Pelosi: Statement in Advance of President Bush's Speech to the U.N.

September 22, 2003

Washington, D.C. -- House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today in advance of President Bush's speech tomorrow to the United Nations General Assembly:

"President Bush’s speech tomorrow offers an excellent opportunity to show his commitment to securing a United Nations mandate for an international force to bring security and stability to Iraq. Regrettably, President Bush’s comments, in news reports today, raise serious concerns that he will miss yet another opportunity in Iraq.

"The reconstruction effort in Iraq needs significant, immediate international assistance. It is clear that many in the international community would be more willing to help if the UN had a meaningful role in rebuilding Iraq. Instead of implying that it is still preferable for the United States to go it alone, President Bush’s speech should commit to working cooperatively with, rather than dictating to, the international community. We must not continue to go it alone."

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