Bush praises Blair as 'strategic thinker'

WASHINGTON, May 17 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush Thursday praised outgoing British Prime Minister Tony Blair as a "strategic thinker."

In opening comments at a news conference in the White House Rose Garden, Bush said he and Blair talked about numerous issues since the prime minister's arrival for a final visit before he leaves office.

Bush said while talking with Blair, Wednesday night, he was struck again by what a "clear, strategic thinker" he is.

"I appreciate the fact he can see beyond the horizon," Bush said. "That's the kind of leadership the world needs."

The pair discussed a laundry list of issues, including Iraq, Iran and Darfur, as well as climate change and the AIDS initiative in Africa.