    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2008, Book II)]
    [September 24, 2008]
    [Page 1236]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks During a Discussion With President Elias Antonio Saca
    Gonzalez of El Salvador in New
    York City
    September 24, 2008

        President Bush. Mr. President, thank you.
        I want to let my friend know, and the people of El Salvador, that
    the United States will extend TPS status to El Salvadorans living in our
    country. This is a decision that was made to improve the lives of El
    Salvadorans.
        I'm proud to make this announcement with you standing by my side.
    You've been a very strong and courageous leader, and you have been a
    friend. And I know this is an issue of concern to you because you care
    deeply about the people of your country. And so when you get back home,
    you can tell the people that TPS has been extended.
        Thank you, sir.
        President Saca. Thank you very much. Thank you very much, President,
    for extending for 18 months more the TPS for the people of El Salvador.
    This is going to benefit our Salvadoran people with--since we have been
    walking in liberty, in democracy, and in integration.
        Thank you very much this morning for this extension.

    Note: The President spoke at 9:53 a.m. at the Council of the Americas
    Headquarters. President Saca spoke in Spanish, and his remarks were
    translated by an interpreter. The Office of the Press Secretary also
    released a Spanish language transcript of these remarks.