Fact Sheet: Advancing Freedom and Democracy Around the World

Wednesday, June 6, 2007
President and Mrs. Bush participated in the first day of the G-8 Summit in Heiligendamm, Germany. The leaders of Canada, France, Italy, Japan, Russia, and the United Kingdom also participated in the Summit along with the German host, Chancellor Merkel. The leaders discussed continued cooperation on a broad range of international economic, security, and political issues.

In the afternoon, President Bush participated in lunch with German Chancellor Angela Merkel. In the evening, the President and Mrs. Bush attended a reception with G8 leaders and spouses, which was followed by entertainment and dinner.

"President Bush said, think that when people take an objective look at what's been accomplished here, people see that there's been major progress made on key issues. I come with a deep desire to make sure that those suffering from HIV/AIDS on the continent of Africa know that they'll get help from the G8. I come with a deep desire to work with people around the table to reduce malaria on the continent of Africa, and feed the hungry... Thank you for your leadership. ... and I'm looking forward to working with our fellow G8 members."

President Bush Meets with German Chancellor Angela Merkel in Heiligendamm, Germany

President Bush Meets with Japanese Prime Minister Abe in Heiligendamm, Germany


Thursday, June 7, 2007
President and Mrs. Bush continued their participation in the G-8 Summit in Heiligendamm, Germany. The leaders of Canada, France, Italy, Japan, Russia, and the United Kingdom are also participating in the Summit along with the German host, Chancellor Merkel. In addition to G8 working sessions, the President met with United Kingdom Prime Minister Tony Blair. He also met with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

"Mr Vladimir and Mr Bush just had a very constructive dialogue, particularly about missile defense. ... As a result of their discussions, both agreed to have a strategic dialogue, a opportunity to share ideas and concerns between State Department, Defense Department and military people. This will be a serious set of strategic discussions. This is a serious issue and want to make sure that both understand each other's positions very clearly. As a result of these conversations, and expect there to be better understanding of the technologies involved and the opportunities to work together."

President Bush Meets with Prime Minister Blair of the United Kingdom in Heiligendamm, Germany

President Bush Meets with President Vladimir Putin of Russia

G8 Summit 2007