Global Diplomacy

10:11 A.M. EDT

PRESIDENT BUSH: Bienvenidos, Mr. Presidente, a la Casa Blanca. I'm proud to welcome the President of Peru to the Oval Office. We've had a fascinating and important discussion. First of all, I appreciated his experience, and I appreciated his advice on some key issues. He comes to the Oval Office as a friend, somebody with whom I can have good working relations.

We talked about world issues, we talked about issues regarding South America and Central America, and we talked about our bilateral relations. The central issue facing us right now is the passage of a free trade agreement. I assured the President that I will work with Congress as soon as possible to get this agreement passed. We talked about the need for both countries to work closely to fight drugs. And I appreciated the President's attitude and understanding of this important issue.

And we talked about the need to work together to help promote social justice. The President has a big heart. He cares deeply about those who suffer. And I assured the President it's in our nation's interest that we work with our friends in the -- in South America to promote good education and good health care and good opportunities.

All in all, it was an excellent meeting. And, Mr. President, welcome.

Full Transcript