Posted on 05/17/2008 3:48:35 PM PDT by daisyscarlett
Today is Day #4 of the President and Mrs. Bush’s trip to the Middle East and their final stop.
They are in Egypt visiting the beautiful resort city of Sharm el Sheikh. (see Sanity Island photo today and maps above)
The President is meeting with a number of key leaders from the region, including President Mubarak of Egypt, President Abbas of the Palestinian Authority, King Abdullah of Jordan, President Karzai of Afghanistan, Prime Minister Gilani of Pakistan, and several senior officials from Iraq's democracy.
He will also address the World Economic Forum in the Middle East.
President's Radio Address
Fact sheet In Focus: Middle East Trip
THE PRESIDENT: Good morning. I'm speaking to you from the Middle East, where Laura and I are on a trip to Israel, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt.
When Air Force One touched down at Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv, I was greeted by Israel's President and Prime Minister. I joined them in celebrating an historic milestone: Israel's 60th anniversary as an independent nation. And I assured them that Israel could count on America as a strong and steady ally long into the future.
During our visit I had conversations with Israel's leaders about their efforts to forge peace with the Palestinians, and our shared belief that a peace agreement is possible this year. I also had the opportunity to address members of the Knesset, Israel's elected legislature. I reminded these democratic leaders that America was the first nation in the world to recognize Israel's independence. I told them that 60 years later, America is proud to be Israel's best friend in the world. I reaffirmed the principles that make our alliance strong: a love of liberty, a devotion to justice, and a respect for human dignity. And I said that standing firm on these ideals is the surest way to defeat the extremists and build a future of peace for people throughout the Middle East.
For Laura and me, this visit to Israel was an especially moving experience. We toured the Bible Lands Museum, saw the Dead Sea Scrolls, and visited Masada -- an inspiring shrine to Jewish courage and sacrifice in the first century. From the window of our hotel room we had a magnificent view of the Old City of Jerusalem, home to some of the holiest sites in Judaism, Christianity and Islam. And on our final morning in the city we met some of Israel's young people, talented and hopeful citizens who gave me confidence in Israel's future.
On Friday we visited another of America's friends in the Middle East -- Saudi Arabia. I had a series of productive meetings with King Abdullah at his farm. We celebrated the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the United States and Saudi Arabia. We reaffirmed our shared objectives of peace in the Holy Land, a secure and united Iraq and a sovereign, independent Lebanon that is free of outside interference. We talked about oil production and gasoline prices. We discussed the King's efforts to diversify his nation's economy, and the importance of political reform. And I thanked him for Saudi Arabia's strong commitment to fighting terror.
Our final stop is Egypt, where we are visiting the beautiful resort city of Sharm el Sheikh. I am meeting with a number of key leaders from the region, including President Mubarak of Egypt, President Abbas of the Palestinian Authority, King Abdullah of Jordan, President Karzai of Afghanistan, Prime Minister Gilani of Pakistan, and several senior officials from Iraq's democracy.
I will also address the World Economic Forum in the Middle East. I will stress the importance of building dynamic and diverse economies that unleash the creativity and enterprise of citizens throughout the region -- especially women and young people. I will make clear that the only way to ensure true prosperity is to expand political and economic freedom. And I will urge leaders across the region to reject spoilers such as the regimes in Iran and Syria, move past old grievances and embrace the changes necessary for a day when societies across the Middle East are based on justice, tolerance, and freedom.
Reaching that day will not be easy. But with continued leadership from America and our friends in the region, I am confident that it can happen. And when that day arrives, the Middle East will be more hopeful, the world will be more peaceful, and the American people will be more secure.
Thank you for listening.
BUSH ROCKS
BUSH ROCKS
THANK YOU FOR WAITING FOR THE "ALL CLEAR" BEFORE POSTING ANY PHOTOS
"If you value your posting privileges, don’t let me catch you on a Dose thread again. Got it?" ~ Lead Moderator
President George W. Bush and first lady Laura Bush wave after arriving at Sharm El-Sheik airport, in Egypt Saturday, May 17, 2008.
Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak, left, accompanies US President George W. Bush upon his arrival at Sharm El-Sheik airport, Egypt, Saturday May 17, 2008.
