    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2007, Book II)]
    [November 9, 2007]
    [Pages 1453-1454]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks During a Visit With Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany in Crawford, Texas
    November 9, 2007

        President Bush. Laura and I are thrilled to
    welcome the Chancellor and Professor Sauer
    here to our place. In Texas, when you invite somebody to your home, it's
    an expression of warmth and respect, and that's how I feel about
    Chancellor Merkel. And so, Madam Chancellor, welcome. We're looking
    forward to having constructive talks as well as a chance to relax and
    visit.
        Chancellor Merkel. Well, I would like to say a very warm thanks to
    you, George, for issuing this invitation to us. Already a first glance
    of the area shows us that this is, indeed, a wonderful place to be and a
    wonderful atmosphere. We have a number of issues that I think we will
    have now time to discuss later on. I'm very grateful that we can do this
    in such a pleasant, such a wonderful atmosphere and that we can see each
    other here again. And I must say that I'm, again, very grateful to you,
    Mr. President, for the fact that we can have this exchange of views--and
    to you, Laura, as well. Thank you.
        President Bush. Thank you. Here we go.

    Note: The President spoke at 4:32 p.m. at the Bush Ranch. In his
    remarks, he referred to Joachim Sauer, husband of Chancellor Merkel.
    Chancellor Merkel spoke in German, and her remarks were translated by an
    interpreter.

    [[Page 1454]]