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American Morning

President Bush Speaks in Brussels, Belgium

Aired February 21, 2005 - 08:00   ET

THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.

THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.


SOLEDAD O'BRIEN, CNN ANCHOR: Watching for fallout from secret tape recordings of President Bush. This morning, the man who made them defends his actions.
More attacks on American troops in Iraq today. We look at a new report that the U.S. is in secret talks with insurgents.

The storms in Southern California, another weekend of heavy rain, and this dangerous season will only get worse.

And the journalist who broke all the rules. Hunter S. Thompson is dead from an apparent suicide. Remembering gonzo journalism, on this AMERICAN MORNING.

ANNOUNCER: From the CNN broadcast center in New York, this is AMERICAN MORNING, with Soledad O'Brien and Bill Hemmer.

Good morning. Welcome, everybody. Bill Hemmer's got the day off. Miles O'Brien kind enough to stop in and help us out.

Nice to have you.

MILES O'BRIEN, CNN ANCHOR: Good to be here. Thank you.

S. O'BRIEN: Thank you.

President Bush in Brussels this morning. You can see him there, he is being introduced by the Belgian prime minister. He's going to deliver a speech in just a few moments. This is an important trip, of course, for U.S./European relations. We'll hear a little bit of what the president has to say.

Also this morning, we're talking to Doug Wead. At one time he was a trusted friend of the president's. We'll ask him just why he released taped-recorded conversations, secretly recorded, between the two of them.

M. O'BRIEN: Also, pressure mounting on Syria to pull its troops out of Lebanon. Will the Syrians comply? We'll talk to a former adviser to the Syrian president about the likelihood of a change in policy.

S. O'BRIEN: Mr. Cafferty, good morning again.

JACK CAFFERTY, CNN ANCHOR: Good morning again. Coming up in the "Cafferty File," Laura Bush, the nation's first lady, looking for a new White House chef who knows how to make chalupas. Raunchy, racy films could be reaching a saturation point. And Paris Hilton's little black book exposed for the world to see. Not unlike Paris herself.

M. O'BRIEN: Watch out for your cell phone, they my divulge some secrets.

CAFFERTY: Apparently there were like a 500 names on this thing, and they all started getting these -- it was on the Internet, and the phone rang all night and day long. It was awful.

S. O'BRIEN: So sad.

M. O'BRIEN: Did you get calls?

CAFFERTY: No, Paris and I used to be close, but no more.

M. O'BRIEN: Then it got on the Internet.

CAFFERTY: We had a falling out.

M. O'BRIEN: Heidi Collins is here with other matters in the news this morning.

Good morning, Heidi.

HEIDI COLLINS, CNN ANCHOR: OK. Good morning. And good morning once again to you, everyone.

Now in the news, we begin with what's being seen as a goodwill gesture in the Middle East. Buses carrying some 500 Palestinian prisoners being escorted out of the military prison in southern Israel. Officials promised the release at a Mideast summit earlier this month. It comes a day after Israel endorsed plans for withdrawal from Gaza and parts of the West Bank.

An inquiry under way this morning into the apparent suicide of journalist and author Hunter S. Thompson. Police and family members say Thomson shot himself yesterday in his home near Aspen, Colorado. Thompson was immortalized on film by Johnny Depp in the film adaptation of "Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas." Thompson was 67 years old.

Former Presidents Bill Clinton and George Bush Sr. are getting a firsthand look at the devastation caused by the tsunami in Southern Asia. The former presidents spent time earlier today with children, learning about the emotional impact of the disaster. Both said the destruction was unlike anything they've ever seen. The U.S. has pledged some $950 million to the recovery efforts.

And turning to sports news, the first victory for the NBA's eastern conference in four years at the all-star game. Allen Iverson leading east to a 125-115 win over the west in Denver. Iverson providing 15 points, 10 assists, five steals. He was named MVP. A title he also claimed back in 2001. A title, I'm sure, he still likes, -- Soledad.

S. O'BRIEN: All right, Heidi, thanks. Is the U.S. secretly negotiating with Iraqi insurgents? An article in this week's "Time" magazine says that is exactly what's going on. But a U.S. diplomat in Iraq says if such negotiations are occurring, the Iraqi government would be the entity involved, not the U.S. government.

"Time's" Baghdad bureau chief, Michael Ware, wrote the article. He's in Beirut, Lebanon this morning.

Michael, nice to see you again. Thanks for talking with us.

MICHAEL WARE, "TIME" MAGAZINE: Good morning.

S. O'BRIEN: Good morning.

If indeed this is the case, who exactly would the United States be negotiating with?

WARE: What's happened is that we're seeing a new level of engagement the game by the U.S. government in Iraq. We're seeing the early stages of a dialogue, talking, no more. It's not negotiating, as the U.S. embassy is at great pains to point out, with members of the Iraqi insurgency.

Since the summer of 2003, we've had a two-track war in Iraq, a terrorist fight and an insurgent or guerrilla fight. The aim of this policy of engagement is to address that insurgent part of this war. So they're dealing with the former Baathists, the former members of Saddam's military and intelligence service, who are responsible, primarily, for the daily drip feed of attacks and ambushes on U.S. forces.

S. O'BRIEN: So negotiating, though, to what end? I mean, obviously, the United States would like the attacks by the insurgents to end, but what do the insurgents get out of this?

WARE: The insurgents, since the summer of last year, have been coming together in loose alliances. I mean, it's a very fractured insurgency. So there's no one common thing. But more and more, they've been trying to gel. And they're attempting to develop, is as they tell me, a political platform. I've been watching this as it develops. They specifically mention the example, or the model, of Sinn Fein and the IRA in Northern Ireland. They want to progress from the battlefield to a political front, employing a strategy of fight and negotiate at the same time.

S. O'BRIEN: Michael, is there any indication that that strategy is working? Are they seeing any progress from being just a battlefront to being a political party with maybe a battlefront arm?

WARE: Well, it's still very, very early days in this development for the insurgency. But we're starting to see, in bits and bursts, individuals standing up, Sunni community leaders, politicians, former Baathists, who are beginning to voice their concerns and express the interest, specifically of the insurgency. Indeed, one of these figures was running in the election. However, he withdrew his candidacy after he was arrested by U.S. forces. This man has been on record to me saying that he believe that the Iraqi resistance, not the terrorists war, but the Iraqi resistance is legitimate and legal under international law. These are the people who will be trying to come to the table.

The United States, as you well know, has always maintained that it does not negotiate with terrorists. How do they, if this is in fact going on, how do they draw the line then, I mean, if these insurgents are terrorists, yes?

WARE: Well, the U.S. embassy has explained the strategy to me by saying that the point is to try and split the insurgency, to cleave away the insurgents, the homegrown guerrillas, from the foreign fighters, the terrorists, the Islamic militants.

Remember, these two groups want entirely different things. The terrorists, or the militants, led by Abu Musab Al Zarqawi, want to fight the infidel West, and they want to create an Islamic state. That's not what the Baathists and the guerrillas want. They wan a secular democracy, and a senior embassy officials say this is a marriage of convenience, and they're hoping to bring about a divorce.

S. O'BRIEN: Michael ware, thank you very much. We're going to interrupt you there so we can get right to the president -- Miles.

M. O'BRIEN: Live now to Brussels, Belgium, the Concert Noble Hall, historic place, 300 VIPs there. Let's listen to the president.

GEORGE W. BUSH, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES: Thank you for your warm hospitality.

Distinguished guests and ladies and gentlemen, Laura and I are really glad to be back. I'm really pleased to visit Brussels again, the capital of a beautiful nation, the seat of the European Union and the NATO Alliance.

The United States and Belgium are close allies and we will always be warm friends.

You know, on this journey to Europe, I follow in some large footsteps. More than two centuries ago, Benjamin Franklin arrived on this continent to great acclaim.

An observer wrote, "His reputation was more universal than Liebniz or Newton, Frederick or Voltaire, and his character more beloved and esteemed than any or all of them."

BUSH: The observer went on to say, "There was scarcely a peasant or citizen who did not consider him as a friend to humankind."

I've been hoping for a similar reception.

(LAUGHTER)

But Secretary Rice told me I should be a realist.

(LAUGHTER)

I appreciate the opportunity, in this great hall, to speak to the peoples of Europe.

For more than 60 years, our nations stood together to face great challenges of history. Together, we have opposed totalitarian ideologies with our might and with our patience. Together, we united this continent with our democratic values. And together we mark year by year the anniversaries of freedom, from D-Day to the liberation of death camps, to the victories of conscience in 1989.

Our trans-Atlantic alliance frustrated the plans of dictators, served the highest ideals of humanity, and set a violent century on a new and better course. And as time goes by, we must never forget our shared achievements.

Yet our relationship is founded on more than nostalgia. In a new century, the alliance of Europe and North America is the main pillar of our security. Our robust trade is one of the engines of world's economy. Our example of economic and political freedom gives hope to millions who are weary of poverty and oppression.

In all these ways our strong friendship is essential to peace and prosperity across the globe, and no temporary debate, no passing disagreement of governments, no power on Earth will ever divide us.

(APPLAUSE)

BUSH: Today, America and Europe face a moment of consequence and opportunity. Together, we can once again set history on a hopeful course, away from poverty and despair and toward development and the dignity of self-rule; away from resentment and violence and toward justice and the peaceful settlement of differences.

Seizing this moment requires idealism; we must see in every person the right and the capacity to live in freedom. Seizing this moment requires realism; we must act wisely and deliberately in the face of complex challenges. And seizing this moment also requires cooperation, because when Europe and America stand together, no problem can stand against us.

