[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 41, Number 7 (Monday, February 21, 2005)]
[Pages 236-237]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Statement on the Request for Fiscal Year 2005 Supplemental 
Appropriations for Ongoing Military and Intelligence Operations and 
Selected Other International Activities

February 14, 2005

    With the help of the United States and coalition partners, the Iraqi 
and Afghan people have set their countries on the path of democracy and 
freedom. As both nations work to cement this great progress, our troops 
and assistance will continue to play a critical role.
    The majority of this request will ensure that our troops continue to 
get what they

[[Page 237]]

need to protect themselves and complete their mission. It also provides 
for the continued pursuit of Al Qaida and other terrorist elements in 
Afghanistan and elsewhere. And it reflects our core mission in Iraq and 
Afghanistan by providing funding to accelerate efforts to train and 
equip Iraqi and Afghan forces, so they can assume greater responsibility 
for their own security, and our troops can return home with the honor 
they have earned.
    Other important funding in this emergency request includes resources 
to seize the opportunity to build peace and democracy in the Middle 
East, to continue helping nations affected by the tsunamis, and to 
address other unforeseen needs.
    I urge the Congress to move quickly so our troops and diplomats have 
the tools they need to succeed.