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Weekly Address: President Obama's Overseas Trip Focused on Better Relations with Asia and Creating Jobs at Home

WASHINGTON – In this week’s address, President Barack Obama described the progress made during his trip to Asia, and detailed steps the administration is taking to spur job creation.  The President explained how increasing exports to Asia Pacific nations can create hundreds of thousands of jobs in America and described the upcoming jobs forum which will host CEOs, labor unions, economists, and nonprofits.

The full audio of the address is HERE. The video can be viewed online at www.whitehouse.gov.

Remarks of President Barack Obama
Weekly Address
Saturday, November 21, 2009

Hi.  I’m recording this message from Seoul, South Korea, as I finish up my first presidential trip to Asia.  As we emerge from the worst recession in generations, there is nothing more important than to do everything we can to get our economy moving again and put Americans back to work, and I will go anywhere to pursue that goal. 

That’s one of the main reasons I took this trip.  Asia is a region where we now buy more goods and do more trade with than any other place in the world – commerce that supports millions of jobs back home.  It’s also a place where the risk of a nuclear arms race threatens our security, and where extremists plan attacks on America’s soil.  And since this region includes some of the fastest-growing nations, there can be no solution to the challenge of climate change without the cooperation of the Asia Pacific.

With this in mind, I traveled to Asia to open a new era of American engagement.  We made progress with China and Russia in sending a unified message to Iran and North Korea that they must live up to their international obligations and either forsake nuclear weapons or face the consequences.  As the two largest consumers and producers of energy, we developed a host of new clean energy initiatives with China, and our two nations agreed to work toward a successful outcome at the upcoming climate summit in Copenhagen – an outcome that leads to immediate action to reduce carbon pollution.  And I spoke to young men and women at a town hall in Shanghai and across the internet about certain values that we in America believe are universal:  the freedom of worship and speech; the right to access information and choose one’s own leaders. 

But above all, I spoke with leaders in every nation I visited about what we can do to sustain this economic recovery and bring back jobs and prosperity for our people – a task I will continue to focus on relentlessly in the weeks and months ahead. 

This recession has taught us that we can’t return to a situation where America’s economic growth is fueled by consumers who take on more and more debt.  In order to keep growing, we need to spend less, save more, and get our federal deficit under control.  We also need to place a greater emphasis on exports that we can build, produce, and sell to other nations – exports that can help create new jobs at home and raise living standards throughout the world. 

For example, if we can increase our exports to Asia Pacific nations by just 5%, we can increase the number of American jobs supported by these exports by hundreds of thousands.  This is already happening with businesses like American Superconductor Corporation, an energy technology startup based in Massachusetts that’s been providing wind power and smart grid systems to countries like China, Korea, and India.  By doing so, it’s added more than 100 jobs over the last few years. 

Increasing our exports is one way to create new jobs and new prosperity.  But as we emerge from a recession that has left millions without work, we have an obligation to consider every additional, responsible step we can take to encourage and accelerate job creation in this country. That’s why I’ve announced that in the next few weeks, we’ll be holding a forum at the White House on jobs and economic growth. I want to hear from CEOs and small business owners, economists and financial experts, as well as representatives from labor unions and nonprofit groups, about what they think we can do to spur hiring and get this economy moving again.

It is important that we do not make any ill-considered decisions – even with the best of intentions – particularly at a time when our resources are so limited.  But it is just as important that we are open to any demonstrably good idea to supplement the steps we’ve already taken to put America back to work.  That’s what I hope to achieve in this forum.  

Still, there is no forum or policy that can bring all the jobs we’ve lost overnight.  I wish there were, because so many Americans – friends, neighbors, family members – are desperately looking for work.  But even though it will take time, I can promise you this:  we are moving in the right direction; that the steps we are taking are helping; and I will not let up until businesses start hiring again, unemployed Americans start working again, and we rebuild this economy stronger and more prosperous than it was before.  That has been the focus of our efforts these past ten months – and it will continue to be our focus in the months and years to come. 

Thanks. 

2009-11-21

Readout of Vice President Biden's Call with Ambassador Hill

The Vice President and U.S. Ambassador to Iraq Christopher Hill conferred by telephone today about the status of Iraq’s election law.  Amb. Hill updated the Vice President on the situation and they discussed efforts to ratify the law so that elections can go forward in Iraq early next year.

2009-11-20

Presidential Nominations Sent to the Senate

David Adelman, of Georgia, to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Republic of Singapore.

Sharon Y. Bowen, of New York, to be a Director of the Securities Investor Protection Corporation for a term expiring December 31, 2012, vice Todd S. Farha.

Orlan Johnson, of Maryland, to be a Director of the Securities Investor Protection Corporation for a term expiring December 31, 2011, vice Armando J. Bucelo, Jr., term expired.

Elizabeth L. Littlefield, of the District of Columbia, to be President of the Overseas Private Investment Corporation, vice Robert A. Mosbacher, resigned.

Mary Sally Matiella, of Arizona, to be an Assistant Secretary of the Army, vice Nelson M. Ford.

Paul Luis Oostburg Sanz, of Maryland, to be General Counsel of the Department of the Navy, vice Frank R. Jimenez.

Harry K. Thomas, Jr., of New York, a Career Member of the Senior Foreign Service, Class of Minister-Counselor, to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Republic of the Philippines.

Kathleen S. Tighe, of Virginia, to be Inspector General, Department of Education, vice John Portman Higgins, resigned.

Solomon B. Watson IV, of New York, to be General Counsel of the Department of the Army, vice Benedict S. Cohen, resigned.

2009-11-20

President Obama Announces More Key Administration Posts, 11/20/09

WASHINGTON – Today, President Barack Obama announced his intent to nominate the following individuals to key administration posts:

Maria Sally Matiella, Assistant Secretary of the Army for Financial Management, Department of Defense Paul L. Oostburg Sanz, General Counsel of the Department of the Navy, Department of Defense Solomon B. Watson IV, General Counsel of the Department of the Army, Department of Defense Kathleen S. Tighe, Inspector General, Department of Education Orlan Johnson, Chair, Board of Directors of the Securities Investor Protection Corporation Sharon Y. Bowen, Vice-Chair, Board of Directors of the Securities Investor Protection Corporation

President Obama said, “These talented and dedicated individuals will be valued additions to my administration as we work to put our country back on the path to prosperity. I look forward to working with them in the coming months and years.”

President Obama announced his intent to nominate the following individuals today:

Maria Sally Matiella, Nominee for Assistant Secretary of the Army for Financial Management, Department of Defense
Mary Sally Matiella has 29 years of Federal employment, working in accounting and budget positions with the Army, Air Force, Defense Finance and Accounting Service, and Office of the Secretary of Defense.  She most recently served as Assistant Chief Financial Officer for Accounting at the Department of Housing and Urban Development, and has previously served as Chief Financial Officer for U.S.D.A. Forest Service, Staff Accountant for the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense (Comptroller), and Financial Manager for the Defense Finance and Accounting Service.  Over her Federal career, Ms. Matiella has worked on military installations in the United States, Panama, and Germany. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree and M.B.A. from the University of Arizona.

Paul L. Oostburg Sanz, Nominee for General Counsel of the Department of the Navy, Department of Defense
Paul L. Oostburg Sanz is currently the General Counsel of the United States House of Representatives Committee on Armed Services where he has advised on the passage of the annual National Defense Authorization Act; detainee policy; the activities of the Department of Defense to counter the illicit narcotics trade; matters related to the Southern Command, and international legal issues.  From 2001-2006, he was the Deputy Chief Counsel for the Democratic Staff of the Committee on International Relations in the House (HIRC) where he focused on foreign and security assistance as well as the Western Hemisphere, in addition to his counsel responsibilities.  From 1999-2001, Mr. Oostburg Sanz clerked for the federal district court in San Juan, Puerto Rico.  In 1994, he conducted political party training in South Africa during the first all-inclusive national elections, as a Project Officer for the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies. From 1991-1993, he served in the Peace Corps in Guinea-Bissau, West Africa, teaching English in secondary schools.  Mr. Oostburg Sanz holds a J.D. from Harvard Law School, an M.P.A. from the Woodrow Wilson School of Princeton University, and a B.S.F.S. from the School of Foreign Service of Georgetown University.

Solomon B. Watson IV, Nominee for General Counsel of the Department of the Army, Department of Defense
From 1989 until 2005, Solomon B. Watson IV served as General Counsel of The New York Times Company.  As General Counsel, Mr. Watson was responsible for the management of the legal, governance, and compliance functions of the company and its operating units. Mr. Watson joined the legal department of The Times Company in December 1974, and became Corporate Secretary in 1979.  Mr. Watson was also a member of the company's management executive committee. Mr. Watson retired from the company as Senior Vice President and Chief Legal Officer in December 2006.  Mr. Watson, member of the New York and Massachusetts State Bar Associations, was an Associate in the Boston law firm of Bingham, Dana & Gould before joining The Times Company.  Among other professional activities, Mr. Watson was a member of the Advisory Board of the Agent Orange Settlement Fund. Mr. Watson holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Howard University and a Juris Doctorate degree from Harvard Law School. Mr. Watson served in the U.S. Army as a Lieutenant in Military Police Corps from 1966 to 1968 and was awarded the Bronze Star and Army Commendation medals for service while stationed in Vietnam.

Kathleen S. Tighe, Nominee for Inspector General, Department of Education
Kathleen S. Tighe is currently the Deputy Inspector General at the U.S. Department of Agriculture. She assists the Inspector General in overseeing the office, evaluating priorities, and collaborating with the Department, Congress, and the public.  She previously served as Counsel and Assistant Counsel to the Inspector General at the General Services Administration for fourteen years.  From 1988 to 1991, Ms. Tighe was a Trial Attorney in the Fraud Section of the Department of Justice Civil Division.  She litigated cases under the civil False Claims Act and related statutes. Prior to her government service, Ms. Tighe was in private practice with the law firm Lewis, Mitchell & Moore in Vienna, Virginia where she practiced government and private contract litigation.  She earned her B.A. with distinction from Purdue University in 1976, her M.A. in international relations from American University in 1979, and her J.D. with honors from George Washington University in 1983.

Orlan Johnson, Chair, Nominee for Board of Directors of the Securities Investor Protection Corporation
Orlan Johnson is a Partner in the Business Department of the Law firm Saul Ewing LLP.  His practice focuses on general corporate and securities matters, complex business transactions and federal and state regulatory issues in business and securities transactions including proxy solicitations, bankruptcy, equity and debt offerings.  Prior to joining Saul Ewing, Mr. Johnson was Of Counsel at Milbank, Tweed, Hadley & McCloy, LLP where he served as co-head of its regulatory practice in the Washington, DC office.  Previously, he served as a Staff Attorney and Branch Chief in the Division of Investment Management for the United States Securities and Exchange Commission.  Mr. Johnson is an adjunct professor of law at Howard University School of Law where he has taught Securities Regulation classes.  Mr. Johnson received his B.A. from Andrews University and his J.D. from Howard University School of Law.

Sharon Y. Bowen, Nominee for Vice-Chair, Board of Directors of the Securities Investor Protection Corporation
Sharon Y. Bowen is a corporate partner in the New York office of Latham & Watkins LLP.  Ms. Bowen has counseled clients and handled transactions in a wide range of industries, including financial services, retail and REITs on both domestic and international matters.  She has represented some of the leading investment banks, corporations and private equity firms.  Her breadth of experience encompasses many areas such as finance, acquisitions, private equity and corporate governance.  Ms. Bowen serves as Co-Chair of the firm’s Diversity Committee and Chair of the Diversity Hiring Subcommittee.  She serves on the Boards of Northwestern Law School (Chair), the New York City Economic Development Corporation, the New York Lawyers for the Public Interest and PENCIL, and was selected to the DirectWomen Board Institute.  She has also served on various city, state and national bar association committees and is a frequent speaker at industry events. Ms. Bowen earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Virginia, with distinction, and J.D. and M.B.A. from Northwestern University.

2009-11-20

Presidential Proclamation-National Family Week

Click here to download PDF

A PROCLAMATION

American families are the foundation on which our Nation is built. Their expressions of unconditional love and dedication sustain family members and support our Nation's communities. During National Family Week, we celebrate the inclusive spirit of American families and applaud the commitment of those family members who encourage us to reach new heights.

My Administration is committed to helping American families meet the demands of modern life, increase their self-sufficiency, and achieve their full potential. Ten days after taking office, I established the White House Task Force on Middle Class Working Families, led by Vice President Biden. This Task Force is focused on raising the living standards of working families across the country. In addition, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act provides a broad spectrum of support to families experiencing difficult times. It boosts child care and Head Start programs, essential not only to a child's future but also a parent's peace of mind in the workplace. Health care reform will provide security and stability for American families with insurance and affordable options for uninsured Americans.

As we continue to grow as a Nation, we must also be engaged members of our larger family, composed of our neighbors, our colleagues, and the community where we live. We must appreciate the diversity of other families' traditions; we must reach out to help families in need; and we must take more responsibility for the care and development of all children, not just our own. In this season of Thanksgiving, we are grateful that, at our best, America is a collection of strong families, standing united to make our Nation a place of hope and opportunity for future generations.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim November 22 through November 28, 2009, as National Family Week. I invite States, local communities, and individuals to join together in observing this week with appropriate ceremonies and activities to honor our Nation's families.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twentieth day of November, in the year of our Lord two thousand nine, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth.

BARACK OBAMA

2009-11-20

Presidential Proclamation-National Child's Day

Click here to download PDF

A PROCLAMATION

America's children deserve every opportunity to reach their fullest potential, and it is our responsibility to ensure they have the tools required to grow and flourish. This includes providing our young people with access to affordable, high-quality health care and an education that both informs and inspires. On National Child's Day, we celebrate the promise living within every child.

Ensuring the health and well-being of our Nation's children is one of our highest responsibilities. I was proud to sign the reauthorization of the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), extending health care to millions of young Americans who were previously uninsured. When given proper nutrition and medical care, healthy children can become productive, healthy adults.

My Administration is also committed to giving our children the educational support necessary for their development and future success. That is why we announced our Race to the Top award program, which challenges States to compete for over $4 billion in grants designed to spur systemic reform and embrace innovative approaches to teaching and learning in America's schools. If we are willing to come together and embrace a spirit of common purpose, our schools will perform better and our students will reach farther.

