Bill Clinton actually said...

The canal played a critical role in the development of global commerce and contributed to the rise of the United States as a great power.

Statement on the Transfer of the Panama Canal to the Republic of Panama

12/13/1999

More Bill Clinton Quotes

Every single one of you who served in Haiti can say with great pride, 'Mission accomplished.'

We have 8.4 million more jobs today than we had 3 years ago.

Now Haiti has enjoyed its first democratic transfer of power in 200 years as a nation, thanks to you.

It's great to see you.