In remarks at Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center in Washington, Bush hailed the end of the Cold War and the rapid rejection of communism across Eastern Europe.

"I believe America is the hope for the world because we are a nation that stands strongly for freedom," Bush said. "We believe every man, woman and child is given the gift of liberty by our Creator."

He added: "Free societies are peaceful societies and that's why the United States of America must continue to lead the cause of freedom."

Bush said the fight against terrorism and extremism must continue so there is never another series of attacks like on Sept. 11, 2001.

"We recognized that we're at war and we must stop new attacks before they happen," Bush said.

"In the long run, though, the best way to defeat the terrorists is to offer a hopeful alternative to their murderous ideology -- and that alternative is based on human liberty."