[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 41, Number 1 (Monday, January 10, 2005)]
[Page 21]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Remarks on the Nomination of Robert B. Zoellick To Be Deputy Secretary 
of State

January 7, 2005

    The President. I am so pleased that upon the recommendations of the 
Secretary of State Designee Rice that Bob Zoellick has agreed to serve 
as Deputy Secretary of State upon confirmation by the Senate. Condi Rice 
and Bob Zoellick will form one of the really strong, capable foreign 
policy teams our country has ever had.
    I've known Zoellick for a long time. He's a--he is a fine public 
servant. I asked him to serve as our trade minister, and he did a 
fantastic job. And as he departs to the State Department, upon Senate 
confirmation, I want to assure the American people this administration 
is committed to free trade. I look forward to finding a replacement for 
Bob Zoellick that will be able to carry on our desire to spread free 
trade around the world.
    In the meantime, I look forward to a quick confirmation for Condi 
and Bob so they can go over to the State Department and carry on the 
foreign policy of this administration. Thank you all very much.
    Thanks for serving.
    Ambassador Zoellick. Thank you, Mr. President.
    The President. Glad you're going to do it.
    Ambassador Zoellick. Thanks.
    Secretary-Designate Rice. Mr. President----
    The President. Good choice.
    Secretary-Designate Rice. Thank you, sir.
    The President. Thank you all. See you in Detroit.

Note: The President spoke at 10:11 a.m. on the South Lawn at the White 
House.