Bush says Georgia is an example of freedom to the world [View All]

[emad]

By Jennifer Loven
ASSOCIATED PRESS

TBILISI, Georgia – President Bush, before a cheering crowd of tens of thousands of people, said Tuesday that the former Soviet republic of Georgia is proving to the world that determined people can rise up and claim their freedom from oppressive rulers.

"Your courage is inspiring democratic reformers and sending a message that echoes across the world: Freedom will be the future of every nation and every people on Earth," Bush said in speech from the Freedom Square that symbolizes the city's democratic pursuits.

"You gathered here armed with nothing but roses and the power of your convictions and you claimed your liberty. And because you acted, Georgia is today both sovereign and free and a beacon of liberty for this region and the world."

In a line that appeared directed at Russian President Vladimir Putin, Bush declined to support the bid of two separatist regions aligned with Moscow to gain independence from Georgia. "The sovereignty and territorial integrity of Georgia must be respected ... by all nations," Bush said.

http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/world/20050510-0559-bush.html