[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 41, Number 47 (Monday, November 28, 2005)]
[Pages 1768-1769]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Message on the Second Anniversary of the Rose Revolution

November 23, 2005

    I send greetings to all those commemorating the second anniversary 
of the Rose Revolution.
    Freedom is the longing of the soul and the permanent hope of 
mankind. Two years ago, the desire for liberty inspired thousands

[[Page 1769]]

of Georgian citizens to reclaim their sovereignty and complete the 
journey to independence first begun in 1989 during the last days of the 
Soviet empire. These brave men and women, armed only with roses and the 
power of their convictions, stood up to claim liberty in their own 
country. Their actions began the Rose Revolution, inspiring those who 
believe in freedom and democratic reform around the world. In the two 
years since that peaceful revolution, the Georgian people have continued 
their contributions to freedom's cause and made significant progress in 
building a vibrant democracy.
    The United States is committed to supporting democracy and the rule 
of law in Georgia and around the globe. I join all Americans in honoring 
the valiant Georgians who stood up against oppression and defended the 
right of all to be free. Your courage is an inspiration to those 
aspiring for freedom in their own land.
    Laura and I send our best wishes on this special occasion.
                                                George W. Bush

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