For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
September 17, 2003
Text of a Letter from the President to the Speaker of the House of Representatives
Dear Mr. Speaker:
Two years ago, we responded to attacks on America by launching a
global war against terrorism that has removed gathering threats to
America and our allies and has liberated the Iraqi and Afghan people
from oppression and fear.
America is making steady progress in the war on terror. Nearly
two-thirds of al Qaeda's leadership has been captured or killed. In
Afghanistan, we removed the Taliban from power and shut down terrorist
training camps. In Iraq, we led a coalition that removed a dangerous
tyrant who sponsored terror, possessed and used weapons of mass
destruc-tion, and for 12 years defied the clear demands of the United
Nations Security Council.
Today, I am submitting a request for 2004 supplemental
appropriations for ongoing military and intelligence operations in
Iraq, Afghanistan, and elsewhere. Our men and women in uniform,
alongside our coalition partners, are bringing peace and stability to
Iraq and fighting the terrorist threat. In Afghanistan, our Armed
Forces continue to track down terrorists and provide security as the
Afghan people rebuild their nation. Our commitment to ongoing
operations against terrorism is worthy of our country and critical to
our security.
My request also supports the Coalition Provisional Authority's
reconstruction operations in Iraq and supports reconstruction efforts
in Afghanistan. These reconstruction funds are essential to secure the
transition to self-government and to create condi-tions for economic
growth and investment. By helping the Iraqi and Afghan people build
free and democratic nations, America and our allies are bringing
freedom and hope to a troubled region, and undermining a key base of
operations for terrorists. The sooner we achieve these conditions, the
sooner our troops will return home.
This request reflects urgent and essential requirements. I ask the
Congress to appropriate the funds as requested, and promptly return the
bill to me for signature. I hereby designate the specific proposals in
the amounts requested herein as emergency requirements. I urge the
Congress not to attach items that are not directly related to the
emergency abroad.
The details of the request are set forth in the enclosed letter
from the Director of the Office of Management and Budget.
Sincerely,
GEORGE W. BUSH
# # #
|