NEW YORK.- The Bush – Cheney campaign issued a statement, entitled “Sharing and Supporting Greek American Issues and Values” laying out President Bush’s positions on issues of concern to the Greek American community. President Bush’s statement, besides Greek American issues, Greece and Cyprus, also covers the economy, the war on terror, issues of religion and education. Τhe statement was sent to GreekNews on Wednesday.

President Bush praises Greek American community’s accomplishments in business and education, as well as its religious orientation, and reminds the voters of his positions.

He also praises Greece for hosting successful and safe Olympic Games, and her role as an ally fighting alongside the United States in every major war of the 20th Century.

Finally, he speaks about Cyprus problem, reminding Greek Americans of his efforts for a just and lasting settlement of the Cyprus problem.

The statement also includes a picture of President Bush with Archbishop Demetrios, from a celebration at the White House for the Greek Independence.

THE STATEMENT
As President, George W. Bush has honored Greece and the contributions of Greek Americans in the United States. He shares the values that are important to Greek Americans, such as family values, economic prosperity, and the security of our country.

President George W. Bush salutes the great accomplishments of Greece and all Greek Americans for the very successful 2004 Olympic Games. When Greece was challenged with holding the Games under an unprecedented terrorist threat, America was proud to cooperate with Greece’s Herculean effort to ensure the safety and security of the world’s athletes and spectators. The Greek Olympics were an inspiration to the world and a testament to the Hellenic spirit.

Greek Americans have achieved one of the nation’s highest rates of business ownership and so have a special reason to value President Bush’s leadership. President Bush’s economic agenda is spurring economic growth, creating nearly 2 million jobs and freeing business owners from heavy taxes and regulation. Between 2001 and 2003, the Bush Administration increased small business loans by more than 50%, a 50-year record. This year 25 million small business owners will receive tax relief totaling approximately $75 billion.

President Bush also supported and signed into law the elimination of the Federal “Death Tax,” ensuring that family businesses stay in the family. By putting an end to this double taxation, the President signaled his respect, understanding, and support from the entrepreneurial spirit that permeates Greek culture.

John Kerry’s proposed tax increases would hurt 900,000 small businesses. As President Bush said, “Raising taxes now would put the brakes on our growing economy.” He understands that when small businesses get taxed, new workers aren’t hired and communities suffer.

Greek Americans are also a community of faith. The President’s Faith-Based and Community Initiative helps continue the work of community and faith-based groups by ensuring that these charities can participate in federal, state and local programs without discrimination.

The Greek American Community has one of the highest educational attainment rates in the country. President Bush salutes this achievement and seeks to continue it. He increased education spending by 49% to a record $36 billion – more than any other President in U.S. History. President Bush also signed the “No Child Left Behind” law, which requires schools to constantly improve opportunities for America’s schoolchildren. It also gives parents the power to transfer their children out of failing schools, a sign of the President’s faith in and commitment to the family’s role in its children’s education.

On the international level, President Bush values Greece as an ally in the war on terror. For example, the Souda Bay Naval Base in Crete has provided support to allied aircraft used in the global war on terrorism. The President also salutes the Greek American contribution to America’s national and homeland security efforts. Greek Americans bravely serve our country in Iraq, Afghanistan and wherever duty calls.

In the words of President Bush: “Greece and America have been firm allies in the great struggles for liberty. Greece was one of only a handful of countries that fought alongside the United States in every major 20th century war. And Americans will always remember Greek heroism and Greek sacrifice for the sake of freedom.”

Under President Bush’s leadership, the United States has demonstrated a strong commitment to a just and lasting settlement of the Cyprus dispute. Our nation is working to achieve a secure and prosperous Cyprus. Our goal is a Cyprus in which all people enjoy the benefits of EU membership and where every citizen is assured the blessings of peace.

Finally, President Bush will continue supporting the issues important to Greek Americans, like small business growth, education, national security and the war on terror. Because this President knows what value they bring to this great nation, he appreciates deeply the contributions of the more than 1.5 million Americans who identify themselves as being of Greek ancestry.

America thanks you for all your contributions to our nation”.