    [Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 43, Number 39 (Monday, October 1, 2007)]
    [Page 1252]
    [Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    <R04>
    Remarks at a Dinner Hosted by Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon of the
    United Nations in New York City

    September 25, 2007

        Mr. Secretary-General, Mr. President, distinguished members of the
    United Nations community, Your Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen: It's
    my pleasure to welcome you to New York. We look forward to concluding a
    successful 62d session of the United Nations General Assembly under the
    leadership of President Kerim.
        Mr. Secretary-General, I appreciate your determination to ensure
    that the United Nations lives up to its high ideals, takes
    responsibilities seriously, and helps more people live in freedom and
    justice. You have urged this organization to help the suffering people
    of Darfur. You have strengthened international resolve to deter regimes
    pursuing the world's most dangerous weapons. You have supported freedom
    and independence for the people of Lebanon and Afghanistan and Iraq.
        Under your leadership, the United Nations is addressing global
    challenges, such as the important issue of climate change. I welcome
    your efforts to advance the work of U.N. reform and uphold the highest
    ethical standards throughout this organization.
        So, Mr. Secretary-General, in honor of your first year of leadership
    and in anticipation of your continued leadership in the years to come, I
    offer a toast to you and to the United Nations.

    Note: The President spoke at 8:44 p.m. at the United Nations
    Headquarters. In his remarks, he referred to Srgjan Kerim, President,
    62d Session of the U.N. General Assembly. The transcript released by the
    Office of the Press Secretary also included the remarks of Secretary-
    General Ban.