    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2008, Book I)]
    [March 17, 2008]
    [Page 382]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks Following a Meeting With Economic Advisers on the National
    Economy
    March 17, 2008

        Mr. Secretary, thank you very much
    for coming by today to talk about the economic situation. We'll be
    meeting later on this afternoon with the President's task force on
    financial markets.
        First of all, you know, the Secretary has given me an update. One thing is for certain: We're
    under--we're in challenging times. But another thing is for certain,
    that we've taken strong and decisive action. The Federal Reserve has
    moved quickly to bring order to the financial markets. Secretary Paulson
    has been--is supportive of that action, as am I. And I want to thank
    you, Mr. Secretary, for working over the weekend. You've shown the
    country and the world that the United States is on top of the situation.
        Secondly, you've reaffirmed the fact that our financial institutions
    are strong and that our capital markets are functioning efficiently and
    effectively. We obviously will continue to monitor the situation and,
    when need be, will act decisively, in a way that continues to bring
    order to the financial markets.
        In the long run, our economy is going to be fine. Right now we're
    dealing with a difficult situation. And, Mr. Secretary, I want to thank you very much for your steady and
    strong and consistent leadership.
        Thank you very much.

    Note: The President spoke at 9:40 a.m. in the Roosevelt Room at the
    White House.