As past debates fade, as great duties become clear, let us begin a new era of trans-Atlantic unity.

Our greatest opportunity and immediate goal is peace in the Middle East. After many false starts and dashed hopes and stolen lives, a settlement of the conflict between Israelis and Palestinians is now within reach.

America and Europe have made a moral commitment: We will not stand by as another generation in the Holy Land grows up in an atmosphere of violence and hopelessness.

America and Europe also share a strategic interest. By helping to build a lasting peace, we will remove an unsettled grievance that is used to stir hatred and violence across the Middle East.

Our efforts are guided by a clear vision: We're determined to see two democratic states, Israel and Palestine, living side by side in peace and security.

(APPLAUSE)

BUSH: The Palestinian people deserve a government that is representative, honest and peaceful. The people of Israel need an end to terror and a reliable, steadfast partner for peace. And the world must not rest until there is a just and lasting resolution to this conflict.

All the parties have responsibilities to meet.

Arab states must end incitement in their own media, cut off public and private funding for terrorism, stop their support for extremist education, and establish normal relations with Israel.

Palestinian leaders must confront and dismantle terrorist groups, fight corruption, encourage free enterprise, and rest true authority with the people. Only a democracy can serve the hopes of Palestinians and make Israel secure and raise the flag of a free Palestine.

A successful Palestinian democracy should be Israel's top goal as well. So Israel must freeze settlement activity, help Palestinians build a thriving economy, and ensure that a new Palestinian state is truly viable, with contiguous territory on the West Bank.

A state of scattered territories will not work.

(APPLAUSE)

As Palestinian leaders assume responsibility for Gaza and an increasingly larger territory, we will help them build the economic and political and security institutions needed to govern effectively.

And as that democracy rises, the United States and Europe will help the parties implement the road map to peace.

These vital steps are also difficult steps, because progress requires a new trust and because terrorists will do all they can to destroy that trust.

Yet we're moving forward and we're doing so in practical ways.

BUSH: Next month in London, Prime Minister Blair will host a conference to help the Palestinian people build the democratic institutions of their state.

President Abbas has the opportunity to put forward a strategy of reform which can and will gain support from the international community, including financial support. I hope he will seize the moment.

I've asked Secretary Rice to attend the conference and to convey America's strong support for the Palestinian people as they build a democratic state.

And I appreciate the prominent role that Prime Minister Blair and other European leaders are playing in the cause of peace.

We seek peace between Israel and Palestine for its own sake. We also know that a free and peaceful Palestine can add to the momentum of reform throughout the broader Middle East.

In the long run, we cannot live in peace and safety if the Middle East continues to produce ideologies of murder and terrorists who seek the deadliest weapons.

Regimes that terrorize their own people will not hesitate to support terror abroad. The status quo of tyranny and hopelessness in the Middle East, the false stability of dictatorship and stagnation can only lead to deeper resentment in a troubled region and further tragedy in free nations.

The future of our nations and the future of the Middle East are linked and our peace depends on their hope and development and freedom.

Lasting successful reform in a broader Middle East will not be imposed from the outside. It must be chosen from within.

Governments must choose to fight corruption, abandon old habits of control, protect the rights of conscience and the rights of minorities.

Governments must invest in the health and education of their people, and take responsibility for solving problems instead of simply blaming others.

Citizens must choose to hold their governments accountable.

The path isn't always easy, as any free people can testify. Yet there's reason for confidence.

Ultimately men and women who seek the success of their nation will reject an ideology of oppression and anger and fear. Ultimately men and women will embrace participation and progress.

And we are seeing evidence in an ark of reform from Morocco to Bahrain to Iraq to Afghanistan.

BUSH: Our challenge is to encourage this progress by taking up the duties of great democracies. We must be on the side of democratic reformers. We must encourage democratic movements. And we must support democratic transitions in practical ways.

Europe and America should not expect or demand that reforms come all at once. It didn't happen in our own histories: My country took many years to include minorities and women in the full promise of America, and that struggle hasn't ended.

Yet while our expectations must be realistic, our ideals must be firm and they must be clear. We must expect higher standards from our friends and partners in the Middle East.

The government of Saudi Arabia can demonstrate its leadership in the region by expanding the role of its people in determining their future. And the great and proud nation of Egypt, which showed the way toward peace in the Middle East, can now show the way toward democracy in the Middle East.

Our shared commitment to democratic progress is being tested in Lebanon, a once-thriving country that now suffers under the influence of an oppressive neighbor.

Just as the Syrian regime must take stronger action to stop those who support violence and subversion in Iraq, it must end its support for terrorist groups seeking to destroy the hope of peace between Israelis and Palestinians.

Syria must also end its occupation of Lebanon.

(APPLAUSE)

BUSH: The Lebanese people have the right to be free, and the United States and Europe share an interest in a democratic, independent Lebanon.

My nation and France worked to pass Security Council Resolution 1559, which demands that Lebanon's sovereignty be respected, that foreign troops and agents be withdrawn, and that free elections be conducted without foreign interference.

In the last several months, the world has seen men and women voting in historic elections from Kabul to Ramallah to Baghdad. And without Syrian interference, Lebanon's parliamentary elections in the spring can be another milestone of liberty.

Commitment to democratic progress is being honored in Afghanistan. That country's building a democracy that reflects the Afghan traditions and history and shows the way for other nations in the region.

The elected president is working to disarm and demobilize militias in preparation for the national assembly elections to be held this spring.

And the Afghan people know the world is with them. After all, Germany is providing vital police training, the United Kingdom is helping to fight drug trade, Italy is giving assistance on judicial reform, NATO's growing security mission is commanded by a Turkish general. The European governments are helping Afghanistan to succeed and America appreciates your leadership.

Together, we must make clear to the Iraqi people that the world is also with them, because they have certainly shown their character to the world.

An Iraqi man who lost a leg in a car bombing last year made sure he was there to vote on January the 30th. He said, "I would have crawled here if I had to. I don't want terrorists to kill other Iraqis like they tried to kill me. Today, I'm voting for peace."

Every vote cast in Iraq was an act of defiance against terror. And the Iraqi people have earned our respect.

(APPLAUSE)

Some Europeans joined the fight to liberate Iraq, while others did not. Yet all of us recognize courage when we see it. And we saw it in the Iraqi people.

And all nations now have an interest in the success of a free and democratic Iraq, which will fight terror, which will be a beacon of freedom and which will be a source of true stability in the region.

In coming months, Iraq's newly elected assembly will carry out the important work of establishing a government, providing security, enhancing basic services, and writing a democratic constitution.

Now is the time for established democracies to give tangible political, economic and security assistance to the world's newest democracy.

In Iran, the free world shares a common goal. For the sake of peace, the Iranian regime must end its support for terrorism and must not develop nuclear weapons.

(APPLAUSE)

In safeguarding the security of free nations, no option can be taken permanently off the table. Iran is, however, different from Iraq. We're in the early stages of diplomacy.

The United States is a member of the IAEA Board of Governors, which has taken the lead on this issue. We're working closely with Britain, France and Germany as they oppose Iran's nuclear ambitions and as they insist that Tehran comply with international law.

BUSH: Results of this approach now depend largely on Iran.

We also look for Iran to finally deliver on promised reform. The time has arrived for the Iranian regime to listen to the Iranian people and respect their rights and join in the movement toward liberty that is taking place all around them.

Across the Middle East, from the Palestinian territories to Lebanon to Iraq to Iran, I believe that the advance of freedom within nations will build a peace among nations.

And one reason for this belief is the experience of Europe. In two world wars, Europe saw the aggressive nature of tyranny and the terrible cost of mistrust and division.

In the Cold War, Europe saw the so-called stability of Yalta was a constant source of injustice and fear.

And Europe also saw how the rise of democratic movements like Solidarity could part an iron curtain drawn by tyrants.

The spread of freedom has helped to resolve old disputes, and the enlargement of NATO and the European Union have made partners out of former rivals.

America supports Europe's democratic unity for the same reason we support the spread of democracy in the Middle East: because freedom leads to peace. America supports a strong Europe, because we need a strong partner in the hard work of advancing freedom and peace in the world.

(APPLAUSE)

European leaders demonstrated this vision in Ukraine. Presidents Kwasniewski of Poland, Adamkus of Lithuania, Javier Solana of the E.U. helped to resolve the election crisis and bring Ukraine back into the camp of freedom.

As a free government takes hold in that country, and as the government of President Yushchenko pursues vital reforms, Ukraine should be welcomed by the Europe Atlantic family.

We must support new democracies, so members of our alliance must continue to reach out to Georgia, for last year, a peaceful protest overturned a stolen election and unleashed the forces of democratic change. I also believe that Russia's future lies within the family of Europe and the trans-Atlantic community.

America supports WTO membership for Russia, because meeting WTO standards will strengthen the gains of freedom and prosperity in that country.

Yet for Russia to make progress as a European nation, the Russian government must renew a commitment to democracy and the rule of law.

BUSH: We recognize that reform will not happen overnight. We must always remind Russia, however, that our alliance stands for a free press, a vital opposition, the sharing of power, and the rule of law.

And the United States and all European countries should place democratic reform at the heart of their dialogue with Russia.

(APPLAUSE)

As we seek freedom in other nations, we must also work to renew the values that make freedom possible.

As I said in my inaugural address, we cannot carry the message of freedom and the baggage of bigotry at the same time. We must reject anti-Semitism from any source, and we must condemn violence such as we have witnessed in the Netherlands.

All our nations must work to integrate minorities into the mainstream of society and to teach the value of tolerance to each new generation. The nations in our great alliance have many advantages and many blessings. We also have a call beyond our comfort. We must raise our sights to the wider world.

