Political Quotes

“I take just a couple of moments to comment on some of the activities in Iraq, especially in light of the donor conference that is underway as we speak. We know it is very important for the world to have a clear picture of the progress that is being made in Iraq today. My comments will really center, again very briefly, on that. Not very many Americans have heard of Karada Street, I would wager. Karada Street is Baghdad's busiest commercial avenue, and something truly remarkable is happening there. Iraqis for the first time are enjoying the fruits of economic freedom. Not even a bomb blast at the Baghdad Hotel just a few blocks away from this now very busy commercial strip has dampened the growing activity. A number of our colleagues have traveled and are continuing to travel to Iraq, and they come back with those encouraging reports that we are just beginning to hear about these days. Recently, ABC News reported that at one computer and data system company, trade is up 70 percent since sanctions were lifted in May. At the Al Farah used car lot, a 9-year-old Jeep sells for $1,000 less today than when Saddam was in power. Meanwhile, government workers at a Karada Street match factory have seen their salaries soar fivefold. The manager tells the news agency, "Now my salary is much better . . . I can buy anything I want now." There is much more. Portable generators are selling at discounted prices. Why? Because electricity has become more reliable.”