U.S. President Bush holds hand with Susan Mubarak, as her husband Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak, left, and first lady Laura Bush, right, look on, during an arrival ceremony at Sharm el-Sheik International Airport in Sharm el-Sheik, Egypt,
US President Bush meets with Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak in Sharm El-Sheik, Egypt, Saturday, May 17, 2008.
U.S. President George W. Bush walks with Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai following their meeting in Sharm el-Sheik, Egypt,
U.S. President George W. Bush and Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai talk with the media following their meeting in Sharm el-Sheik, Egypt, Saturday, May 17,
U.S. President George W. Bush (L) and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas shake hands in Sharm el-Sheikh May 17, 2008.
President George W. Bush (L) walks with Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas after a bilateral meeting at the Hyatt Regency in Sharm el-Sheikh. Bush on Saturday pledged to Abbas his determination to help achieve the "dream" of a Palestinian state, despite stagnant peace talks.
Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas also known as Abu Mazen, right, listens following their meeting in Sharm el-Sheik, Egypt, Saturday, May 17, 2008.
Great shots so far, Daisy! Thanks for all your hard work!
Sanity Island is very welcome today!
US first lady Laura Bush participates in the Coral Reefs and Ocean Conservation Boat Tour near the Sharm El Maya Port, Saturday, May 17, 2008,
US first lady Laura Bush speaks with members of the press after participating in the Coral Reefs and Ocean Conservation Boat Tour near the Sharm El Maya Port, Saturday, May 17, 2008, in Sharm El-Sheikh, Eygpt.
An Egyptian honor guard stands at attention at the arrival of Air Force One with President George W. Bush and Laura Bush Saturday, May 17, 2008, to Sharm el-Sheik International Airport in Sharm el-Shiek, Egypt. White House photo by Chris Greenberg
President George W. Bush embraces Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak upon his arrival Saturday, May 17, 2008, to Sharm el-Sheik International Airport in Sharm el-Shiek, Egypt. White House photo by Joyce N. Boghosian
President George W. Bush and Laura Bush are welcomed by Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak and his wife, Susan Mubarak, upon their arrival Saturday, May 17, 2008, to Sharm el-Sheik International Airport in Sharm el-Shiek, Egypt. White House photo by Joyce N. Boghosian
President George W. Bush shakes hands with Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak at their meeting Saturday, May 17, 2008, in Sharm el-Shiek, Egypt. White House photo by Joyce N. Boghosian
President George W. Bush is joined by Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas Saturday, May 17, 2008, as they speak with members of the media following their meeting in Sharm el-Shiek, Egypt. White House photo by Chris Greenberg
President George W. Bush shakes hands with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas Saturday, May 17, 2008, at the conclusion of their meeting with members of the media in Sharm el-Shiek, Egypt. White House photo by Chris Greenberg
President George W. Bush is joined by Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai Saturday, May 17, 2008, as they speak with members of the media following their meeting in Sharm el-Shiek, Egypt. White House photo by Chris Greenberg
President George W. Bush waves as he walks with Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai Saturday, May 17, 2008, following their meeting with members of the media in Sharm el-Shiek, Egypt. White House photo by Chris Greenberg
Mrs. Laura Bush is seen as she prepares to leave on the Challenger Boat Tour Saturday, May 17, 2008, off the coast of Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt. White House photo by Shealah Craighead
Mrs. Laura Bush sits with Ms. Hilda Arellano, USAID Cairo Mission Director, as they prepare to launch out on a Challenger Boat Tour Saturday, May 17, 2008, off the coast of Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt. White House photo by Shealah Craighead
Mrs. Laura Bush listens to Dr. Mohamed Salem, Head of the South Sinai Protectorates, Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency, as they prepare to depart for a coral reefs and ocean conservation tour Saturday, May 17, 2008, in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt. Joining them are Ms. Hilda Arellano, USAID Cairo Mission Director, and Mr. Amir Ali, Hurghada Environmental Protection and Conservation Association. White House photo by Shealah Craighead
Mrs. Laura Bush and Mrs. Anita McBride, Assistant to the President and Chief of Staff to the First Lady, listen to Mr. Amir Ali, Hurghada Environmental Protection and Conservation Association, as they head out for a coral reefs and ocean conservation tour Saturday, May 17, 2008, in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt. White House photo by Shealah Craighead
Mrs. Laura Bush looks out from underwater windows during her coral reefs and ocean conservation tour Saturday, May 17, 2008, in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt. White House photo by Shealah Craighead
Mrs.Laura Bush speaks with members of the media following her participation in a coral reefs and ocean conservation tour Saturday, May 17, 2008, in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt. White House photo by Shealah Craighead
Former President George H.W. Bush, center, accepts an honorary degree from Bryant University during graduation ceremonies in Smithfield, R.I. Saturday, May 17, 2008.
