    [Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 43, Number 17 (Monday, April 30, 2007)]
    [Page 536]
    [Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    <R04>
    Statement on North Korea Freedom Week

    April 27, 2007

        I send greetings to all those observing North Korea Freedom Week.
    Those living in North Korea regrettably know firsthand the meaning of
    deprivation of freedom. I have met in the Oval Office with some of the
    courageous few who have managed to escape from the country. I have heard
    firsthand accounts of their suffering in North Korea and of their
    dangerous journeys to freedom. And I have seen how they now live in
    freedom's light. We will continue to strengthen our commitment to bring
    freedom to all repressed peoples. I believe the 21st century will be
    freedom's century for all Koreans. One day every citizen of that
    peninsula will live in dignity, freedom, and prosperity at home and in
    peace with their neighbors abroad. Until that day comes, we will not
    rest in our efforts to support the North Korean people as they strive to
    achieve the rights and freedoms to which they are entitled as human
    beings.