Our ideals and our interests lead in the same direction. By bringing progress and hope to nations in need, we can improve many lives and lift up failing states and remove the causes and sanctuaries of terror.

Our alliance is determined to promote development and integrate developing nations into the world economy. The measure of our success must be the results we achieve not merely the resources we spent.

Together we created the Monterrey Consensus, which links new aid from developed nations to real reform in developing ones.

The strategy is working. Throughout the developing world, governments are confronting corruption, the rule of law is taking root and people are enjoying new freedoms.

Developed nations have responded by increasing assistance by a third.

BUSH: Through the Millennium Challenge Account, my nation is increasing our aid to developing nations that govern justly, expand economic freedom and invest in the education and health of their people.

While still providing humanitarian assistance and support, the developed nations are taking a wiser approach to other aid. Instead of subsidizing failure year after year, we must reward progress and improve lives.

Our alliance is determined to encourage commerce among nations, as open markets create jobs and lift income and draw whole nations into an expanding circle of freedom and opportunity.

Europe and America will continue to increase trade. And as we do so, we'll resolve our trade disagreements in a cooperative spirit.

And we should share the benefits of fair and free trade with others. That's why we'll continue to advance the Doha development agenda and bring global trade talks to a successful conclusion.

We should all pursue fiscal policies in our nations -- sound fiscal policies of low taxes and fiscal restraint and reform that promote a stable world financial system and foster economic growth.

Our alliance is determined to show good stewardship of the Earth, and that requires addressing the serious long-term challenge of global climate change. All of us expressed our views on the Kyoto Protocol, and now we must work together on the way forward.

Emerging technologies, such as hydrogen-powered vehicles, electricity from renewable energy sources, clean coal technology, will encourage economic growth that is environmentally responsible. By researching, by developing, by promoting new technologies across the world, all nations, including the developing countries, can advance economically while slowing the growth in global greenhouse gases and avoid pollutants that undermine public health.

All of us can use the power of human ingenuity to improve the environment for generations to come.

Our alliance is determined to meet natural disasters, famine and disease with swift and compassionate help.

As we meet today, American and European personnel are aiding the victims of the tsunami in Asia. Our combined financial commitment to tsunami relief and reconstruction is nearly $4 billion.

We're working through the global fund to combat AIDS and other diseases across the world. And America's emergency plan has focused additional resources on nations where the needs are greatest.

Through all these efforts, we encourage stability and progress to build a firmer basis for democratic institutions. And above all, we fulfill a moral duty to heal the sick and feed the hungry and comfort the afflicted.

Our alliance is also determined to defend our security, because we refuse to live in a world dominated by fear.

Terrorist movements seek to intimidate free peoples and reverse the course of history by committing dramatic acts of murder.

We will not be intimidated and the terrorists will not stop the march of freedom.

I thank the nations of Europe for your strong cooperation in the war on terror. Together, we have disrupted terrorist financing, strengthened intelligence sharing, enhanced our law enforcement cooperation and improved the security of international commerce and travel.

We're pursuing terrorists wherever they hide.

German authorities recently arrested two terrorists plotting to attack American interests in Iraq. Both will be prosecuted under new German laws enacted after September the 11th.

Just last week, the United Nations added Muhsin al-Fadhli to its Al Qaeda and Taliban sanctions committee list. This man is a known Al Qaeda operative and Zarqawi associate; provided support to the terrorists who conducted the 2002 bombing of a French oil tanker.

Working together, America, France and other nations will bring him to justice.

BUSH: For the sake of the security of our people, for the sake of peace, we will be relentless in chasing down the ideologues of hate. On September the 11th, America turned first to our immediate security and to the pursuit of an enemy. And that vital work goes on. We've also found that a narrow definition of security is not enough.

While confronting a present threat, we have accepted the long- term challenge of spreading hope and liberty and prosperity as the great alternatives to terror.

As we defeat the agents of terror, we'll also remove the sources of terror. This strategy's not an American strategy or European strategy or Western strategy: Spreading liberty for the sake of peace is the cause of all mankind.

This approach not only reduces the danger to free peoples, it honors the dignity of all peoples, by placing human rights and human freedom at the center of our agenda.

Our alliance has the ability and the duty to tip the balance of history in the favor of freedom.

We know there are many obstacles and we know the road is long. Albert Camus said that freedom is a long-distance race. We're in that race for the duration.

And there is reason for optimism. Oppression is not the wave of the future; it is the desperate tactic of a few backward-looking men.

Democratic nations grow in strength because they reward and respect the creative gifts of their people. Freedom is the direction of history, because freedom is the permanent hope of humanity.

America holds these values because of ideals long held on this continent. We proudly stand in the tradition of the Magna Carta, the Declaration of the Rights of Man, and the North Atlantic Treaty.

The signers of that treaty pledged to safeguard the freedom, common heritage and civilization of their people's founded on the principles of democracy, individual liberty and the rule of law.

In this new century, the United States and Europe reaffirm that commitment and renew our great alliance of freedom.

May God bless you all.

(APPLAUSE)

M. O'BRIEN: George W. Bush, the president of the United States, right in the heart of old Europe, as his secretary of defense once characterized it, trying to renew ties with European leaders, trying to mend some fences, talking about a wide range of things. A lot of focus of course on the Middle East and Middle East peace. A couple of quotes from the president -- "Our strong friendship is essential to peace and prosperity across the globe, and no temporary debate, no passing disagreement of governments, no power on Earth will ever divide our greatest opportunity and our immediate goal is peace in the Middle East." And then getting more specific, he called for Syria to end its occupation of Lebanon.

The president has an action-packed trip ahead, a lot of talking. Today, in Brussels, Belgium, he will continue his talks with the leaders of Britain, Italy and Ukraine. He will also be meeting with French president Jacques Chirac tomorrow. Then on Wednesday, the president will travel to Mainz, Germany, where he'll meet with Chancellor Gerhardt Schroeder, yet another opponent of the Iraq war, try to mend fences there. Then on his way to Bratislava, Slovakia to meet with Vladimir Putin, also in opposition to the Iraq war, and a person the focus of a lot of criticism here in the United States this morning as his country tends to move away from democracy.

The president today indicating that that message should be imparted to the Russian president, but that Russia should not be cut off from the West, and from the G-8 specifically. The president's trip midstream right now. We'll be covering it very closely all along the way. Stay with CNN all throughout -- Soledad.

S. O'BRIEN: We have another big story about the president to talk about this morning, but it is one that does not involve this particular fence mending trip. It involves Mr. Bush before he made it to the White House. Secretly taped conversations from the late '90s, from faith to drug use. What do they reveal about the president? the man who made the tapes joins us next on AMERICAN MORNING.

Stay with us.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

M. O'BRIEN: CNN has obtained excerpts of secretly recorded interviews of George W. Bush from ABC News. They are taken or recorded in the late '90s by Doug Wead, an author and former aide to President Bush's father. We've recorded nine hours of discussions, first revealed by "The New York Times" on Sunday.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

GEORGE W. BUSH, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES: Well, Doug, but it's not, it doesn't matter, cocaine. It'd be the same with marijuana. I wouldn't answer the marijuana question. You know why? 'Cause I don't want some little kid doing what I tried.

DOUG WEAD, FMR. GEORGE H.W. BUSH ADVISER: Yes, it never stops.

BUSH: But you gotta understand, I want to be president. I want to lead. I want to set -- do you want your little kid to say, "Hey, daddy, President Bush tried marijuana, I think I will."

(END VIDEO CLIP)

M. O'BRIEN: CNN has not independently verified that the voice on the recordings is President Bush, but ABC and "The New York Times" have confirmed their authenticity. The man who made the recordings, Doug Wead, joins us this morning.

Mr. Wead, good to have you with us. This was information used in a book which is out now. As I understand it, you didn't expect these recordings to become public, is that true?

WEAD: I didn't want them to become public.

M. O'BRIEN: Why not?

WEAD: Well, they're personal. They were personal record for me. I started taking notes on the recordings. At one point, he said -- or in the conversations, at one point, he said, you can write a book in 30 days, can't you? I had written a book for his father. I thought that might be coming. I thought I'd better get started. And he was having me run interference on some news stories, and I wanted a record of that so I could play it back and hear exactly what he wanted.

M. O'BRIEN: All right, and did you tell at that time Governor Bush those phone calls were being recorded?

WEAD: No, I didn't.

M. O'BRIEN: Why not?

WEAD: They were never going to be made public as far as I was concerned, and they were helping me to do a better job for him to know exactly what he wanted.

M. O'BRIEN: But as a courtesy to him, wouldn't you say, look, I want to make sure we get this straight.

WEAD: I think he'd have been afraid something like this would have happened, and I guess I was pretty naive.

M. O'BRIEN: About what?

WEAD: Naive that they would become public like this.

M. O'BRIEN: Now, as far as to the substance of the tapes, there's not a lot of news broken here, really.

WEAD: No.

M. O'BRIEN: Are you left with the distinct impression that the president of the United States, at one time, used cocaine or marijuana?

WEAD: It's an irrelevant point to me.

M. O'BRIEN: Why is that irrelevant?

WEAD: Because he's already said he was young and irresponsible, and that established the point I need to do make in my book about the man in the shadows. And my feeling was that because of his indiscretions as a young person, it took the pressure off him, the expectations he'd have to achieve and live up to this Bush image, five generations. M. O'BRIEN: So you draw no conclusion, then, on the drug use? And you think that doesn't matter one bit at all?

