Bush signs record $632 billion military bill 25.11.2003...

Bush signs record $632 billion military bill

25.11.2003

WASHINGTON - United States President George W. Bush signed into law on Monday a record US$401.3 billion ($632.5 billion) defence spending bill that gives soldiers an average 4 per cent raise.

"America stands with the United States military," Bush said as he signed the legislation in a ceremony at the Pentagon.

The legislation, approved earlier this month by the US Congress, clears the way for the Air Force to acquire 100 Boeing refueling aircraft, expands veterans' benefits and allows research on new types of nuclear weapons.

It includes US$9.1 billion for ballistic missile defence.

"We will do whatever it takes to keep our nation strong, to keep the peace and to keep the American people secure," Bush said.

Bush hailed US forces serving in Afghanistan and Iraq, saying: "You're standing for order and hope and democracy in Afghanistan and Iraq. You're standing up for the security of all free nations, and for the advance of freedom."

- REUTERS