Published: August 24, 2005
Democratic Progress in Gaza "Courageous"
By Alan Gray, NewsBlaze 
President calls Israeli decision to withdraw settlers "courageous"
President Bush says the Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and the drafting of a constitution in Iraq are indications that democracy is growing.
Speaking to reporters in Donnelly, Idaho, August 23, Bush said Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon made a "courageous decision" in withdrawing Israeli settlers and forces from Gaza.
"In other words, this is step one in the development of a democracy," Bush said.
He said the next step is the establishment of a working government in Gaza. He noted that U.S. Army Lieutenant General William Ward is helping the Palestinian Authority consolidate its security forces and former World Bank President James Wolfensohn is focusing on rebuilding the economic infrastructure of Gaza.
"It’s a very hopeful period," Bush said.
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