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American Morning

Bush Defends Controversial Policies in Europe

Aired June 14, 2001 - 11:05   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.
LEON HARRIS, CNN ANCHOR: President Bush is in Sweden, the third stop of a five-nation tour. He is again having to defend his policies, this time to leaders of the European Union.

Our John King is live in Gothenburg, Sweden; he's got the latest for us right now.

Hello, John.

JOHN KING, CNN SENIOR WHITE HOUSE CORRESPONDENT: Hello to you, Leon.

Well, the president just wrapping up a few moments ago a news conference with leaders of the European Union here. And if there was a simple message out of it, it was that friends can disagree on some issues, but still get along on others.

The big disagreement, of course, in these discussions, the president's opposition to that Kyoto treaty on global climate change. He says it would be unfair to the U.S. economy to meet those strict reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. The European Union is outraged by that. They say the United States should show leadership on that issue. They say the European Union will be committed to that treaty. But, coming out of those discussions, the leaders agreeing they will have to have some dialogue about global climate change and other environmental issues, even though they so profoundly degree -- disagree, excuse me, on the specifics of that one issue.

There is Agreement on trade here at this meeting. And beyond the specifics this, of course, the president's first trip to Europe since he took office almost five months ago now. Mr. Bush met with the NATO allies yesterday, the European Union leaders today. He's being judged not only for substance, but for style, as he introduces himself not only directly to the leaders, but to people around the world. Mr. Bush pronouncing himself happy so far.

But a lot of controversy: global climate for one, missile defense another -- Leon.

John King reporting live from Gothenburg, Sweden; thank you very much.

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