WASHINGTON (AFP) - US President George W. Bush nominated national security adviser Condoleezza Rice, one of his closest confidants, to replace departing Secretary of State Colin Powell.
"The secretary of state is America`s face to the world, and in Dr. Rice the world will see the strength, the grace and the decency of our country," Bush said with Rice -- but not Powell -- at his side in the White House.
"During the last four years I`ve relied on her counsel, benefited from her great experience, and appreciated her sound and steady judgment. And now I`m honored that she has agreed to serve in my Cabinet," he said.
The president also announced that Rice`s deputy, Stephen Hadley, would replace her as national security adviser, a post which unlike secretary of state does not require confirmation by the US Senate.
"Steve is a man of wisdom and good judgment. He has earned my trust. And I look forward to his continued vital service on my national security team," Bush said in prepared remarks in the Roosevelt Room of the White House.
Both the president and Rice paid tribute to Powell, who announced on Monday that he was leaving after submitting his resignation letter on Friday. Powell was absent from the brief ceremony.
"He has been one of the most effective and admired diplomats in America`s history," Bush said of Powell, who was frequently on the defensive in the face of more hawkish policymakers on key issues like North Korea and Iraq.
Powell "has helped to rally the world in a global war. He`s helped to revolve dangerous regional conflicts. He has been tireless and selfless and principled, and our entire nation is grateful for his lifetime of service," said Bush.
"It is humbling to imagine succeeding my dear friend and mentor, Colin Powell," said Rice. "Colin Powell has been a great and inspirational secretary of state. It was my honor to serve alongside him, and he will be missed."
11/16/2004 - 18:14 GMT - AFP