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Bush signs relief act for Afghan women, children

WASHINGTON (CNN) -- President Bush vowed Wednesday to help Afghanistan recover and rebuild from the U.S.-led military campaign against al Qaeda and the Taliban and the subsequent collapse of their regime.

"We learned our lessons from the past," Bush said at an event promoting the cause of women in Afghanistan. "We will not leave until the mission is complete."

Bush signed a relief act for Afghan women and children. The bill authorizes education and health care assistance for Afghan women and children living in their home country and those living elsewhere as refugees.

"For several years the people of Afghanistan have suffered under one of the most brutal regimes, brutal regimes in modern history," Bush said. "A regime allied with terrorists and a regime at war with women. Thanks to our military and our allies, and the brave fighters of Afghanistan, the Taliban regime is coming to an end."

An Afghan refugee identified only as Ferita spoke at the event. She said the Afghan people have suffered under the Soviet invasion, as well as "during the chaos and brutality of the warlords now known as Northern Alliance" and under the Taliban.

"After 25 years of suffering and sacrifice, my people finally have international attention and hope for the future," she said. "I have hope because of the legislation being signed today. I also have hope because of the talks last week in Bonn and the place that women are taking in our new government."