If Congress fails to approve this agreement, it would not only abandon a brave ally, it would send a signal throughout the region that America can not be counted on to support its friends.

The leaders and soldiers of NATO countries, and other friends and allies, demonstrate this truth through the capacity and courage they’ve shown in Afghanistan.

He then left the podium to cheers from officials, allies and friends, as his wife, Laura, and two daughters looked on.

These facts compel us to act along with our friends and allies.

“We're pressing nations around the world — including our friends — to trust their people with greater freedom of speech, and worship, and assembly,” Bush said.