Remarks of Welcome in the East Room to President Senghor of Senegal

Mr. President, ladies and gentlemen:

For me this is a very special occasion this morning--a time to repay hospitality that is long overdue.

I deeply regret Mr. President, that we could not offer you better weather, but what we have lost in the weather we will try to make up in the warmth and friendship of our people.

Five years ago I visited Senegal to attend your inauguration as first President and to celebrate the first anniversary of your nation's independence. It was a trip I shall never forget.

I remember the excitement of your people as they began their journey toward nationhood. I remember the enthusiasm they expressed toward the poet-statesman who serves as their great leader.

I did not remain only in your great capital of Dakar. I explored your country, just as I hope you will be able to explore ours.

I remember the many faces of your wonderful people. We traveled the countryside to the small village area of Kayar and I met the village chief there, a man whose tremendous strength and dignity spoke through our separations of language.

Mr. President, I believe that we understand each other. I came away from your country with a profound respect for you and for your deep commitment to your people and to your country. We are quite delighted that you are giving us this chance to know you better, to meet our people, and to show you our Nation.

In your official capacity, Mr. President, we welcome you as the head of a very friendly and vigorous African nation. Of course, we know the hardships you have endured. We admire the progress that you have made and we share with you a partnership in this noble venture of free men.

We can have no illusions about the difficulties of the road ahead. To wage a peaceful war against hunger, disease, and illiteracy will take all the strength and imagination that all of us can muster. The United States of America intends, Mr. President, to be a good friend and to be your strong ally in this effort that we will make together.

Mr. President, your presence among us today is a most happy event, not only for all of those who are present here this morning, but to those eyes in the Nation which will follow your visit, recognizing an old friend who has come to share with us his warmth, his humor, and his very wise counsel.

So I should like you to know that you are among friends. We bid you a most cordial welcome. And we trust that your visit to our country will be a pleasant one and that you will enjoy your stay among us.