White House Gaggle

By Gregory Gorman
April 4, 2005

President’s Schedule

President Bush had a world leader call this morning with Hajem al-Hassani to congratulate him on his election as the speaker of the parliament in Iraq. The President had previously met Mr. al-Hassani last fall when the speaker came to the United States during the visit of Iraqi Prime Minister Allawi. The President thanked the new speaker for agreeing to take on this leadership role during such an important period in Iraq’s history. The President also reiterated the United States’ commitment of continued support for Iraq as they move forward. Mr. al-Hassani thanked the President for the support of the United States. Later this morning, the President will welcome Viktor Yushchenko, the President of Ukraine, to the White House. The two leaders will meet in the Oval Office followed by a press availability in the East Room. The President and Mrs. Bush will also have a social lunch with President and Mrs. Yushchenko. This afternoon, the President will participate in the annual photo opportunity with the White House News Photographers Association "Eyes of History" contest winners followed by the Medal of Honor ceremony which will be posthumously awarded to Sgt. Paul Ray Smith.

Funeral of Pope John Paul II

The President and Mrs. Bush will attend the funeral of Pope John Paul II in Rome on Friday, April 8th. Press Secretary Scott McClellen was asked if former Presidents Bill Clinton or George Herbert Walker Bush will be attending the Pope’s funeral as part of the U.S. delegation. McClellan responded that the U.S. delegation list is still being finalized. The President will depart Washington for Rome on either Wednesday or Thursday and will return to his Crawford ranch following the trip.

Ukrainian Troop Removal from Iraq

McClellan was asked if the President will be discussing the impending Ukrainian troop removal from Iraq with President Yuschenko. He responded that the he did not believe that the topic would be discussed but that President Bush will most certainly be thanking the Ukrainian people for their support in the war and for their key role in helping the Iraqi elections move forward in a relatively secure environment. McClellan reminded everyone that Ukraine has been talking about withdrawing its troops from Iraq for some time.