Blue House, Seoul, Republic of Korea,
November 19, 2009
11:15 A.M. KST
PRESIDENT OBAMA: Well, Mr. President — I was telling the President, and I think the delegation would agree, that this was the most spectacular ceremony for a state visit that we’ve been involved with since we’ve traveled.
And I was saying that I especially enjoyed the traditional dress of some of the soldiers.
PRESIDENT LEE: (As translated.) But traditional uniforms are quite difficult to fight in. (Laughter.)
PRESIDENT OBAMA: That’s true, that’s true.
PRESIDENT LEE: Well, first of all, Mr. President, welcome. And you’re bringing very nice weather with you, because up until yesterday it was sub-zeros, frigid cold. (Laughter.)
Well, once again, Mr. President, welcome to the Asian region, and, of course, welcome to Korea. I know that your visit to Japan and China has been very successful.
And Mr. President, as we all like to say, you saved the best for last. (Laughter.)
PRESIDENT OBAMA: Well, Mr. President, let me just say that we have been so gratified by the warmth with which we’ve been received here in the Republic of Korea.
And I think there’s every indication that the alliance between our two countries has never been stronger.
END
11:17 A.M. KST