WEAD: Well, I think it matters that he was young and irresponsible. I think that's a key to his life. I think that's why the spotlight turned to Jeb, and all the attention was on Jeb, because he was expected to become this great figure, and George was not. And with the pressure off him, he found Laura, he found his faith. In a 10-year period, he became a millionaire, governor of Texas, president of the United States.

M. O'BRIEN: Let's listen to another excerpt, this one, once again, CNN has obtained through the good graces of ABC News. Let's listen.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

WEAD: He's saying you promised you would not appoint gays to office.

BUSH: No. What I said was I wouldn't fire gays. I'm not going to discriminate against people.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

M. O'BRIEN: All right, put that one in context for us, will you?

WEAD: Well, what he says publicly, he says privately. And there are some pundits today who are saying that will hurt him with the conservatives. Conservatives and evangelicals don't want to kick gays out. This is going to hurt him politically at all.

M. O'BRIEN: You don't think this changes anything?

WEAD: No, I don't. I think he's the same privately as he is publicly, with some differences. There are some differences. I remember during the campaign, I called him up and said, governor, you're being parodied on "Saturday Night Live," they're portraying you as dumb. He said, good. So I think the media is beginning to catch up a little bit on how strategic and self-disciplined he is.

M. O'BRIEN: All right, final thought here, final quote in "The New York Times" piece from you, "I just felt the historical point I was making trumped the personal relationship. I will always be friendly with him. I suppose somebody watching this would say, with friends like you, Mr. Bush doesn't need enemies.:?

WEAD: Well, this isn't about money. I could sell tapes.

M. O'BRIEN: Well, it's going help your book, isn't it?

WEAD: Well, my book could have been released before the election. It would have been a runaway bestseller. It would have been driven by partisan...

M. O'BRIEN: But clearly people are going to go buy that book today after seeing this, right?

WEAD: My publicist said I lost a million dollars by delaying the book after the election, where it would have been driven by partisan interests.

But I hope it sells. I'm a historian, and he's president, and he has to lead, he has to set an example. I had to write about the Roosevelts, the Kennedys, the Bushes. I attempted to vet the stories with all three families.

M. O'BRIEN: Is the president your friend still?

WEAD: He's my friend, yes.

M. O'BRIEN: All right. Douglas Wead, thank you very much. Appreciate your time -- Soledad.

S. O'BRIEN: All right, let's keep talking about President Bush. This time, though, we're going talk about his trip to Europe, also the release of those interviews. And Democratic consultant Victor Kamber in Miami. Washington, D.C. is former RNC communications director, Cliff May. Going to help us out this morning. Hi, guys. Nice to see you.

VICTOR KAMBER, DEMOCRATIC CONSULTANT: Good morning.

CLIFF MAY, FMR. RNC COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR: Good morning.

S. O'BRIEN: All right, let's pick up where we just heard Miles leave off -- the secret tapes. You've heard some of them now. What do you make of any the damage done? Cliff, why don't we begin with you?

MAY: I don't think there's a lot of damage done, but let me be clear for the record here that this was a deceptive thing to tape somebody when he didn't know he was being taped, to release it without his permission. It was deceptive, it was disloyal, it a betrayal. But President Bush is the kind of guy who -- you know, what you see is what you get. You're hearing nothing on this tape that you didn't know about him. Probably with the P.R. adviser, he might say certain things differently. I don't think it does any damage. He's been re- elected already. But I think it's the kind of infuriating, rather nasty, what's happened here.

S. O'BRIEN: Victor, I'd like you to weigh in as well. To some degree, doesn't the president get more points? We see say, wow, you know, he's kind of saying the same thing on tape, secretly recorded, that he said in his press conference. You're right, maybe a P.R. flack (ph) would say clean it up a little bit.

KAMBER: Yes, I frankly agree with you, Soledad -- or actually with Cliff. I don't think that much damage has happened here. I'm surprised that Cliff just didn't blame the liberal media and the liberals for doing this. The bottom line is, the president was candid, like I think he tries to be always. There's nothing new here. We didn't learn anything exciting or different. He's -- this was indiscretions in his youth. He had a troubled youth. He wasn't the star of the family and he obviously found faith, found a wife, found a new ability to move ahead and he became president of the United States. I'm -- you know, while I'll read the book and find it of interest, I'm not sure I'll learn anything brand new.

S. O'BRIEN: Well, let's talk a little bit about the president's trip, It's been called a fence mending five-day trip through Europe. We just heard him speak a few minutes ago, where he very clearly was trying to delineate the connection between the United States and Europe, the long historical connection, as well. He also talked about Putin -- Putin problem, as some people have said. It's Jack's "Question of the Day."

Cliff, why don't you take this one to start? What should be done about President Putin?

MAY: Well, the president has begun by talking honestly. Churchill said that diplomacy is the art of telling the truth without getting offense. Right now, what Putin is doing is very much hostile to American interests and American values. Putin is saying he doesn't believe the mullahs of Iran are attempting to develop nuclear weapons so he has no problem giving them nuclear technology and nuclear fuel. What Putin really means is if they build a bomb, they're not going to use it against us so what do I care? That's a huge problem.

Secondly, Putin is retreating from democracy, corrupting the judiciary, shackling the press. It is a huge problem for us and for the Europeans. That's part what Bush tried to get across. I would just say very quickly, what you heard there was not fence mending. What you heard was Bush saying to the Europeans, let's remember what our values are and let's act on that.

S. O'BRIEN: Which some people call fence mending in some places. Victor, what do you think of the strategy with President Putin? Do you think that President Bush needs to come out more strongly against the Russian president?

KAMBER: No. I think if anything, I think what he's doing right now is the right way to do it. He has gone on what I'll call the same as you, a fence mending tour. He needs to rebuild the strength of the allies. He needs to reestablish America as a friend, as an ally, not as a bully. I was very proud when I heard him talk about Egypt and Saudi Arabia, in terms of democracy, because I think you cannot pick and choose countries. You cannot talk about Russia, you cannot talk about certain places in the world and then have as your best friends dictators or countries that equally disdain democracy.

If you are promoting democracy, which he was doing throughout this speech, then you promote it equally across the board. Russia needs to hear from us. Russia needs to -- we must be direct with Putin, which I think Bush will be. But we must equally be direct with Saudi Arabia, with Egypt, with other countries in the world.

S. O'BRIEN: Victor Kamber, Cliff May, this morning. Nice to see you guys, as always. Thanks.

MAY: Thank you.

S. O'BRIEN: Miles?

M. O'BRIEN: All right. Who is in Paris Hilton's little black book? This question we all want to know the answer to. The world gets to take a peek. Cafferty file is up next on AMERICAN MORNING.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

S. O'BRIEN: Welcome back. What's in the file?

CAFFERTY: R-rated movies on the decline. "Variety" magazine says P.G. films outgrossed the R picks in 2004 for the first time in 20 years. The number of R-rated films actually dwindled from 212 in 1999 to just 147 last year. And of those 147, only four, "The Passion of the Christ," "Troy," "Fahrenheit 9/11" and "Collateral" managed to gross over $100 million. On the other hand, P.G. films like "Shrek 2," "The Incredibles," and "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Askaban" easily surpassed the $100 million mark and went on to much higher figures.

First lady Laura Bush says she's looking for a White House chef who knows how to make Mexican food and barbecue. She fired the chef down there. He'd been there 11 years. Guy named Walter Scheib. Scheib said he unable to satisfy Mrs. Bush's quote, "stylistic requirements." Now Laura Bush tells "Newsweek" magazine she's looking for somebody who can really showcase American food. The new chef will have a lot of opportunities to make dinner for the Bushes because, Mrs. Bush points out, we don't actually get invited out to that many dinner parties.

S. O'BRIEN: I made tacos last night, they were very good.

CAFFERTY: Maybe you could apply. This isn't going so well.

S. O'BRIEN: Maybe I will. It is, it's going great, what are you talking about?

CAFFERTY: This is good?

S. O'BRIEN: I'm riveted, yes.

CAFFERTY: These aren't very good today. It's a holiday, it's Monday, it's lame.

S. O'BRIEN: It's raining.

CAFFERTY: Paris Hilton may want to consider spending...

M. O'BRIEN: This is good right here. This is a good one.

CAFFERTY: You like this?

M. O'BRIEN: Paris Hilton. I like this one. CAFFERTY: Stop interrupting me. Paris Hilton may want to consider spending less time on her cell phone, or at least think about whose phone numbers she's putting into her address book. Various news sources, including "USA Today" and "The Daily News" reporting hackers have put Paris' entire black book on the Internet. 510 contacts, famous people, Christina Aguilera, Vin Diesel, Eminem, Soledad O'Brien, Ashlee Simpson. They weren't happy when their phones started ringing off the hook beginning Saturday night. Victoria Gotti says she got 100 calls in two hours.

The hackers also posted photos, including what appeared to be images of Paris kissing a woman or a chicken or a watermelon or some grapes or -- T Mobile USA is currently investigating the latest Internet posting. Paris Hilton's reps have not released a statement at this time. However, recorded telephone conversations previously unreleased are expected to be available soon.

S. O'BRIEN: Why would you call Victoria Gotti 100 times when you could call Vin Diesel 1,000 times?

CAFFERTY: Now there's a question.

(CROSSTALK)

S. O'BRIEN: That should be the "Question of the Day."

CAFFERTY: He actually is pretty cool. I saw him as I watching a movie on cable, I guess, over the weekend. He's pretty good. I like him.

