In his weekly radio address to the national on May 7 U.S. President George W. Bush spoke about the new democracies in Europe and said that “America is proud to call Georgia our partner in freedom.”

“On my trip, I will visit Freedom Square in Tbilisi [on May 10], Georgia, to applaud the people there for the Rose Revolution that advanced democracy in their land. Georgia has survived oppression, fought for liberty and taken its place among free nations. America is proud to call Georgia our partner in freedom, and we will help the people of that country enhance prosperity, improve security and spread liberty at home and abroad,” the U.S. President, who is expected to pay overnight visit to Georgia on May 9-10, stated.

He also said that “the new democracies of Europe still have much work to do.”

“Free elections are a significant achievement, yet they are only part of a fully functioning democracy. Democratic governments must be committed to providing full and equal rights for minorities, resolving conflicts peacefully, encouraging a vibrant political opposition, and ensuring the rule of law,” George Bush said.