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 Home > News & Policies > November 2006

For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
November 17, 2006

President Bush Exchanges Toasts at State Banquet in Vietnam
International Convention Center
Hanoi, Vietnam

     Fact sheet APEC 2006
     Fact sheet President's Trip to Southeast Asia

PRESIDENT BUSH: Mr. President, and Madam Chi, the reason I'm smiling is because I'm really happy to be here. And so is Laura. And we thank you for your warm hospitality. First, I want to congratulate you for your success on hosting APEC. I'm confident our fellow leaders will have the same sense of gratitude and respect that we feel from the Vietnamese people.

President George W. Bush exchanges toasts with Viet President Nguyen Minh Triet during a State Banquet Friday, Nov. 17, 2006, at the International Convention Center in Hanoi. President Bush told his host, "Vietnam is a country that's taking its rightful place as a strong and vibrant nation," adding he hoped its people know they have the friendship of the American people. White House photo by Paul Morse Vietnam is a remarkable country. For decades you had been torn apart by war. Today the Vietnamese people are at peace and seeing the benefits of reform. The Vietnamese own their own businesses, and today the Vietnamese economy is the fastest growing in Southeast Asia. Vietnamese students have great opportunities here at home and abroad. The Vietnamese people are traveling around the world and sharing this ancient culture with peoples of the world. And the United States, as well as other APEC partners, look forward to strengthening our ties.

The American people welcome the progress of Vietnam. And we want to continue to work together to better our relations. We will work with you to help combat avian flu and HIV/AIDS. We have signed agreements to protect religious freedom. We strongly support Vietnam in the World Trade Organization.

Vietnam is a country that's taking its rightful place as a strong and vibrant nation. Mr. President, your leadership is helping your country succeed. I can see it as I drive on the streets, the people of your country have hope. And I hope they know as a result of my visit they have the friendship of the American people.

And so, Mr. President, I would like to propose a toast to you and Madam Chi and to the fine people of Vietnam. (Applause.)

(A toast is offered.)

END