S. O'BRIEN: He's great. A great guy. Great guy. Thanks, Jack. I liked "The File" today.

M. O'BRIEN: His career is going to skyrocket now.

TO ORDER A VIDEO OF THIS TRANSCRIPT, PLEASE CALL 800-CNN-NEWS OR USE OUR SECURE ONLINE ORDER FORM LOCATED AT www.fdch.com


Aired February 21, 2005 - 08:00   ET
THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.
SOLEDAD O'BRIEN, CNN ANCHOR: Watching for fallout from secret tape recordings of President Bush. This morning, the man who made them defends his actions.
More attacks on American troops in Iraq today. We look at a new report that the U.S. is in secret talks with insurgents.

The storms in Southern California, another weekend of heavy rain, and this dangerous season will only get worse.

And the journalist who broke all the rules. Hunter S. Thompson is dead from an apparent suicide. Remembering gonzo journalism, on this AMERICAN MORNING.

ANNOUNCER: From the CNN broadcast center in New York, this is AMERICAN MORNING, with Soledad O'Brien and Bill Hemmer.

Good morning. Welcome, everybody. Bill Hemmer's got the day off. Miles O'Brien kind enough to stop in and help us out.

Nice to have you.

MILES O'BRIEN, CNN ANCHOR: Good to be here. Thank you.

S. O'BRIEN: Thank you.

President Bush in Brussels this morning. You can see him there, he is being introduced by the Belgian prime minister. He's going to deliver a speech in just a few moments. This is an important trip, of course, for U.S./European relations. We'll hear a little bit of what the president has to say.

Also this morning, we're talking to Doug Wead. At one time he was a trusted friend of the president's. We'll ask him just why he released taped-recorded conversations, secretly recorded, between the two of them.

M. O'BRIEN: Also, pressure mounting on Syria to pull its troops out of Lebanon. Will the Syrians comply? We'll talk to a former adviser to the Syrian president about the likelihood of a change in policy.

S. O'BRIEN: Mr. Cafferty, good morning again.

JACK CAFFERTY, CNN ANCHOR: Good morning again. Coming up in the "Cafferty File," Laura Bush, the nation's first lady, looking for a new White House chef who knows how to make chalupas. Raunchy, racy films could be reaching a saturation point. And Paris Hilton's little black book exposed for the world to see. Not unlike Paris herself.

M. O'BRIEN: Watch out for your cell phone, they my divulge some secrets.

CAFFERTY: Apparently there were like a 500 names on this thing, and they all started getting these -- it was on the Internet, and the phone rang all night and day long. It was awful.

S. O'BRIEN: So sad.

M. O'BRIEN: Did you get calls?

CAFFERTY: No, Paris and I used to be close, but no more.

M. O'BRIEN: Then it got on the Internet.

CAFFERTY: We had a falling out.

M. O'BRIEN: Heidi Collins is here with other matters in the news this morning.

Good morning, Heidi.

HEIDI COLLINS, CNN ANCHOR: OK. Good morning. And good morning once again to you, everyone.

Now in the news, we begin with what's being seen as a goodwill gesture in the Middle East. Buses carrying some 500 Palestinian prisoners being escorted out of the military prison in southern Israel. Officials promised the release at a Mideast summit earlier this month. It comes a day after Israel endorsed plans for withdrawal from Gaza and parts of the West Bank.

An inquiry under way this morning into the apparent suicide of journalist and author Hunter S. Thompson. Police and family members say Thomson shot himself yesterday in his home near Aspen, Colorado. Thompson was immortalized on film by Johnny Depp in the film adaptation of "Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas." Thompson was 67 years old.

Former Presidents Bill Clinton and George Bush Sr. are getting a firsthand look at the devastation caused by the tsunami in Southern Asia. The former presidents spent time earlier today with children, learning about the emotional impact of the disaster. Both said the destruction was unlike anything they've ever seen. The U.S. has pledged some $950 million to the recovery efforts.

And turning to sports news, the first victory for the NBA's eastern conference in four years at the all-star game. Allen Iverson leading east to a 125-115 win over the west in Denver. Iverson providing 15 points, 10 assists, five steals. He was named MVP. A title he also claimed back in 2001. A title, I'm sure, he still likes, -- Soledad.

S. O'BRIEN: All right, Heidi, thanks. Is the U.S. secretly negotiating with Iraqi insurgents? An article in this week's "Time" magazine says that is exactly what's going on. But a U.S. diplomat in Iraq says if such negotiations are occurring, the Iraqi government would be the entity involved, not the U.S. government.

"Time's" Baghdad bureau chief, Michael Ware, wrote the article. He's in Beirut, Lebanon this morning.

Michael, nice to see you again. Thanks for talking with us.

MICHAEL WARE, "TIME" MAGAZINE: Good morning.

S. O'BRIEN: Good morning.

If indeed this is the case, who exactly would the United States be negotiating with?

WARE: What's happened is that we're seeing a new level of engagement the game by the U.S. government in Iraq. We're seeing the early stages of a dialogue, talking, no more. It's not negotiating, as the U.S. embassy is at great pains to point out, with members of the Iraqi insurgency.

Since the summer of 2003, we've had a two-track war in Iraq, a terrorist fight and an insurgent or guerrilla fight. The aim of this policy of engagement is to address that insurgent part of this war. So they're dealing with the former Baathists, the former members of Saddam's military and intelligence service, who are responsible, primarily, for the daily drip feed of attacks and ambushes on U.S. forces.

S. O'BRIEN: So negotiating, though, to what end? I mean, obviously, the United States would like the attacks by the insurgents to end, but what do the insurgents get out of this?

WARE: The insurgents, since the summer of last year, have been coming together in loose alliances. I mean, it's a very fractured insurgency. So there's no one common thing. But more and more, they've been trying to gel. And they're attempting to develop, is as they tell me, a political platform. I've been watching this as it develops. They specifically mention the example, or the model, of Sinn Fein and the IRA in Northern Ireland. They want to progress from the battlefield to a political front, employing a strategy of fight and negotiate at the same time.

S. O'BRIEN: Michael, is there any indication that that strategy is working? Are they seeing any progress from being just a battlefront to being a political party with maybe a battlefront arm?

WARE: Well, it's still very, very early days in this development for the insurgency. But we're starting to see, in bits and bursts, individuals standing up, Sunni community leaders, politicians, former Baathists, who are beginning to voice their concerns and express the interest, specifically of the insurgency. Indeed, one of these figures was running in the election. However, he withdrew his candidacy after he was arrested by U.S. forces. This man has been on record to me saying that he believe that the Iraqi resistance, not the terrorists war, but the Iraqi resistance is legitimate and legal under international law. These are the people who will be trying to come to the table.

The United States, as you well know, has always maintained that it does not negotiate with terrorists. How do they, if this is in fact going on, how do they draw the line then, I mean, if these insurgents are terrorists, yes?

WARE: Well, the U.S. embassy has explained the strategy to me by saying that the point is to try and split the insurgency, to cleave away the insurgents, the homegrown guerrillas, from the foreign fighters, the terrorists, the Islamic militants.

Remember, these two groups want entirely different things. The terrorists, or the militants, led by Abu Musab Al Zarqawi, want to fight the infidel West, and they want to create an Islamic state. That's not what the Baathists and the guerrillas want. They wan a secular democracy, and a senior embassy officials say this is a marriage of convenience, and they're hoping to bring about a divorce.

S. O'BRIEN: Michael ware, thank you very much. We're going to interrupt you there so we can get right to the president -- Miles.

M. O'BRIEN: Live now to Brussels, Belgium, the Concert Noble Hall, historic place, 300 VIPs there. Let's listen to the president.

GEORGE W. BUSH, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES: Thank you for your warm hospitality.

Distinguished guests and ladies and gentlemen, Laura and I are really glad to be back. I'm really pleased to visit Brussels again, the capital of a beautiful nation, the seat of the European Union and the NATO Alliance.

The United States and Belgium are close allies and we will always be warm friends.

You know, on this journey to Europe, I follow in some large footsteps. More than two centuries ago, Benjamin Franklin arrived on this continent to great acclaim.

An observer wrote, "His reputation was more universal than Liebniz or Newton, Frederick or Voltaire, and his character more beloved and esteemed than any or all of them."

BUSH: The observer went on to say, "There was scarcely a peasant or citizen who did not consider him as a friend to humankind."

I've been hoping for a similar reception.

(LAUGHTER)

But Secretary Rice told me I should be a realist.

(LAUGHTER)

I appreciate the opportunity, in this great hall, to speak to the peoples of Europe.

For more than 60 years, our nations stood together to face great challenges of history. Together, we have opposed totalitarian ideologies with our might and with our patience. Together, we united this continent with our democratic values. And together we mark year by year the anniversaries of freedom, from D-Day to the liberation of death camps, to the victories of conscience in 1989.

Our trans-Atlantic alliance frustrated the plans of dictators, served the highest ideals of humanity, and set a violent century on a new and better course. And as time goes by, we must never forget our shared achievements.

Yet our relationship is founded on more than nostalgia. In a new century, the alliance of Europe and North America is the main pillar of our security. Our robust trade is one of the engines of world's economy. Our example of economic and political freedom gives hope to millions who are weary of poverty and oppression.

In all these ways our strong friendship is essential to peace and prosperity across the globe, and no temporary debate, no passing disagreement of governments, no power on Earth will ever divide us.

(APPLAUSE)

BUSH: Today, America and Europe face a moment of consequence and opportunity. Together, we can once again set history on a hopeful course, away from poverty and despair and toward development and the dignity of self-rule; away from resentment and violence and toward justice and the peaceful settlement of differences.

Seizing this moment requires idealism; we must see in every person the right and the capacity to live in freedom. Seizing this moment requires realism; we must act wisely and deliberately in the face of complex challenges. And seizing this moment also requires cooperation, because when Europe and America stand together, no problem can stand against us.

