WASHINGTON, March 19 (Xinhuanet) -- US President George W. Bush said on Saturday that the US-led war against Iraq has made America more secure and inspired movement toward democratic reforms across the Middle East. 

US President George W. Bush said on Saturday that the US-led war against Iraq has made America more secure and inspired movement toward democratic reforms across the Middle East. (Xinhua/AFP)

    "Because of our actions, freedom is taking root in Iraq, and the American people are more secure," said Bush in his weekly radio address.

    Bush made the remarks on the second anniversary of the war that toppled Saddam Hussein.

    He cited political progress in Iraq, which held elections this year and had its transitional national assembly convene for the first time earlier this week.

    He also paid tribute to US armed forces in Iraq, where more than 1,500 Americans have been killed and over 5,870 wounded.

    "I know that nothing can end the pain of the families who have lost loved ones in this struggle, but they can know that their sacrifice has added to America's security and the freedom of the world," Bush said.

    US troops in Iraq are speeding up to train Iraqi security forces, and when those forces are able to defend their country, US troops will return home, Bush added.

    On the anniversary, 100,000 people marched in London to protest the war. Similar demonstrations were also staged across Europe. Enditem