WASHINGTON, Jan 13 (AFP) - President George W. Bush said Thursday that US military relief efforts in response to the devastating earthquake and tsunami in Asia were polishing the United States' sometimes tarnished global image.
"There's a lot of talk about how some in the world don't appreciate America. Well, I can assure you that those who have been helped by our military appreciate America," he said after a briefing on those efforts at the Pentagon.
"Our military is making a significant difference in providing relief and aid and help and compassion for those who have suffered," the president said, with Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld at his side.
Bush heard from US commanders who have been coordinating efforts to assist nations struck by the December 26 quake and tsunami that have left an estimated 163,338 dead in the Indian Ocean region.
Bush also received a briefing on the status of the global war on terrorism that he declared after the September 11, 2001 attacks.
"We're constantly reviewing our strategy as to how to defeat the enemy. We fully recognize that the war on terror will require a coordinated effort within our own government, as well as a coordinated effort with the countries around the world which understand the stakes of this war," he said.
"I am pleased with the response from around the world. I appreciate so many nations understanding that we must work together to defeat these killers. I am mindful of the fact that we have constantly got to review our plans and never lose our will," said Bush.
The president also praised Rumsfeld, who has agreed to stay on for Bush's second term, saying the defense secretary was "doing a fine job on behalf of the American people."
01/13/2005 17:14 GMT - AFP