As past debates fade, as great duties become clear, let us begin a new era of trans-Atlantic unity.

Our greatest opportunity and immediate goal is peace in the Middle East. After many false starts and dashed hopes and stolen lives, a settlement of the conflict between Israelis and Palestinians is now within reach.

America and Europe have made a moral commitment: We will not stand by as another generation in the Holy Land grows up in an atmosphere of violence and hopelessness.

America and Europe also share a strategic interest. By helping to build a lasting peace, we will remove an unsettled grievance that is used to stir hatred and violence across the Middle East.

Our efforts are guided by a clear vision: We're determined to see two democratic states, Israel and Palestine, living side by side in peace and security.

(APPLAUSE)

BUSH: The Palestinian people deserve a government that is representative, honest and peaceful. The people of Israel need an end to terror and a reliable, steadfast partner for peace. And the world must not rest until there is a just and lasting resolution to this conflict.

All the parties have responsibilities to meet.

Arab states must end incitement in their own media, cut off public and private funding for terrorism, stop their support for extremist education, and establish normal relations with Israel.

Palestinian leaders must confront and dismantle terrorist groups, fight corruption, encourage free enterprise, and rest true authority with the people. Only a democracy can serve the hopes of Palestinians and make Israel secure and raise the flag of a free Palestine.

A successful Palestinian democracy should be Israel's top goal as well. So Israel must freeze settlement activity, help Palestinians build a thriving economy, and ensure that a new Palestinian state is truly viable, with contiguous territory on the West Bank.

A state of scattered territories will not work.

(APPLAUSE)

As Palestinian leaders assume responsibility for Gaza and an increasingly larger territory, we will help them build the economic and political and security institutions needed to govern effectively.

And as that democracy rises, the United States and Europe will help the parties implement the road map to peace.

These vital steps are also difficult steps, because progress requires a new trust and because terrorists will do all they can to destroy that trust.

Yet we're moving forward and we're doing so in practical ways.

BUSH: Next month in London, Prime Minister Blair will host a conference to help the Palestinian people build the democratic institutions of their state.

President Abbas has the opportunity to put forward a strategy of reform which can and will gain support from the international community, including financial support. I hope he will seize the moment.

I've asked Secretary Rice to attend the conference and to convey America's strong support for the Palestinian people as they build a democratic state.

And I appreciate the prominent role that Prime Minister Blair and other European leaders are playing in the cause of peace.

We seek peace between Israel and Palestine for its own sake. We also know that a free and peaceful Palestine can add to the momentum of reform throughout the broader Middle East.

In the long run, we cannot live in peace and safety if the Middle East continues to produce ideologies of murder and terrorists who seek the deadliest weapons.

Regimes that terrorize their own people will not hesitate to support terror abroad. The status quo of tyranny and hopelessness in the Middle East, the false stability of dictatorship and stagnation can only lead to deeper resentment in a troubled region and further tragedy in free nations.

The future of our nations and the future of the Middle East are linked and our peace depends on their hope and development and freedom.

Lasting successful reform in a broader Middle East will not be imposed from the outside. It must be chosen from within.

Governments must choose to fight corruption, abandon old habits of control, protect the rights of conscience and the rights of minorities.

Governments must invest in the health and education of their people, and take responsibility for solving problems instead of simply blaming others.

Citizens must choose to hold their governments accountable.

The path isn't always easy, as any free people can testify. Yet there's reason for confidence.

Ultimately men and women who seek the success of their nation will reject an ideology of oppression and anger and fear. Ultimately men and women will embrace participation and progress.

And we are seeing evidence in an ark of reform from Morocco to Bahrain to Iraq to Afghanistan.

BUSH: Our challenge is to encourage this progress by taking up the duties of great democracies. We must be on the side of democratic reformers. We must encourage democratic movements. And we must support democratic transitions in practical ways.

Europe and America should not expect or demand that reforms come all at once. It didn't happen in our own histories: My country took many years to include minorities and women in the full promise of America, and that struggle hasn't ended.

Yet while our expectations must be realistic, our ideals must be firm and they must be clear. We must expect higher standards from our friends and partners in the Middle East.

The government of Saudi Arabia can demonstrate its leadership in the region by expanding the role of its people in determining their future. And the great and proud nation of Egypt, which showed the way toward peace in the Middle East, can now show the way toward democracy in the Middle East.

Our shared commitment to democratic progress is being tested in Lebanon, a once-thriving country that now suffers under the influence of an oppressive neighbor.

Just as the Syrian regime must take stronger action to stop those who support violence and subversion in Iraq, it must end its support for terrorist groups seeking to destroy the hope of peace between Israelis and Palestinians.

Syria must also end its occupation of Lebanon.

(APPLAUSE)

BUSH: The Lebanese people have the right to be free, and the United States and Europe share an interest in a democratic, independent Lebanon.

My nation and France worked to pass Security Council Resolution 1559, which demands that Lebanon's sovereignty be respected, that foreign troops and agents be withdrawn, and that free elections be conducted without foreign interference.

In the last several months, the world has seen men and women voting in historic elections from Kabul to Ramallah to Baghdad. And without Syrian interference, Lebanon's parliamentary elections in the spring can be another milestone of liberty.

Commitment to democratic progress is being honored in Afghanistan. That country's building a democracy that reflects the Afghan traditions and history and shows the way for other nations in the region.

The elected president is working to disarm and demobilize militias in preparation for the national assembly elections to be held this spring.

And the Afghan people know the world is with them. After all, Germany is providing vital police training, the United Kingdom is helping to fight drug trade, Italy is giving assistance on judicial reform, NATO's growing security mission is commanded by a Turkish general. The European governments are helping Afghanistan to succeed and America appreciates your leadership.

Together, we must make clear to the Iraqi people that the world is also with them, because they have certainly shown their character to the world.

An Iraqi man who lost a leg in a car bombing last year made sure he was there to vote on January the 30th. He said, "I would have crawled here if I had to. I don't want terrorists to kill other Iraqis like they tried to kill me. Today, I'm voting for peace."

Every vote cast in Iraq was an act of defiance against terror. And the Iraqi people have earned our respect.

(APPLAUSE)

Some Europeans joined the fight to liberate Iraq, while others did not. Yet all of us recognize courage when we see it. And we saw it in the Iraqi people.

And all nations now have an interest in the success of a free and democratic Iraq, which will fight terror, which will be a beacon of freedom and which will be a source of true stability in the region.

In coming months, Iraq's newly elected assembly will carry out the important work of establishing a government, providing security, enhancing basic services, and writing a democratic constitution.

Now is the time for established democracies to give tangible political, economic and security assistance to the world's newest democracy.

In Iran, the free world shares a common goal. For the sake of peace, the Iranian regime must end its support for terrorism and must not develop nuclear weapons.

(APPLAUSE)

In safeguarding the security of free nations, no option can be taken permanently off the table. Iran is, however, different from Iraq. We're in the early stages of diplomacy.

The United States is a member of the IAEA Board of Governors, which has taken the lead on this issue. We're working closely with Britain, France and Germany as they oppose Iran's nuclear ambitions and as they insist that Tehran comply with international law.

BUSH: Results of this approach now depend largely on Iran.

We also look for Iran to finally deliver on promised reform. The time has arrived for the Iranian regime to listen to the Iranian people and respect their rights and join in the movement toward liberty that is taking place all around them.

Across the Middle East, from the Palestinian territories to Lebanon to Iraq to Iran, I believe that the advance of freedom within nations will build a peace among nations.

And one reason for this belief is the experience of Europe. In two world wars, Europe saw the aggressive nature of tyranny and the terrible cost of mistrust and division.

In the Cold War, Europe saw the so-called stability of Yalta was a constant source of injustice and fear.

And Europe also saw how the rise of democratic movements like Solidarity could part an iron curtain drawn by tyrants.

The spread of freedom has helped to resolve old disputes, and the enlargement of NATO and the European Union have made partners out of former rivals.

America supports Europe's democratic unity for the same reason we support the spread of democracy in the Middle East: because freedom leads to peace. America supports a strong Europe, because we need a strong partner in the hard work of advancing freedom and peace in the world.

(APPLAUSE)

European leaders demonstrated this vision in Ukraine. Presidents Kwasniewski of Poland, Adamkus of Lithuania, Javier Solana of the E.U. helped to resolve the election crisis and bring Ukraine back into the camp of freedom.

As a free government takes hold in that country, and as the government of President Yushchenko pursues vital reforms, Ukraine should be welcomed by the Europe Atlantic family.

We must support new democracies, so members of our alliance must continue to reach out to Georgia, for last year, a peaceful protest overturned a stolen election and unleashed the forces of democratic change. I also believe that Russia's future lies within the family of Europe and the trans-Atlantic community.

America supports WTO membership for Russia, because meeting WTO standards will strengthen the gains of freedom and prosperity in that country.

Yet for Russia to make progress as a European nation, the Russian government must renew a commitment to democracy and the rule of law.

BUSH: We recognize that reform will not happen overnight. We must always remind Russia, however, that our alliance stands for a free press, a vital opposition, the sharing of power, and the rule of law.

And the United States and all European countries should place democratic reform at the heart of their dialogue with Russia.

(APPLAUSE)

As we seek freedom in other nations, we must also work to renew the values that make freedom possible.

As I said in my inaugural address, we cannot carry the message of freedom and the baggage of bigotry at the same time. We must reject anti-Semitism from any source, and we must condemn violence such as we have witnessed in the Netherlands.

