For Immediate Release
April 26, 2004

Global Message

From remarks by CPA Bremer, 4/23/04

Iraq's choices include taking the path that leads to a peaceful, democratic Iraq with political freedom and economic opportunity or one that leads to the dark Iraq of the past ruled by violence and fear.

The vast majority of Iraqis reject the brutality and darkness of the old days. They want an Iraq that honors the best of the country's past, but provides freedom, equality, and opportunity for all.

The Coalition shares that vision of Iraq's future and, working together, it can be created.

The enemies, domestic and foreign, of Iraq's bright future are trying to force the country toward the path that leads back toward brute force, division and hatred.

Security is the coalition's top priority. The coalition has more than 130,000 troops providing security in Iraq. The training of an Iraqi Army and an Iraqi police service continues at an extraordinary pace.

When sovereignty is transferred to an Iraqi government on June 30th, Coalition and Iraqi forces will continue to work as partners to defeat the terrorists.