As President Bush prepares to leave the stage, one of his staunchest political friends and allies, former Spanish Prime Minister Jose-Maria Aznar – who was kicked out of office for supporting the Iraq invasion after an al-Qaeda terrorist attack in Madrid – has issued this defense of George W. Bush in the pages of France’s Le Figaro.
The former Spanish leader says in part:
“History will give him his due. Even if at present, his work isn’t recognized, and will not be, he has greatly contributed to defending the cause of freedom. His determination and vision were fundamental to the survival of liberty in countries that have been able to benefit from it, and have extended freedom to countries that for too long have lived under tyranny and barbarism.”
Later, in discussing the September 11 attacks, Aznar says:
“The fact that George W. Bush, who was President during this tragedy, will within weeks be able to cede power to his successor without the United States having undergone a similar attack, is proof of his success. … Freedom triumphs when we show the courage and determination to defend it. Freedom also wins when there are more nations capable to choosing their leaders freely. That is precisely the legacy that George W. Bush has preserved, allowed to prosper and is leaving to his successor.”
By Jose-Maria Aznar*
Translated By Nicolas Dagher
France – Le Figaro – Original Article (French)
As George W. Bush readies himself to leave the White House, former Spanish Prime Minister Jose Maria Aznar salutes the international accomplishments of the American President.
A political leader must assume his responsibilities steadfastly and with demonstrated courage, as he is required to advance just and noble causes. It is precisely this mission that has been accomplished by George W. Bush as President of the United States. I’m aware that many people don’t share this point of view, but history will give him his due. Even if at present, his work isn’t recognized, and will not be, he has greatly contributed to defending the cause of freedom. His determination and vision were fundamental to the survival of liberty in countries that have been able to benefit from it, and have extended freedom to countries that for too long have lived under tyranny and barbarism. When it’s possible to vote in places where that option was hitherto inconceivable, freedom has triumphed. There are fewer and fewer murderous dictators and governments able to harbor terrorists, and there is greater freedom to trade.
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