All our nations must work to integrate minorities into the mainstream of society and to teach the value of tolerance to each new generation. The nations in our great alliance have many advantages and many blessings. We also have a call beyond our comfort. We must raise our sights to the wider world.

Our ideals and our interests lead in the same direction. By bringing progress and hope to nations in need, we can improve many lives and lift up failing states and remove the causes and sanctuaries of terror.

Our alliance is determined to promote development and integrate developing nations into the world economy. The measure of our success must be the results we achieve not merely the resources we spent.

Together we created the Monterrey Consensus, which links new aid from developed nations to real reform in developing ones.

The strategy is working. Throughout the developing world, governments are confronting corruption, the rule of law is taking root and people are enjoying new freedoms.

Developed nations have responded by increasing assistance by a third.

BUSH: Through the Millennium Challenge Account, my nation is increasing our aid to developing nations that govern justly, expand economic freedom and invest in the education and health of their people.

While still providing humanitarian assistance and support, the developed nations are taking a wiser approach to other aid. Instead of subsidizing failure year after year, we must reward progress and improve lives.

Our alliance is determined to encourage commerce among nations, as open markets create jobs and lift income and draw whole nations into an expanding circle of freedom and opportunity.

Europe and America will continue to increase trade. And as we do so, we'll resolve our trade disagreements in a cooperative spirit.

And we should share the benefits of fair and free trade with others. That's why we'll continue to advance the Doha development agenda and bring global trade talks to a successful conclusion.

We should all pursue fiscal policies in our nations -- sound fiscal policies of low taxes and fiscal restraint and reform that promote a stable world financial system and foster economic growth.

Our alliance is determined to show good stewardship of the Earth, and that requires addressing the serious long-term challenge of global climate change. All of us expressed our views on the Kyoto Protocol, and now we must work together on the way forward.

Emerging technologies, such as hydrogen-powered vehicles, electricity from renewable energy sources, clean coal technology, will encourage economic growth that is environmentally responsible. By researching, by developing, by promoting new technologies across the world, all nations, including the developing countries, can advance economically while slowing the growth in global greenhouse gases and avoid pollutants that undermine public health.

All of us can use the power of human ingenuity to improve the environment for generations to come.

Our alliance is determined to meet natural disasters, famine and disease with swift and compassionate help.

As we meet today, American and European personnel are aiding the victims of the tsunami in Asia. Our combined financial commitment to tsunami relief and reconstruction is nearly $4 billion.

We're working through the global fund to combat AIDS and other diseases across the world. And America's emergency plan has focused additional resources on nations where the needs are greatest.

Through all these efforts, we encourage stability and progress to build a firmer basis for democratic institutions. And above all, we fulfill a moral duty to heal the sick and feed the hungry and comfort the afflicted.

Our alliance is also determined to defend our security, because we refuse to live in a world dominated by fear.

Terrorist movements seek to intimidate free peoples and reverse the course of history by committing dramatic acts of murder.

We will not be intimidated and the terrorists will not stop the march of freedom.

I thank the nations of Europe for your strong cooperation in the war on terror. Together, we have disrupted terrorist financing, strengthened intelligence sharing, enhanced our law enforcement cooperation and improved the security of international commerce and travel.

We're pursuing terrorists wherever they hide.

German authorities recently arrested two terrorists plotting to attack American interests in Iraq. Both will be prosecuted under new German laws enacted after September the 11th.

Just last week, the United Nations added Muhsin al-Fadhli to its Al Qaeda and Taliban sanctions committee list. This man is a known Al Qaeda operative and Zarqawi associate; provided support to the terrorists who conducted the 2002 bombing of a French oil tanker.

Working together, America, France and other nations will bring him to justice.

BUSH: For the sake of the security of our people, for the sake of peace, we will be relentless in chasing down the ideologues of hate. On September the 11th, America turned first to our immediate security and to the pursuit of an enemy. And that vital work goes on. We've also found that a narrow definition of security is not enough.

While confronting a present threat, we have accepted the long- term challenge of spreading hope and liberty and prosperity as the great alternatives to terror.

As we defeat the agents of terror, we'll also remove the sources of terror. This strategy's not an American strategy or European strategy or Western strategy: Spreading liberty for the sake of peace is the cause of all mankind.

This approach not only reduces the danger to free peoples, it honors the dignity of all peoples, by placing human rights and human freedom at the center of our agenda.

Our alliance has the ability and the duty to tip the balance of history in the favor of freedom.

We know there are many obstacles and we know the road is long. Albert Camus said that freedom is a long-distance race. We're in that race for the duration.

And there is reason for optimism. Oppression is not the wave of the future; it is the desperate tactic of a few backward-looking men.

Democratic nations grow in strength because they reward and respect the creative gifts of their people. Freedom is the direction of history, because freedom is the permanent hope of humanity.

America holds these values because of ideals long held on this continent. We proudly stand in the tradition of the Magna Carta, the Declaration of the Rights of Man, and the North Atlantic Treaty.

The signers of that treaty pledged to safeguard the freedom, common heritage and civilization of their people's founded on the principles of democracy, individual liberty and the rule of law.

In this new century, the United States and Europe reaffirm that commitment and renew our great alliance of freedom.

May God bless you all.

(APPLAUSE)

M. O'BRIEN: George W. Bush, the president of the United States, right in the heart of old Europe, as his secretary of defense once characterized it, trying to renew ties with European leaders, trying to mend some fences, talking about a wide range of things. A lot of focus of course on the Middle East and Middle East peace. A couple of quotes from the president -- "Our strong friendship is essential to peace and prosperity across the globe, and no temporary debate, no passing disagreement of governments, no power on Earth will ever divide our greatest opportunity and our immediate goal is peace in the Middle East." And then getting more specific, he called for Syria to end its occupation of Lebanon.

The president has an action-packed trip ahead, a lot of talking. Today, in Brussels, Belgium, he will continue his talks with the leaders of Britain, Italy and Ukraine. He will also be meeting with French president Jacques Chirac tomorrow. Then on Wednesday, the president will travel to Mainz, Germany, where he'll meet with Chancellor Gerhardt Schroeder, yet another opponent of the Iraq war, try to mend fences there. Then on his way to Bratislava, Slovakia to meet with Vladimir Putin, also in opposition to the Iraq war, and a person the focus of a lot of criticism here in the United States this morning as his country tends to move away from democracy.

The president today indicating that that message should be imparted to the Russian president, but that Russia should not be cut off from the West, and from the G-8 specifically. The president's trip midstream right now. We'll be covering it very closely all along the way. Stay with CNN all throughout -- Soledad.

S. O'BRIEN: We have another big story about the president to talk about this morning, but it is one that does not involve this particular fence mending trip. It involves Mr. Bush before he made it to the White House. Secretly taped conversations from the late '90s, from faith to drug use. What do they reveal about the president? the man who made the tapes joins us next on AMERICAN MORNING.

Stay with us.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

M. O'BRIEN: CNN has obtained excerpts of secretly recorded interviews of George W. Bush from ABC News. They are taken or recorded in the late '90s by Doug Wead, an author and former aide to President Bush's father. We've recorded nine hours of discussions, first revealed by "The New York Times" on Sunday.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

GEORGE W. BUSH, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES: Well, Doug, but it's not, it doesn't matter, cocaine. It'd be the same with marijuana. I wouldn't answer the marijuana question. You know why? 'Cause I don't want some little kid doing what I tried.

DOUG WEAD, FMR. GEORGE H.W. BUSH ADVISER: Yes, it never stops.

BUSH: But you gotta understand, I want to be president. I want to lead. I want to set -- do you want your little kid to say, "Hey, daddy, President Bush tried marijuana, I think I will."

(END VIDEO CLIP)

M. O'BRIEN: CNN has not independently verified that the voice on the recordings is President Bush, but ABC and "The New York Times" have confirmed their authenticity. The man who made the recordings, Doug Wead, joins us this morning.

Mr. Wead, good to have you with us. This was information used in a book which is out now. As I understand it, you didn't expect these recordings to become public, is that true?

WEAD: I didn't want them to become public.

M. O'BRIEN: Why not?

WEAD: Well, they're personal. They were personal record for me. I started taking notes on the recordings. At one point, he said -- or in the conversations, at one point, he said, you can write a book in 30 days, can't you? I had written a book for his father. I thought that might be coming. I thought I'd better get started. And he was having me run interference on some news stories, and I wanted a record of that so I could play it back and hear exactly what he wanted.

M. O'BRIEN: All right, and did you tell at that time Governor Bush those phone calls were being recorded?

WEAD: No, I didn't.

M. O'BRIEN: Why not?

WEAD: They were never going to be made public as far as I was concerned, and they were helping me to do a better job for him to know exactly what he wanted.

M. O'BRIEN: But as a courtesy to him, wouldn't you say, look, I want to make sure we get this straight.

WEAD: I think he'd have been afraid something like this would have happened, and I guess I was pretty naive.

M. O'BRIEN: About what?

WEAD: Naive that they would become public like this.

M. O'BRIEN: Now, as far as to the substance of the tapes, there's not a lot of news broken here, really.

WEAD: No.

M. O'BRIEN: Are you left with the distinct impression that the president of the United States, at one time, used cocaine or marijuana?

WEAD: It's an irrelevant point to me.

M. O'BRIEN: Why is that irrelevant?

WEAD: Because he's already said he was young and irresponsible, and that established the point I need to do make in my book about the man in the shadows. And my feeling was that because of his indiscretions as a young person, it took the pressure off him, the expectations he'd have to achieve and live up to this Bush image, five generations. M. O'BRIEN: So you draw no conclusion, then, on the drug use? And you think that doesn't matter one bit at all?

