George H.W. Bush

Do you think only old people get the flu, Rita [Rita Beamish, Associated Press]? Do you think only old people get the flu? I think Democrats get the flu from time to time. [Laughter] So, I wouldn't worry about that. I think it would…

Thanks a lot. I really do. Note: The exchange began at 1:38 p.m. prior to an expanded bilateral meeting at the Akasaka Palace. In his remarks, the President referred to Dr. Burton J. Lee III, Physician to the President.

So anyway, why, it all worked out well. A little alarmed there. I felt so embarrassed. The Prime Minister. No, no, that happens to everybody.

I think we might have achieved more.

Your Nation recognizes the critically important work of your community antidrug coalitions, and your Nation is very, very grateful to each and every one of you.

It is great to be home, and Barbara and I want to thank all those who made this important trip a success.

I have determined that, given that an embargo is currently in effect and given the negotiations toward an international dolphin conservation program in the ETP, sanctions will not be imposed at this time.

Drugs and so many other social problems can be driven from every community, if every community cares enough to reach out and try.

America is a world leader not just because of our military or economic might but because we've always held the conviction that we're part of something larger than ourselves.

A community, none at all, has to accept drug abuse.

I do hereby proclaim 1992 as the Year of the Gulf of Mexico.

I think they show that we need growth.

What you're doing is having an effect and saving the lives of children.

Okay. Thank you all. Note: The President spoke at 12:26 p.m. to Japanese and American business leaders meeting in Akasaka Palace. In his remarks, he referred to Michio Watanabe, Japanese Minister of Foreign Affairs.

Yes. Well, there's none on mine, but there may have been on our side of the Pacific. There's a lot of misunderstanding over there. But I want you to know that because we thought you responded very positively. You shouldn't have a burden of…

It is. So, we've got to lead it. And we've got to work; we've got to iron out these differences between us so that we can go forward without tensions mounting and dividing up the world into trading blocs. And I am really excited about the…

Let me just say to those on the American side and this very distinguished delegation of American business people that are here, led by our able Secretary of Commerce, how pleased we are to be in Japan and, Mr. Prime Minister, how much we…

This trip adds another significant but interim step to that progress.

Tell them to talk to my doctor.

Our people both believe in work, community, faith, and family.

We feel we have a much better understanding of your great country.

I'm quite encouraged.

We stand as the world's powers with the future presenting us with a decision.

Increased cooperation between the United States and Japan on global issues is absolutely essential.

In this changing world where the walls that once divided whole nations from each other are crumbling, we all must become both bridges to and partners in a new world order.