[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 43, Number 5 (Monday, February 5, 2007)]
[Pages 92-93]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Remarks Following a Meeting With Members of the Securing America's 
Future Energy Organization

January 29, 2007

    A group of our fellow citizens from around the country, different 
backgrounds, have given me a report called ``Recommendations to the 
Nation on Reducing U.S. Oil Dependence.'' These citizens have spent time 
thinking about the national security implications for a country which is 
dependent on oil from hostile regimes or sources of oil that could be 
affected by terrorist attack. And I really want to thank you for this 
comprehensive approach to reducing our dependency on oil. Some really 
smart ideas in here.
    The reason I have asked to come and talk to them is, I wanted to 
assure them that this administration is committed, as well, to 
diversifying away from our reliance upon oil. And I believe, like they 
believe, that we've got fantastic opportunities to use new technologies 
to secure the American people and, at the same time, be better stewards 
of the environment.
    Their plan and my plan are very--have got commonalities, and we're 
going to work together to get Congress to enact a comprehensive plan. I 
believe there's an appetite in the halls of Congress to become less 
dependent on oil. I believe there's a knowledge in Congress that when we 
spend money on cellulosic ethanol that will make us less dependent on 
oil.
    And I'm going to continue to call upon citizens' groups and 
concerned citizens to work with Members of Congress so we can--I can 
sign a comprehensive plan that will assure the American people that as 
we look forward into the 21st century that we'll be more energy 
dependent and good stewards of the environment.
    So thank you for your efforts. I appreciate your work. I'm honored 
to be at the table with citizens who care enough about their country 
that they would take time out of their private lives and present me with 
this comprehensive view.

[[Page 93]]

    Thank you very much.

Note: The President spoke at 3:25 p.m. in the Roosevelt Room at the 
White House.