(12 Oct 2005)

1. Wide shot US President George W Bush and Polish President Aleksander Kwasniewski
2. Kwasniewski speaking
3. Journalists
4. SOUNDBITE: (English) George W Bush, US President
"We have built a strong personal relationship, but more importantly we have a strong strategic relationship with Poland, thanks to your leadership. Alexander has helped advance the cause of peace by advancing the cause of freedom. He has served as a mentor for new democracies in the region."
5. Pan from journalists to Bush and Kwasniewski
6. Bush and Kwasniewski shaking hands

STORYLINE:

Polish President Aleksander Kwasniewski made a final visit to the White House as leader of his country to share with US President George W Bush memories of the close alliance he has forged with the United States during his 10 years in office.

Kwasniewski won favour in Washington by sending Polish troops to Iraq.

Bush was hosting a lunch for Kwasniewski, while the Polish leader was also scheduled to meet US Vice President Dick Cheney.

Kwasniewski attended a dinner on Tuesday with diplomats and European experts from Washington think tanks.

During Kwasniewski's two five-year terms in office, covering the presidencies of Bill Clinton and Bush, the former Warsaw Pact nation joined NATO and the European Union and established close ties with Washington.

Bush is especially grateful for Poland's troop contribution in Iraq. About 1,500 Poles are now serving there, and it isn't clear whether the newly-elected government will withdraw them, although its predecessor had planned to do so early next year.

Kwasniewski was expected to seek further US support for the modernisation of Poland's armed forces and more investment in its economy.

He also planned to push for an easing of travel restrictions for Poles, some of whom believe their country's involvement in Iraq should earn them visa-free travel to America.

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