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Skriven 2005-10-16 23:33:14 av Whitehouse Press (1:3634/12.0)
Ärende: Press Release (0510162) for Sun, 2005 Oct 16
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President Congratulates Iraqis on Successful Elections
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For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
October 16, 2005

President Congratulates Iraqis on Successful Elections
The South Grounds


˙˙˙˙˙In Focus: Renewal in Iraq

12:47 P.M. EDT

THE PRESIDENT: On behalf of the American people, I'd like to congratulate
the people of Iraq for the successful completion of a vote on their draft
constitution. By all indications, the turnout was greater than the turnout
from the last January election, which is good news. By all indications, the
Sunnis participated in greater numbers in this election than last time. And
that's good news. After all, the purpose of a democracy is to make sure
everybody is -- participates in the process.

I'm also pleased, from the initial indications, that the level of violence
was considerably less than the last election. That's a tribute to the
Iraqis -- forces who we've trained, as well as coalition forces that worked
hard to make sure that democracy could move forward in Iraq.

This is a very positive day for the Iraqis and, as well, for world peace.
Democracies are peaceful countries. The vote today in Iraq stands in stark
contrast to the attitudes and philosophy and strategy of al Qaeda and its
terrorist friends and killers. We believe, and the Iraqis believe, the best
way forward is through the democratic process. Al Qaeda wants to use their
violent ways to stop the march of democracy because democracy is the exact
opposite of what they believe is right.

We're making progress toward peace. We're making progress toward an ally
that will join us in the war on terror, that will prevent al Qaeda from
establishing safe haven in Iraq, and a country that will serve as an
example for others who aspire to live in freedom.

So, again, I congratulate the Iraqi people. I thank you for meeting this
milestone. Thank you for doing what is right, to set the foundations for
peace for future generations to come.

Appreciate it.

END 12:51 P.M. EDT

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