President Bush on Tuesday said, "It's been nearly two centuries since the United States of America and the nation of Colombia forged a friendship in the earliest days of our independence. In the years since, both of our nations have learned that the cost of maintaining a free society is remaining vigilant against the enemies of freedom. We believe that freedom is the birthright of all. We believe that it is the responsibility of free nations to support one another against those who would undermine our freedom. The United States is committed to the security of Colombia -- we're committed to defeating the forces of terror. Our countries can meet this challenge together. And through our partnership we can usher in a new era of enhanced prosperity and peace in our neighborhood."
