20 November 2009

Remarks by President Obama and South Korean President Lee

Obama says U.S.-South Korean alliance has never been stronger

THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
November 20, 2009

REMARKS BY PRESIDENT OBAMA
AND PRESIDENT LEE OF THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA
BEFORE BILATERAL MEETING

Blue House
Seoul, Republic of Korea
November 19, 2009

11:15 A.M. KST

PRESIDENT OBAMA: Well, Mr. President -- I was telling the President, and I think the delegation would agree, that this was the most spectacular ceremony for a state visit that we've been involved with since we've traveled.

And I was saying that I especially enjoyed the traditional dress of some of the soldiers.

PRESIDENT LEE: (As translated.) But traditional uniforms are quite difficult to fight in. (Laughter.)

PRESIDENT OBAMA: That's true, that's true.

PRESIDENT LEE: Well, first of all, Mr. President, welcome. And you're bringing very nice weather with you, because up until yesterday it was sub-zeros, frigid cold. (Laughter.)

Well, once again, Mr. President, welcome to the Asian region, and, of course, welcome to Korea. I know that your visit to Japan and China has been very successful.

And Mr. President, as we all like to say, you saved the best for last. (Laughter.)

PRESIDENT OBAMA: Well, Mr. President, let me just say that we have been so gratified by the warmth with which we've been received here in the Republic of Korea.

And I think there's every indication that the alliance between our two countries has never been stronger.

END         11:17 A.M. KST