2006年VOA标准英语-Bush Hails Iraq's New Government
时间：2019-01-13 作者：英语课 分类：2006年VOA标准英语（五月）
By Paula Wolfson
White House
22 May 2006
President Bush delivers a speech in Chicago, May 22, 2006
President Bush says the formation of a unity 1 government in Iraq marks a watershed 2 for the greater Middle East. Mr. Bush pledged continuing U.S. support for the country.
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The president says the Iraqi government is still a work in progress, but if its new leaders seize the opportunity they have been given, they can change the nation and the region.
"This is a free government under a democratic constitution and its formation marks a victory for the cause of freedom in the Middle East," said President Bush.
In a speech to representatives of the restaurant industry gathered for a convention in Chicago, Mr. Bush acknowledged Iraq is plagued with problems. But he said it is also a country with abundant natural resources, and an educated population
"Iraq's new leaders understand that so long as they remain united there is no limit to the potential of their country," he said.
President Bush singled out Iraq's prime minister, president and speaker for praise. He said as they gain public support and take on the day-to-day tasks of governing, the U.S. role will change. Mr. Bush made no direct reference to an American troop withdrawal 3, but indicated over time adjustments will be made.
"As the new Iraqi government grows in confidence and capability 4, America will play an increasingly supporting role," said Mr. Bush. "To take advantage of this moment of opportunity, the United States and our coalition 5 partners will work with the new Iraqi government to adjust our methods and strengthen our mutual 6 efforts to achieve victory over our common enemies."
President Bush also had a message for war-weary Americans. He acknowledged that three years after the invasion of Iraq, the situation is improving slowly. Once again, he urged patience.
"The progress we have made has been hard fought and it has been incremental," noted 7 the president. "There have been setbacks and missteps, like Abu Ghraib, that were felt immediately and have been difficult to overcome. Yet we have now reached a turning point in the struggle between freedom and terror."
As the president was traveling to Chicago, the White House announced he would meet in Washington later this week with British Prime Minister Tony Blair. Mr. Blair paid a surprise visit Monday to Iraq.
- When we speak of unity,we do not mean unprincipled peace.所谓团结，并非一团和气。
- We must strengthen our unity in the face of powerful enemies.大敌当前，我们必须加强团结。
- Our marriage was at a watershed.我们的婚姻到了一个转折关头。
- It forms the watershed between the two rivers.它成了两条河流的分水岭。
- The police were forced to make a tactical withdrawal.警方被迫进行战术撤退。
- They insisted upon a withdrawal of the statement and a public apology.他们坚持要收回那些话并公开道歉。
- She has the capability to become a very fine actress.她有潜力成为杰出演员。
- Organizing a whole department is beyond his capability.组织整个部门是他能力以外的事。
- The several parties formed a coalition.这几个政党组成了政治联盟。
- Coalition forces take great care to avoid civilian casualties.联盟军队竭尽全力避免造成平民伤亡。
- We must pull together for mutual interest.我们必须为相互的利益而通力合作。
- Mutual interests tied us together.相互的利害关系把我们联系在一起。