Good evening! Thanks for the ping
Thanks for tonight’s Dose daisy.. great pix..
It will be interesting to see who the president continues to have as “visiting” friends when his term ends..
my guess is Tony Blair, former Japanese president, current German chancellor, current Afghan president .. and since I can’t spell their names I am giving titles. (and too lazy to look up)
Still no pix/word on Nick. .I wish we had told Dr. Deb to ask POTUS when she saw him..
missed opportunity!
Thanks for the dose Daisy
A friend of mine at work went to Sharm el-Sheik on holiday a couple of years ago and had a wonderful time there.
I also went on holiday to Luxor a few years ago and had a great time.
You are very welcome.
I have one source that might know..I will check it out.
Is Las Vegas on your list of places to see if/when you get to the States again?
daisyscarlett: Thank you for posting today’s DOSE!
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THE PRESIDENT PUTS THE RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ENERGY MESS WHERE IT BELONGS — THE DEMOCRAT-LED CONGRESS:
“. . . And as the minister said yesterday, that Saudi Arabia this year has increased the number of barrels of oil per day by 300,000 a day, and they’re increasing refining capacity, which is not enough — it’s something, but it doesn’t solve our problem. Our problem in America gets solved when we aggressively go for domestic exploration. Our problem in America gets solved if we expand our refining capacity, promote nuclear energy, and continue our strategy for the advancement of alternative energies, as well as conservation.
And one of the interesting things about American politics these days is those who are screaming the loudest for increased production from Saudi Arabia are the very same people who are fighting the fiercest against domestic exploration, against the development of nuclear power, and against expanding refining capacity. And so I was pleased that they had increased production by 300,000 [barrels], but I’m also realistic to say to the American people, we’ve got to do more at home. And we need a Congress who will be responsive to those requests.”
You can read the entire Q&A here:
http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2008/05/20080517-3.html
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MEDIA DISGRACE AMERICA, ISRAEL AND THEMSELVES
By Noel Sheppard
Thursday May 15, 2008, American media hit a new low. To paraphrase Michelle Obama, I have never been less proud of my country.
On the occasion of Israel’s 60th anniversary, President George W. Bush gave one of the greatest speeches of his career.
Yet, America’s media could only see this event through the tiny prism of the upcoming presidential election, and thereby totally ignored virtually everything that was said by the most powerful man in the world to one of our nation’s greatest allies.
You can read the entire article here:
http://newsbusters.org/blogs/noel-sheppard/2008/05/16/media-disgrace-america-israel-themselves
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ACTUALLY READ THE TEXT OF THIS SPEECH?
THE ANCHORESS
“Reading around, both left and right, I get the very distinct impression that very few people actually bothered to read the full text of President Bush’s speech to the Knesset - that folks of all ideologies, opinions and persuasions have contented themselves - for their own reasons - with focusing on the press (and Obama’s) foolish fixation on 83 words which are actually some of the least impressive parts of an extremely emphatic speech.
One reads this speech and wonders what President Bush knows that the rest of us do not, because his words are unusually frank and the commitment and vision he espouses here is a long-range one - a vision that no one currently running for WH can be entrusted to maintain. Hoping to encourage more full readings of the speech, I’m re-printing it here.”
Read the entire speech here — IT’S ONE FOR THE AGES!
http://theanchoressonline.com/2008/05/17/actually-read-the-text-of-this-speech/#comments
Thank you for posting the wonderful pictures of President and Mrs. Bush looking so lovely as usual.
I have been frustrated like you have at the fixation of the press on the small sentence that seems to have lit Obama’s fire.
It has totally been taken out of context. When I heard it, I assumed that he was talking about that idiot, Jimmy Carter, and never even thought about Osama Obama...who IS, after all, an appeaser. He needn’t deny it...his words and actions speak for themselves.
You’re welcome. Thanks for your post.
We live on the West Coast now and have driven coast to coast several times, both northern and southern routes. My favorite is the northern route because of Wyoming and Colorado. I often tell folks that Jackson Hole Wyoming is the most beautiful place I have ever seen.
