Caterpillar Inc. hosted President George W. Bush at the company's manufacturing facility in East Peoria, Illinois, where the President commended Caterpillar for successfully demonstrating that U.S. companies can successfully compete on the world stage. "The U.S. and global economy have benefited from the President's pro-growth tax and free trade policies, which have stimulated strong economic growth," said Caterpillar Chairman and CEO Jim Owens while introducing the President. During his visit, the President highlighted free trade agreements put in place during his administration, which have benefited companies like Cat. The machines and products made in East Peoria and at Caterpillar facilities across the U.S. are shipped throughout the world.