[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 43, Number 19 (Monday, May 14, 2007)]
[Pages 592-593]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Remarks at a Dinner With Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom

May 8, 2007

    Queen Elizabeth II. Mr. President, I wondered whether I should start 
this toast saying, ``When I was here in 1776.'' But I don't think I 
will. [Laughter]
    Mr. President, it is a real pleasure to welcome you and Mrs. Bush 
here this evening. Over our 6 days in the United States, we have much 
enjoyed the chance to dwell on the history of the relationship between 
our two countries, as well as celebrating its present strength and 
vitality. I would like to thank everyone for the warmth and kindness 
extended to us.
    I would also like to take this opportunity, on the day that has seen 
the formal transfer of power to the devolved Northern Ireland 
Government, to thank you and your predecessors for your contribution to 
bringing peace to Northern Ireland.

[[Page 593]]

    May I ask everyone to rise and drink a toast to President and Mrs. 
Bush, to the future of our two countries, and the enduring friendship 
between Britain and the United States.
    Mr. President.

 [At this point, the Queen offered a toast.]

    President Bush. Your Majesty, I can't top that one. [Laughter]
    Your Royal Highness, distinguished guests, thank you so much for a 
warm welcome. Laura and I appreciate your hospitality. I particularly 
want to thank Ambassador Manning and Lady Manning for inviting us to 
your home.
    The friendship between the British and American people is one of the 
oldest and most enduring in history. This friendship has been built on 
the common ideal of freedom and forged by our shared sacrifices in 
freedom's defense.
    Your Majesty, I appreciate your visit to our World War II Memorial. 
I thank you for sharing your perspective last night on how the Atlantic 
Alliance that emerged from a great conflict has helped lay the 
foundation for freedom's triumph in Europe and beyond.
    Today, British and American troops are following the example set by 
a previous generation. Troops from our two countries are serving side by 
side to bring the hope of liberty to regions that have not known it. 
Together we're supporting young democracies that are taking their first 
steps on the path to free and peaceful societies.
    This morning, the world witnessed yet another advance for freedom 
and peace--the people of Northern Ireland took control of their future 
when Catholics and Protestants came together to form a new Government 
that offers the prospect of peace and reconciliation after years of 
violence and division. In Belfast today, we're seeing once again how 
democracy and freedom can help heal a wounded world.
    Your Majesty, thank you for your words tonight and for the love and 
affection you have shown the American people over many years. In this 
spirit, I offer a toast to Your Majesty, to Your Royal Highness, and to 
our closest of friends, the British people.

Note: The President spoke at 8 p.m. at the British Embassy. In his 
remarks, he referred to Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh; and the United 
Kingdom's Ambassador to the U.S. Sir David Manning and his wife, 
Catherine.