Across America, countless individuals selflessly provide their time and energy in our homes, schools, and community organizations to ensure our sons and daughters may one day realize their dreams. Today, we recommit ourselves to the vision of our founders to give all our children a fair chance and an equal start in life.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim November 22, 2009, as National Child's Day. I call upon all citizens to observe this day with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twentieth day of November, in the year of our Lord two thousand nine, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth.

BARACK OBAMA

2009-11-20

Remarks by the President to the Troops at Osan Air Base, Osan, Republic of Korea

3:40 P.M. KST

THE PRESIDENT:  Hello, Osan!  (Applause.)  It is good to be here!  (Applause.)  Thank you so much.

First of all, please give Staff Sergeant Randy Gray a big round of applause for the outstanding introduction.  (Applause.) I want to thank Randy for his service as one of the "Best Warriors" in the United States Army.  (Applause.)  Randy is a reminder that our noncommissioned officers are the strength of America's military.  So thanks to Randy and to all the NCOs.  (Applause.)

Thank you, Lieutenant Colonel Glover, for the invocation.  And please give a big round of applause to Katherine Dennison for singing our National Anthem.  (Applause.)  To the 8th Army Band  -- where you guys at?  There they are, up there.  (Applause.)  You look fantastic.  To all the airmen and soldiers behind me -- you guys make a pretty good photo op.  (Laughter.)  We are grateful for your service. 

I want to thank your local leaders at Osan for welcoming me here today, including Brigadier General Michael Keltz and Colonel Tom "Big" Deale.  (Applause.)  Your great senior enlisted leaders, including Command Sergeant Major Robert Winzenried and Chief Master Sergeant Michael Williams.  (Applause.) 

We are joined by America's outstanding representatives here in the Republic of Korea:  I want you guys to give it up for Ambassador Kathleen Stephens and General "Skip" Sharp.  Give them a big round of applause.  (Applause.)  This is a wonderful story that I just heard -- that the day Skip Sharp was born in West Virginia, his dad was here -- serving in the Korean War.  And that just says something about the extraordinary tradition of your family and service to our country, and we salute you for that.  We are grateful to you.  Thank you so much. 

Listen, it is great to be here at Osan Air Base.  We've got the 51st Fighter Wing.  (Applause.)  We've got the 7th Air Force and -- (applause) -- Air Forces Korea.  (Applause.)  But I know we have folks from all across U.S. Forces Korea.  We've got the 8th Army and Army Forces Korea.  (Applause.)  We've got the Naval Forces Korea.  (Applause.)  We've got Marine Forces Korea  (Applause.)  Special Operations Command.  (Applause.)  And we've got a whole lot of DOD civilians, too.  (Applause.)

AUDIENCE MEMBER:  We love you!

THE PRESIDENT:  I love you back.  (Applause.) 

Now, Joanne Sharp and Michelle Remington were there to greet me, and I see that we've got a whole lot of spouses and family here.  (Applause.)  To you and all the spouses back home, I just want to remind you that you serve and sacrifice, too, and America honors you as well.

And we are joined by our great allies:  Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Lee and Mrs. Hwang.  We are so nice -- so grateful that you are here.  (Applause.)  Thank you.  Members of the Republic of Korea armed forces, and to all our KATUSA partners -- your English is better than my Korean -- (laughter) -- but let me say:  Katchi Kapshida.  (Applause.)  For those of you guys who have not been doing your homework while you're in Korea, that means:  We go together.  (Applause.)  

And to your neighbors -- the people of Osan and this country -- for more than a half a century, your steadfast resolve has earned you the respect of the world.  And your hospitality to Americans serving far from home has earned you the gratitude of the United States.  On behalf of us all, thank you to the people of the Republic of Korea.  (Applause.)

Today, I'm finishing my first visit to Asia as President.  In Tokyo, we renewed and deepened the U.S.-Japan alliance.  In Singapore, we worked with leaders from across the Asia Pacific to strengthen the global economic recovery.  And in China, we worked to advance the partnership between our two countries on global issues -- because cooperation between the United States and China will mean a safer, more prosperous world for all of us, including right here on the Korean peninsula.

In Seoul, President Lee and I reaffirmed the enduring alliance between our countries -- an alliance rooted in shared sacrifice, common values, mutual interest and mutual respect.  And as we look to the future with a shared vision of our alliance for the 21st century, I made it clear -- America's commitment to the defense of the Republic of Korea will never waver, and our alliance has never been stronger.

And I want to deliver, actually, just a quick story, go a little off script.  President Lee talked to me about what it was like when he was a young child here in Korea, this country having been torn by war, and the poverty that still existed in the country.  And he said, I hope the American people understand how grateful we are for what you've done, because we would not be the extraordinarily strong, prosperous nation that we are, had it not been for the sacrifices of your armed services and the continued contributions that you've made.

And I thought, when the President of a country that's become so successful says that America, and America's armed services in particular, had something to do with the extraordinary success of their country -- he said, that's something you should take great pride in.  And I want all of you to know that, because you are carrying that tradition on right here at Osan.

I couldn't come to the Republic of Korea without coming to see you to deliver a simple message -- a message of thanks to you and your families.  Because of all the privileges of serving as President, I have no greater honor than serving as
Commander-in-Chief of the finest military that the world has ever known.  (Applause.) 

At every stop on my journey, one truth is clear:  The security that allows families to live in peace in Asia and America, the prosperity that allows people to pursue their dreams, the freedoms and liberties that we cherish -- they're not accidents of history; they are the direct result of the work that you do, the strong alliances that we have.  That's the legacy that you are carrying forward.  It is no exaggeration to say that the progress we've seen not just in Korea but in this part of the world would not have been possible without the security and stability provided by generations of American men and women in uniform.  It has transformed the lives of millions of people.

Many people have to wait a lifetime to see the difference they've made.  But you see the legacy of your service, and you only have to look around.  Like generations before you, you've helped keep the peace on this peninsula, working with the wonderful people of the Republic of Korea as they forged a vibrant democracy, and an example that the world admires of  progress and tradition go hand in hand. 

Backed by our alliance, this is one of the world's most dynamic economies -- and one of America's largest trading partners -- bringing prosperity and opportunity to both our people.  That's the legacy of our armed services. 

Backed by our alliance, the Republic of Korea has taken on a leadership role, promoting security and stability around the world.  In Iraq.  In Afghanistan.  In the waters off the Horn of Africa.  And here in Asia, helping to prevent the spread of weapons of mass destruction.  That makes us all more secure.  That, too, is part of your legacy.

But the story of your service goes beyond this peninsula.  For you are members of a generation that has earned your place among the greatest in American history.  You volunteered in a time of war, knowing that you could be sent into harm's way.  Many of you served in Iraq.  (Applause.)  You've given people a chance at self-government there.  Others among you served in Afghanistan.  (Applause.)  And you've denied a safe have to those who attacked us eight Septembers ago -- and would do so again if given the opportunity.  Others among you will deploy yet again.  
So you and your families have served tour after tour, year after year.  And while you made sacrifices that few Americans will ever truly understand, I want to assure you -- every American appreciates what you do.  I say today, on behalf of the American people:  We thank you for your service.  We honor you for your sacrifices.  And just as you've fulfilled your responsibilities to your nation, your nation will fulfill its responsibilities to you.  

So as Commander-in-Chief, here's the commitment I make.  We'll make sure you can meet the missions we ask you to go on.  That's why we're increasing the defense budget, to keep you the best-trained, best-led, best-equipped military in the world. 

We've increased the size of the Army and Marines Corps ahead of schedule.  We've approved a temporary increase in the Army.  And we've halted reductions in the Navy and the Air Force -- which will give you more time home between deployments.  And it will help us to put an end, once and for all, for stop-loss for those who've done their duty.   
         
We'll spend our defense dollars wisely.  So we're cutting tens of billions of dollars in waste and unnecessary projects that even the Pentagon says it doesn't need -- so that we can spend that money on building the 21st century military that we do need so we can maintain our military superiority. 

And I promise you this:  I will not hesitate to use force to protect the American people or our vital interests.  But I will also not risk your lives unless it is absolutely necessary.  (Applause.)  And when it is necessary, America will back you up to the hilt.  We'll give you the strategy, the clear mission, the equipment and the support you need to get the job done.  That's the promise I make to you.

As you fulfill your duties, we're going to take care of your families.  That's why we're increasing pay.  (Applause.)  That's what's called an applause line in the business.  (Laughter.)   That's why we're increasing child care.  That's why we're increasing support to help spouses and families deal with the stress and separation of war.  And I want to commend General Sharp for working to normalize your tours -- so more of your families can join you here in Korea.  And everywhere I go, from what I've heard, there's an extraordinary quality of life here for our troops.  The fact that we can extend these tours a little bit longer just provides more stability and security for your families. 

Finally, we pledge to be there when you come home.  I mean, it's nice here, but we want you coming home.  We're improving care for our wounded warriors, especially those with Post-Traumatic Stress and Traumatic Brain Injury.  We're funding the Post-9/11 GI Bill -- to give you and your families the chance to pursue your dreams.  We've made the biggest commitment to our veterans through the largest percentage increase requested for the VA's budget in more than 30 years.

So these are the commitments I make to you.  Because you've always taken care of America, and America needs to take care of you.  (Applause.)  For you are the latest chapter in a long story of proud service -- a story told in quiet places of reflection and tribute, including a memorial on the National Mall in Washington, not far from the White House.

There, between the monument to Washington and the memorial to Lincoln, you can find it -- 19 statutes, a squad on patrol as they might have appeared on this peninsula six decades ago.  Their packs on their backs.  Clad in their helmets and ponchos.  Carrying their rifles and radios.  Every service -- Army, Air Force, Navy, Marines.  Every race -- white, black, brown.  Standing together.  Serving together.  Moving on.  Pushing ahead. And etched into the black granite wall beside them, thousands of faces -- the nurses, the mechanics, the support personnel who served alongside them.

There, at the Korean War Veterans Memorial, beside the tranquil waters that help us remember, are the statistics of their sacrifice -- the wounded, the captured, the missing, the dead from that war.  And under a bright American flag, etched in stone, are timeless words we know to be true: "Freedom is not free."

Freedom is not free.  And it is paid in the service and the sacrifice of all who wear America's uniform.  It was paid by their generation -- from the Pusan perimeter to the landings at Inchon, from the skies of Mig Alley to the heroism of Heartbreak Ridge.  It's been paid by every generation since.  And it's being paid by you -- in service that inspires us all.  And for this, your country -- and generations yet unborn -- will be forever grateful.

So God bless you all.  God bless the armed services, and God bless the United States of America.  Thank you, everybody.  (Applause.)

END
3:57 P.M. KST

2009-11-20

Presidential Proclamation -- National Farm-City Week

A PROCLAMATION

Our Nation's farm and ranch families supply many of the basic necessities of our daily life. They manage a large portion of our country's fertile land base, and they are caretakers of our valuable natural resources and diverse ecosystems. Their connections with urban and suburban communities are critical to our economy and to the nourishment of our people. During National Farm-City Week, we express gratitude for the contributions of our Nation's farmers and ranchers, and we rededicate ourselves to providing all Americans with access to healthy food, and thus, a healthy future.

Pioneered by Native Americans, agriculture was our Nation's first industry. For agriculture to thrive in the 21st century, we must continue to cultivate the relationships between farmers and rural businesses and their partners and customers in cities and towns. American farmers and ranchers are proud to grow the food, feed, fuel, and fiber that enhance our national security and prosperity, and remain steadfast stewards of the land they love. We must ensure that farming is maintained as an economically, socially, and environmentally sustainable way of life for future generations.

This Thanksgiving season, we celebrate farms of every size that produce fruits, vegetables, dairy, and livestock indispensable to the health of our families. We also recognize the vital ties between our urban and suburban communities and their local farmers through regional food systems, farmers markets, and community gardens. During National Farm-City Week, we celebrate the bounty of America, and we honor the commitment of those who grow, harvest, and deliver agricultural goods to feed our country and grow our economy.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim the week ending on Thanksgiving Day of each year as National Farm-City Week. I call on Americans as they gather with their families and friends to reflect on the accomplishments of all who dedicate their lives to promoting our ation's agricultural abundance and environmental stewardship.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twentieth day of November, in the year of our Lord two thousand nine, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth.

BARACK OBAMA

2009-11-20

Remarks by President Obama and President Lee of the Republic of Korea before Bilateral Meeting

November 19, 2009

11:15 A.M. KST

PRESIDENT OBAMA:  Well, Mr. President -- I was telling the President, and I think the delegation would agree, that this was the most spectacular ceremony for a state visit that we've been involved with since we've traveled.

And I was saying that I especially enjoyed the traditional dress of some of the soldiers.

PRESIDENT LEE:  (As translated.)  But traditional uniforms are quite difficult to fight in.  (Laughter.) 

PRESIDENT OBAMA:  That's true, that's true.

PRESIDENT LEE:  Well, first of all, Mr. President, welcome.  And you're bringing very nice weather with you, because up until yesterday it was sub-zeros, frigid cold.  (Laughter.)

Well, once again, Mr. President, welcome to the Asian region, and, of course, welcome to Korea.  I know that your visit to Japan and China has been very successful.

And Mr. President, as we all like to say, you saved the best for last.  (Laughter.)

PRESIDENT OBAMA:  Well, Mr. President, let me just say that we have been so gratified by the warmth with which we've been received here in the Republic of Korea.

And I think there's every indication that the alliance between our two countries has never been stronger.

END
11:17 A.M. KST

2009-11-20

Statement from Press Secretary Robert Gibbs on House Passage of the Medicare Physician Payment Reform Act

“President Obama commends the House of Representatives for taking action to protect the care and physician choice that Medicare beneficiaries and TRICARE patients have earned. The Medicare Physician Payment Reform Act includes key provisions to update the payment system – including eliminating the steep payment cut scheduled for 2010, consistent with the President's FY 2010 budget proposal. The bill also increases payments for evaluation and management services and encourages the formation of accountable care organizations.

President Obama is also gratified that the House included statutory Pay-as-You-Go legislation in this package. Statutory PAYGO is an important, commonsense tool to help re-establish fiscal discipline in Washington, a principle that the President has long supported – particularly with respect to health care reform.

This legislation is an important step forward, and the Administration will continue to work with Congress to achieve comprehensive reforms, ensure choice and high-quality care for beneficiaries, and restore fiscal discipline in our legislative process.”

