Originally published by the Voice of America (www.voanews.com).
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November 10, 2007

Bush Hosts German Chancellor Merkel at Texas Ranch
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http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=1A34338:A6F02AD83191E16008D2A169FE617EB1C030207A0BD70133 Two leaders are
expected to discuss Iraq, Iran, and Afghanistan President Bush is
hosting German Chancellor Angela Merkel at his Texas ranch. VOA White
House Correspondent Scott Stearns reports, the two leaders are
expected to discuss Iraq, Iran, and Afghanistan.







German Chancellor Angela Merkel (left) and President Bush in TexasThe
president and Mrs. Bush welcomed Chancellor Merkel and her husband to
their central Texas ranch with a meal of pecan-smoked tenderloin,
sautéed mushrooms, and green chili and cheese grits soufflé.

President Bush says he is looking forward to constructive talks
Saturday and a chance to relax and visit. Chancellor Merkel thanked
the president and First Lady for their invitation and said their ranch
has a wonderful atmosphere.

U.S. National Security Council Spokesman Gordon Johndroe says the two
leaders are expected to discuss Kosovo, Burma, and Iran.

"They will discuss the need for Iran to suspend its nuclear activity
as well as discuss the importance of remaining committed to
Afghanistan. President Bush notes Chancellor Merkel's recent trip to
Afghanistan and appreciates the German troop contribution there and
urges our NATO allies to continue to help the Afghan people as they
rebuild their country and fight extremism there," he said.

Johndroe says the president and chancellor will also discuss the need
for elections in Lebanon free from Syrian interference as well as
climate change and world trade talks.

He says Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice will brief Chancellor
Merkel on her recent trip to the Middle East and talks with Israeli
and Palestinian leaders on a planned peace conference in Annapolis,
Maryland that could come later this month.

Johndroe says the German leader knows that a stable and secure Iraq is
in the interest of the entire world and the two leaders will discuss
efforts at political reconciliation within the government in Baghdad.

President Bush and Chancellor Merkel will take questions from
reporters following their Saturday talks.


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