“Every nation that wants peace,” says president George W. Bush, “will share the benefits of a freer world. And every nation that seeks peace has an obligation to help build that world”:
“Eventually, there is no safe isolation from terror networks, or failed states that shelter them, or outlaw regimes, or weapons of mass destruction. Eventually, there is no safety in looking away, seeking the quiet life by ignoring the struggles and oppression of others.”
Among those countries committed to fighting terrorism is Georgia, led by President Mikheil Saakashvili:
“One could reasonably pose the question: ‘Why such a small country with less than five-million people is so out front in its international commitment to fighting terrorists and contributing to a global cause?’ The answer...to this question is as painful as it is simple. Simply put, Georgia’s commitment to fighting terrorists reflects our deep understanding of the destruction that it can and has brought in our own country and in our immediate neighborhood. Because Georgia understands, we must do all that we can to defeat terror.”
Mr. Saakashvili says, “Georgia will continue to make contributions wherever possible and wherever necessary”:
“Our willingness to act responsibly and contribute is on display today in Kosovo, will soon be on display in Afghanistan, and is on display in Iraq -- all places where we have sent our forces to serve alongside others in the pursuit of peace and freedom. For terrorism knows no greater enemy or no greater force than the one embodied in a free society.”
President Bush says the U.S. “is grateful to every nation that is helping to seize terrorist assets, track down their operatives, and disrupt their plans. Each of us alone can only do so much,” says Mr. Bush. “Together, we can accomplish so much more.”