2009-11-19

President Obama Announces More Key Administration Posts, 11/19/09

WASHINGTON – Today, President Barack Obama announced his intent to nominate the following individuals to key administration posts:

Elizabeth Littlefield, President of the Overseas Private Investment Corporation Harry K. Thomas, Jr., Ambassador to the Republic of the Philippines David Adelman, Ambassador to the Republic of Singapore

President Obama said, “These individuals will represent our nation well and work to fulfill the important goal of strengthening our relationships abroad.  I look forward to working with them in the coming months and years.”

President Obama announced his intent to nominate the following individuals today:

Elizabeth Littlefield, Nominee for President of the Overseas Private Investment Corporation
Elizabeth Littlefield is currently a Director of the World Bank and the CEO of the Consultative Group to Assist the Poor (CGAP), a multi-donor organization created to help build a large scale permanent microfinance industry providing flexible, high-quality financial services on a sustainable basis to the poor.  Ms. Littlefield previously worked with JP Morgan, where she was the Managing Director in charge of JP Morgan’s Emerging Markets Capital Markets Division.  As such, she oversaw JP Morgan’s capital markets business in Central, Eastern and Southern Europe, Central Asia, Middle East and Africa.  In parallel to her career in investment banking, Ms. Littlefield also spent a year and a half providing guidance to several start-up microfinance institutions in West and Central Africa and in Pakistan.  She has served on the executive board of several organizations including Women’s World Banking, Profund, Africa International Financial Holding, the Mastercard Foundation, the Calvert Foundation, and E&Co. Littlefield is a graduate of Brown University and also attended Ecole Nationale de Sciences Politiques in Paris.

Harry K. Thomas, Jr., Nominee for Ambassador to the Republic of the Philippines
Harry K. Thomas, Jr. is a career member of the Senior Foreign Service and served most recently as Director General of the Foreign Service and Director of Human Resources.  He previously served as a Special Assistant to the Secretary and Executive Secretary of the Department. Thomas, who joined the Foreign Service in 1984, served as U.S. Ambassador to Bangladesh from 2003 to 2005. He also served in the White House as the Director for South Asia at the National Security Council from 2001 to 2002. His other postings include: New Delhi, India; Harare, Zimbabwe; Kaduna, Nigeria; and Lima, Peru. He has served as Senior Watch Officer, Deputy Director, and Director of the State Department Operations Center; Special Assistant to the Under Secretary for Political Affairs; and Staff Assistant to the Assistant Secretary for African Affairs.  Thomas holds a bachelors degree from the College of the Holy Cross.

David Adelman, Nominee for Ambassador to the Republic of Singapore
David Adelman has been a member of the State of Georgia Senate since being elected in 2002.  He serves as Minority Whip and Chairman of the Urban Affairs Committee.  Senator Adelman is an equity partner in the firm Sutherland Asbill and Brennan LLP where he has practiced law since 1993 representing energy and communications companies.  Prior to entering private practice, Senator Adelman was an Assistant Attorney General in Georgia for three years.  In addition to his commercial practice, for many years Senator Adelman has represented veterans pro bono before the United States Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims.  He has been active in his community on domestic violence issues and served on the Board of the Fulton-DeKalb Hospital Authority.  Senator Adelman graduated from the University of Georgia with a B.A. and received an M.P.A. from Georgia State University and a J.D. from the Emory University School of Law. 

2009-11-19

Presidential Nominations Sent to the Senate, 11/19/09

Victor H. Ashe, of Tennessee, to be a Member of the Broadcasting Board of Governors for a term expiring August 13, 2010, vice James K. Glassman, resigned.

Walter Isaacson, of Louisiana, to be a Member of the Broadcasting Board of Governors for a term expiring August 13, 2012, vice Steven J. Simmons, term expired.

Walter Isaacson, of Louisiana, to be Chairman of the Broadcasting Board of Governors, vice James K. Glassman, resigned.

Michael Lynton, of California, to be a Member of the Broadcasting Board of Governors for a term expiring August 13, 2012, vice Mark McKinnon, term expired.

Susan McCue, of Virginia, to be a Member of the Broadcasting Board of Governors for a term expiring August 13, 2011, vice Joaquin F. Blaya, term expired.

Michael P. Meehan, of Virginia, to be a Member of the Broadcasting Board of Governors for a term expiring August 13, 2010, vice D. Jeffrey Hirschberg, term expired.

Dennis Mulhaupt, of California, to be a Member of the Broadcasting Board of Governors for a term expiring August 13, 2011, vice Blanquita Walsh Cullum, term expired.

Dana M. Perino, of the District of Columbia, to be a Member of the Broadcasting Board of Governors for a term expiring August 13, 2012, vice Edward E. Kaufman, resigned.

S. Enders Wimbush, of Virginia, to be a Member of the Broadcasting Board of Governors for a term expiring August 13, 2010, vice Norman J. Pattiz, term expired.

2009-11-19

Presidential Proclamation -- National Entrepreneurship Week

A PROCLAMATION

Throughout our history, American entrepreneurs have been an effective force for innovation at home and around the world. From the airplane to the Internet search engine to new tractors, they have pioneered technologies, products, and processes that have improved lives and shaped the course of our future. Today, they are fueling our economy with their creativity, tireless work ethic, and risk-taking spirit. During National Entrepreneurship Week, we renew our commitment to supporting American entrepreneurs, including social entrepreneurs, who are spreading opportunity and prosperity across our Nation.

Entrepreneurs are the engine of job creation in America, generating millions of good jobs. Many begin with nothing more than a good idea, and translate new products and services into vibrant businesses. To secure our Nation's future prosperity, we must ensure that our entrepreneurs have the tools they need to survive and thrive.

My Administration is working to provide opportunities and conditions for entrepreneurs to succeed. We are supporting the flow of credit by increasing loan guarantees and reducing borrowing fees to help more Americans start businesses. We also made the Research and Experimentation Tax Credit permanent to help burgeoning companies afford the high costs of developing new products and technologies. The recently formed Office of Innovation and Entrepreneurship at the Department of Commerce is building on these efforts with new policies and initiatives to unleash creativity and innovation, as well as turn inspired ideas into new employment-generating businesses.

Our Nation led the world's economies in the 20th century because we led the world in innovation. To strengthen our position in the 21st century, we must rededicate ourselves to harnessing the creative spirit that has made America great.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim November 16 through November 22, 2009, as National Entrepreneurship Week. I call upon all Americans to recognize the important contributions of entrepreneurs to our economy.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this nineteenth day of November, in the year of our Lord two thousand nine, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth.

BARACK OBAMA

2009-11-19

Statement by the Press Secretary on the Election of a New European Council President and High Representative

The President congratulates Prime Minister Herman Van Rompuy on his election as President of the European Council, and Baroness Catherine Ashton on her election as High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy.  The United States has no stronger partner than Europe in advancing security and prosperity around the world. These two new positions, and related changes to take effect on December 1 as a result of the implementation of the Lisbon Treaty, will strengthen the EU and enable it to be an even stronger partner to the United States.  We look forward to working closely with President Van Rompuy and High Representative Ashton, as well as Commission President Barroso and his new cabinet of Commissioners, to fulfill the commitments made at the U.S.-EU Summit on November 3, 2009 to address bilateral, regional and global challenges together.

2009-11-19

Readout of Vice President Biden’s Call to Georgian President Saakashvili

Vice President Biden called Georgian President Saakashvili on November 18, 2009, to discuss democratic reform in Georgia and to reiterate the United States’ strong support for Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The Vice President underscored the importance of sustaining the commitment to democratic reform to fulfill the promise of the Rose Revolution. He also emphasized that all parties should live up to their August 12th and September 8th ceasefire commitments and avoid destabilizing actions.

2009-11-19

Interview of President Obama by Xiang Xi of Southern Weekly

Q    Your first trip to China is ending.  So can you use just one sentence to tell us your favorite about the trip?

PRESIDENT OBAMA:  It has been a very productive trip.  We have worked on a range of issues of mutual concern to the United States and China, and I think it signifies the continued growth of the relationship that is so important not only to our two peoples but also to the world.

Q    I know you love basketball.  So do you think you have time to play basketball while you're being President?

PRESIDENT OBAMA:  You know, I do play, not as often as I used to, but I still play maybe once every week or two.  And I enjoy going to games, as well.  I wish I could have gone to see the Shanghai Sharks, but it wasn't in my schedule.  And I'm looking forward to meeting Yao Ming, who is one of my favorite players.

Q    2009 is 30 years anniversary of China and U.S. diplomacy.  On the press reception you said you welcome China to be a strong, prosperous country, playing a more important role on international affairs.  And in the two countries' joint declaration, China also welcomed America to play an important role as a Asia Pacific country.  So how do you see the China-America cooperation in Asia Pacific area?

PRESIDENT OBAMA:  Well, first of all, I think it's obvious that China's emergence as a major economic power in the world has been one of the most important things to happen over the last two decades.  And part of the reason that China has been able to grow so rapidly is because of strong trade ties between the United States and China.

More importantly, we're seeing our relationship move beyond just issues of trade and economics.  We're now consulting with each other on critical issues like climate change that can't be solved unless the United States and China participate. 

And so increasingly I think what you'll see is a broad strategic relationship between the two countries in which not only are we seeking to cooperate on key economic issues that can increase prosperity for both peoples, but that we're also working closely together on everything from climate change to nonproliferation,, to dealing with issues of terrorism, to making sure that we're addressing critical issues like global poverty and food security. 

And I welcome China's role in the world -- on the world stage.  As it has more resources and more confidence, it's able to take on more and more responsibilities.  And we look forward to being an effective partner with China.

Q    My fourth question is, America has not recognized China's market economic status.  So what effort you give to this question?

PRESIDENT OBAMA:  Well, keep in mind that China's non-market status under the WTO only applies to a few segments of the economy.  Most of China's economic sectors are treated as part of the market economy.  That's why trade with the United States is so robust.  And my understanding is, is that the Chinese government is taking steps necessary in order for it to achieve a market status by 2015, and certainly we are interested in working with China for such a result.

Q    Do you have to schedule, to work on to recognize China's market economy status?

PRESIDENT OBAMA:  Well, this is an issue that involves a lot of technical economic questions.  And so what we have done through our strategic and economic dialogue is to create a framework where we can work through many of these detailed issues at a technical level -- hopefully they can be resolved.

Q    We notice China and America has a large content of trade, but America has many restrictions against China on high-technology exportation.  Both China and America's companies are not very satisfied on this.  So it also restricts the two countries' trade balance.  How do you comment on this?

PRESIDENT OBAMA:  Well, first of all, I think it's just important to recognize obviously that the United States has the most open markets in the world.  That's why China is able to accumulate such significant trade surpluses with the United States.  The issue of high-tech exports, though, is something that we are reviewing.  I discussed this with President Hu.  We do think there are opportunities for U.S. exporters to export high-tech technology or to export high technology to China.  And some of these restrictions may be outdated, so we're going to be doing a comprehensive review. 

One of the main goals I think in the G20 summit in Pittsburgh was to agree that we need a more balanced growth pattern in which China is increasing domestic demand, and other surplus countries are increasing domestic demand, and the United States is saving more and exporting more.  That I think will help to stabilize the world financial system as well as help create higher standards of living here in China and more jobs in the United States.  And so this could be part of a broader approach that we need to take, and that includes looking at trade provisions, it includes what our currency policies are.  All these things go into this broader goal of more balanced growth.

Q    You talked twice, in Tokyo and Shanghai, that America not trying to contain China's rise.  So how do you plan to carry out this policy?  How do you do it?

PRESIDENT OBAMA:  Well, I think through the kinds of ongoing discussions and dialogue that we're currently having with China. It is in the United States' interests to have a stable and prosperous China that helps to anchor a stable and prosperous Asia in the same way that Japan's stability, South Korea's stability creates a more peaceful world and greater commercial ties with the United States.  The same is true in respect to our policy towards China.

I think that the only thing that could prevent such a positive outcome is if there are misunderstandings and miscalculations between the two sides.  And that's why it's so important for us to have these continuous dialogues both on the economic set of issues, but also on security issues.  And the more trust that's been established between the two countries, the less likely such misunderstandings could occur.

Q    Thank you very much.

END

2009-11-19

Statement from President Obama on the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act

“Today we passed another critical milestone in the health reform effort with the release of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. I was particularly pleased to see that the Congressional Budget Office has estimated that the bill will reduce the deficit by $127 billion over the next ten years and as much as $650 billion in the decade following, saving hundreds of billions while extending coverage to 31 million more Americans.

From day one, our goal has been to enact legislation that offers stability and security to those who have insurance and affordable coverage to those who don’t, and that lowers costs for families, businesses and governments across the country. Majority Leader Reid, Chairmen Baucus and Dodd, and countless Senators have worked tirelessly to craft legislation that meets those principles.

Just yesterday, a bipartisan group of more than 20 leading health economists released a letter urging passage of meaningful reform and praising four key provisions that are in the Senate legislation: a fee on insurance companies offering high-premium plans, the establishment of an independent Medicare commission, reforms to the health care delivery system, and overall deficit neutrality. The economists said that these provisions ‘will reduce long-term deficits, improve the quality of care, and put the nation on a firm fiscal footing.’ Those are precisely the goals we should be seeking to attain.

The challenges facing our health care system aren’t new – but if we fail to act they’ll surely get even worse, meaning higher premiums, skyrocketing costs, and deeper instability for those with coverage. Today, thanks to the Senate’s hard work, we’re closer than ever to enacting solutions to these problems. I look forward to working with the Senate and House to get a finished bill to my desk as soon as possible.”

2009-11-18

President Obama Announces More Key Administration Posts, 11/18/09

WASHINGTON – Today, President Barack Obama announced his intent to nominate the following individuals to the Broadcasting Board of Governors:

Victor H. Ashe, Member, Broadcasting Board of Governors Dennis Mulhaupt, Member, Broadcasting Board of Governors Dana Perino, Member, Broadcasting Board of Governors S. Enders Wimbush, Member, Broadcasting Board of Governors

President Obama announced his intent to nominate the following individual today:

Victor H. Ashe, Member, Broadcasting Board of Governors
Victor H. Ashe recently served as United States Ambassador to Poland from June 2004 to October 2009. He also previously served as a Tennessee State Representative and was the longest serving Mayor of Knoxville, Tennessee. Mr. Ashe has served as President of the U.S. Conference of Mayors, was twice appointed to the Intergovernmental Advisory Committee and is a former member of the Americorps Board of Directors. He currently sits on the Board of the National Trust for Historic Preservation and the American Rovers Association. Mr. Ashe is a graduate of Yale University and the University Of Tennessee College Of Law in 1974.

