    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2008, Book I)]
    [February 21, 2008]
    [Page 251]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks at a Lunch Hosted by President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf of Liberia in Monrovia
    February 21, 2008

        Madam President, I want to make sure I've got the following
    correctly: Here they call you the ``Iron Lady,'' and here they call you
    ``Ma.'' And I call you friend.
        We are honored to be here. Laura and I are
    thrilled to be here with our delegation to end what has been a very
    productive trip to the continent of Africa. I can't think of a better
    place to finish than in--with our dear friend, Liberia.
        It is easy to destroy a country; it is hard to rebuild a country.
    And I--Madam President, I want you to know that the United States of
    America supports you as you rebuild your country. We share a special
    history with Liberia. It's a history that is deep, and I want the people
    of your beautiful country to know that our help is just beginning.
        And so, Madam President, I propose a toast to you and the strength
    of your leadership and the quality of your character. And to the good
    people of Liberia, may God bless.

    Note: The President spoke at 12:54 p.m. in the Executive Mansion. The
    transcript released by the Office of the Press Secretary also included
    the remarks of President Johnson Sirleaf.