Thank you daisy. Great shots of their trip and especially stunning pics of Our First Lady, who really is One.
Pray for W and Our Troops
Poppy was just down the road from me!
Wonderful photos!
Here is a terrific response from a reader of the Newsbusters article. We should use it (memorize it?) when trying to explain how powerfully biased BIG Media is in the United States. I have bolded the key phrases:
In the tank
May 16, 2008 - 13:32 ET by Jonah Johansen
If you had any doubt about how the MSM was going to report the coming election; yesterday you got the opening salvo/preview of coming attractions.
You knew of course they would be biased and spin like mad for the Democrats, I think the only open question was just how far they would go.
The answe r(which is no surprise, really) is that the Obama campaign are not just reading from the same page they are in fact a joint operation, working together to produce the page.
It is not that Obama's campaign makes a statement and the MSM responds favorably; instead its is the MSM conferring in advance with the Obama campaign about what the statement should be.
The relationship is like that between the author of the screenplay, the author of the original work the screenplay is based on and the director of the movie.
We need to be calling what AP, NBC, CBS, ABC, CNN, NYT, WP, MSNBC are doing what it truly is, not spin, but collaboration.
I thought it was disgusting how they tried to twist the interview he had with Sky News which was before Hamas was declared a terrorist organisation and nowhere anyway in the interview did he call for direct Presidential talks, governmental but that is different and nowhere did he state unconditional either.
I am hoping and praying that the repudiation of Obama in November will be partially a repudiation of his supporters in Big Media.
America has more than 300 million people. Most of them do not see our country the same way that the media effetes do.
THANK YOU FOR WAITING FOR THE "ALL CLEAR" BEFORE POSTING ANY PHOTOS
Hello
President Bush delivered remarks during the World Economic Forum on the Middle East,
President Bush Attends World Economic Forum
Mrs. Bush also spoke at the Economic Forum.
The President and Mrs. Bush are enroute home on AF1.
U.S. President George W. Bush (R) meets with Pakistan's Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani in Sharm El-Sheikh May 18, 2008.
U.S. President George W. Bush meets with Jordan's King Abdullah II in Sharm el-Sheik, Egypt, Sunday, May 18, 2008.
US President George W. Bush meets with Palestinian Prime Minister Salam Fayyad in Sharm El-Sheik, Egypt, Sunday, May 18, 2008.
U.S. President George W. Bush (2nd L) meets with Palestinian Authority Prime Minister Salam Fayad (L) while U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice (2nd R) and the U.S. National Security Advisor Stephen Hadley look on in Sharm El-Sheikh, May 18, 2008.
U.S. President George W. Bush meets with Iraqi Foreign Minister Hoshyar Zebari, left, Iraqi Vice President Adil Abd-al-Mahdi and deputy prime minister Barham Salih, right, in Sharm El-Sheik.
US first lady Laura Bush, center, applauds following the speech of Egypt's first Lady Suzanne Mubarak, not pictured, at the World Economic Forum in Sharm El-Sheik, Egypt, Sunday, May 18, 2008.
US first lady Laura Bush, left, is greeted by attendee's and Egypt's first Lady Suzanne Mubarak, right, as she prepares to give a speech, at the World Economic Forum in Sharm El-Sheik, Egypt,
> US first lady Laura Bush address attendees of the World Economic Forum in Sharm El-Sheik, Egypt,
> Egyptian prime minister's wife, Suzanne Mubarak, left, smiles, while U.S. First Lady Laura Bush, right, talks, after her speech at the World Economic Forum in Sharm el Sheik, Egypt,
U.S. President George W. Bush delivers remarks during the World Economic Forum on the Middle East, Sunday, May 18, 2008, in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt.
U.S. President George W. Bush waves for participants after he delivers remarks during the World Economic Forum on the Middle East, Sunday, May 18, 2008, in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt. At left Klaus Schwab, founder and chairman of the world economic forum.
President George W. Bush meets with Palestinian Prime Minister Salam Fayyad in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, Sunday, May 18, 2008.
President George W. Bush and the Pakistan Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani shake hands following their meeting Sunday, May 18, 2008, in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt.
President George W. Bush shakes hands with Jordan's King Abdullah II at the conclusion of their meeting Sunday, May 18, 2008, in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt. White House photo by Joyce N. Boghosian
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