[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 44, Number 38 (Monday, September 29, 2008)]
[Page 1249]
[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 23, 2008

    Mr. Secretary-General, this is my eighth chance to welcome you to 
New York, and I'm honored to do so. You did mention, I'm heading into 
retirement--[laughter]--but it has been a joy to work with you, the 
staff, and many of the leaders here in this hall.
    It is my honor to propose a toast, Mr. Secretary-General, to you and 
to your hard work. May God bless all in the room, and Mr. Secretary-
General, may God continue to bless you, sir.

Note: The President spoke at 7:45 p.m. at the United Nations 
Headquarters. The transcript released by the Office of the Press 
Secretary also included the remarks of Secretary-General Ban.