellow citizens from around the country, different
    backgrounds, have given me a report called ``Recommendations to the
    Nation on Reducing U.S. Oil Dependence.'' These citizens have spent time
    thinking about the national security implications for a country which is
    dependent on oil from hostile regimes or sources of oil that could be
    affected by terrorist attack. And I really want to thank you for this
    comprehensive approach to reducing our dependency on oil. Some really
    smart ideas in here.
        The reason I have asked to come and talk to them is, I wanted to
    assure them that this administration is committed, as well, to
    diversifying away from our reliance upon oil. And I believe, like they
    believe, that we've got fantastic opportunities to use new technologies
    to secure the American people and, at the same time, be better stewards
    of the environment.
        Their plan and my plan are very--have got commonalities, and we're
    going to work together to get Congress to enact a comprehensive plan. I
    believe there's an appetite in the Halls of Congress to become less
    dependent on oil. I believe there's a knowledge in Congress that when we
    spend money on cellulosic ethanol that will make us less dependent on
    oil.
        And I'm going to continue to call upon citizens' groups and
    concerned citizens to work with Members of Congress so we can--I can
    sign a comprehensive plan that will assure the American people that as
    we look forward into the 21st century that we'll be more energy
    dependent and good stewards of the environment.
        So thank you for your efforts. I appreciate your work. I'm honored
    to be at the

    [[Page 74]]

    table with citizens who care enough about their country that they would
    take time out of their private lives and present me with this
    comprehensive view.
        Thank you very much.

    Note: The President spoke at 3:25 p.m. in the Roosevelt Room at the
    White House.