    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2008, Book I)]
    [May 6, 2008]
    [Page 640]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks on Signing a Bill To Award the Congressional Gold Medal to Aung
    San Suu Kyi
    May 6, 2008

        I just signed a bill passed by the leaders of the Senate and the
    House, who have joined me, to honor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi the--with the
    Congressional Gold Medal.
        This is a fitting tribute to a courageous woman who speaks for
    freedom for all the people of Burma and who speaks in such a way that
    she's a powerful voice in contrast to the junta that currently rules the
    country.
        Burma's been hit by a terrible natural disaster. Laura and I and Members of the Senate and the House here
    express our heartfelt sympathy to the people of Burma. The United States
    has made an initial aid contribution, but we want to do a lot more.
    We're prepared to move U.S. Navy assets to help find those who've lost
    their lives, to help find the missing, and to help stabilize the
    situation. But in order to do so, the military junta must allow our
    disaster assessment teams into the country.
        So our message is to the military rulers: Let the United States come
    and help you help the people. Our hearts go out to the people of Burma.
    We want to help them deal with this terrible disaster. And at the same
    time, of course, we want them to live in a free society.
        I want to thank you for your leadership. Thank you for your
    determination to send a message that America stands with this courageous
    woman. Thank you.

    Note: The President spoke at 8:49 a.m. in the Oval Office at the White
    House. In his remarks, he referred to Aung San Suu Kyi, leader of the
    National League for Democracy in Burma. H.R. 4286, approved May 6, was
    assigned Public Law No. 110-209.