AP ^ | 2-22-02
BEIJING (AP) -- President Bush softened his "axis of evil" rhetoric in Asia, but his strong words already had gotten North Korea's attention, Secretary of State Colin Powell said Friday. Indeed, North Korea shot back that Bush was "a politically backward child." North Korea issued its angry response as Bush flew back to Washington from a six-day journey to China, South Korea and Japan where his "axis of evil" comment stirred unease or outright opposition.
Former President Carter also criticized Bush's language. "I think it will take years before we can repair the damage done by that statement," Carter said. He called the statement "overly simplistic and counterproductive."
Powell said Bush's remark had had the desired effect. "I'm sure their (the North Koreans') mind is a little more focused than it was a few weeks ago," Powell said on Air Force One, accompanying Bush. .... ...."