Dennis Mulhaupt, Member, Broadcasting Board of Governors
Dennis Mulhaupt is founder and managing director of Commonwealth Partners, Inc., providing advisory services to philanthropic institutions and families.  He previously served as Executive Vice President at KCET in Los Angeles, a west-coast flagship public broadcasting and media company.  Earlier in his career, he was Vice President at Claremont McKenna College; Vice President for Medical External Relations at Stanford University; and Senior Associate dean in the College of Letters, Arts & Sciences at the University of Southern California.  Mr. Mulhaupt received his B.A. from the University of Southern California and an M.Phil. in international relations and criminology from Cambridge University.

Dana Perino, Member, Broadcasting Board of Governors
Dana Perino is the Chief Issues Counselor for the United States at Burson-Marsteller and is a Fox News Contributor. She is the former White House Press Secretary to President George W. Bush - the first Republican woman to hold that position.  Ms. Perino previously served in the United States Justice Department, was Director of Communications for the White House Council on Environmental Quality, and worked on Capitol Hill for Representatives Dan Schaefer (R-CO) and Scott McInnis (R-C).  She holds a M.A. in Public Affairs Reporting from the University of Illinois – Springfield and a B.A. in Mass Communications from Colorado State University - Pueblo.

S. Enders Wimbush, Member, Broadcasting Board of Governors
S. Enders Wimbush is the Senior Vice President for International Programs and Policy at the Hudson Institute.  He previously worked in the private sector with Booz Allen Hamilton and Science Applications International Corporation, and served as director of Radio Liberty in Munich.  Mr. Wimbush founded and directed the Society for Central Asian Studies in Oxford, England, through which he created the international journal Central Asian Survey.  Mr. Wimbush also served as a Senior Analyst for the Rand Corporation.  Mr. Wimbush received his A.M. in International Relations from the University of Chicago and B.A. in History from the University of Massachusetts-Boston.

2009-11-18

President Obama Announces More Key Administration Posts, 11/18/09

WASHINGTON – Today, President Barack Obama announced his intent to nominate the following individuals to the Broadcasting Board of Governors:

Walter Isaacson, Chair, Broadcasting Board of Governors Michael Lynton, Member, Broadcasting Board of Governors Susan McCue, Member, Broadcasting Board of Governors Michael P. Meehan, Member, Broadcasting Board of Governors

President Obama said, “I am grateful that these distinguished individuals will be a part of this vital agency that has done so much to promote freedom and democracy around the world. I look forward to working with them in the months and years ahead.”  

President Obama announced his intent to nominate the following individual today:

Walter Isaacson, Chair, Broadcasting Board of Governors
Walter Isaacson is President of the Aspen Institute and serves as chair of the board of Teach for America. He is the former Chairman and CEO of CNN and former editor of Time Magazine.  Mr. Isaacson is the author of “Einstein: His Life and Universe” and “Benjamin Franklin: An American Life”, and the co-author of “The Wise Men”. In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, he was appointed vice-chairman of the Louisiana Recovery Authority. Mr. Isaacson is a graduate of Harvard College and Pembroke College of Oxford University.

Michael Lynton, Member, Broadcasting Board of Governors
Michael Lynton is the Chairman and CEO of Sony Pictures Entertainment.  He is the former CEO of AOL Europe and Chairman and CEO of Pearson plc's Penguin Group.  Mr. Lynton is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations and serves on the boards of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and the Rand Corporation. He is a graduate of Harvard College and Harvard Business School and is proficient in French, German and Dutch.

Susan McCue, Member, Broadcasting Board of Governors
Susan McCue is President of Message Global, a strategic advocacy firm she founded in 2008 for social action campaigns.  She was the founding President and CEO of The ONE Campaign to combat extreme global poverty, and before that was Chief of Staff to Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid from 1999 to 2006.  She also is currently Vice Chair of Humanity United.  A New Jersey native, Ms. McCue is a graduate of Rutgers University in New Brunswick, N.J., with degrees in economics and journalism.

Michael P. Meehan, Member, Broadcasting Board of Governors
Michael P. Meehan currently serves as President of Blue Line Strategic Communications, Inc. and as Senior Vice President at Virilion, a digital media company. For over two decades, Meehan served in senior roles for U.S. Senators John Kerry, Barbara Boxer, Maria Cantwell and former Senate Majority Leader Tom Daschle, two presidential campaigns, two U.S. House offices and congressional campaigns in 25 states. Mr. Meehan earned a B.A. in political science from Bates College.
 

2009-11-18

Presidential Nominations Sent to the Senate, 11/18/09

Arthur Allen Elkins, Jr., of Maryland, to be Inspector General, Environmental Protection Agency, vice Nikki Rush Tinsley, resigned.

Nicole Yvette Lamb-Hale, of Michigan, to be an Assistant Secretary of Commerce, vice William G. Sutton, resigned.

Robert A. Petzel, of Minnesota, to be Under Secretary for Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs, vice Michael J. Kussman, resigned.

 

2009-11-18

Remarks by the First Lady at Tea for Military Women

2:25 P.M. EST

MRS. OBAMA:  Thank you so much.   Thank you.  Isn't this nice?  (Laughter.)  Just so very nice.

Let me begin by thanking Secretary Napolitano for that very kind introduction and for her outstanding work in keeping this country safe.  She is a true friend and she has been doing an amazing job and we are so proud to have her on our team.

I'd also like to thank to Dr. Jill Biden -- a Blue Star Mom, by the way -- and a dear friend of mine as well.  She has just been a tireless advocate of highlighting the service of the National Guard and Reserve members and families.  It has just been a thrill for me to be able to work with her on this issue and many others.  Jill, thank you for everything you’ve done.

And I also would like to acknowledge Representatives Susan Davis, Gwen Moore, as well as Jan Schakowsky, who are here, for their terrific work and for joining us here today; it's good to see you all.  And I also want to recognize General Cartwright, Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, along with the members of the Joint Chiefs of Staff who are here, and their wonderful wives -- and this wasn’t in the script, but please stand so that we can recognize and thank all of you -- I know you weren't supposed to this, but you can do it, it's my house.  (Applause.)

You know, Jill and I are particularly grateful to the wives of the members of the Joint Chiefs of Staff because they have -- from day one we sat down with them and got advice and guidance on sort of how to develop our initiatives.  So we're grateful to you.

And I also want to thank to the senior enlisted advisors who are here today and their wives -- and I'd also like to ask them to stand as well so we can give them a round of applause.  (Applause.)  Thank you so much.

Again, with the spouses, we met with shortly thereafter and we had a terrific conversation.  The guidance that you have given us has meant a great deal.  It's really ensured that the efforts that we've undertaken are substantive and accurate.  So thank you all.  Thank you for your support and thank you for being here today.

Let me also thank Patty Shinseki for her tremendous efforts on behalf of our nation’s military children.  Her husband, Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric Shinseki, is doing a terrific job and Patty has become just one of my dearest friends and just always a spot of courage in a sea of work.  (Laughter.)  So where's Patty?  Patty, where are you?  Thank you, Patty.  (Applause.)

And if any of you are still wondering why you're here -- (laughter) -- it's not just tea.  You have to thank General Wilma Vaught.  General.  (Applause.)  I had the privilege of meeting this amazing woman at the Women in Military Service Memorial that occurred at Arlington National Cemetery -- when was that?  That was a few months ago.  And as you all know, she has just poured her heart and soul into that memorial, just to ensure that America’s servicewomen receive the recognition that they’ve earned.

And I had a tremendous visit that day and one of the things that she said -- she turned to me -- who was there?  You remember, she said, Eleanor Roosevelt did a tea, and she said something else, and she said, "We're coming for tea, right?"  (Laughter.)  I said, of course we're going to have tea.  And here we are.  So this is why you're here.  (Applause.)  It was an excellent idea -- excellent idea.

But I also want to honor two very special ladies who are here today, and I got to meet them as well, earlier this year:  Esther Corcoran, who was born in 1905 -- I hope you don't mind me telling on you -- (laughter and applause.)  Esther was one of the first women in the Army to achieve the rank of Lieutenant Colonel -- pretty amazing.  (Applause.)  And she is joining us today with Alyce Dixon, who was born in 1907 -- Alyce.  (Applause.)  And Alyce served with the famous 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion during the Second World War.  So let's give them both another round of applause.  (Applause.)

These ladies have contributed a great deal to this country, and while their lives may span a century, they’re both young at heart -- I've talked to them, they're pretty spunky -- (laughter) -- and we are thrilled to have you both here today, thrilled and honored and grateful for your service.

And finally, I want to thank all of you -- all the women who have served this nation with courage, determination, and distinction, from World War II to today in Iraq and Afghanistan.  You have served in times of war and in times of peace -- an all-volunteer force right from the beginning -- part of a proud tradition that stretches back more than two centuries.

Long before women had the right to vote -- long before we even had the right to vote -- or own property, before America even existed, women were serving this country -- facing danger, risking their lives, even dressing up like men so they’d be allowed to serve.

And it’s never been an easy path.  I can only imagine how challenging it has been and continues to be.  I know that some of you have faced skepticism and ridicule.  Some of you had to contend not just with the challenge of doing your jobs, but with others’ perceptions that you weren’t up to the job simply because of your gender.  As Air Force veteran Dr. Donna Loraine put it -- this is a quote -- "To be a success, a woman had to be confident, self-assured, persistent and have a great sense of humor.  At times you had to employ a certain desperate deviousness to get the job done."  (Laughter.)

So maybe you had to work a little harder -- and a little smarter.  You may have felt a little lonely at times.  At times, you may have gotten downright discouraged.  But you stuck it out, each and every one of you.  You found colleagues who supported you -- of all genders and all races and all backgrounds.  You found superiors who pushed you and encouraged you.  And then you rose to the challenge.  You rose and you found opportunities to advance and to build exciting, amazing careers.  And along the way, you all broke one "brass ceiling" after another.

In this room alone, we have the first female four star general.  We have the first woman in the Navy to be promoted to Master Chief.  The first woman in the Army Reserve to be promoted to the general officer rank.  We have the first woman in the Army to receive the Expert Field Medical Badge.  We have the first African American woman to serve as Chief Nurse at Walter Reed Hospital.  And so many more "firsts" and "onlys" -- and that's the result of your hard work and your courage and your persistence.

But we know these achievements aren’t yours alone.  That's something that Jill and I have talked about, we've learned more about over the course of this year, because we know that service doesn’t just end with the person wearing the uniform.  You all know that.  We know that our servicemen and women’s sacrifices are their families’ sacrifices as well.  And many of you have spouses, partners, children, parents who stood by you and encouraged you and prayed for you every step of the way.  And this day is their day too, as far as we're concerned.  So let’s take a moment to recognize those members of our families who supported you in your service as well.  (Applause.)

But I hope you all know that your service -- that your legacy is more than just your own service.  I hope that you know that your legacy will be measured in the service of every woman who follows in the trails that you've blazed -- every woman who benefits from your daring and determination.  It will be measured in the inspiration that you provide to our daughters and our granddaughters -- and to our sons and our grandsons as well.

Because of you, when young women wonder how high they can rise in our military, they can look at General Ann Dunwoody and her four hard earned stars.  That can see that, it's real.  When they ask what kind of jobs they can do, they can look to women like all of you who’ve played just about every kind of role imaginable.  And when they ask whether they can cut it -- whether they have what it takes to succeed -- all they have to do is to look at your lives, to look into your lives and to look at the careers that you've developed that inspire us all.

They can look to the example of Coast Guard Commander Dorothy Stratton, who led the SPARS during World War II.  She stated, "We wanted to serve our country in its time of need."  She said, I'm proud to sponsor -- oh, she didn't say this, but I am proud to sponsor a new Coast Guard cutter bearing her name to ensure that her service will be remembered for generations.  (Applause.)

They can look to Jennifer Grieves, who made history by becoming the first woman Marine One aircraft commander, and by commanding the first-ever flight with an all-female crew -- I remember this -- proudly carrying my husband from the White House to Andrews Air Force Base back in July.  That was a wonderful day.

They can look to Tammy Duckworth, who flew combat missions in Iraq and lost both her legs when her helicopter was hit by a grenade.  She went on to become a fearless advocate for veterans and wounded warriors, and now serves as Assistant Secretary for Public and Intergovernmental Affairs at the Veterans Affairs Department.  Thank you, Tammy.  (Applause.)

And they can look to the example of women like Amy Krueger, who lost her life in the unthinkable violence at Fort Hood two weeks ago.  Amy had enlisted in the Army after the September 11th attacks.  And when her mother told her that she couldn’t take on Osama bin Laden all by herself, Amy replied, simply:  "Watch me."

She said, "Watch me."  And I think that more than anything, that phrase "watch me" sums up the spirit of our women in uniform throughout our history.  When others doubted you, or dismissed you, or questioned whether you could endure the training or complete the mission -- that was your response:  "Watch me."  Right?

Watch me succeed.  Watch me risk everything I have for the country I love.  Watch me do my part to protect this nation and protect this union.  Watch me.

So we thank you for your courage and your service.  We're honored to have you in our presence.  We're thrilled, General, that you came up with this brilliant idea.  (Laughter.)  And we hope that you don't spike the tea until after we leave.  (Laughter.)  But we are thrilled to have you here.  Welcome to the White House and thank you so much for your service.  Thank you and God bless.  (Applause.)

END
2:40 P.M. EST

2009-11-18

Remarks by The First Lady at Hollin Meadows School Visit

10:54 A.M. EST

MRS. OBAMA:  Well, thank you so much, Principal Gates, for everyone here.  I'm not going to talk long because I'm really here to listen and learn.  You know, we know the statistics, we know that the school lunch and nutrition program is a major part of kids' lives because so many kids are getting most of their meals here.  And we also know that we can do better in those areas, because those programs, the low rates of vegetables and fruits in those meals and the high rates of foods that have high calories probably plays a role in some of the statistics the we hear, that one in three kids in this country are obese.

And that's what we have to really combat, because that's a reality and if we don't do something about it now it's only going to get worse.

So I have just been thrilled to be working with Secretary Vilsack, he's been a wonderful partner.  As some of you may know, a few weeks ago we hosted an event on the South Lawn where we really emphasized fitness, we talked about nutrition, we had kids from schools all throughout the area -- and their parents -- and really spent time showing how you can create healthy foods that kids enjoy, that are cost effective and easy to do with the current resources that the system provides.

