    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2008, Book II)]
    [October 13, 2008]
    [Pages 1304-1305]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks at a State Dinner Honoring Prime Minister Silvio
    Berlusconi of Italy
    October 13, 2008

        Mr. Prime Minister, Mr. Vice President, Mrs.
    Cheney, Madam Speaker,
    Members of Congress, Justices of the Supreme Court, members of my
    Cabinet, honored guests: Laura and I are so
    pleased to welcome you to the White House.
        Every year on Columbus Day, we remember the remarkable history that
    unites America and Italy. That history began more than five centuries
    ago when an Italian explorer sighted land after a long ocean voyage.
    Many believed Christopher Columbus had reached the Far East, but another
    Italian explorer helped show otherwise. Amerigo Vespucci's journeys
    revealed that the land was a new world, and America will always be proud
    to carry his name.
        Through the years, generations of Italian immigrants have made their
    own voyage to the New World. They brought with them a vibrant culture
    and a strong sense of family. And today, their children and
    grandchildren have risen to some of the highest offices in our land.
    Among our guests tonight is the first Italian American Speaker of the
    House, and first woman, Nancy Pelosi. And we're
    also honored to be joined by the first Italian American Justices of the
    United States Supreme Court, Antonin Scalia
    and Samuel Alito.
        The ties between the people of America and the people of Italy run
    deep, and the friendship between our countries has never been stronger.
    The United States and Italy are standing together against the forces of
    tyranny and terror. We're partnering to meet the challenges in our
    economies and expand trade and prosperity. And we share a vision of a
    future of freedom and hope for all the people.
        Mr. Prime Minister, you're a strong leader. I admire your
    enterprising spirit, your

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    visionary leadership, and your commitment to your word. I've enjoyed
    serving with you on the world stage. I'm honored to call you a close
    friend.
        And it is now my privilege to offer a toast to the Prime Minister of
    Italy, Silvio Berlusconi.

    Note: The President spoke at 8:06 p.m. in the State Dining Room at the
    White House. The transcript released by the Office of the Press
    Secretary also included the remarks of Prime Minister Berlusconi.