Voice of America

WASHINGTON — U.S. President George Bush has given his farewell speech to the nation, five days before President-elect Barack Obama takes office.

In remarks made from the White House, Bush on Thursday called the first eight years of this century a “time of consequence” but said he leaves office with a thankful heart.

He recalled the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks on the United States and praised the bravery of those who worked to rescue the victims. He said he still carries with him the badge of one of the police officers who died in the aftermath.

He said the nation’s ensuing anti-terror activities have benefited other nations, such as Afghanistan and Iraq, which he said have both been liberated from oppressive regimes and transformed into U.S. allies.

The president also said that though the nation has faced the prospect of financial collapse, the government made decisive moves to safeguard the economy. He said times are tough but would have been tougher without such measures.

Bush also admitted there have been setbacks and things he would have done differently. But he said he has always followed his conscience, doing what he thought was right.

Earlier Thursday, the president paid his farewell visit to the nation’s diplomatic agency.

Bush was greeted with patriotic music and rousing applause at the State Department. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice presented him with several awards for his role in expanding NATO and, as she put it, “increasing freedom around the world.”

Both Rice and Bush urged the incoming administration of President-elect Barack Obama to continue efforts to seek liberty throughout the world.

Rice said the country’s mission to expand freedom should “endure” into the next administration.