President Bush's Greeting

Greetings to all who have gathered for the Third Conference of the Central European Center Right. I commend Prime Minister Mart Laar and the Pro Patria Union for hosting you.

Many of you gathered in Tallinn have demonstrated a profound moral and courageous personal commitment to our common value of democracy. In the dark years of dictatorship, and in the great decade of struggle and achievement since 1989, you have shown that democracy is indeed the cornerstone of a peaceful and prosperous Europe now uniting. I salute you.

In Warsaw last June, I spoke of my vision for Europe and America. My government and my nation stand committed to a Europe whole, free and at peace, a Europe whose great institutions, including NATO, will come to embrace all of Europe's democracies that wish to join and are ready to shoulder the necessary responsibilities. I reaffirm that commitment to you today.

We have come very far. But democracy has not yet taken hold everywhere in Europe. In Belarus, President Lukashenko and his administration have regularly obstructed the electoral process and suppressed the opposition. The United States is committed to supporting democracy in Belarus and the people of Belarus. I urge those attending this conference to support those in Belarus who yearn for the basic human rights and freedoms for which so many nations and peoples have struggled.

We should also always remember that the work of sustaining a vibrant democracy is never complete. Strong political parties, sharing common values, and drawing on the strengths and talents of their members can make a powerful contribution to this great and noble endeavor. I encourage you to strengthen your own parties by communicating your vision for the future and welcoming all those who share that vision.

You are fortunate to have the assistance of the International Republican Institute. Those attending this conference are well aware of the quality of IRI's work and I encourage you to draw upon IRI as a valuable resource as you address the tasks your parties face in years to come.

I commend you for the commitment each of you has made to the future of your countries. Best wishes for a productive and successful conference.

Sincerely,
George W. Bush