    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2008, Book I)]
    [January 9, 2008]
    [Page 47]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks at a Welcoming Ceremony in Tel Aviv, Israel
    January 9, 2008

        President Peres and Prime Minister
    Olmert, I thank you for your warm welcome. You
    know, it's been nearly a decade since I've been in Israel, and I've
    really been looking forward to coming back. Truth of the matter is, when
    I was here last time, I really didn't think I'd be coming back as
    President of the United States. But I knew I'd come back because Israel
    is a special place. And it's a great honor to make my first visit as the
    President of the United States. Thank you all for coming out to welcome
    me.
        My one regret is that my wife isn't traveling
    today. Laura is back home in Washington, but she sends her very best
    regards to both of you all and to the people of Israel.
        The United States and Israel are strong allies. The source of that
    strength is a shared belief in the power of human freedom. Our people
    have built two great democracies under difficult circumstances. We built
    free economies to unleash the potential of our people. And the alliance
    between our two nations helps guarantee Israel's security as a Jewish
    state.
        Each of our nations must guard against terror. We must firmly resist
    those who murder the innocent to achieve their political objectives. We
    must recognize that the great ideology based upon liberty is hopeful. In
    working the lines here, one of the religious leaders said, ``Remember,
    Mr. President, justice and love.'' Justice and love is based upon a
    society that welcomes human rights and human dignity, a society which
    recognizes the universality of freedom. And that's what we stand for
    today. We will do more than defend ourselves. We seek lasting peace. We
    see a new opportunity for peace here in the Holy Land and for freedom
    across the region.
        I look forward to my meetings with President Peres and Prime Minister Olmert. We
    will discuss our deep desire for security, for freedom, and for peace
    throughout the Middle East. I want to thank the people of Israel for
    their friendship and hospitality, and I appreciate the opportunity to
    visit your beautiful country once again. God bless.

    Note: The President spoke at 12:23 p.m. at Ben Gurion International
    Airport.