Press Releases

Bush Sends Greetings for Nowruz (March 23, 2005)

Offers best wishes for peace, prosperity in New Year

President Bush sends his best wishes for peace and prosperity to those celebrating Nowruz, the Persian New Year.

In a statement issued March 16, Bush said many Americans who trace their heritage to Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Azerbaijan, Turkey, and Central Asia observe Nowruz "to preserve their rich heritage and ensure that their values and traditions are passed on to future generations."

This festival also reminds all Americans of the diversity that has made our Nation stronger and better," Bush said.

Following is the text of Bush’s statement in celebration of Nowruz:

(begin text)

THE WHITE HOUSE Office of the Press Secretary March 16, 2005
March 2005

I send greetings to those celebrating Nowruz.

Nowruz marks the arrival of a new year and the celebration of life. It has long been an opportunity to spend time with family and friends and enjoy the beauty of nature.

Many Americans who trace their heritage to Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Azerbaijan, Turkey, and Central Asia observe this special occasion to preserve their rich heritage and ensure that their values and traditions are passed on to future generations. This festival also reminds all Americans of the diversity that has made our Nation stronger and better.

Laura and I send our best wishes for peace and prosperity in the New Year.

GEORGE W. BUSH

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(Distributed by the Bureau of International Information Programs, U.S. Department of State. Web site: http://usinfo.state.gov)