And we also had a little fun, too -- I hula-hooped -- (laughter) -- probably got a little too much attention from the hula-hooping, but the goal was really engaging families and kids in the whole area of fitness.  And one of the things that we talked about was the healthy schools initiative that the Department of Agriculture has been supporting.  And I made a commitment then that if more schools got onboard that I would invest in visiting those schools, learning more from them, seeing the kids.  And this is really the first stop on that promise.  And my hope is that we'll be visiting more and more schools and there will be more and more schools that figure out how we can make this happen.

It's because of successes that you all are having here that it shows us that even when there are few resources there are ways to improve what we're doing in nutrition and fitness.  So I'm thrilled to be here, to learn more about how you're making it work.  I'm glad that there are other schools and administrators here who are interested in figuring out how to make it work in their schools.  And I stand by the commitment that I want to see more and more schools joining and meeting the standards of the healthy schools challenge, because I want to be visiting more schools that are making these changes and making the environment better for al of our kids.

So with that I will turn it back over to Principal Gates, and I know there are several people who are going to talk more about the efforts you all are doing here.  So thank you again, and congratulations on what you've accomplished so far.

PRINCIPAL GATES:  Thank you both for your remarks.

Talking about how we make it work, we've asked three of our panel members to expand upon that a little bit and we'll start with Jean Consolla.

MS. CONSOLLA:  Thanks.  Over the last few years what we've learned at Hollin Meadows is that in order to make our kids academically strong and physically healthy we first have to address their social and emotional needs.  And this focus on students' social/emotional well being is not really an afterthought, but it's really the foundation upon which we have built this community of caring learners.

And for many of our students this is a stable environment, this is the most stable environment that they're going to experience.  Here at Hollin Meadows almost 50 percent of our students live in poverty.  We have students who have just arrived from another country, many not knowing a word of English.  We have students who spent last night in a shelter and who don't know if they're going to be staying in their home by the end of the month.

And what we do at Hollin Meadows for every child is that we make each child feel that they belong here, that they're significant and that school is a fun place to be and it's a place where they can learn.  And we do this in a variety of ways, both formally and informally.

Every August, the week before school begins, all of our teachers go to our children's homes for a visit.  They make that connection.  Every, single child -- every teacher goes and visits.  I've done it, it's a lot of fun.  And we greet each student in the morning out front, when they're getting off the bus, in the lobby, when they're going into the cafeteria for the first meal of the day.

And when the children go to the classroom they start off each day with a morning meeting.  They gather together with their classmates, they greet each other, they share what's going on in their lives.  They engage in a low-risk, fun activity.  And then they make that transition to the academics through their morning message.  And the result is they've created a community where they feel safe, they feel connected with each other.

Two years ago we took this up another notch and we spread it out to the whole school community.  And each week we have a school meeting where we get -- we do half of our students in K-6 on Tuesday, half on Thursday, we sing songs, we do performances, we have birthday recognitions, we do announcements.  And we just make it really fun and inclusive.

And what we've found is that implementation of these practices -- the morning meeting, the school meeting -- has directly mirrored our closing of the achievement gap in reading and in mathematics.  And our latest efforts have focused on recess.  And in a time when many schools are decreasing the amount of recess or even eliminating recess, we've actually extended it.  We went from 20 minutes to 30 minutes.  And I would love to say that the driving force was to lower childhood obesity or to increase physical activity -- but it wasn't; I'd be lying to you if I said that.  It was, again, the social/emotional needs of the children.

Because we know that when kids are engaged in productive free play they develop self-responsibility, they practice skills such as negotiating, they communicate with each other.  And this is critical to their academic success and to their healthy well being.  So we kind of back-doored with the physical fitness piece of this.

But it wasn't just about adding 10 minutes to the recess time.  We looked at how the quality of the recess -- and so what we did was we looked at activities that were inclusive and that would get those kids active for the 30 minutes.  So there's no sitting on the sidelines and there's no waiting your turn. It's go, go, go.  The more running, the better.

Teachers cannot keep their children out of recess because they'd miss their homework or because they were misbehaving in class.  Recess is as important as reading and math and science and social studies.

We're pretty confident that we're on the right track to developing healthy children.  And by focusing on the social/emotional health we've strengthened our academic program.  Our kids feel empowered to take risks in the classroom.  They share what their strategies are about solving a math problem or what they think the author's purpose is.  And when our students feel safe and valued in this community they're more likely to take risks.  They will go out and join with Debra in the running club.  They'll try a new game at recess.  They'll take that big-kid risk and try a vegetable.  (Laughter.)  And say, oh, okay, I can do that, I'm in a safe space here.

At Hollin Meadows we like to say that we're nurturing healthy risk-takers.  And as a mom and as an educator I am just thrilled to be sharing in this dialogue.  And I'm grateful that we have an ally in the First Lady and in the Secretary in raising healthy children.

And with that I'd like to turn it over to Louise, who will talk about how the community has joined us in that effort.

MS. GRIFFIN:  Good morning.  Thank you for taking the time to visit our school and for your commitment to our children and the nation.

About five years ago, several parents in the PTA took a very progressive and innovative idea at the time to start a garden and actually turn it into a reality.  As a parent and a community member, it's just been an amazing process to watch.  The synergy here of the administration and the staff, the parents, the students and the community is almost indescribable.

Time after time we've been able to take ideas and turn them into concrete reality.  We've been able to transform our environment.  We used two big PTA events and school events -- one is Earth Day, where the entire community comes together to beautify the school, create gardens, we have a wildlife habitat, we've painted murals, we've created outdoor learning spaces. And most importantly, it adds to building that community that Jean talked about.

I've witnessed our students and parents in the gardens on Earth Day, and everyone is welcome and comfortable.  I never tire of seeing the children's faces that have never planted, never been in the soil -- and to see that light bulb go on when they connect that the plan they're planting is something that they see in the grocery store.  And for a lot of our kids this is the first opportunity they have to do that.

This week we're actually harvesting lettuce that every student in the school had the opportunity to participate in the working beds and plant.  And we have a huge Thanksgiving luncheon that's actually tomorrow and all the children will be harvesting this afternoon to get the lettuce harvested.  And just being there and watching the community come out, the parents are here.  And so it's no going through the line like a normal cafeteria Thanksgiving lunch, everybody sits at a table much like this and is served.  And they're eating the lettuce that they grew and it is just such an empowering day and just to see the kids who probably didn't eat salad before.

We know that children are influenced by their environment.  Our gardens expose our students to healthier foods, but also healthier lifestyles, the importance of being outside, the need to protect the Earth and being green and recycling.  And most important to me, making intentional choices about how they live their life.

It's been my pleasure to watch the children stay actively engaged in their science lessons and to hear our students answer Chef Kass this summer when we were actually in your garden -- (laughter) -- and they could actually tell him about the edible parts of a plant, they could tell him about composting.  It lets me know that the impact that the community and the parents are having by bringing this opportunity is attributed directly to the learning in the classroom.  And that's what gives me the energy to continue to provide my time and talents here at Hollin Meadows.

As a mom here, I know that my children will leave here prepared for what lies ahead, but also engaged in learning.  And it's just a wonderful, wonderful environment.  So thank you for coming today.

MRS. OBAMA:  Just a quick question -- how do you get more parents engaged?  I mean, it sounds like parental engagement is pretty high here.

MS. GRIFFIN:  It has truly been a grassroots effort.  The team of parents that came together are actually very intentional in making a personal connection with each other.  Someone came to me when I was new at the school and shared the vision with me.  And we do it pretty much one parent at a time and have been just very successful with that.

MRS. OBAMA:  Great, thank you.

MS. McCONNELL:  We’re very fortunate in Fairfax County.  I've been with the district 44 years and it's still a lot of fun feeding the children of this community.  We're blessed in the sense that our school boards and our superintendents through the years have always followed the very strong nutrition philosophy that our program started with in the '50s.  And we have a very good partnership throughout the district and that's very important in a position such as mine, that you do get support at the top and so forth.

We have, since 1986 -- which is hard to believe -- a competitive food regulation that we got approval on that preclude the sale of anything in competition with our program for the entire school day.  So we've never sold soft drinks and candy and I think it's because of our strong nutrition philosophy.

We had 61 schools that won the challenge last year.  And the challenge is a multifaceted partnership, really, when you think about it.  And I think it's a wonderful initiative and I'm delighted that you're both supporting it, because it shows what can happen in the wellbeing of our youngsters when you involved physical education, you involve the school lunch program, nutrition education and the dietary guidelines and meeting the federal standards.

And I think what's great about the upcoming new federal standards I think they'll be very realistic.  We take a great deal of pride in Fairfax in promoting fresh fruits and vegetables.  It's costly, but I think it's very important that that be something we promote.  And we have some very good nutrition education materials that we've developed to promote it.

My team not only supervises operations, but they're required to do nutrition education in the classroom.  And we've developed a great number of programs to complement what the teachers do.  There's another blessing we have in Fairfax -- we have a nutrition education curriculum K-8, which is wonderful and important.  And I think what's so enjoyable is with our materials, we make them quite colorful -- and sometimes we're criticized for the expense -- but we want them to go home to the parents because I think our big challenge in child nutrition, hunger and reducing the obesity is to get our parents to be better role models.

And so I think this is a challenge that all of us around the table -- and I think it's a blessing here at Hollin Meadows and many of our schools in Fairfax do have -- but I think with working parents, they're rushed, they do need some guidance.  So every month I do a nutrition education newsletter that is sent to parents throughout the district.  We have a wonderful website for the teachers.  And because I think we need to be involved in the classroom, I believe school lunch cannot just be down the hall.  We have to be an integral part of the school.  We play an important role in children's readiness to learn.

We have a wonderful wellness program.  We have a task force that met all the standards of USDA.  But my challenge right now is how do I get all of my school administrators to enter a competition we've established, which is the Wellness Score Card.  In our first year last year we only had 15 entries.  So our goal is to maybe hit 50 this year.  And you've gone through the same with the Healthier U.S. School Challenge -- it takes time to get people to be aware that it's there, you have to market it, but you have to get them to buy in.

And our Score Card reflects all of the things that the Healthier School Challenge does, you know, the involvement, physical education, health fairs.  In fact, I said to Jon, you need to enter that this year.  And it's just how we're so large in Fairfax County -- we're so large, 411 square miles and 230-some schools and centers -- not that I'm making an excuse, but it takes all of us in this partnership.  And that's why Hollin Meadows has a wonderful situation here -- you see the partnership with everyone, with the faculty, with the support personnel, with the parents.  And so I think that's something that's very, very important, that we become strong partners, all of us together.

SECRETARY VILSACK:  Just to comment on your comment about the cost.  You know, we do recognize that when we're asking schools in tough economic times to dig deep and to do this, we in the federal government want to be a partner.  The President in his budget has proposed a billion dollars more for the child nutrition reauthorization effort a year.  And that is designed to provide greater, tighter partnerships so that you can afford to have those vegetables and fruits in the diets of youngsters.

So we want to be a good partner with you, but we're going to need your help to convince our friends in Congress that this is a priority.  With the First Lady's leadership we elevate this issue significantly, but we're going to need your voices as well.

MS. McCONNELL:  Yes, and it's very important and I do commend you on spotlighting it, as I said earlier.  And I think nationally the child nutrition professionals want to work closely to achieve this.  And I think the secret is to have a nice partnership within every school in this country -- which is achievable.  It won't be overnight.  I know my colleague are wanting to meet the guidelines to make our meals healthier, and some have more challenges than others.  But I think we're dedicated to that and I think the School Nutrition Association has shown that and I know some of my colleagues were visiting with you at your program the other day.  But it takes all of us.

MRS. OBAMA:  Well, a question, Jon, because Hollin Meadows, again, has its share of struggles.  You've got a pretty diverse population base.  You're dealing with high-needs kids.  Yet you've managed to find the time with the current resources to add recess -- and that's something that you hear; or at least I've heard as a mother, that it's not done because there's no time in the curriculum, because of testing and other requirements -- but you've managed to do it in addition to adding nutrition education into the curriculum.

So I guess one question is how have you managed to do what many others have said is impossible to do under the current structure?

PRINCIPAL GATES:  Well, I think that in many ways some of what we've done is counterintuitive.  You think, well, if we need more time for the academics then we should cut out something like recess.  But what we know is that when a child has had a chance to be physically active, when they've had a chance to have free choice, that those things then -- it pays off when they come back into the classroom and they're ready to attend, they're ready to learn.

The same way with nutrition.  We know that if you don't -- they learn about, wow, if I have a lot of carbohydrates or a sugary snack I'm going to have this spike of energy and then I'm going to crash -- so if we can help them understand how eating is going to help you learn, well, then our achievement scores, as Jean talked about, they've gone up.  We haven't lost ground.  We have made AYP.  We've done those things that have been difficult choices to make, but we know that when we think about what's best for our kids -- and also we're not just preparing kids to pass a test, preparing them to make it to the next grade level -- we've preparing them for life.  And so the skills that they learn about nutrition, healthy eating and physical exercise are things that they're going to take with them for their entire life.

MRS. OBAMA:  So it's really a difference in philosophy, because you say it's counterintuitive -- but we all really know that it's really not counterintuitive.  (Laughter.)  If anyone has kids you know that they need exercise and recess in order to focus.  If you own a dog you know that.  (Laughter.)

But I guess that's part of the challenge, is changing the mentality within the system about what priorities make sense and why.

PRINCIPAL GATES:  Well, I would also point out that some of that we've done -- we've also looked closely at our curriculum around what we grow in our gardens -- and Jason and Shawn can talk to this -- that, you know, our science, our social studies curriculum are rich in opportunities to say, let's integrate this curriculum into what the students have to know and be able to do to achieve academically.  And certainly growing something in the garden and looking at the different parts of a plant and talking about that versus looking at it in a textbook or seeing it on a visual somewhere is much more powerful to our students.

So we've looked at those as saying that is really learning that's going on.  It's not just, went out in the garden and doing those things.

MS. AKARD:  Yes, every opportunity out in the garden is an opportunity to learn.  And not only do Jason and I do that, but our teachers take it one step further -- and you can see some of the proof of that around you.  We'll be out with classes and then a teacher will take it into a writing exercise, into a mathematics lesson.  And they take it and extend it and extend it.  And I think that is part of our key to success, is that everybody is so connected to what we're doing that it becomes -- it's just a natural process for us here at Hollin Meadows.  So I'm very grateful.

MR. PITTMAN:  Dedicating time to those things are not mutually exclusive.  We don't have to give up one in order to do the other.  We can do measurement and math exactly like Shawn said -- and when we do, like Jon said, have to spend the extra expensive time it pays such dividends that it's absolutely worth it.

