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Bush Defends Military Budget Request, Warns Both Sides in Middle East
Monday, April 8, 2002
By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

"Listen, the price of freedom is high. I understand that. But it's not too high as far as I'm concerned. This nation can show the world what we stand for, and we can show future generations what we're made out of."

WASHINGTON -- AFIS
President Bush today defended his fiscal 2003 defense budget request and re-emphasized America's in the fight against terrorism for the long haul during a stop in Knoxville, Tenn.

Following a tour of a Citizens Police Academy, Bush also spoke shortly about U.S. expectations in the Middle East. He said he told Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon that the United States expects Israel to withdraw from Palestinian territory without delay. He also said that Arab nations and leaders must condemn terrorism and terrorist activity.

"There is a mutual responsibility to achieve peace and it's going to require leadership on both sides, and the United States is firmly committed to achieving peace and ... I am firmly committed to what I expect from both parties," Bush said. "I repeat: I meant what I said about withdrawal without delay, and I mean what I say when I call upon the Arab world to strongly condemn and act against terrorist activities.

In a later speech, Bush said he came to the Volunteer State to tout volunteerism. He spoke about the all-volunteer military and the superb job service members are doing against terrorists and then spoke about the various Citizen Corps opportunities.
(More: DoD News Source)
2002 © The United States Department of Defense.

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