DATE=9/22/03

TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT

TITLE=BUSH / U-N (S)

NUMBER=2-307792

BYLINE=PAULA WOLFSON

DATELINE=WHITE HOUSE

CONTENT=

VOICED AT:

INTRO: President Bush is preparing for a crucial speech to the United Nations. V-O-A's Paula Wolfson reports he goes before the General Assembly Tuesday for the first time since the U-S-led invasion of Iraq.

TEXT: White House National Security Advisor Condoleezza Rice says the president will issue a call to action.

///RICE ACT///

The president will stress the international community's opportunity and responsibility to help the people of Iraq and Afghanistan rebuild their countries.

///END ACT///

The speech comes at a time when the United States is trying to win support for a new resolution on Iraq establishing a multinational force under U-N command.

Some council members say the resolution should also mandate a quick transition to self-governance. Ms. Rice says the United States wants the transfer to take place as soon as possible, but wants it done right.

///RICE ACT///

The establishment of sovereignty for the Iraqi people is the goal of everybody, most especially of the United States.

//END ACT///

She says the focus should be on the steps needed to bring about self-governance and not on timetables. (signed)

NEB/PW/RH