Bush Trip Winds Down In Georgia

Arrives In Ex-Soviet Republic After Moscow Parade Marking WWII Victory

(CBS/AP)  Georgians, for their part, want Russia to withdraw two Soviet-era-holdover bases it maintains on their territory and to stop giving support to two separatist regions, aims that U.S.-educated President Mikhail Saakashvili hopes Mr. Bush will openly endorse during his visit.

Georgia also has declared its desire to join NATO and the European Union. While those goals are still far off for this impoverished nation of 5 million, an expression of support by Mr. Bush may help set into motion the process for the dreams to become a reality.

The United States for several years has provided training and equipment to Georgia's poorly funded military. Georgian troops now take part in the U.S.-led coalition in Iraq.

"Now we have the privilege and honor to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the U.S., sharing the gifts of liberty and democracy with our neighbors," Saakashvili said in a statement welcoming the U.S. delegation.

Saakashvili refused Russia's invitation to Monday's Victory in Europe Day celebrations in Moscow to protest Russia's reluctance to withdraw the two bases.

"It is because of Mr. Bush's visit that Saakashvili was able to do the right thing," said Shato Baliashvili, 81, whose chest shone with medals he earned for spending three years on the front lines in World War II with the Red Army.

In an interview with Georgia's Rustavi 2 television that aired Sunday night, Mr. Bush said Washington was ready to provide help on the bases dispute but emphasized that dialogue between Moscow and Tbilisi would bring the best results.

Political analyst Givi Bolotashvili said that simply by his presence, Mr. Bush will strengthen Saakashvili's hand by showing that he has the United States' moral support, which could lead to a settlement.

After face-to-face meetings with Saakashvili on Tuesday, Mr. Bush is expected to address the nation on Tbilisi's Freedom Square before departing. The president's visit also includes a bit of traditional Georgian hospitality, fitting for a nation famed for its tables laden with food and wine and which has elevated giving toasts to an art form.

The collapse of the Soviet Union and the disorder that seized Georgia marred this nation's reputation as a resort destination, but many are hoping a successful visit by Mr. Bush will put Georgia back on the map.

"It is a big honor for us," said Nino Bakradze, 26, who spoke in hesitant English, which is fast replacing Russian as the foreign language of choice among students here. "It is giving a chance that we haven't had in years."