    [Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 42, Number 16 (Monday, April 24, 2006)]
    [Page 745]
    [Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    <R04>
    Remarks at a Luncheon Honoring President Hu Jintao of China

    April 20, 2006

        Mr. President, Madam Liu, Laura and I are honored to welcome you to
    the--and your delegation to the White House. It's a pleasure to have you
    here, along with our other distinguished guests.
        China is home to an ancient civilization, and it is helping to shape
    the modern world. In a single generation, China's economy has moved from
    isolation and stagnation to engagement and expansion. As China has
    grown, our two peoples have come to know one another better.
        Thirty-five years ago this month, the Chinese Government welcomed
    the United States ping-pong team to Beijing. [Laughter] It's an event
    that marked the beginning of renewal--renewed cultural exchanges between
    our two nations. Today, Chinese athletes compete professionally in the
    United States, and Americans appreciate the opportunity to see them
    play.
        In 2008, China will welcome athletes from all over the world as your
    great nation hosts the summer Olympics. Beijing will showcase China's
    transformation and demonstrate China's commitment to the international
    institutions that make fair and peaceful competition possible for all
    nations.
        Mr. President, I thank you for the constructive and candid
    conversations we had this morning. I appreciate the opportunity to
    expand the dialog between our two great nations. And, Mr. President, I'm
    pleased to offer a toast to you and to your gracious wife and to the
    people of China.

    Note: The President spoke at 1:20 p.m. in the East Room at the White
    House. In his remarks, he referred to Liu Yongqing, wife of President
    Hu. The transcript released by the Office of the Press Secretary also
    included the remarks of President Hu.