President Bush Continues Support Of Dubai Ports Deal

By Scott McLean

President Bush told a gathering of publishers Friday why he had supported the ports deal which would have put a company from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in charge of operations at some United States ports.

It was clear from president's speech that a reason for allowing a Middle East company to run some U.S. ports was to retain the country's assistance in the war on terror.

The following is a quote from President Bush's speech at the National Newspaper Association Conference, as made public by a White House news release:

"I'm concerned about a broader message this issue could send to our friends and allies around the world, particularly in the Middle East. In order to win the war on terror, we have got to strengthen our relationships and friendships with moderate Arab countries in the Middle East. UAE is a committed ally in the war on terror. They are a key partner for our military in a critical region."

The President said that he wants Congress and the American people to understand the strategic relationship with the Arab country.