WEAD: Well, I think it matters that he was young and irresponsible. I think that's a key to his life. I think that's why the spotlight turned to Jeb, and all the attention was on Jeb, because he was expected to become this great figure, and George was not. And with the pressure off him, he found Laura, he found his faith. In a 10-year period, he became a millionaire, governor of Texas, president of the United States.

M. O'BRIEN: Let's listen to another excerpt, this one, once again, CNN has obtained through the good graces of ABC News. Let's listen.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

WEAD: He's saying you promised you would not appoint gays to office.

BUSH: No. What I said was I wouldn't fire gays. I'm not going to discriminate against people.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

M. O'BRIEN: All right, put that one in context for us, will you?

WEAD: Well, what he says publicly, he says privately. And there are some pundits today who are saying that will hurt him with the conservatives. Conservatives and evangelicals don't want to kick gays out. This is going to hurt him politically at all.

M. O'BRIEN: You don't think this changes anything?

WEAD: No, I don't. I think he's the same privately as he is publicly, with some differences. There are some differences. I remember during the campaign, I called him up and said, governor, you're being parodied on "Saturday Night Live," they're portraying you as dumb. He said, good. So I think the media is beginning to catch up a little bit on how strategic and self-disciplined he is.

M. O'BRIEN: All right, final thought here, final quote in "The New York Times" piece from you, "I just felt the historical point I was making trumped the personal relationship. I will always be friendly with him. I suppose somebody watching this would say, with friends like you, Mr. Bush doesn't need enemies.:?

WEAD: Well, this isn't about money. I could sell tapes.

M. O'BRIEN: Well, it's going help your book, isn't it?

WEAD: Well, my book could have been released before the election. It would have been a runaway bestseller. It would have been driven by partisan...

M. O'BRIEN: But clearly people are going to go buy that book today after seeing this, right?

WEAD: My publicist said I lost a million dollars by delaying the book after the election, where it would have been driven by partisan interests.

But I hope it sells. I'm a historian, and he's president, and he has to lead, he has to set an example. I had to write about the Roosevelts, the Kennedys, the Bushes. I attempted to vet the stories with all three families.

M. O'BRIEN: Is the president your friend still?

WEAD: He's my friend, yes.

M. O'BRIEN: All right. Douglas Wead, thank you very much. Appreciate your time -- Soledad.

S. O'BRIEN: All right, let's keep talking about President Bush. This time, though, we're going talk about his trip to Europe, also the release of those interviews. And Democratic consultant Victor Kamber in Miami. Washington, D.C. is former RNC communications director, Cliff May. Going to help us out this morning. Hi, guys. Nice to see you.

VICTOR KAMBER, DEMOCRATIC CONSULTANT: Good morning.

CLIFF MAY, FMR. RNC COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR: Good morning.

S. O'BRIEN: All right, let's pick up where we just heard Miles leave off -- the secret tapes. You've heard some of them now. What do you make of any the damage done? Cliff, why don't we begin with you?

MAY: I don't think there's a lot of damage done, but let me be clear for the record here that this was a deceptive thing to tape somebody when he didn't know he was being taped, to release it without his permission. It was deceptive, it was disloyal, it a betrayal. But President Bush is the kind of guy who -- you know, what you see is what you get. You're hearing nothing on this tape that you didn't know about him. Probably with the P.R. adviser, he might say certain things differently. I don't think it does any damage. He's been re- elected already. But I think it's the kind of infuriating, rather nasty, what's happened here.

S. O'BRIEN: Victor, I'd like you to weigh in as well. To some degree, doesn't the president get more points? We see say, wow, you know, he's kind of saying the same thing on tape, secretly recorded, that he said in his press conference. You're right, maybe a P.R. flack (ph) would say clean it up a little bit.

KAMBER: Yes, I frankly agree with you, Soledad -- or actually with Cliff. I don't think that much damage has happened here. I'm surprised that Cliff just didn't blame the liberal media and the liberals for doing this. The bottom line is, the president was candid, like I think he tries to be always. There's nothing new here. We didn't learn anything exciting or different. He's -- this was indiscretions in his youth. He had a troubled youth. He wasn't the star of the family and he obviously found faith, found a wife, found a new ability to move ahead and he became president of the United States. I'm -- you know, while I'll read the book and find it of interest, I'm not sure I'll learn anything brand new.

S. O'BRIEN: Well, let's talk a little bit about the president's trip, It's been called a fence mending five-day trip through Europe. We just heard him speak a few minutes ago, where he very clearly was trying to delineate the connection between the United States and Europe, the long historical connection, as well. He also talked about Putin -- Putin problem, as some people have said. It's Jack's "Question of the Day."

Cliff, why don't you take this one to start? What should be done about President Putin?

MAY: Well, the president has begun by talking honestly. Churchill said that diplomacy is the art of telling the truth without getting offense. Right now, what Putin is doing is very much hostile to American interests and American values. Putin is saying he doesn't believe the mullahs of Iran are attempting to develop nuclear weapons so he has no problem giving them nuclear technology and nuclear fuel. What Putin really means is if they build a bomb, they're not going to use it against us so what do I care? That's a huge problem.

Secondly, Putin is retreating from democracy, corrupting the judiciary, shackling the press. It is a huge problem for us and for the Europeans. That's part what Bush tried to get across. I would just say very quickly, what you heard there was not fence mending. What you heard was Bush saying to the Europeans, let's remember what our values are and let's act on that.

S. O'BRIEN: Which some people call fence mending in some places. Victor, what do you think of the strategy with President Putin? Do you think that President Bush needs to come out more strongly against the Russian president?

KAMBER: No. I think if anything, I think what he's doing right now is the right way to do it. He has gone on what I'll call the same as you, a fence mending tour. He needs to rebuild the strength of the allies. He needs to reestablish America as a friend, as an ally, not as a bully. I was very proud when I heard him talk about Egypt and Saudi Arabia, in terms of democracy, because I think you cannot pick and choose countries. You cannot talk about Russia, you cannot talk about certain places in the world and then have as your best friends dictators or countries that equally disdain democracy.

If you are promoting democracy, which he was doing throughout this speech, then you promote it equally across the board. Russia needs to hear from us. Russia needs to -- we must be direct with Putin, which I think Bush will be. But we must equally be direct with Saudi Arabia, with Egypt, with other countries in the world.

S. O'BRIEN: Victor Kamber, Cliff May, this morning. Nice to see you guys, as always. Thanks.

MAY: Thank you.

S. O'BRIEN: Miles?

M. O'BRIEN: All right. Who is in Paris Hilton's little black book? This question we all want to know the answer to. The world gets to take a peek. Cafferty file is up next on AMERICAN MORNING.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

S. O'BRIEN: Welcome back. What's in the file?

CAFFERTY: R-rated movies on the decline. "Variety" magazine says P.G. films outgrossed the R picks in 2004 for the first time in 20 years. The number of R-rated films actually dwindled from 212 in 1999 to just 147 last year. And of those 147, only four, "The Passion of the Christ," "Troy," "Fahrenheit 9/11" and "Collateral" managed to gross over $100 million. On the other hand, P.G. films like "Shrek 2," "The Incredibles," and "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Askaban" easily surpassed the $100 million mark and went on to much higher figures.

First lady Laura Bush says she's looking for a White House chef who knows how to make Mexican food and barbecue. She fired the chef down there. He'd been there 11 years. Guy named Walter Scheib. Scheib said he unable to satisfy Mrs. Bush's quote, "stylistic requirements." Now Laura Bush tells "Newsweek" magazine she's looking for somebody who can really showcase American food. The new chef will have a lot of opportunities to make dinner for the Bushes because, Mrs. Bush points out, we don't actually get invited out to that many dinner parties.

S. O'BRIEN: I made tacos last night, they were very good.

CAFFERTY: Maybe you could apply. This isn't going so well.

S. O'BRIEN: Maybe I will. It is, it's going great, what are you talking about?

CAFFERTY: This is good?

S. O'BRIEN: I'm riveted, yes.

CAFFERTY: These aren't very good today. It's a holiday, it's Monday, it's lame.

S. O'BRIEN: It's raining.

CAFFERTY: Paris Hilton may want to consider spending...

M. O'BRIEN: This is good right here. This is a good one.

CAFFERTY: You like this?

M. O'BRIEN: Paris Hilton. I like this one. CAFFERTY: Stop interrupting me. Paris Hilton may want to consider spending less time on her cell phone, or at least think about whose phone numbers she's putting into her address book. Various news sources, including "USA Today" and "The Daily News" reporting hackers have put Paris' entire black book on the Internet. 510 contacts, famous people, Christina Aguilera, Vin Diesel, Eminem, Soledad O'Brien, Ashlee Simpson. They weren't happy when their phones started ringing off the hook beginning Saturday night. Victoria Gotti says she got 100 calls in two hours.

The hackers also posted photos, including what appeared to be images of Paris kissing a woman or a chicken or a watermelon or some grapes or -- T Mobile USA is currently investigating the latest Internet posting. Paris Hilton's reps have not released a statement at this time. However, recorded telephone conversations previously unreleased are expected to be available soon.

S. O'BRIEN: Why would you call Victoria Gotti 100 times when you could call Vin Diesel 1,000 times?

CAFFERTY: Now there's a question.

(CROSSTALK)

S. O'BRIEN: That should be the "Question of the Day."

CAFFERTY: He actually is pretty cool. I saw him as I watching a movie on cable, I guess, over the weekend. He's pretty good. I like him.

S. O'BRIEN: He's great. A great guy. Great guy. Thanks, Jack. I liked "The File" today.

M. O'BRIEN: His career is going to skyrocket now.

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