SecGen press encounter after meeting with Pres. Bush – Mideast peace process – Transcript (excerpts)

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SECRETARY-GENERAL’S PRESS ENCOUNTER FOLLOWING HIS MEETING AT THE WHITE HOUSE WITH U.S. PRESIDENT GEORGE W. BUSH

Washington, D.C., 16 January 2007

Unofficial Transcript

SG: The purpose of my visit to the White House is to pay a visit to the Host Government in my new capacity as Secretary-General of the United Nations.  I had a very good, very useful meeting with President Bush. I stressed the importance of a strong partnership between the United Nations and the United States. The United Nations needs the strong and active participation and strong support of the United States, as the UN and the US have a shared objective of promoting human rights, democracy and freedom and peace and security, as well as mutual prosperity. We discussed also important regional issues, including the Middle East, Iran, Iraq, the Darfur crisis, Somalia and North Korean nuclear issues.  I was assured by President Bush of a strong commitment to work together, very closely, with the United Nations to achieve the shared goals for peace and mutual prosperity around the world. Thank you very much.

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Q: What about the Middle East peace process?

SG: The Middle East is a source of grave concern — these deteriorating situations in Iraq and elsewhere. These are an origin of tension of the international community, particularly when it comes to Iraq. The international community should give all possible assistance to help the Iraqi government and people restore peace and stability and recover from economic devastation.