Remarks After Signing Condolences Book for Benazir Bhutto

QUESTION: Can you tell us what you wrote?

QUESTION: Madame Secretary, (inaudible)?

SECRETARY RICE: Let me just say that I wanted to come to express personally, and also on behalf, of course, of the American people, our deep sympathies with the Bhutto family, with her -- supporters of Benazir Bhutto and, of course, with the Pakistani people. This is a day of great tragedy, great mourning. She was a champion for democracy. She was a courageous woman. In my conversations with her, her commitment and her dedication came through very clearly, and most especially her love for her people and for her country. And I believe that her legacy will be one of being remembered for that dedication. And as the President said yesterday, the way to honor her memory is to continue the democratic process in Pakistan so that the democracy that she so hoped for can emerge.

Thank you.

QUESTION: Madame Secretary, should the elections continue on January 8th?

SECRETARY RICE: We are in contact with people in Pakistan, all of the parties. But obviously, it's just very important that the democratic process go forward.

Thank you very much.

QUESTION: Can you tell us what you wrote?

SECRETARY RICE: It's there to be read. I'm sure the Ambassador will read it for you.

Thank you.

QUESTION: Thank you.

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