    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2008, Book I)]
    [April 4, 2008]
    [Pages 466-467]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks at a Dinner Hosted by President Stjepan Mesic of Croatia in Zagreb, Croatia
    April 4, 2008

        Mr. President and Madam, thank you very
    much. Mr. Prime Minister, thank you very much.
    Also good to meet your wife.
        Laura and I are thrilled to be in your
    beautiful country, Mr. President. We appreciate your gracious
    hospitality, and we celebrate your invitation to become one of America's
    closest allies. I--you said you're from a small country. I'm impressed
    by the big hearts and the big basketball team. [Laughter]
        We are so proud of our relationship, Mr. President. We share common
    values. We believe in human rights and human dignity. We believe there's
    a Creator that has given every man, woman, and child on the face of the
    Earth the great gift of freedom. We believe markets are capable of
    unleashing the entrepreneurial spirit of our peoples. We understand that
    freedom requires sacrifice.
        I salute the people of your country for your courage and willingness
    to help a young democracy in Afghanistan not only thrive but succeed. I
    appreciate the friends who have stared evil in the face and understand
    there's a better tomorrow.
        And so, Mr. President, I bring the greetings of my country to your
    beautiful land. With the honor due to a trusted ally, I offer a toast to
    you and to the valiant people of Croatia.

    Note: The President spoke at 8:04 p.m. at the Pucka Dvorana. In his
    remarks, he referred to Milka Mesic, wife of President Mesic; and Prime
    Minister Ivo Sanader of Croatia and his wife Mirjana. The transcript
    released by the Office of the Press Secretary also included the remarks
    of President Mesic.

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