    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2008, Book I)]
    [January 14, 2008]
    [Page 80]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks During a Tour of an Alternative Fuel Sources Exhibit in Abu
    Dhabi
    January 14, 2008

        It's amazing, isn't it? This country has gotten its wealth from the
    ground and is now reinvesting in alternative forms of energy, sometimes
    joint venturing with U.S. institutions, like MIT.

    [At this point, the tour continued, and no transcript was provided. The
    remarks continued as follows.]

        It's a modern society that is using its wealth not only to educate
    its people but to stay on the leading edge of technological change.
        And, Your Highness, it's been an amazing experience for me. And I don't
    think most Americans understand the UAE. And I don't think most
    Americans understand that your education systems are modern and that
    you're thinking about the future in constructive ways. I appreciate the
    chance to learn about you.

    [The tour continued, and no transcript was provided. The remarks later
    concluded as follows.]

        My hope is my visit shines a spotlight on the Middle East, the
    opportunities to work constructively with our friends and allies, and
    shows people the truth about what life is like here in the UAE. This is
    a remarkable place. The architecture is beautiful, but the can-do spirit
    is amazing.
        And we just heard a briefing about how they're going to construct a
    city based entirely upon renewable energy. It is--it will be an
    opportunity to see what works, what won't work, and an opportunity to
    share that technology with others.
        And I appreciate the commitment to conservation and to the
    environment that the leadership has shown here. This has been a very
    interesting experience. I can't thank you enough for your hospitality.

    Note: The President spoke at 9:37 a.m. at the Emirates Palace Hotel. In
    his remarks, he referred to Crown Prince Muhammad bin Zayid Al Nuhayyan
    of Abu Dhabi.