The sensitivity of U.S. relations in this region could be measured in
one misspoken word that Bush delivered in a televised speech to the
Indian people before leaving New Delhi.
Bush, standing just after dusk before the warmly spotlighted gate of a
16th Century fortress, praised India's partnership with the U.S. and
said that Pakistan "will be a steadfast partner.... A force for
freedom and moderation in the Arab world."
White House spokesman Scott McClellan later had to explain aboard Air
Force One en route to Pakistan that Bush meant to say "Muslim world"
--- uncomfortably noting that Pakistan is not an Arab nation.
Another White House official said it was a simple error on the
president's part --- "He misspoke."
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