MRS. OBAMA:  One question -- we also have other administrators here and I'm -- for people who are trying to figure this out, I'd love to hear about what are the challenges that you see?  I mean, when you listen to what's gone on here, what do you think?  How is it tougher, how do you think about it?  Because, again, this is one -- but not the only -- opportunity to discuss it.  But I'm interested in hearing from schools as well who find that there will be challenges in reaching these goals and what can be done to make it easier.

MS. LITCHKO:  Well, I'm a primary school, so we look at it a little differently because of all the little ones.  And it's really -- at my school it's about building relationships both with the children and the parents, because for so many it's their first time in a school situation.

And so we've been so lucky to get support.  We have the Maryland Meals for Achievement program, which is a breakfast program.  And the children come in 20 minutes early and the teachers give up their planning time so that they can be in the classrooms with them -- having breakfast, creating a nurturing environment.  They call it "soft landing," which comes from the Responsive Classroom.  And it also makes them an advocate for having healthier breakfasts, because they're right there seeing what's happening.

We also have the After School Snacks program for our all Head Starts and for our after school clubs, so that the children get some food during the day.  We've had nutrition classes for the parents because we realize they're coming with not the skills to know what are healthy diets here in the United States.  And we also have a backpack program on Fridays, where we send home food, so they get food.

So one of the challenges for us is to make sure children aren't hungry.  And for that we are so thankful for all you're doing and Secretary Vilsack is doing to help us.

MS. FOSTER:  Well, at River Terrace Elementary School this is my second year as the administrator.  We're very small.  We have 150 students.  And I'm the only administrator.  And it's really tough to -- knowing the importance of healthier lifestyles for children.  When I was a child I was an obese child.  And so I understand, you know, the benefits of having healthier food choices, of being physically fit, involved in activities.

And so we joined, partnered with the Alliance for Healthier Generation and that requires you to establish a school wellness council.  And I find that establishment of the school wellness council is how we've been able to start small, but think big.  The school wellness council has the principal, the school nurse, the cafeteria manager, the PE teacher, parents and other staff members who are interested.  And last year we met to talk about how can we start small, but think big.

And so one of the pieces of it we did is we established a Jammin' Minute.  It's midway the literacy block -- the 120-minute literacy block.  And every day at 10:00 a.m. the nurse comes on the PA system and says, "It's time for Jammin' Minute," and we literally stop instruction for just a minute and we do a physical activity that's connected to social studies or science standard.  Yesterday we traveled to the solar system just for a minute, and we reached and we stretched and we did different things.

And the principal has to get to a classroom, because I have to participate.  Any adult who's in the building, they have to stop and participate.  The teachers participate.  The children look forward to it.  It just takes a minute and it's free and it reenergizes them and gets them ready for the second half of the literacy block.

We also decided to establish a Stepping Tigers Walking Club.  The nurse targeted children in my building who are obese, also other children who want to participate, and parents and staff members who want to participate.  And so after school, during the after-care program they walk the building.  When it's cold outside, they walk outside.  We connect it, of course, to math standards and to science standards.  But again, it's something that's free, something that's easy to do.  The students and staff and parents are already there.  And so those are two examples of starting small.

During our morning announcements, our children lead the morning announcements and they read the daily menu -- what are we having for lunch.  And so the children decided that they want to give a healthy tip -- they don't just want to read what the lunch menu is, but they notice everyone isn't eating their peas and everyone isn't eating their carrots -- (laughter) -- and everyone isn't drinking all of their milk.  So each day they mention a healthy tip, you know, "You have to drink all of your milk because it helps to make your teeth and bones strong.  I'm going to drink all of my milk -- are you?"

So we have this -- again, it's free, it's something simple to do, we're already doing the morning announcements.  But that's children encouraging other children with healthy habits.  And thinking big?  We want to establish a garden at our school.  And so that's why this is an amazing opportunity not only to be here with you and with the Secretary, but to be at a school who already has this functioning.  And I can come over and I can visit and my school can come visit and say, hey, this is how we did it and this is how we can bring this to my school.

And I'll wrap up by saying that the big vision is to have this organic garden at my school and to have an instructional kitchen in my school.  And children and parents can plant together and teachers as well, but we can go outside and we can take some of the things that we've planted and we can go into the building into our instructional kitchen and we can educate our parents on what to do with these vegetables and what to do with these fruits and how to prepare healthier meals.

I have a juicer.  If you juice a carrot and an apple, that will taste so much better than the soda and some of what I call the sugar-water, you know, that my students are used to drinking.  So again, we're starting small, we're thinking big, and we're partnering with schools in D.C., Maryland and Virginia to see what you're doing and how that can help us to grow at our school.

DR. GRANT:  (Off mic) -- we're focusing on the whole family.  We're partnering with George Washington University and we started the parent academy.  So first I'm trying to change the culture, the mind set.  I have a lot of things that I need to offset, and I'm willing to have those tough conversations with parents, children, staff.

I have to you these children that it's not okay to smoke, what you're doing to your bodies.  And I have to break it down to what's in cigarettes.  I know I'm not ingratiating myself to the tobacco industry, but right now I'm trying to save lives.  Also I have to tell them when you put certain foods in your body -- fried foods -- how it can clog your arteries.

I have these conversations, I've gone to classrooms.  I had it in the Personal Instructional Minute every morning.  I go through my checklist:  Did you bathe?  Did you brush your teeth?  Do you have on clean clothes?  And the kids are expecting these things from me.  And I love it.

And I also make sure that we have partnerships in place that are going to focus on the child's physical activity, as we were saying earlier.  We have to make sure in after-school programs that we are just not putting -- well, with D.C. public schools you have athletic programs which starts at the 4th grade level.  But parents kept asking me in a pre-school to three atmosphere, what's there for my children?  So I went out and found a partnership with Create Tennis.  So my children at that age are learning how to play tennis at an early age.  So I built in an athletic program.  And those are not athletically inclined, we have a dance program, we have a glee club, we have a music program -- all in the extended day activities.  We made sure that this was in place so that they have opportunities for physical exertion beyond the academic day, because I also have to make sure that they get the academics.

And as we said with the structure at recess -- we have soccer, kickball, basketball, jumping rope.  And I'm outside very day, that's my duty, every day -- I'm playing basketball, I'm racing children, I'm playing kickball, I'm jumping rope.  I'm doing everything to model for the children --

MRS. OBAMA:  Have you hula-hooped yet?  (Laughter.)

DR. GRANT:  Oh, they made me hula hoop.  They made me hula hoop.  (Laughter.)  And I thank you for that, because they said, Dr. Grant, can you hula hoop?  I said, I certainly can.  So I did hula hoop with the children.

All that to say that we have to focus on what's in our community, the resources that are available, that wanted to come in, and finding them and I'm focusing on a full community that we have a lot of carry-outs.  And I have to tell them what it's doing to your bodies -- liquor stores, you know, what alcohol does to your liver.  These are things where I want my children to live beyond the age of 40 and 50.  I have to take care of their bodies and then we, the Department of Mental Health, and take care of their minds.  And we are there for them and I want to be there for them every day.

MRS. OBAMA:  Great.  Thank you.  All right, Katie is losing her mind.  (Laughter.)  Her head is about to pop off -- uh-oh, it's gone.  (Laughter.)

PRINCIPAL GATES:  Well, thank you very much, all of you, for your comments, for your thoughts this morning.  It's been a great discussion, we really appreciate that.

MRS. OBAMA:  Thank you.  Thanks so much.

END
11:25 A.M. EST

ROUNDTABLE PARTICIPANTS

First Lady Michelle Obama
The Honorable Tom Vilsack, Secretary of the U.S. Department of Agriculture
Jon Gates, Principal, Hollin Meadows
Jean Consolla, Assistant Principal, Hollin Meadows
Donna Beaver-Young, Assistant Principal, Hollin Meadows
Penny McConnell, Director of Food and Nutrition Services, Hollin Meadows
Shawn Akard, Outdoor Education Coordinator, Hollin Meadows
Debra Lane, Parent Volunteer and Running Club Coordinator, Hollin Meadows
Jason Pittman, Science Focus Teacher, Hollin Meadows
Louise Griffin, Parent Volunteer and former PTA President, Hollin Meadows
Shannon Foster, Principal, River Terrace Elementary School, Washington, DC
Jeffrey Grant, Walker Jones Education Campus, Washington, DC
Jane Litchko, New Hampshire Estates Elementary School, Silver Spring, MD
 

2009-11-18

Statement by the Press Secretary on the President’s Visit to China

President Obama's visit to China has demonstrated the depth and breadth of the global and other challenges where US-China cooperation is critical.  His discussions with President Hu have  strengthened possibilities for future cooperation. In order to continue to develop this important relationship, President Obama has invited President Hu to visit the United States in 2010.  President Hu has accepted with pleasure.

2009-11-18

Remarks by the President in a Bilateral Meeting with Premier Wen Jiabao of China

11:49 A.M. CST

PRESIDENT OBAMA:  Well, Mr. Premier, I want to thank you very much for your hospitality and this meeting.  And I want to send my regards not only from my delegation but also from the American people. 

Now, I can tell you that those members of my government who have had dealings with you before have always come away impressed with your knowledge and your wisdom.

We have had very productive discussions over the last two days.  I think President Hu and myself agreed in our first meeting that we wanted to try to deepen the strategic partnership and relationship between the United States and China.  A relationship that used to be focused just on economic and trade issues is now expanding to deal with a whole host of global issues in which U.S.-China cooperation is critical.

END
11:51 A.M. CST

2009-11-18

President Obama Announces More Key Administration Posts, 11/17/09

WASHINGTON – Today, President Barack Obama announced his intent to nominate the following individuals to key administration posts:

• Robert A. Petzel, Under Secretary for Health, Department of Veterans Affairs
• Arthur Elkins, Jr., Inspector General, Environmental Protection Agency
• Nicole Y. Lamb-Hale, Assistant Secretary of Commerce (Manufacturing and Services), Department of Commerce

President Obama said, “The dedication and expertise of these individuals will be of great service to my administration as we confront the challenges our nation faces. I look forward to working with them in the months and years ahead.”

President Obama announced his intent to nominate the following individuals today:

Robert A. Petzel, Nominee for Under Secretary for Health, Department of Veterans Affairs
Robert A. Petzel, M.D. was appointed Acting Principal Deputy Under Secretary for Health of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) in May 2009.  Before this, Dr. Petzel was Network Director of the Department of Veterans Affairs Midwest Health Care Network based in Minneapolis, Minn. In this position, Dr. Petzel was responsible for executive leadership, strategic planning and budget for eight medical centers and 42 community based outpatient clinics that serve veterans in Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Western Illinois and Western Wisconsin. Previously Dr. Petzel was Director of VA Network 23 and was Chief of Staff at the Minneapolis VA Medical Center.  Dr. Petzel also co-chairs the National VHA Strategic Planning Committee and the VHA System Redesign Steering Committee.  Dr. Petzel graduated from St. Olaf College, Northfield, Minn., in 1965 and from Northwestern University Medical School in 1969. He is Board Certified in Internal Medicine and on the faculty of the University of Minnesota Medical School.

Arthur Elkins, Jr., Inspector General, Environmental Protection Agency
Arthur Elkins, Jr. is currently an Associate General Counsel within the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Office of General Counsel (OGC).  In this position, he supervises the delivery of legal counsel, opinions, litigation support and other legal services in support of the EPA OGC’s Information Law Practice, Employment Law Practice and Intellectual Property Law Practice.  In addition to his EPA service, Mr. Elkins’s federal public service also includes service as the Chief Legal Officer/General Counsel for the Court Services and Offender Supervision Agency (CSOSA), the Counsel to the Inspector General of the National Science Foundation, and as a Department Counsel within the Department of Defense’s Defense Office of Hearings and Appeals.  Prior to Mr. Elkins’s federal public service, he served at the state level as an Assistant Prosecuting Attorney and as an Assistant Public Defender for the Ohio Cuyahoga County Prosecutor’s Office and the Ohio Cuyahoga County Public Defender Office, respectively.  Mr. Elkins has distinguished himself as a versatile accomplished attorney with more than sixteen years of legal experience. Mr. Elkins maintains active bar memberships in both Ohio and the District of Columbia. Mr. Elkins received his Bachelors in Social Science from Thomas A. Edison State College, Masters in Business Administration from Baldwin-Wallace College, Juris Doctor from the Cleveland-Marshall College of Law, Cleveland State University, and a Masters in Law and Government from American University.

Nicole Y. Lamb-Hale, Nominee for Assistant Secretary of Commerce (Manufacturing and Services), Department of Commerce
Nicole Y. Lamb-Hale is currently the Deputy General Counsel of the Department of Commerce.  In this role, she assists the General Counsel as the chief legal officer for the Department and legal advisor to the Secretary, Secretarial Officers and other officers of the Department.  Prior to joining the Obama Administration, she was the Managing Partner of the Detroit office of the law firm of Foley & Lardner LLP where she specialized in business restructuring in the manufacturing sector.  Lamb-Hale has been active in civic and community affairs throughout her career.  She served as vice-chair of the Board of Directors of the Michigan Land Bank Fast Track Authority, by appointment of Michigan Governor Jennifer M. Granholm, and as a member of the Board of Trustees of Leadership Detroit.  Lamb-Hale has been a frequent lecturer on restructuring matters with a particular emphasis in recent years on the automotive industry.  She was named a Super Lawyer for three successive years and one of Metro Detroit's Most Influential Women by a leading business publication.  Lamb-Hale received her B.A. with high honors from the University of Michigan in 1988 and her J.D. from Harvard Law School in 1991
 

2009-11-17

Presidential Nominations Sent to the Senate, 11/17/09

Julie Simone Brill, of Vermont, to be a Federal Trade Commissioner for the term of seven years from September 26, 2009, vice Pamela Harbour, term expired.

Scott H. DeLisi, of Minnesota, a Career Member of the Senior Foreign Service, Class of Minister-Counselor, to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to Nepal.

Earl F. Gohl, Jr., of the District of Columbia, to be Federal Cochairman of the Appalachian Regional Commission, vice Anne B. Pope, resigned.

Edith Ramirez, of California, to be a Federal Trade Commissioner for the term of seven years from September 26, 2008, vice Deborah P. Majoras, term expired.

Beatrice Wilkinson Welters, of Virginia, to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to Trinidad and Tobago.
 

