MR. JOHNDROE: Welcome. Welcome to some of our newer faces this morning. Okay, let me start off with a couple of announcements here, and then be happy to take your questions.

President Bush called Pakistani Prime Minister Gillani this morning. The President expressed his sympathies to the people of Pakistan for the recent terrorist attacks that have killed so many innocents there. The President and Prime Minister reaffirmed their mutual support for going after these extremists that are a threat to both Pakistan, the United States and the entire world.

President Bush advised Prime Minister Gillani that he had just spoken this morning to former President Musharraf and that President Bush had wished President Musharraf well and thanked him for his efforts in the democratic transition of Pakistan, as well as the fight against al Qaeda and extremist groups. President Bush expressed to Prime Minister Gillani the United States' strong commitment to working with the Prime Minister and the government of Pakistan to address the ongoing battle against extremists, and to assist Pakistan through its current economic situation.

Also, the President would like to express his profound sorrow for the tragic accident that occurred yesterday at Barajas Airport in Madrid; offers his sincere condolences to the families of the victims who lost their lives in that tragic air accident there in Spain.

And with that, I am happy to take your questions. Yes, sir.

seen at 09:00, 21 August in Whitehouse Press Briefings. Email this to a friend.
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