[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 43, Number 46 (Monday, November 19, 2007)]
[Page 1485]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Remarks During a Visit With Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany in 
Crawford, Texas

November 9, 2007

    President Bush. Laura and I are thrilled to welcome the Chancellor 
and Professor Sauer here to our place. In Texas, when you invite 
somebody to your home, it's an expression of warmth and respect, and 
that's how I feel about Chancellor Merkel. And so, Madam Chancellor, 
welcome. We're looking forward to having constructive talks as well as a 
chance to relax and visit.
    Chancellor Merkel. Well, I would like to say a very warm thanks to 
you, George, for issuing this invitation to us. Already a first glance 
of the area shows us that this is, indeed, a wonderful place to be and a 
wonderful atmosphere. We have a number of issues that I think we will 
have now time to discuss later on. I'm very grateful that we can do this 
in such a pleasant, such a wonderful atmosphere and that we can see each 
other here again. And I must say that I'm, again, very grateful to you, 
Mr. President, for the fact that we can have this exchange of views--and 
to you, Laura, as well. Thank you.
    President Bush. Thank you.

Note: The President spoke at 4:32 p.m. at the Bush Ranch. In his 
remarks, he referred to Joachim Sauer, husband of Chancellor Merkel. 
Chancellor Merkel spoke in German, and her remarks were translated by an 
interpreter. This item was not received in time for publication in the 
appropriate issue.