2009-11-17

Statement by White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs on Jerusalem

We are dismayed at the Jerusalem Planning Committee’s decision to move forward on the approval process for the expansion of Gilo in Jerusalem. At a time when we are working to re-launch negotiations, these actions make it more difficult for our efforts to succeed. Neither party should engage in efforts or take actions that could unilaterally pre-empt, or appear to pre-empt, negotiations. The U.S. also objects to other Israeli practices in Jerusalem related to housing, including the continuing pattern of evictions and demolitions of Palestinian homes.  Our position is clear: the status of Jerusalem is a permanent status issue that must be resolved through negotiations between the parties.

2009-11-17

Statement by White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs on the Approval of Settlement Expansion in Jerusalem

We are dismayed at the Jerusalem Planning Committee’s decision to move forward on the approval process for the expansion of Gilo in Jerusalem. At a time when we are working to re-launch negotiations, these actions make it more difficult for our efforts to succeed. Neither party should engage in efforts or take actions that could unilaterally pre-empt, or appear to pre-empt, negotiations. The U.S. also objects to other Israeli practices in Jerusalem related to housing, including the continuing pattern of evictions and demolitions of Palestinian homes.  Our position is clear: the status of Jerusalem is a permanent status issue that must be resolved through negotiations between the parties.

2009-11-17

Executive Order - Establishment of the Financial Fraud Enforcement Task Force

By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, and in order to strengthen the efforts of the Department of Justice, in conjunction with Federal, State, tribal, territorial, and local agencies, to investigate and prosecute significant
financial crimes and other violations relating to the current financial crisis and economic recovery efforts, recover the proceeds of such crimes and violations, and ensure just and effective punishment of those who perpetrate financial crimes and violations, it is hereby ordered as follows:

Section 1. Establishment. There is hereby established an interagency Financial Fraud Enforcement Task Force (Task Force)led by the Department of Justice.

Sec. 2. Membership and Operation. The Task Force shall be chaired by the Attorney General and consist of senior-level officials from the following departments, agencies, and offices, selected by the heads of the respective departments, agencies, and offices in consultation with the Attorney General:

(a) the Department of Justice;
(b) the Department of the Treasury;
(c) the Department of Commerce;
(d) the Department of Labor;
(e) the Department of Housing and Urban Development;
(f) the Department of Education;
(g) the Department of Homeland Security;
(h) the Securities and Exchange Commission;
(i) the Commodity Futures Trading Commission;
(j) the Federal Trade Commission;
(k) the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation;
(l) the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System;
(m) the Federal Housing Finance Agency;
(n) the Office of Thrift Supervision;
(o) the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency;
(p) the Small Business Administration;
(q) the Federal Bureau of Investigation;
(r) the Social Security Administration;
(s) the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations;
(t) the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network;
(u) the United States Postal Inspection Service;
(v) the United States Secret Service;
(w) the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement;
(x) relevant Offices of Inspectors General and related Federal entities, including without limitation the Office of the Inspector General for the Department of Housing and Urban Development, the Recovery Accountability and Transparency Board, and the Office of the Special Inspector General for the Troubled Asset Relief Program; and
(y) such other executive branch departments, agencies, or offices as the President may, from time to time, designate or that the Attorney General may invite.

The Attorney General shall convene and, through the Deputy Attorney General, direct the work of the Task Force in fulfilling all its functions under this order. The Attorney General shall convene the first meeting of the Task Force within 30 days of the date of this order and shall thereafter convene the Task Force at such times as he deems appropriate. At the direction of the Attorney General, the Task Force may establish subgroups consisting exclusively of Task Force members or their designees under this section, including but not limited to a Steering Committee chaired by the Deputy Attorney General, and subcommittees addressing enforcement efforts, training and information sharing, and victims' rights, as the Attorney General deems appropriate.

Sec. 3. Mission and Functions. Consistent with the authorities assigned to the Attorney General by law, and other applicable law, the Task Force shall:

(a) provide advice to the Attorney General for the investigation and prosecution of cases of bank, mortgage, loan, and lending fraud; securities and commodities fraud; retirement plan fraud; mail and wire fraud; tax crimes; money laundering; False Claims Act violations; unfair competition; discrimination; and other financial crimes and violations (hereinafter financial crimes and violations), when such cases are determined by the Attorney General, for purposes of this order, to be significant;

(b) make recommendations to the Attorney General, from time to time, for action to enhance cooperation among Federal, State, local, tribal, and territorial authorities responsible for the investigation and prosecution of significant financial crimes and violations; and

(c) coordinate law enforcement operations with representatives of State, local, tribal, and territorial law enforcement.

Sec. 4. Coordination with State, Local, Tribal, and Territorial Law Enforcement. Consistent with the objectives set out in this order, and to the extent permitted by law, the Attorney General is encouraged to invite the following representatives of State, local, tribal, and territorial law enforcement to participate in the Task Force's subcommittee addressing enforcement efforts in the subcommittee's performance of the functions set forth in section 3(c) of this order relating to the coordination of Federal, State, local, tribal, and territorial law enforcement operations involving financial crimes and violations:

(a) the National Association of Attorneys General;

(b) the National District Attorneys Association; and

 

(c) such other representatives of State, local, tribal,and territorial law enforcement as the Attorney General deems appropriate.

 

Sec. 5. Outreach. Consistent with the law enforcement objectives set out in this order, the Task Force, in accordance with applicable law, in addition to regular meetings, shall conduct outreach with representatives of financial institutions, corporate entities, nonprofit organizations, State, local, tribal, and territorial governments and agencies, and other interested persons to foster greater coordination and participation in the detection and prosecution of financial fraud and financial crimes, and in the enforcement of antitrust and antidiscrimination laws.

Sec. 6. Administration. The Department of Justice, to the extent permitted by law and subject to the availability of appropriations, shall provide administrative support and funding for the Task Force.

Sec. 7. General Provisions.
 

(a) Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:

(i) authority granted by law to an executive department, agency, or the head thereof, or the status of that department or agency within the Federal Government; or
(ii) functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.

(b) This Task Force shall replace, and continue the work of, the Corporate Fraud Task Force created by Executive Order 13271 of July 9, 2002. Executive Order 13271 is hereby terminated pursuant to section 6 of that order.

(c) This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.

(d) This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.

Sec. 8. Termination. The Task Force shall terminate when directed by the President or, with the approval of the President, by the Attorney General.

BARACK OBAMA

THE WHITE HOUSE,
November 17, 2009.

2009-11-17

Press Briefing by Robert Gibbs, Jon Huntsman, Jeff Bader, Mike Froman, and Ben Rhodes

PRESS BRIEFING BY WHITE HOUSE PRESS SECRETARY ROBERT GIBBS; AND AMBASSADOR TO CHINA JON HUNTSMAN; SENIOR DIRECTOR FOR THE NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL FOR ASIAN AFFAIRS JEFF BADER; DEPUTY NATIONAL SECURITY ADVISOR MIKE FROMAN; AND DEPUTY NATIONAL SECURITY ADVISOR BEN RHODES

MR. GIBBS:  Good afternoon, guys.  I am going to very brief, so brief that all I'm going to do is turn this over to -- first to Ambassador Huntsman, to give us a few minutes on the trip; Jeff Bader, who will talk a little bit more about -- in addition to what the Ambassador talks about -- what happened at some of the meetings today; as well as Mike Froman, who you've heard from during the trip.  He'll go through some of the climate and clean energy agreements that you all have information off of the event today. 

So, Ambassador Huntsman.

AMBASSADOR HUNTSMAN:  Hello, everybody.  Don't mistake me for being an expert, because I've been here for three months.  And I've come to the conclusion that "China expert" is kind of an oxymoron.  And those who consider themselves to be China experts are kind of morons.  So you take what you can, you learn what you can, and you begin to pull all the pieces together, and still it kind of remains sometimes a somewhat confused environment.

The relationship formally reached its 30th year this year.  And I'd have to say that having followed it off and on for a good many of those 30 years, the President stepped off the plane in Shanghai in an environment that I'd have to characterize as being really at an all-time high in terms of the bilateral atmosphere
a cruising altitude that is higher than any other time in recent memory, thereby able to kind of sail above some of the windsheers and the storms that have typically been part of the bilateral relationship.

I will say that a lot of work has gone into preparing an agenda that would reflect that the U.S.-China relationship has gone global.  The key today in managing this relationship, as you'll hear more about, is we take the range of bilateral issues that we've worked on for the 30 years of our formal diplomatic relationship and then you add to that an additional layer of complexity called the international issues, because there are really only two countries in the world that together can solve certain issues, whether they are clean energy, climate change, regional security, or those dealing with the global economy.

So the meetings and the focus from a substance standpoint really have been aimed at coordinating like never before on the key global issues that together are headline issues for the United States.  And not surprisingly, with China, which has ascended to the world stage, they find themselves on the world stage today, their issues are very similar to our own in terms of the global economy, in terms of clean energy, climate change, and regional security.  So I would say today like never before we are in a position where we should be able to coordinate on many of these key issues in an unprecedented way.  The challenge, though, is to make sure that we are able to connect with the Chinese bureaucracy in ways that actually allow us to get traction.

So I will just conclude by saying that through it all, I have seen our President today, who went in both the small meeting and the expanded bilateral, was extremely forceful and comprehensive in hitting on every one of the major issues that we try to manage in our bilateral relationship.  There wasn't a single issue that was left out.  And I've got to tell you that as one observer and someone who takes this relationship seriously, as the on-site manager, I was very, very proud of our President.
    
There was a good level of connection with all of the counterparts.  There was an excellent job in creating the headline issues that together now we must proceed on.  And they really do run, as we have discussed before, from clean energy and climate change through regional security, Iran, North Korea, right through the global economy, with Afghanistan and Pakistan thrown in. 

And I would say I sense for the first time ever that we're actually getting a little bit of traction on cooperation between the United States and China as it relates to reviewing a lot of issues that really do matter in terms of regional stability as it relates to Afghanistan and Pakistan.

With that -- and I'm sure we'll take it in whatever direction you like later on -- we'll turn it over to Jeff Bader, who is the senior director of the National Security Council for Asian Affairs.

MR. BADER:  Thank you very much, Jon.  Good to see you all here.  This was, as you all know, President Obama's first trip to China.  And so far, in our view, it's been highly successful in setting out and accomplishing the objectives that we had set for ourselves.  It's an important first step in building a partnership between our two countries to work together on global issues.  And as Ambassador Huntsman said, we went through in some depth virtually every global issue of consequence that China and the U.S. need to work on.  The President emphasized that on these global issues we can't solve them ourselves, we need partners, including China.

I would mention just a few -- sort of set the scene here:  nonproliferation, in particular Iran.  On Iran, the President described the current situation in discussions between the P5-plus-1 and the Iranians, the unsatisfactory character of the Iranian response to date on the Tehran research reactor proposal, and reminded his counterpart that we have two tracks, that the door is open to try and find a resolution but if the Iranians do not agree to the proposal by the IAEA and the P5-plus-1, that we will turn to track two.  And we expect the Chinese to be with us.

Discussed Afghanistan and Pakistan -- I can say more on that later if you wish.  North Korea.  On North Korea, the President expressed appreciation for Premier Wen Jiabao's visit to Pyongyang in which he came back with a statement from Kim Jung-il saying that North Korea was prepared to move towards six-party talks under certain conditions.  The President made clear to President Hu that we expect the Chinese to convene a six-party meeting as soon as possible. 

And military-to-military relations, and finally human rights.  I just want to say a word about human rights.  I've been involved in the China relationship for over 30 years, and I've been on previous presidential visits, visits by secretaries of state to China.  This was as direct a discussion on human rights as I've seen by any high-level visitor with the Chinese.  And this was multifaceted.  You all saw the Shanghai event yesterday in which the President spoke at some length in his introductory remarks about American values, about rule of law, freedom of expression, access to information, the rights of minorities -- called them universal rights; and then in the question-and-answer session talked again at some length about the importance of an uncensored Internet and how people benefit, countries benefit, and leaders benefit from the openness of the Internet.  I have never heard that kind of a discussion publicly in China before.

The President had the opportunity to answer, reach out to not only the local audience, but to a substantial audience in the rest of China that was following this on television and Internet.
    
In addition, in the private discussions, the President was equally candid in describing human rights as a core, a fundamental, bedrock principle of U.S. foreign policy; made it clear that we will speak directly to the Chinese about it publicly and privately. 

They discussed Tibet.  The President -- you saw in the joint press conference, the President referred -- the joint press conference, the President referred explicitly to the importance of protection of freedom of religion and the rights of ethnic minorities, and then immediately discussed the importance of a resumption of a dialogue between the Dalai Lama and representatives -- the Dalai Lama's representatives and the Chinese government.  That was a deliberate and a clear statement of the priority the President places on this, and it was discussed privately, as well -- the President making clear his respect for the Dalai Lama as a cultural and religious leader, and his intention to meet with the Dalai Lama at an appropriate time.

I think that's all I'll say by way of introduction.

MR. FROMAN:  Thanks, Jeff.  I'll speak briefly about climate change and energy.  First, just to put it in context, for those of you who were in Singapore you remember that Prime Minister Rasmussen came to Singapore on Sunday and had breakfast with the APEC leaders and laid out his plan for the Copenhagen process.  President Obama spoke in support of Prime Minister Rasmussen's plan, and there was a widespread consensus among the leaders there that the aim should not be a partial accord or just a political declaration, but an accord that covers all the main areas of the negotiations and had immediate operational effect, even as negotiations towards a legal agreement continue.

Today, President Obama and President Hu took another important step forward on climate change in agreeing on a number of areas:  First, that each country would take significant mitigation actions.  Second, that they shared a common view that even as the negotiations towards a final legal agreement continue, the Copenhagen conference should aim to reach an accord that includes all the issues being dealt with in the negotiations, and those included mitigation commitments by both developed and developing countries, focus on countries adapting to the effects of climate change, and scaled-up financing and technological support.  Third, there was, very importantly, an agreement that the two countries would stand behind their commitments and that there should be full transparency as to the implementation of those commitments.

In addition, they agreed that the issue of climate change can't wait and therefore it was important to take specific steps to work together on a number of clean energy initiatives.  I assume you've seen the various fact sheets, but this is a key new part of the relationship.  There was an MOU signed earlier this year on energy and climate change, and these seven agreements reflect concrete steps to work together, reflecting both our common interests and real action to try and solve the climate change issues. 

