[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 44, Number 1 (Monday, January 14, 2008)]
[Pages 39-40]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Remarks at a Welcoming Ceremony in Tel Aviv, Israel

January 9, 2008

    President Peres and Prime Minister Olmert, I thank you for your warm 
welcome. You know, it's been nearly a decade since I've been in Israel, 
and I've really been looking forward to coming back. Truth of the matter 
is, when I was here last time, I really didn't think I'd be coming back 
as President of the United States. But I knew I'd come back because 
Israel is a special place. And it's a great honor to make my first visit 
as the President of the United States. Thank you all for coming out to 
welcome me.
    My one regret is that my wife isn't traveling today. Laura is back 
home in Washington, but she sends her very best regards to both of you 
all and to the people of Israel.
    The United States and Israel are strong allies. The source of that 
strength is a shared belief in the power of human freedom. Our people 
have built two great democracies under difficult circumstances. We built 
free economies to unleash the potential of our people. And the alliance 
between our two nations helps guarantee Israel's security as a Jewish 
state.
    Each of our nations must guard against terror. We must firmly resist 
those who murder the innocent to achieve their political objectives. We 
must recognize that the great ideology based upon liberty is hopeful. In 
working the lines here, one of the religious leaders said, ``Remember, 
Mr. President, justice and love.'' Justice and love is based upon a 
society that welcomes human rights and human dignity, a society which 
recognizes the universality of freedom. And that's what we stand for 
today. We will do more than

[[Page 40]]

defend ourselves. We seek lasting peace. We see a new opportunity for 
peace here in the Holy Land and for freedom across the region.
    I look forward to my meetings with President Peres and Prime 
Minister Olmert. We will discuss our deep desire for security, for 
freedom, and for peace throughout the Middle East. I want to thank the 
people of Israel for their friendship and hospitality, and I appreciate 
the opportunity to visit your beautiful country once again. God bless.

Note: The President spoke at 12:23 p.m. at the Ben Gurion International 
Airport.