I am proud
of my administration's record: Bush
Washington, JAN. 17 (PTI/GNA) US
President George W Bush on Saturday said he is proud of
his administration's records and thanked American
citizens to give him an opportunity to serve the nation
for eight years.
In his weekly radio address, the last one of his
Presidency, Bush said: "I will depart office proud of my
Administration's record. And I will spend the rest of my
life grateful for the opportunity to have served as
President of the greatest nation on Earth."
"We have been inspired by those of you who reach out to
feed the hungry, clothe the needy, and care for the
sick. We have been moved by the courage and devotion of
those of you who wear the uniform," Bush said adding
that serving as the US President has been an incredible
honour for him.
"In hundreds of broadcasts, I have talked to you about
important issues affecting our security and our
prosperity. And today, in my final address, I want to
send a simple and heartfelt message: Thank you," said
the outgoing President.
In his short speech, Bush said, "Like every individual
who has held this office before me, I have experienced
setbacks. There are things I would do differently if
given the chance."
"Yet I've always acted with the best interests of our
country in mind. I have followed my conscience and done
what I thought was right. You may not agree with some
tough decisions I have made. But I hope you can agree
that I was willing to make the tough decisions," Bush
said.
In the face of threats from abroad, Bush said it can
be tempting to seek comfort by turning inward. "But we
must reject isolationism and its companion,
protectionism," he said.
Retreating behind borders would only invite danger. In
the 21st century, security and prosperity at home depend
on the expansion of liberty abroad. If America does not
lead the cause of freedom, that cause will not be led,
he argued.
Eight years ago, "on a cold January morning, I stood on
the steps of the United States Capitol, placed my hand
on the Bible, and swore a sacred oath to defend our
people and our Constitution. On that day, I spoke of our
Nation's grand story of courage and its simple dream of
dignity," Bush said.
Next week, my term of service will come to an end -- but
that story and that dream will continue," he concluded.
GNA
