President George W. Bush on Monday proclaimed Jan. 13th as the centennial of Korean Immigration to the United States. Bush called upon all Americans "to observe the anniversary with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities honoring Korean immigrants and their descendants for their countless contributions to America." Bush praised the efforts of Korean immigrants who have helped build America's prosperity and defend its freedoms and looked back to 1882 when the United States became the first Western country to sign a treaty of commerce and amity with Korea. Bush said since that time, the United States has built a strong friendship with Korea a friendship based on our common commitment to human dignity, prosperity, and democracy. He said Americans "acknowledge and commend Korean-Americans for their distinguished achievements in all sectors of life and for their important role in building, defending, and sustaining the United States of America.