    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2008, Book I)]
    [February 17, 2008]
    [Pages 226-227]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks at a State Dinner Hosted by President Jakaya Mrisho
    Kikwete of Tanzania in Dar es Salaam
    February 17, 2008

        President Bush. Mr. President, thank you very much, sir, for your
    gracious and warm hospitality. Madam, thank
    you very much. Mr. President, thank you for coming back from Germany
    today. Laura and I are touched. This has been a
    spectacular trip. It's not over, because tomorrow we're going to tour
    more of your country.
        President Kikwete. You'll be----
        President Bush. I'll be--[laughter]. But I must say that our trip
    here has exceeded my expectations. I knew you were an accomplished
    Government. After all, you've dramatically reduced malaria; you're in
    the process of dramatically reducing HIV/AIDS. My country has awarded
    you the largest Millennium Challenge grant ever in the history of our
    Nation, all because your Government is committed to honest, decent
    government for the people.
        I have been extremely touched, as has Laura,
    by the outpouring of support by the great people of Tanzania. And so,
    Mr. President, I too would like to propose a toast: To you and your
    family, to the people of Tanzania, and to our friendship, may it be long
    lasting.

    Note: The President spoke at 6:58 p.m. at the State House. In his
    remarks, he referred to Mama Salma Kikwete, wife of President Kikwete.
    The transcript released by the Office of the Press Secretary also
    included the remarks of President Kikwete. A tape was not available for
    the verification of the content of these remarks.

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