President Meets with Cabinet - Remarks And Image

For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
March 20, 2003

President Meets with Cabinet
Remarks by the President in Photo Opportunity with Cabinet

President George W. Bush meets with his Cabinet the day after beginning the disarmament of Iraq in the Cabinet Room Thursday, March 20, 2003. Pictured with the President are, from left, State Secretary Colin Powell, Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld, Commerce Secretary Don Evans and Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta. White House photo by Paul Morse.

2:53 P.M. EST

THE PRESIDENT: I called my Cabinet together to review our strategies to make the world more peaceful, to make our country more secure, to make the lives of our citizens as healthy and as prosperous as possible.

We heard from Secretary Rumsfeld, who briefed us on the early stages of the war. There's no question we've sent the finest of our citizens into harm's way. They perform with great skill and great bravery. We thank them, we thank their loved ones, we appreciate their sacrifice.

We heard from Secretary Powell, who briefed us on the ever-growing coalition of the willing, nations who support our deep desire for peace and freedom. Over 40 nations now support our efforts. We are grateful for their determination, we appreciate their vision, and we welcome their support.

As well, we discussed the need to make sure we have plans in place to encourage economic vitality and growth. We will continue to push for a Medicare system that is compassionate for our seniors. We care deeply about the fact that some children in our society can't read. We want the best of education for every citizen in America.

This Cabinet is confident about the future of our country. We're confident we can achieve our objectives. I'm grateful for their service to their country.

Thank you, all.

END 2:55 P.M. EST

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