Statement by the Press Secretary: President to Welcome German Chancellor Schroeder

The President welcomes the visit to Washington of the Federal Chancellor of Germany, Gerhard Schroeder, on January 31, 2002. A strong ally and partner of the United States, Germany has taken significant steps to combat terrorism. Germany played a key role in hosting talks that led to the formation of the current government in Afghanistan and the United States appreciates Germany's role in helping to ensure that Afghanistan's security and reconstruction needs are met. President Bush and Chancellor Schroeder plan to discuss a broad agenda of issues.