 President George Bush left on Tuesday for India and Pakistan, a trip designed to cement two crucial US alliances and possibly hammer out a landmark agreement to share civilian nuclear technology with India. Bush kicks off his five-day visit to the region in India, where he will be greeted by business and government officials eager to boost trade and military ties - and by crowds of protesters, 1000 of whom gathered on Tuesday in Bombay, waving signs that read "Devil Bush Go Back."
| Where does Bush go that the dirtbags don't coming crawling out from under their rocks? |
The trip also comes amid political turmoil for Bush in Washington. He has been roundly criticized for his response to Hurricane Katrina and for a surge in bloodshed in Iraq. Most recently, members of the president's own Republican Party have revolted over a decision to allow a Dubai-based company to manage six major US ports.
| That little tempest appears to be blowing itself out within the teapot... |
This week's visit allows Bush to show India and Pakistan that the United States values relations with each, despite complaints about closer ties in all three countries. Pakistan is a key US ally, but many in Washington want to see Islamabad make stronger efforts to dismantle terrorist training camps.
| Islamabad is an ally of convenience. They were necessary to get to Afghanistan, but once Iran falls they won't be needed anymore. |
Bush has indicated he wants to make sure Pakistan elections scheduled for next year are free and fair.
| Right. That'll be a first. |
Critics say General Pervez Musharraf, the Pakistan president, who seized power in a bloodless coup in 1999, has refused to allow true democracy. |