They touched upon the creation of a U.S.-China clean energy research center, a U.S.-China electric vehicles initiative, an energy efficiency action plan, a renewable energy partnership, a series of initiatives around cleaner coal -- 21st century coal -- an initiative on shale gas, and then finally, an initiative on energy cooperation involving the private sector.  So there was both significant -- or an important step forward on climate change that was taken as was reflected in the joint statement, as well as a number of specific steps on energy cooperation in support of dealing with climate change. 

MR. GIBBS:  We've got about a little more than 10 minutes for questions.  I've got to get these guys back before we -- so they're not late for the state dinner, which they actually have to go to.

Q    I want to ask Jeffrey and ask Michael about how the discussion on currency -- inaudible -- The President was very (inaudible) saying that he felt that was important for global rebalancing.  But President Hu didn’t mention it.  And I noticed also that President Obama referred to China's past statements on currency.  Does that mean that China didn’t give any ground on that in the meeting?

MR. FROMAN:  As you said, the President said in his statement at the press conference that -- and underscored the importance of both countries pursuing strategies consistent with strong, balanced, sustainable growth that involves certain actions on the U.S. side and certain actions on the Chinese side. He mentioned specifically China's commitment -- China's stated intention to liberalize or to move to a more market-oriented exchange rate over time, that it was an essential component of balanced growth. 
The joint statement has an extensive section in it about balanced growth, including references to more balanced trade relationships.  And the President raised the issue both in the restricted bilat and in the enlarged bilat.  So it was very much on the agenda.

Q    And what was the Chinese response?

MR. FROMAN:  I'm not going to characterize the nature of the discussion, just to say that the President raised it in the meetings and he, of course, mentioned at both the press conference and in the joint statement.

Q    Mike, could I ask about climate change?  Has the U.S. given up on the idea that (inaudible) demand that China make binding commitments to finding reductions in carbon emissions?

MR. FROMAN:  Well, no, in fact I think the -- the Rasmussen proposal, which was broadly supported by the APEC leaders in Singapore and then reinforced by the agreements today, was that we should seek an agreement in Copenhagen that was politically binding and that would involve commitments by both developed and developing countries, even as we work towards a final legal agreement. 

Q    You all mentioned this is the President's first trip to China.  Can you tell us what kind of impression the country is making on him?  He's toured the Forbidden City, met Chinese youth, met some Chinese leaders, seen the Shanghai skyline, Beijing.  What is his reaction to some of this?  How is it affecting him?

MR. BADER:  Well, we've been here for, what -- we've been in China for about a day and a half and it's a rather large country to come away with decisive, comprehensive reactions in that period.  But he -- it's very clear he was greatly impressed by the development he saw in Shanghai, by the degree to which the officials he spoke to were thinking about and trying to cope with some of the major urban problems involved in the massive migrations to the cities that officials described to him -- the demands on infrastructure, on traffic, on health, on housing, on employment.

He's been very warmly received by every official and by the private citizens he met, and I think at the Shanghai youth event you could feel the warmth and the enthusiasm of the people in the room, and that certainly made an impression upon the President.

MR. RHODES:  I would just add to that that I think he's certainly made comments about how impressive the rate of growth and development is -- it's obviously manifested in the skyline in Shanghai and in this city as well -- and just the extraordinarily dramatic achievement, frankly, of also lifting many people out of poverty.  And then just to echo something that Jeff said that the President has commented on, is that particularly as it pertains to issues around clean energy and infrastructure, that these are similar challenges that the United States and China face both nationally and within our cities.

So through some of the kinds of clean energy partnerships, for instance, that we announced today, we can both support each other's efforts in this area, learn from one another, issues like the -- or projects like the joint research center basically open the door for -- and also some of the -- and the high-speed rail
-- open the door for us to work together with the Chinese to tackle challenges that are very much common to our countries and our cities, as well.
    
So within that very rapid and impressive development, I think the President has been impressed that we can have an extensive partnership in these specific areas.  And the only other thing I'd add also is science and technology -- again, an area where there's a lot of opportunity to partner and there's a lot of focus on that here, as well.

Q    I guess this is for either Mr. Bader or Ambassador Huntsman, but specifically when the President is talking with President Hu about human rights, what is he asking for?  What does he want to see?  What is he encouraging the Chinese to do?  And then for Ambassador Huntsman, how does the fact that the U.S. owes $800 billion to China affect any of these negotiations at all in terms of what President Hu brings up or the ability of the President of the United States to ask for anything?

MR. BADER:  Well, on human rights, you've seen the way the President has dealt with the issue around the world.  I mean, he starts with the premise that the U.S. example is persuasive if we have our own house in order.  And this isn't a briefing about Guantanamo, but he has worked very hard to correct and improve the image that the U.S. has developed in recent years on human rights.  When you have someone who believes in protecting human rights at home and who is as popular and admired a figure as Barack Obama is globally, the appeal of our views on human rights is entirely different than when you have problems that are unaddressed at home and a salesman who is not persuasive.  So I think that that is kind of the starting point in thinking about the way in which President Obama is effective on human rights. 

Now, the way -- what he expects, he talks about the American experience.  He talks about American values.  He talks about how they have helped us to achieve what we have achieved.  And he talks about human rights and democracy as a constantly unfinished project, as something that we need to -- it's not something in the past where we're done with it.  And there is a sense of pride and accomplishment mixed with a sense that we have shortcomings that we need to be honest with ourselves about.

And that is the kind of presentation, in my view, that is much more effective -- is the most effective way to impress upon Chinese private and public audiences the value of human rights.  He talks about, as you heard him talking about the Internet and what a free Internet means for -- not only for the lives of ordinary Chinese people but for proper governance.  So he's talking about us as an example and he's talking about things that the Chinese should be looking at themselves. 

This is leaving aside Tibet, which I talked about before.

AMBASSADOR HUNSTMAN:  Let me just pick up for a second on what Jeff said, because I thought, personally, our President was extremely effective in describing what makes us unique as a country.  You have on one side the Confucian tradition; on the other, the Jeffersonian tradition.  And it's explaining those differences that oftentimes isn't easy.  And to get a President of the United States, as we saw yesterday in Shanghai, who talks about our traditions and is able to explain it to all those who were listening, that's important.  And when you get a President in a room like we did earlier today, who does the same thing -- explains what makes us unique and why we feel strongly about individual liberty and freedom -- that's important.  And I thought those comments were well taken.

Let me just say that on the earlier question, and Jake, Mike will talk about the $800 billion question -- suffice it to say we have a complex relationship on the economic side that brings us closer than ever before -- their interest in our economy and our interest in theirs.

But the question that was asked before about the President's first trip, and let me just say, as someone who just got back from riding with him in the car as we rode from the U.S. embassy back to the hotel, and the kinds of questions that he was asking and the interest that he has in the history and the culture of China, and to hear the kinds of questions that he asked the mayor of Shanghai as we had lunch together, and then last night -- they're all the questions that would be on -- you would think be on a President's mind:  What do you do about jobs?  What do you do about migration of workers?  What do you do about infrastructure?  What do you do about transportation?

And I noticed that the questions he asked were right on.  And I could tell through the conversations over lunch and dinner, they were very important tutorials to hear from some of the most important decision-makers on site about what makes this country run. 

And I would just say this in conclusion, as I tell many Americans who visit, if you were here 10 years ago and you're coming back for the first time, you don't know China.  If you visited five years ago and you're here for the first time -- or the second time, you don't know China.  If you were here two years ago and back again, you still don't know China.  It is changing so quickly and it is so dynamic that you've got to stay connected constantly to get a sense of what this means in terms of the future of China.

MR. FROMAN:  Just to finalize on the $800 billion question, clearly the U.S. and China have close, deep, broad, and interconnected economic relationships, and that was certainly through the recent economic and financial crisis, working together to come out of it through the G20 and otherwise.  The $800 billion never came up in conversation, and the President dealt with every issue on his agenda in a very direct way and pulled no punches.  And so I don't think the $800 billion had any impact on the agenda whatsoever.

Q    For Mike Froman, on climate, it sounds as if they agreed to each take action without specifying what those mitigation actions would be.  And so my question is, how does that move the ball for Copenhagen toward anything other than an outcome there at a very high level of generality?  And for Robert, does it seem to you that you all will leave here in a posture that the President will consider those negotiations to meet his test of close enough for him to make a difference by going to Copenhagen, or not?

MR. FROMAN:  I think this has been quite an important trip with regard to climate change, both between the discussions in Singapore with Prime Minister Rasmussen and the other APEC leaders, and then the discussions and agreements here today.  And I think there are still, obviously, details to be filled in and negotiations to be had between now and Copenhagen, and those negotiations are ongoing as we speak.

But the agreement today reflects that there's a common view by the U.S. and China in support of what Prime Minister Rasmussen is trying to do -- that the Copenhagen process ought to aim for an accord that's comprehensive, meaning covering all the various elements of the negotiations, not just a partial agreement; that it not just be a political declaration of something that has operational effect, even as we continue negotiations towards a final legal agreement; and that it include mitigation actions for both developed and developing countries, adaptation provisions, financing and technology, as well as agreement that there should be full transparency as to the implementation of those commitments.

So those are four or five major elements of an agreement consistent with what Prime Minister Rasmussen has laid out.  And clearly there are many other countries involved, and I think both the President and President Hu discussed today how they will work with each other and with other countries to try and reach an agreement.  It's not enough for the U.S. and China to agree to have an agreement in Copenhagen, but clearly it's important that U.S. and China be pulling in the same direction if we're going to succeed in Copenhagen.

Q    But just to follow up, some working on the issue, like Senator Kerry, had said there was a possibility the U.S. and China could come out with a specific agreement that would really be an engine to move the process forward in Copenhagen.  It sounds like we don't have that.

MR. FROMAN:  I think the agreement today reflected in the joint statement does give momentum to the Copenhagen process.  There are further specifics to be fleshed out between now and then by the negotiators.

MR. GIBBS:  And just in terms of the scheduling, John, nothing at this point has changed, and we have not made new determinations about later in the month. 

Let me -- Chuck, I'll take one more and then we've got to get these guys back.

Q    To Jeff, on Iran, it seemed as if President Hu had a lot to say about North Korea, had very little to say about Iran. And then in your briefing you said President Obama almost had to brief him about the status of the situation in Iran.  If China is a player here, I mean, is this -- does this mean that they're -- are you worried that they're not necessarily going to help on the sanction front, if that's the avenue you've got to go by the end of this -- the clock is ticking on Iran -- obviously by the end of the year?  Was there any talk the way there was apparently talk with the Russians about what sanctions might look like?  Was there any talk privately with President Hu and the Chinese delegation on this front?

MR. BADER:  I would say I would agree with you, Chuck, that President Hu spoke more on the subject of North Korea than on Iran.  From the Chinese perspective, North Korea is a more immediate problem and a more immediate security concern, so it's not surprising that they would place more emphasis on that.

Again, without wanting to speak for the Chinese on this, I wouldn't -- I don't believe that President Hu is in the dark about what's going on on Iran.  I think he's -- I think he is well briefed on it.  The Chinese have been involved in the P5-plus-1 process.  They have played a constructive role, particularly in the last few months as we've been dealing with this Tehran research reactor issue.  They've been involved in all of the meetings with the Iranians.  We've had conference calls among the six in which the Chinese have played a constructive role.

You were right in sort of the premise of your question that the Chinese have been less enthusiastic, historically, about sanctions, and the Chinese -- they have a substantial relationship with the Iranians, particularly in the energy sector.  The Chinese clearly are hoping that there will be some sort of a resolution on this Tehran research reactor that will not require going to the U.N. Security Council.

But the President did talk to President Hu about the possibility -- indeed, at this point, when -- well, let's say -- I won't characterize -- let's just say the possibility that we will not reach resolution of this issue and we may have to go to track two and greater pressure.  I would not say that we got an answer today from the Chinese, nor did we expect one on the subject.  I'm confident that whatever direction we choose to go  -- we need to go towards the end of the year, that the Chinese will remain part of the unified P5-plus-1 front.

Q    Did the U.S. -- did the President at all bring up -- obviously the Chinese are concerned about their energy relationship with Iran.  Did the President bring up alternative methods for them or ways that they could help the Chinese sort of make up for that if they discontinue --

MR. BADER:  Not in this discussion, no.

MR. RHODES:  I'd just add to that, Chuck, that through the P5-plus-1 the Chinese have been there every step of the way in -- as a part of the P5-plus-1 unity that the President's engagement has helped secure.  They've signed on to the dual-track process. The TRR, again, was a U.S.-Russia -- the P5-plus-1 agreed to it in principle in Geneva.  It was the U.S., Russia, France, and the IAEA as the parties to that agreement that were most intensively engaged in negotiating the details of that in Vienna.

So we were in close touch with them, but part of this was that, again, the Chinese were not in -- direct party to the TRR, but they have been in lockstep in the P5-plus-1 process through this.  So in terms of your question in terms of the briefing, that's part of the reason that the President had a bit to say about the TRR process.

MR. GIBBS:  Chuck, just to add one more thing, I think the IAEA just completed a report that I think is another important building block for the international community, when you have the IAEA delineating very clearly the responsibilities that Iran continues not to live up to.  The structures in the U.N. Security Council that they have ignored, particularly with Qom, continues to build international consensus and brings -- with the P5-plus-1 in the lead -- builds that international consensus and puts more pressure on the Iranians.  That was the goal of engagement in the beginning and that's the progress that's being made.

Thank you.

Q    Robert, can we get one question about the response of the Chinese -- the behavior of the Chinese since the President has arrived?  And we've had (inaudible) did not broadcast the event yesterday; there have been some arrests of dissidents; there was a tussle with a CNN reporter over an Obama tee-shirt; the central banking regulator berated the United States and said the currency issues are actually the United States' fault because they have interest rates that are too low.  And what does that say about how the message that the President is bringing is getting through to the authorities in China?

MR. GIBBS:  Well, I think he met with the authorities in China today.  I think there was about five feet separating them throughout the morning, where the President was, as you heard from all these gentlemen here, very direct about every issue that we have in our bilateral relationship.

Q    -- responding?

MR. GIBBS:  Jonathan, I did not expect, and I can speak authoritatively for the President on this, that we thought the waters would part and everything would change over the course of our almost two and a half day trip to China.  This is, I think as the Ambassador said, a relationship -- and, quite frankly, both the Presidents said this today -- a relationship that is based on mutual interest, that is strengthening, that we've made progress on.  We understand there's a lot of work to do and that we'll continue to work hard at making more progress.

Thanks.

END                
5:15 P.M. CST

2009-11-17